Your Health - 21 October 2014

THE STAR Tuesday 21 October 2014
Keeping physically active and healthy > 16 Less invasive heart surgery > 24
Knowledge,
access,
freedom
Gain control of your wellness.
Health
Your
StarSpecial
2 YOUR HEALTH StarSpecial, Tuesday 21 October 2014
Breaking through
cultural barriers
BY ANUSHIA KANDASIVAM
T
HE topics of sexual and reproductive
health have always been loaded with a
host of social and cultural baggage in
Malaysia.
The zeitgeist can be illustrated by a
simple Google search on sex education
in Malaysia. One of the rst results that
appears is a question-and-answer post on
the local website whatdoyouwant.my, which
seeks to provide civic education to the
public on social, education and other issues.
The question is Why must we have sex
education in school? Its embarrassing.
Politics and the national education
system aside, the fact that sex education
is considered embarrassing by some is a
social and cultural phenomenon brought
about by the belief that the topics of sex and
reproduction should be solely the domain of
the spousal bedroom or just not something
we talk about.
This is dangerous not only because it
leads to unwanted pregnancies and the
spread of sexually transmitted disease
(STDs) but also because it curtails the
freedom of speech and expression and
even more so because it inhibits the
acquisition of knowledge that is vital to the
determination of self and the control that
a person should have over his or her own
sexual and reproductive life.
Understanding and planning
Newly-married couples in Malaysia are
often put under pressure from their parents
and in-laws to produce a child as soon as
possible. This is such a common occurrence
that it has become almost a running joke in
Malaysian culture.
The reality is that many couples are not
aware of the possibilities or benets of
family planning.
According to a study jointly published
by The Federation of Reproductive Health
Association of Malaysia (FRHAM), the
Reproductive Rights Advocacy Alliance
Malaysia (RRAAM) and The Sexual Rights
Initiative (SRI) for the Universal Periodic
Review (a process that involves a periodic
review of the human rights records of all
193 UN Member States) last year, the level
of family planning knowledge among
young people in Malaysia is rather low
partly because family planning services
and information are not made available to
them.
The study showed that despite the
implementation of a family planning
programme since 1966, less than half the
respondents interviewed aged 13 to 24
had heard of at least one family planning
method.
This number was even lower among
those aged 13 to 16 34%.
The contraceptive prevalence rates in
Malaysia are also low compared to other
countries in the region about 50% for all
contraceptive methods and 33% for modern
methods since the mid-1980s.
Most Malaysians do know that effective
contraception is required to prevent
accidental pregnancies.
However, the study cites interviews of
abortion clients who revealed that they
lacked sucient knowledge and condence
to adopt suitable and reliable contraceptive
methods.
Rights and access
Malaysia is a signatory to the UNs
Convention on the Elimination of All
Forms of Discrimination against Women
(CEDAW), which should boost the countrys
efforts in providing accessible sexual and
reproductive health care to women (and
consequently making it available to men
and adolescents as well).
The rst step to this is providing
comprehensive education about sexual and
reproductive health.
The sex education component in the
national curriculum is called reproductive
health and social education.
It is important because, as shown
by several international studies,
comprehensive sex education lowers the
rates of unintended pregnancies and STDs
in teenagers.
This is in line with the National Policy
on Reproductive Health and Social
Education, which, according to the Ministry
of Women, Family and Community
Development, aims to increase access to
reproductive health education, information
and services for adolescents and youths.
> TURN TO PAGE 3
Learning about
sexual health
IN Malaysia, as with anywhere in the
world, the rst gleanings of information
about sex and reproduction come
from peers and the media. Most of
this information is usually anecdotal,
informal and even wrong.
Though sex education is taught in
schools in Malaysia it is a component
of the curriculum called reproductive
health and social education parents
should really be the ones to provide the
rst elements of sex and sexual health
education to their children.
One of the most important aspects
of introducing a child to this topic is to
ensure that there is no embarrassment
or prejudice in your tone that will
inuence the childs perception of sex,
sexuality and reproduction.
Informing the child through your
words and actions that these topics
can be openly discussed and that
comprehensive knowledge of these
topics is important will enable them
to grow into socially, emotionally and
sexually functional adults.
Here are some tips about talking to
your child about sex:
l Take advantage of teachable
moments. These can crop up at any
time, such as when meeting a pregnant
woman (you can talk about how the
baby came about), or when listening to
the lyrics of a song (you can discuss the
feelings the singer is referring to)
l Answer questions truthfully
l Try to limit your answer to just
what is asked. Too much information
can overwhelm a young child
l Check the childs understanding.
If the child is still unclear about words
or concepts, try to explain in a different
way
Studies in the US have shown that
teenagers who talk to their parents
about relationships and sex are more
likely to wait longer to engage in sexual
activity and use contraception when
they eventually do.
Here are some tips about how to talk
to a teenager about relationships and
sex:
l Do not just talk, listen the teen
will have their own opinions and
questions
l Be respectful treat the teen like
an emerging adult, and the teen will
reciprocate by behaving like one
l Show you understand their point
of view
l Acknowledge that it may be an
uncomfortable or awkward subject to
talk about this may break the tension
l Make it clear that you can always
be approached for discussion and advice
Besides just the birds and the bees,
children and teenagers should also be
taught about consent and coercion,
not just in the context of protecting
themselves but also in order that they
understand the sexual and reproductive
rights of others and learn to respect
them.
For bookings and further information, contact your advertising agency or the following:
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03-7966 8227
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StarSpecial, Tuesday 21 October 2014 YOUR HEALTH 3
Be informed
THERE are lots of discussion
on sexual and reproductive
health (usually in terms of sex
education) in public forums and
lots of media coverage about
womens issues in this context.
But what exactly is being
talked about?
The World Health
Organizations working
denitions have been developed
after extensive study of sexual
and reproductive health around
the world and with the advice
and input from experts.
Here are the mains points of
the denitions.
Sexuality
l It is a central aspect of being
human and encompasses sex,
gender identity and role, sexual
orientation, pleasure, eroticism,
intimacy and reproduction
l It is experienced and
expressed in thoughts, fantasies,
desires, beliefs, attitudes,
behaviours, practices, roles and
relationships
l It is inuenced by the
interaction of biological,
psychological, social, economic,
political, cultural, legal,
historical, religious and spiritual
practices
Sexual health
l A state of physical,
emotional, mental and social
well-being in relation to
sexuality
l Not merely the absence of
disease, dysfunction or inrmity
l It requires a positive and
respectful approach to sexuality
and sexual relationships
l It requires the possibility
of having pleasurable and safe
sexual experiences that are free
from coercion, discrimination
and violence
l For it to be attained and
maintained, the sexual rights of
all persons must be respected,
protected and fullled
Reproductive health
l A state of complete physical,
mental and social well-being
l It is not merely the absence
of disease or inrmity
l It addresses all the
reproductive processes, functions
and system at all stages of life
l It implies that people
are able to have a responsible,
satisfying and safe sex life
l It implies that people have
the capability to reproduce and
the freedom to decide if, when
and how often to do so
l It includes the right of men
and women to be informed
of and to have access to safe,
effective, affordable and
acceptable methods of fertility
regulation of their choice
l It includes the right of
access to appropriate health care
services that enable women to
go safely through pregnancy and
childbirth.
l It also provides couples
with the best chance of having a
healthy infant
> FROM PAGE 2
THE National Adolescent Health
Policy 2001 and the National
Adolescent Health Plan of Action
2006-2020 were also developed
by the Ministry of Health to
empower adolescents (aged
10 to 19) with the appropriate
knowledge and assertive skills to
enable them to practise healthy
behaviours and lifestyles.
The Country Prole on Universal
Access to Sexual and Reproductive
Rights: Malaysia, published jointly
by FRHAM and the Asian-Pacic
Resource & Research Centre for
Women (ARROW), states that in
recent years the MOH has been
taking initiatives in advocating
for the provision of sexual and
reproductive health services for
adolescents regardless of their
marital status.
The Guidelines on Managing
Adolescent Sexual and
Reproductive Health Issues in
Health Clinics was developed by
the MOH in 2012 to help address
the issue of access to health care
and are supposed to guide health
care providers on the standard
operating procedures on how
to treat adolescents, especially
young girls, for pregnancy and
abortion, sexually transmitted
infections, sexual violence and
contraceptives.
According to the publication,
Malaysia began providing
universal access to health care
services, including sexual and
reproductive health services, to
all adolescents in all primary,
Open discussion is vital
secondary and tertiary health
care facilities nationwide.
However, there is still an
unmet need though sexual and
reproductive health services,
including contraceptives, are
available in all government
hospitals and clinics, information
on the availability of the services
has not been made known to
adolescents and so they still do
not have the requisite access.
This brings the issue back to
the cultural taboo that prevents
open discussion of sexual and
reproductive health leading to
the lack of information on these
topics to those that require it
most, especially women and
girls.
Realisation and impact
The United Nations
Population Funds The State of
World Population 2012 report
states that access to sexual and
reproductive health care and the
right to family planning lead to
the realisation of other rights
and yield economic benets
to individuals, households,
communities and whole
countries.
The reasoning is thus
women who experience
healthier pregnancies and births
face lower risks of mortality for
both themselves and their child.
This leads to greater investments
in schooling, greater productivity
and labour force participation,
and eventually increased income,
savings, investment and asset
accumulation, all of which impact
the overall economy of the
country.
A decreased rate of fertility
brought on by family planning,
along with improved health
and increased incomes can also
improve womens rights at home
and in their communities, which
again leads to economic growth
as womens participation in the
labour force increases.
Ensuring that the rakyat
realise their rights to sexual
health, reproductive health and
family planning, and have proper
access to information about them
is important not only for the
individual but for the whole nation
because though these rights are
individual ones, they do have a
wider impact on the growth and
development of the nation.
In recent years
the MOH has been
taking initiatives in
advocating for the
provision of sexual
and reproductive
health services
for adolescents
regardless of their
marital status.
Ong (third from left) explaining the health benefits of Oat BG22 to Datuk Seri Dr Hilmi Yahya, deputy health minister (second from right), during The Heart Exhibition 2013.
C
HOLESTEROL, a waxy, fat-like
substance in our bodies, is a
dicult thing to control and
is often the culprit that causes
heart attacks and strokes.
In the past, this was mostly a
concern for people in their 50s but
nowadays, even those as young as
35 are being diagnosed with high
cholesterol.
Part of the problem is the
peoples lifestyle, that many
people lead, which often involves
bad eating habits such as eating
fast foods, leading to obesity.
Sadly, most people with high
cholesterol tend to develop an
over-reliance on drugs to control
their cholesterol levels and this
can affect their quality of life.
A better way to control your
cholesterol would be to focus on
making some adjustments to your
lifestyle to eliminate the factors
that led to high cholesterol in the
rst place.
Research has shown that oat
beta-glucan, which is derived
from oats, is especially effective in
lowering cholesterol.
To date, there are 20 scientic
studies related to researching the
ecacy of the Oatwell or Oat BG22
family of products, says Ruedi
Duss, global business manager of
DSM Nutritional Products.
Prevention is the best
strategy
Biogrow Oat BG22 Crispy Cereal
is scientically proven to reduce
cholesterol within two to three
months if eaten daily.
Crispy Cereal is not just a
breakfast cereal; it is rst and
foremost a health product,
arguably the best option of
breakfast cereal currently in the
market.
According to L.H. Ong, general
manager of Summit Co. (Malaysia)
Sdn Bhd and chief executive
ocer of Legosan (Malaysia) Sdn
Bhd, Biogrow has partnered with
Yayasan Jantung Malaysia (YJM)
for two years now in their efforts
to further educate Malaysians
on the rising incidences of heart
disease.
We have had opportunities to
perform blood tests to check for
cholesterol during our roadshows.
We have a lot of programmes
supporting YJM and are a very
active partner.
Taking a blood test is vital to
ascertaining your cholesterol level.
This is a major problem that many
people face as they are simply
unaware of their cholesterol level,
says Ong.
At the heart of
the matter
We want to reduce the
number of heart disease patients
in the country and prevention is
the key.
It is very encouraging to see
positive responses from many
members of the public who often
ask when we are coming again,
says Datuk Dr J.S. Sambhi, founder
and chairman of YJM.
We have done a lot of work in
schools and discovered that even
teenagers as young as 15 or 16 are
borderline cases, says Dr Sambhi.
Close cooperation
for better effect
We have been working closely
with Biogrow and I feel that we
are able to achieve so much more
together, says Dr Sambhi.
Ong adds, We can provide
YJM with a more coherent
and strategic support in aid of
bringing home the message of the
importance of heart health.
Start your day with
heart-healthy cereal
Recent studies suggest that
the biggest factor affecting the
cholesterol-lowering efficacy
of oat beta-glucan is related
to the molecular weight.
Proper processing ensures
that a high molecular weight
is maintained, which makes
sure that the effect of oat
beta-glucan will help achieve
the desired viscosity levels in
your intestines. This is critical
if you want to maximise its
cholesterol-lowering effect.
Did you know?
A mock cheque presentation by Ong (left) to Dr Sambhi, chairman of YJM (second from right), at the official launch of Oat BG22
Crispy Cereal this year.
There is more at stake
When it comes to public
education, an important aspect
that cannot be neglected is the
need for a strategic partnership
between health NGOs and the
corporate sector.
We are also deeply involved
with the Nutrition Society of
Malaysia (NSM), Malaysian
Association for the Study of
Obesity (MASO) and Malaysian
Dietitians Association (MDA). We
are committed to telling people
about healthy living and the
importance of having a balanced
and nutritious diet, says Ong.
An easy-to-comply solution
The whole idea behind Oat
BG22 Crispy Cereal is compliance.
By producing it as an easy-
to-eat form, more people will
be able to comply with the daily
requirement of 3g of oat beta-
glucan, which is the amount
that provides the maximum
cholesterol-lowering effect.
It tastes good and you can even
have it as a healthy snack. These
factors make it easier for people
to consume the daily requirement
of 3g oat beta-glucan, which will
help control their cholesterol
levels.
There is a host of benets
associated with taking Oat BG22
Crispy Cereal as opposed to other
cereals in the market, says Ong.
One of the benets of
consuming high-bre grains is
that the feeling of fullness will last
for a longer period of time, which
will help to reduce food intake.
This is one method to address
the balance between food
intake and your bodys energy
expenditure.
Cholesterol-lowering
effect
There were no expenses spared
in the manufacturing process of
Oat BG22 Crispy Cereal.
The latest in German
engineering and technical-
knowhow was utilised to produce
this high-quality product.
This breakfast cereal provides
positive health benets and has no
side effect on young children.
Studies have shown that to
achieve signicant reduction of
LDL-cholesterol levels, you need
to eat 3g of high-molecular weight
oat beta-glucan daily to achieve
maximum results.
Oat BG22 Crispy Cereal.
StarSpecial 5
Tuesday 21 October 2014
The benefits of red krill oil
K
RILL oil is oil that is extracted
from krills, which are small
shrimp-like crustaceans that
live in the clear pristine waters of
the Antarctic oceans.
The oil is red in colour and
contains omega-3 fatty acids
attached to phospholipids as
well as astaxanthin, a powerful
antioxidant.
Health benefits
Research has revealed that krill
oil has many health benets as
supported by various scientic
studies.
These health benets include
maintaining a healthy heart,
improving arthritic conditions,
relieving pre-menstrual pain
symptoms (PMS) and relieving
dry skin and providing protection
against photo-ageing.
The benets of krill oil and
sh oil are often compared. The
main similarity between krill oil
and sh oil is the latters omega-3
content.
However, krill oil has additional
nutrients not found in sh oils and
it is these that amplify the health
benets of krill oil over sh oils.
The benets of krill oil:
l Easily absorbed and
utilised by the body Red krill
oil contains naturally occurring
phospholipid form of omega-3,
which is easily absorbed and
utilised by the body.
Fish oil is in the triglyceride
form that needs to be digested by
the body before it can be utilised
fully by the body.
l Naturally packed with the
potent antioxidant known as
astaxanthin Krill oil is naturally
red in colour because of its
antioxidant content.
Most sh oils are golden yellow
and do not contain antioxidants.
l Safe for consumption Krill
oil is naturally clean as krill sh
is at the bottom of the food chain
and lives in the clear pristine
water of the Antarctic. There is
no concern about heavy metal
contamination.
l Consume less capsules
Less krill oil is required to offer a
similar level of health benets as
omega-3 sh oil.
Several scientic studies
show that the benets gained by
consuming 3,000mg of sh oils can
be achieved by taking just 1,000mg
of red krill oil.
l Three essential health-giving
nutrients in one capsule Krill
oil offers three essential health
nutrients that the body can utilise:
Omega-3 (EPA and DHA)
Clinically shown to regulate
cholesterol for heart health.
Astaxanthin Potent antioxidant
that protects the cells from decay
and ageing.
Phospholipid The main
component of human cells that
facilitates fast absorption.
Making the
right choice
There are many krill oil
supplements available in
pharmacies today.
It is important to choose a
good krill oil product to get the
maximum benets.
Here are some important
points to look out for:
l Good krill oil must be red
in colour The red colour of
the krill oil is due to the natural
antioxidant, astaxanthin.
Astaxanthin is best in
esteried form as it is more
easily absorbed and readily
utilised by the body.
l Manufactured and packed
at manufacturing site Red
krill oil should be extracted
and encapsulated at the
manufacturing site to ensure
freshness and quality of the krill
oil. Freshly extracted krill oil has
a darker red appearance.
l Harvested ecologically
and sustainable Responsible
krill oil manufacturers should
buy their krill oil from suppliers
who harvest krill oil under the
sustainable shing practices
to ensure the Antarctic food
chain and krill resources are
maintained.
n This article is complementary
of Natures Way.
Red krill oil contains
high omega-3 content
as well as astaxanthin,
a powerful antioxidant
that provides several
health benefits.
Research on krill oil
has revealed that krill
oil has many health
benefits as supported
by various scientific
studies. The benefits
of krill oil and fish oil
are often compared.
The main similarity
between krill oil and
fish oil is the latters
omega-3 content.
StarSpecial 7
Milk thistle is as a natural remedy for
diseases of the liver and gall bladder.
Improve your liver condition
W
HEN our liver does
not function well, we
have bad breath, body
odour, indigestion, poor bowel
movement, skin blemishes, dark
circles, puffy eyes and fatigue.
The liver is involved in more
than 500 vital functions in the
body.
The human liver is reddish-
brown in colour, weighs around
three pounds (1.3kg) and is located
in the upper right portion of the
abdomen.
Major functions of liver include
the synthesis of cholesterol,
bile and certain proteins. It also
converts poisonous ammonia
into urea, acts as a storage for
vitamins, carbohydrates, fats and
iron, and detoxies chemicals and
metabolises drugs.
Every action we take has
an effect on our liver. For
example, the food we eat and the
substances we apply on our skin
pass through our liver.
The liver becomes burdened
when one frequently eats an
unhealthy diet that is high in
saturated fat, trans fat, sugars
and rened carbohydrates. In
addition to smoking, excessive
alcohol consumption and toxic
compounds such as pesticides
found in food and toxins from the
environment also burden the liver.
Common liver problems are
alcohol liver disease (ALD), non-
alcohol fatty liver disease (NAFLD),
gallstones, hepatitis, cirrhosis and
liver cancer.
NAFLD is a common liver
disease where excess fat that is
not caused by alcohol is deposited
in the liver cells.
When fat accumulation
exceeds 5% of the livers weight, it
can lead to inammation, brosis
and nally cirrhosis.
In Malaysia, it is estimated
that NAFLD affects up to 30%
of the adult population. Several
risk factors have been linked
to NAFLD, including being
overweight, obesity and having
diabetes and dyslipidemia.
As prevention is better than
cure, it is best to start taking care
of our liver before it is too late.
Tips to prevent NAFLD:
l Do more physical activities
l Stop smoking
l Avoid alcohol consumption
l Schedule regular check-ups
l Consume a healthy diet
In addition, one can opt for
milk thistle as a natural remedy to
improve and maintain liver health.
Milk thistle has been used for
more than 2,000 years as a natural
remedy for a variety of ailments,
particularly diseases of the liver
and gall bladder.
The active ingredient of milk
thistle is silymarin, which is a
potent antioxidant composed of
several avonoid compounds.
Silybin is the most biologically
active component of silymarin
complex because of its antioxidant
and hepato-protective properties.
These two properties are very
important in maintaining
liver health and aiding liver
detoxication.
The active ingredient of milk
thistle extracts help to stabilise
cell membranes, thus preventing
toxic chemicals from entering the
cell and excreting toxins out of
the cell.
In addition, milk thistle can
help in repairing the damaged
cells and generating new cells.
The production of new liver
cells is due to the ability of the
milk thistle components in
stimulating protein synthesis.
n This article is brought to you by
BiO-LiFE Marketing Sdn Bhd.
For more information, call
03-7843 6981 or visit
www.biolife.com.my
Putting your
best foot forward
PIGEON toe, also known as in-toe
gait, intoeing or false clubfoot, is a
condition that causes the toes to
point inward when walking.
Research shows that the most
common reason children are
treated for intoeing is because
parents are concerned about the
way their children walk or run.
Sometimes, intoeing is a
developmental phase that
children eventually grow out of.
Tripping during intoeing
usually lasts for one to two years
as kids learn to cope with the
problem.
If you are concerned about your
childs intoeing, MyOrtho may be
able to help you.
The specialists at MyOrtho can:
l Observe the way your child runs
or walks
l Analyse the shoes he wears and
how he wears them out
l Advise you on how to treat the
problem and whether your child
needs gait plates, orthotics or a
change of footwear
l Let you know if it is just a phase
or if your child requires treatment
Gait development
When is the time to seek help
to treat the way your child walks?
This is a dicult question for
parents.
When kids start walking, their
centre of mass is low and they
have a wide stance, with their feet
pointing outwards to stabilise
themselves. As they develop, this
gait changes.
Between the ages of two to
four, heel contact starts and
children begin pushing off with
their big toe to move forward.
In addition, children have a fat
pad under their arch, which can
make them look like they have
a at foot until the age of four.
All these conditions can cause
concern.
It is hard to say when they
need help. If your child walks
abnormally, trips often or
experiences pain, consult a
specialist for a check up.
MyOrthos specialists can carry
out assessments to identify
if your child needs to be
treated.
The most important aspect
of childrens feet is the shoes
they wear.
They need exible shoes
that allow for the big toe to
bend and provide support
around the heels.
Flat feet
Flat feet is a worrying topic
for many parents as many are
not sure if it is a normal part
of development or a cause for
concern. More often than not,
it will resolve itself over time.
In some cases, however,
at feet are symptomatic of a
small number of conditions,
which if treated early, may
help the child avoid problems
later on in life.
Children begin to walk
anywhere between eight and
18 months, so it is important
to ensure that their feet is
growing properly.
n For more information, visit
www.myortho.com.my
Consult a foot specialist to check-
up on your childs intoeing if it
becomes a concern.
T
HIS year, a team of
Japanese researchers
observed that the
acetic acid in apple cider
vinegars upregulates
the expression of
genes for fatty acid
oxidation enzymes.
These powerful
enzymes, which act as
catalysts, were shown
to boost metabolism,
block the bodys
storage of incoming
dietary fat plus break
down and dissolve
existing body fat.
Bragg Live Food
Products has been
around for more than 100
years. In the early 1900s,
the originator of health food
stores, Dr Paul C. Bragg was
the rst to promote the health
benets of apple cider
vinegar by introducing the
Bragg Organic Apple Cider
Vinegar.
Certied Organic
Bragg Apple Cider
Vinegar is unltered,
unheated and
unpasteurised.
It is made from
the nest crushed
organically grown
apples and allowed
to mature in wooden
barrels that boost its
natural fermentation
qualities. Bragg Organic
Apple Cider Vinegar is
also rich in enzymes and
potassium.
n For more information, call
1800 880 2273, 03-7785 6288 or
visit www.caremark.com.my
Apple cider vinegar has many benets:
Health remedies for the family
Benefits when consumed Direction for use
Helps to delay the onset of ageing
Rids the body of dangerous toxic waste through cell
purification
Relieves headaches
Helps keep blood in the right consistency
Helps maintain the bodys acid-alkaline balance
Regulates menstruation
Helps combat constipation
Helps normalise the urine thus counter-acting the frequent
urge to urinate
Helps prevent obesity and combats underweight
Fights arthritis and gout
Fights gall stones and kidney stones
Helps food digestion and assimilation
Mix one teaspoon of apple cider vinegar with one
teaspoon of raw honey in a glass of distilled water
and consume two times or more daily. It can also
be used in salad dressings and for daily cooking.
Mix one tablespoon of distilled water with a third
of a teaspoon of apple cider vinegar and consume
five minutes before meal time. Retain in the
mouth for a few seconds before swallowing.
Biolane has allowed Croft to do the things he loves even in his golden years.
Be free of arthritis
J
OHN Croft is known
internationally as the mussel
man.
As the pioneer marine scientist
who rst discovered the natural
anti-arthritic properties of New
Zealand green-lipped mussels,
patented as Biolane, he is used
to gracing medical conferences
across the world talking about
arthritis and the healing
properties of Biolane.
However, it was not until
2000, when Croft was in his late
60s, that he began experiencing
arthritis in his shoulders and
ngers. Being an avid sailor,
guitarist and outdoor lover, it was
a frustrating time for Croft.
True to science, he found relief
in the marine medicine he had
been preaching about for years.
Marine wonder
Research shows that Biolane
is a natural joint ageing enzyme
inhibitor (MMP inhibitor). It is able
to restore joint-ageing enzymes to
a balanced state.
When the levels of these
enzymes are controlled, it allows
the joints to repair and clean up
areas of damaged joint surfaces
including bone spurs.
Biolane also has antioxidant
properties and demonstrates
several signicant anti-
inammatory actions, including
preventing immune cells from
indiscriminately attacking our
joints.
Biolane helps slow arthritis
from progressing by controlling
the dreaded joint-ageing enzymes
at all joints knees, shoulders,
neck, back and ngers.
Happy ending
Croft took Biolane to task by
starting on it when the arthritis
in his shoulders and hands got so
bad that he could neither draw the
curtains open nor play the guitar.
It took time for Croft to regain
dexterity.
After three months, he found
that the pain in his shoulders and
the stiffness in his ngers were
simply not there anymore.
Croft is delighted to be able to
continue doing what he loves. By
addressing his joint problems in
his late 60s, he is living his golden
years without being tied down by
arthritis.
He shares that he still takes a
maintenance dose of Biolane daily,
which enables him to sail his yacht
as often as he likes and play the
guitar in his band.
This article is brought to you
by the Nuvaceuticals Division of
Nuvanta Sdn Bhd.
03-5636 3758, 1300 881 712 or
e-mail pharmacist@nuvanta.com
John Croft.
Discovering a Japanese secret
ACCORDING to reports from Global Burden
of Disease Study 2010, the Japanese have
the highest healthy life expectancies.
Malaysia, on the other hand, has been
ranked as the most obese nation in
South-East Asia by Oxfam International,
an international confederation of 17
organisations that nds solutions to
poverty.
The healthy life expectancy of the
Japanese can be attributed to their diet and
their observance of the ve-colour food
chart.
The Japanese diet consists of plenty of
sh, colourful multi-grains, tofu, seaweed,
green tea and plenty of raw local seasonal
fruits and vegetables. It is said that on
average the Japanese consume three times
more fresh fruits and vegetables than the
rest of the world.
Since 1987, generations of women in
Japan have been consuming Barleygreen
Premium by Dr Yoshihide Hagiwara,
earning it the title of Japans green miracle
powder.
Using award-winning cold patented
processing methods, it compresses young
organic barley grass.
Barleygreen Premium contains 16 types
of vitamins, 17 minerals, 18 amino acids
and more than 300 active enzymes in each
serving.
It also contains the anti-ageing enzyme
superoxide dismutase (SOD) along with
P4D1 (that contains strong inammatory
properties enabling our bodies to repair
the DNA within our cells), which aid in the
prevention of carcinogenesis, ageing and
even cell death.
When it comes to ageing and weight loss,
antioxidants and vitamin E are important
key gures that help prevent cellular
damage. Enzyme 2 -0-Glycosylisovitexin
(2 -0-GIV) found in Barleygreen Premium
is a potent antioxidant and it is what
Japanese Barleygreen consumers have
deemed a miracle.
Also available is Beta Carrot and Beta
Beet that provide additional antioxidant
ghting properties, on top of those found in
Barleygreen, keeping women younger and
stronger, for longer.
The added presence of vitamins and
minerals in your diet such as potassium,
magnesium, chlorophyll, antioxidants and
active enzymes will not only help to rapidly
decrease the rate of ageing but also reduce
the deposition of cholesterol, reduce the
blockages in coronary arteries and ensure
ecient blood ow to the arteries.
Below are the varieties available:
l Barleygreen Premium the active
enzymes in each serving help to detox at a
cellular level and balance acidity levels that
allow for better nutrient absorption.
l Beta Carrot high in beta-carotene
and is a powerful antioxidant that
neutralises free radicals within the body,
decreasing cell damage and delays ageing.
l Beta Beet an excellent source of
folate, iron and betaine. Helps to improve
blood circulation, blood production and
skin complexion.
Prevents fat deposits in the liver and
ensures that the liver functions optimally.
Also an excellent source of carotenoids,
avonoids, antioxidants and vitamin
A. Ideal for pregnant women and those
suffering from anaemia.
Barleygreen premium.
Dr Yoshihide
Hagiwara.
PE and the
Asian man
P
REMATURE ejaculation (PE) is the
most common sexual dysfunction
affecting men and yet many in Asia do
not seek treatment or even admit to having
the problem.
The Asia-Pacic Premature Ejaculation
Prevalence and Attitude Study, a recent
comprehensive study of 5,000 men across
nine countries, found that 31% of men have
PE. Yet only 7% have been diagnosed with
and treated for this condition.
In many Asian societies, issues such as
sexual dysfunctions remain a taboo and
are not openly discussed. These social
norms further impede the diagnosis of PE
and its treatment, and can result in under-
diagnosis.

Misconceptions
The general reluctance of individuals
to speak about PE coupled with its lack
of awareness as a medical condition
means that many are not aware that it is a
treatable condition.
Additionally, PE is often misdiagnosed
as erectile dysfunction (ED) and therefore
patients fail to receive effective medication
for their condition. It is important to note
that while ED tends to affect older men, PE
affects men across all age groups.
PE is believed to be caused by genetic
factors. More specically, neurobiological
factors such as the levels of serotonin
in an individual can contribute to the
development of PE in an individual.
Burden
Aside from sexual satisfaction, PE can
also impact the self-condence and self-
esteem of a man and his partner.
In a relationship between a PE sufferer
and his partner, both parties commonly
report feelings of alienation and lowered
self-condence.
Men in particular feel embarrassed
when they fail to sexually satisfy their
partner. Prolonged stress and irritation
from the lack of sexual satisfaction
attributed to PE can negatively impact
the ability of an individual to maintain or
engage in interpersonal relationships.
The impact on women
Often, partners of men with PE are
overlooked as the impact it has on them is
not realised or acknowledged.
In the long run, PE puts a strain in the
development of a healthy, loving and
sexually fullling relationship between two
individuals.
In fact, 40% of partners of men with
premature ejaculation say that it causes
them to avoid sex completely and 14%
of women in Asia say that they believe
that premature ejaculation can lead to a
relationship breakdown or divorce.
Women play an important role in helping
their partners with suspected PE get
diagnosed.
However, many Asian women are
especially hesitant to talk about sex. Many
are unwilling to broach such conversations
for fear of embarrassing themselves or their
partners.
Often, our busy and hectic lifestyles,
work, family and other commitments
are prioritised over sexual fullment in
relationships.
PE is a treatable condition
There is still plenty to be done in Asia
on raising awareness of PE as a medical
condition.
Medical improvements and convenient
oral drugs specically developed for the
treatment of PE mean that men no longer
have to suffer in silence and can regain their
quality of life both for themselves and their
partners.
n For more information on PE or to take
the Premature Ejaculation Diagnostic Tool
(PEDT), visit www.controlpe.com.my
If you suspect that you have PE, the best
course of action is to consult your doctor
for a proper diagnosis. If you do have
PE, understand that you are not alone
and the condition is treatable. The next
step is to discuss effective treatment
for your condition with your doctor.
There are different ways to treat PE,
including behavioural techniques and
psychological counselling. Additionally,
PE can be treated with safe and effective
oral drugs.
Safe and proven treatment
Premature
ejaculation is
a treatable
condition.
Problems with your libido?
L
ACK of sex drive is more
commonly associated with
women than men. Lack of
libido should not be confused
with having diculties to orgasm,
which is a sexual dysfunction.
Low sex drive should also not
be confused with differences in
personal preferences.
Even if you may want to have
sex less or more often than your
partner does, it does not mean
that you or your partner have an
abnormal sex drive.
People with a low libido simply
do not have the desire to have sex
and they are not mentally turned
on by the idea of love-making.
A womans sexual drive
uctuates naturally over the years.
The life events that can contribute
to this uctuation include the
beginning or ending of a romantic
relationship and hormonal
changes due to pregnancy and
menopause.
Illnesses may also affect libido
whether directly because of the
illness itself or due to the side-
effects of the medication used to
treat the illness.
Someone who is distressed
by a persistent or recurring lack
of sexual interest may have an
underlying medical condition
called hypoactive sexual desire
disorder (HSDD) that can be
diagnosed by a clinician.
However, if you do not meet the
medical denition of HSDD, it is
possible that with a few lifestyle
changes you may be able to
enhance your libido.
Here are some suggestions
from the Mayo Clinic.
Lubricate
Hormones play a large role
in a persons sex drive. Before
menopause, a womans sex drive
peaks just before and right after
she ovulates.However, after
menopause, her oestrogen levels
drop and the peaks in the monthly
cycles are gone.
The decline of eostrogen also
leads to lower blood ow to
the vagina and more dryness,
which makes the thought of sex
uncomfortable.
Try over-the-counter water-
based lubricants, oral drugs or
vaginal creams that can ght
dryness.
De-stress
The modern woman typically
leads a stressful life. She could
be juggling her career, marriage,
raising her children and paying off
the mortgages, besides having to
face the daily trac jams between
work and home.
Any of these factors can
increase her stress and fatigue
level, which decreases her sex
drive.
A decreased sex drive, in turn,
can cause tension to develop
with her partner and jeopardise
the relationship which further
increases the stress in her life.
Try to take some time off
once in a while. A planned get-
away may sound contrived but
sometimes the anticipation
over the approaching romantic
weekend is a libido booster in
itself.
It can help you and your
partner to relax, de-stress and
rekindle the romance.
Indulge in a spa treatment,
massage and other pampering
activities.
Exercise
Regular strength and
conditioning activities can
improve your stamina, body
image and elevate your mood.
During and just after exercise,
the body produces endorphins
(also known as happy hormones)
that make you feel exhilarated
and happy. All of these factors can
boost your libido.
Aphrodisiacs
Throughout history and various
cultures, many foods and drinks
have gained the reputation for
making sex more attainable and
pleasurable.
From a research standpoint,
the results may be mainly due to
placebo effects.
Scientically speaking, foods
such as honey and oysters that
contain minerals or substances
that enhance the natural
testosterone levels in the blood
of both men and women may be
useful aphrodisiacs.
Testosterone is the hormone
responsible for promoting sex
drive and orgasms in men and
women.
Some of the other purported
aphrodisiacs include herbs and
plants such as asparagus, avocado,
chocolate, ginseng and gingko
biloba.
Talk to your doctor
If the problem is serious,
your primary care doctors or
gynaecologists can help you.
During routine gynaecological
checks, it is normal for health care
practitioners to ask about sex and
intimacy.
This is your chance to speak
about your sexual concerns.
If you are taking prescription
drugs such as anti-seizure
medications or anti-depressants,
ask your doctor if they come with
any side effects.
Sometimes, just changing your
prescription can return your libido
to what it used to be.
Here is a list of things to
prepare for this discussion with
your doctor:
l Make sure that you take note
of any sexual problems you are
experiencing, such as diculty in
getting aroused, dryness, anxiety
or panic attacks at the thought of
sexual encounters.
l Provide your doctor with the
list of medical conditions and
medications or food supplements
that you are taking so that they
know if they have an effect on
your sex drive.
l Consider your former level
of sexual desires as a point of
comparison. Take note of any
lifestyle changes that have taken
place.
Everyones sexual motivations
are different but if you are
concerned about yours and it is
affecting you and your partner
negatively, talk openly and
honestly with your partner and
seek medical help.
Some of the conditions
can easily be addressed with
professional help and support
from your loved ones.
Acknowledged by the
Malaysia Book of Records
for the highest number of
IVF babies produced by a
single IVF practice.
Remarkable IVF Clinical
Pregnancy Rate of 66% in the
Year 2013.
Over 3,700 IVF babies delivered and
still counting.
Produced our rst baby via Pre-Implantation
Genetic Diagnosis (PGD) Comparative Genomic
Hybridization (CGH), a technique that screens for
chromosomal abnormalities.
Our rst pregnancy with frozen-thawed transfer embryos,
rst blastocyst transfer IVF baby, Malaysias and Singapores
rst PGD baby, and rst In Vitro Maturation (IVM) baby,
amongst others.
Tropicana Medical Centre
For enquiries please email
International Patient Care Line
Johor Bahru Penang Puchong Kepong
StarSpecial 13
Discover the natural
goodness of yoghurt
Y
OGHURT is a thick custard-
like food, prepared from
milk curdled by bacteria,
especially lactobacillus bulgaricus
and steptococcus thermophilus, and
often sweetened or avoured with
fruit.
Though many things have
changed since milk was rst
cultured into this tangy snack,
yoghurt is still very popular and
loved around the world.
Benefits
There are several health
advantages, which have helped
propel yoghurt into its current
status among dairy products. The
main one is its content of active
bacteria.
This is good bacteria, which our
body needs healthy amounts of, in
the digestive tract.
Mixing it up
This versatile food can be
used as alternatives to cooking
ingredients such as coconut milk,
butter, sour cream, mayonnaise,
and cooking cream.
Choosing well
When shopping for yoghurt, it
is important to rst have an idea
of what you will be using it for as
there are many different types in
the market.
Read the food labels to
determine which products have
live culture as this provides better
digestion. Some products are
merely yoghurt-avoured.
Storing
It is also important to ensure
that yoghurt is stored in the right
conditions.
The best storage temperature
for yoghurt is between 0C and
4C.
Remember to bring a cooler
bag when shopping for yoghurt to
retain the low temperature once
the yoghurt is taken off the shelf.
Yoghurt is safe for consumption
until its expiry date, provided it is
stored at the right temperature. To
keep opened containers of yoghurt
fresh, use a clean, dry spoon to
scoop the yoghurt out.
The remainder of the product
is best kept well-covered in its
original container to avoid any
possible contamination from the
storage area.
Natural food
While some may worry about
nding water in their yoghurt, this
is actually a natural occurrence
and does not mean that it has gone
bad.
This is whey water, which
separates naturally in yoghurt.
Whey water contains protein,
giving you plenty of added
nutrition.
It can be stirred back into
the yoghurt or consumed in
smoothies as it is a waste to throw
away something of such high
nutritional content.
Yoghurt ts well into a healthy
balanced diet.
In fact, the Malaysia Dietary
Guideline recommends
consuming one to three servings
of milk and dairy products in
a day. It also promotes good
digestion.
Label Explanation
No added sugar This does not guarantee a low-sugar content. It means that no sugar or ingredients
containing sugar were added during processing. However, the original source might have
contained milk sugar, which is stated as lactose. Additional sweeteners also known as
reduced-calorie sweeteners or artificial sweeteners might also have been added.
Low fat This label typically means there is fewer than 3g of fat per 100g. However, it does not always
mean low calorie. More often than not, manufacturers add other ingredients to compensate
for the flavour, such as sugar, flour, thickeners and salt, which add to the total calorie count.
It is important to check each label as fruit variants have different fat content.
0% fat, no fat,
fat-free, without fat
This means there is less than 0.15g of fat per 100g.
Contains real fruit This is an indicator that there is real fruit content and the product may also contain additional
permitted flavouring.
Fruit flavoured This could mean that it does not contain any fruit, only artificial fruit flavouring.
Greek Greek yoghurt is produced by straining the yoghurt (in a cheese cloth or paper bag) to
remove excess water. This makes it relatively thicker and creamier while preserving the
distinct sour taste of yoghurt. It is also high in protein.
Type of consumer Explanation
Babies Once a child starts eating complementary food at six months, you may start him on natural
yoghurt or unflavoured yoghurt drinks in moderate quantities. However, children who are
lactose intolerant may develop stomach discomfort if they consume products containing
milk, so it is important to determine if your child is lactose intolerant before adding yoghurt
to his diet. It is advisable for parents to consult a paediatrician before giving yoghurt to
their baby.
Diabetic patients Consumers who should not have too much sugar in their diet can opt for yoghurt with no
additional sugar. It is advisable to first consult your doctor on your food intake.
Lactose-intolerant
patients
Yoghurt is made of milk but people with lactose intolerance can also tolerate yoghurt better
than milk, although both have similar amounts of lactose. This is because the live cultures
and bacteria in the yoghurt will digest much of the lactose flued in yoghurt even before you
consume it.
Understanding your labels
Who can eat it?
Yoghurt is safe
for consumption
until its expiry
date, provided it is
stored in the right
temperature.
Yoghurt is a popoular
snack among children
and adults alike.
Nestl Greek Style yoghurt comes in a variety of
flavours.
StarSpecial 15
Keeping physically
active and healthy
E
VERYBODY knows that
keeping t and active is
important for their overall
health. So why is it that most
people nowadays seem to lead
unhealthy lifestyles?
The incidences of non-
communicable diseases (NCDs) in
Malaysia are on the rise, and it is
quite widely known that Malaysia
is the most obese country in
South-East Asia.
NCDs, which are diseases such
as diabetes, hypertension, obesity
and heart disease, are mainly
caused by an unhealthy diet and
lifestyle. According to World
Health Organization statistics, the
probability of a Malaysian dying
between the ages of 30 and 70
from an NCD is 20%.
The Ministry of Health (MOH)
has had a campaign to promote
healthy lifestyles among the
rakyat since 1991.
Not only does the government
want a healthy population,
through good health, the nations
productivity is increased and the
cost of health care for all can be
minimised.
The MOHs campaign
comprises ve components:
l healthy eating
l physical activity
l healthy mind
l anti-smoking
l anti-alcohol
The campaign is targeted at
the general population but each
component has its own strategic
plan.
The physical activity
component for 2010, for example,
encouraged housewives to walk
10,000 steps a day.
The support for this initiative
was overwhelming and has since
been expanded to all groups of
society.
The healthy lifestyle campaign
has been working to spread
awareness among Malaysians
about the need for physical
activity, and has been quite
successful so far.
According to the National
Health and Morbidity Survey 2011,
64.3% of Malaysian adults are
active, compared to 56.3% in 2006
an 8% increase.
The publics increased
awareness of the benets of
keeping physically active is also
evident through social indicators
such as the increase in the number
of tness centres, the frequency of
tness and health related events
organised by companies and
even an increase in the number
of sports apparel and equipment
shops.
Apart from the social
indicators, the recently launched
Nak Sihat campaign that promotes
physical activity among Malaysian
youths indicates that awareness
about the health benets gained
from being physically active is on
the increase.
Be at the top of your game
Growing up strong
CHILDHOOD obesity is believed
to lead to adult obesity.
Obesity is not just being
extremely overweight; an
obese child will suffer from
other non-communicable
diseases (NCDs) such as
cardiovascular disease, high
cholesterol and high blood
pressure.
They are also at risk of
developing bone and joint
problems as their limbs are
unable to sustain their weight.
On top of all that, these
children will be subject
to social, emotional and
psychological problems as they
may be bullied or ostracised by
their peers.
There is certainly no magic
pill to prevent obesity; healthy
eating and being physically
active are the only ways to
keep a child from becoming
obese.
The World Health
Organization recommends that
children 17 years old and below
be physically active for at least
60 minutes every day.
Parents play a big role
in ensuring their children
consume healthy food (less
sugar, less oil, more fruits and
vegetables) and are adequately
active.
A childs recreational
activities should not consist of
merely playing video games or
watching television.
Children should play outside
and take part in sports.
Aerobic exercises such as
these are excellent for children
as they get the heart pumping
and work most of the muscles
in the body:
l running
l skipping rope
l cycling
These types of activities are
not only good exercise, they
also increase childrens social
interaction as they play with
friends, as well as allowing
them to exercise their minds by
planning strategies to win the
game.
Healthy practices should be
part of a persons lifestyle, and
to ensure that this happens, it
should begin at an early stage
of life. Physiological adoption is
easier at an early age.
For example, developing
agility, speed, exibility, bone
density and the mental tness
that goes hand-in-hand with
physical activity is easier at a
young age.
Parents who mould a child
into being a physically active
and healthy person from the
beginning will nd that these
good habits follow the child
through the rest of his life.
If you are a beginner, it is strongly recommended that you
exercise with a partner or in a group. You can exercise with
friends or family.
Use comfortable, appropriate clothing and footwear.
Use safety equipment such as helmet, goggles, braces, guard,
pads.
Avoid exercising within two hours after a meal.
Drink adequate water before and at the end of the exercise
to replace the water lost through sweating but avoid taking
carbonated drinks.
Avoid exercising in non-conducive conditions such as areas that
are too dark, in too hot weather, in polluted air.
After exercising, shower as normal, but only after the body has
cooled down and is no longer sweaty.
Use a reflector on your clothes when jogging early in the
morning, at dawn or at night.
Jog against the flow of road traffic. Avoid exercising in areas
with heavy road traffic.
Safety comes first
AS a teenager, it may be a little
more dicult to nd time to
exercise or play sports as when
you were a child.
There is much more school
work to do, you may want to
spend more time with friends
and you may also have other
responsibilities to your family or
even work.
But this does not mean that you
should just forget about physical
exercise. Your teenage years are
when the body is growing and
developing rapidly and you are
going through many changes.
Regular physical activity helps
this process as it builds healthy
bones and muscles, and helps
control weight.
Combined with a healthy diet,
physical exercise may improve
blood pressure and cholesterol
levels.
Physical activity also helps
reduce anxiety and stress and
increase self-esteem.
This is because when you
exercise your body releases
chemicals called endorphins that
trigger a positive feeling in the
body.
This feeling is known as
a runners high a feeling of
euphoria or a burst of energy
that you feel during prolonged
strenuous exercise.
Exercise also improves your
alertness and concentration and
helps you sleep well.
Leading an active and healthy
lifestyle at this age means
you have a greater chance of
remaining healthy throughout
your adult life.
The healthy lifestyle
campaign has been
creating awareness
among Malaysians
about the need for
physical activity.
Children should be
encouraged to take
part in sports or other
physical activities.
I WORK out almost everyday. I do
strength training, which involves
lifting weights. I started exercising
because I want to be strong and
healthy, which makes going
through life much easier.
Many women believe that
strength training will make them
bulk up, but thats completely
untrue. Look at me Ive been
doing it for years and Im still
small.
I think Malaysians in general
are not as t and healthy as they
should be. There should be more
awareness about the benets
of keeping physically active
among the rakyat. Roni King,
26, Universiti Malaya graduate
student.
The only exercise I get is in
my daily 20-minute walk to work.
I also go for evening walks with
my children every weekend. I was
recently diagnosed with a heart
condition, so I know I should be
exercising more, but I am so busy
that I keep procrastinating.
I want to set a good example
for my children, so I am making
an effort to nd some time to
exercise.
My children, who are 10 and
12, are quite active and take part
in sporting activities at school, and
I want to ensure that they remain
physically active as they grow
up. Sharmini Bala, 44, sales
executive.
I usually play sports once or
twice a month I play basketball
or football with friends. I recently
took up running. I took part in a
21km race a few months ago, and
a 10km race last week.
Ive realised I should be more
physically active, but I just started
working and my busy work
schedule makes it dicult.
I feel too tired after work and
getting stuck in a jam and arriving
home at a late hour doesnt help.
But I have resolved to include
more physical activities into my
schedule from next year onwards,
when I am more used to my job.
Miguel Tan, 25, web writer.

I exercise three times a
week, usually by jogging, playing
badminton or weight lifting. I
exercise because I want to get t
and be healthy.
Balancing gym time with
family time and work is a little
dicult, but I manage it. I go to
the gym around 9.30 or 10pm, so
I am able to work out for about an
hour or an hour and a half before
it closes.
This way, I get to spend some
time with my wife and children
after work, and I have some
me-time to work out after the
children are asleep. My children
are young but they are aware that
I exercise regularly.
I believe its important for me
to be a role model for my children
when it comes to keeping active
and eating healthy. Azmar
Zainol Abidin, 32, graphic
designer.
People say
What is your exercise routine like?
Incorporating fitness
into your busy lifestyle
T
HE World Health
Organization recommends
that adults be physically
active for at least 30 minutes a day,
ve times a week.
Most people will nd this
dicult to achieve because of their
busy work schedules and family
commitments. The majority
of adults in Malaysia now lead
sedentary lifestyles.
This means that there is very
little physical activity in a typical
day we sit in the car, bus or train
and go to work, we sit at our desks
all day, and then go home and sit
in front of the television before
going to bed.
But there are still ways to
incorporate some physical
activities into your everyday
routine:
l Walk to the train station
instead of driving
l Walk to a nearby restaurant
for lunch instead of driving
l Walk up and down the stairs
instead of taking the lift
l Walk to your colleagues desk
to communicate instead of using
the phone
Apart from that, you can
encourage your colleagues to join
you in taking part in physical
activities after work, such as a
game of badminton or futsal.
You can even encourage your
company to organise sporting
events such as inter-departmental
games or friendly matches.
Many people join gyms so
that they can exercise regularly
every week, but you can actually
exercise anywhere as long as it is
safe.
Generally, there are two types
of exercise:
l Cardio exercise walking,
running, jumping, dancing (or
zumba), badminton and other
sports
l Muscle conditioning push-
ups, sit-ups, squats, lunges, planks,
weight and strength training
People who were not previously
physically active tend to start
exercising when they want to lose
some weight.
The best way to do this is
through a combination of healthy
diet and exercise.
You need a good source of
energy from your food intake
to work out effectively, and a
workout is important to burn any
excessive calories gained from
food intake.
Just remember to start slowly
and not push yourself too hard.
Just getting up and moving is
better than sitting down and
doing nothing at all.
As your strength and stamina
increase you can gradually
increase the intensity of your
workouts.
What your exercise
routine should be like
l Start with a warm up
exercise to get the blood owing
to your muscles.
This can be light jogging or
running for ve or 10 minutes.
l Next, stretch the specic
muscles you are going to use. Do
not stretch before warming up
as your muscles are still cold.
Stretch with slow, controlled
movements such as arm circles
and hip movements.
l After warming up and
stretching, perform your selected
exercise at an aerobic phase for
about 30 or 40 minutes.
Listen to your body and refrain
from pushing too hard; it is better
to start slowly and gradually
increase your intensity rather
than inadvertently straining and
injuring yourself.
l After the aerobic phase,
gradually slow your pace to lower
your heart rate. This is the cooling
down period.
- After a brisk walk, walk slowly
for ve or 10 minutes
- After a run, walk briskly for ve
to 10 minutes
l Now you can perform some
strength training exercises to
improve muscles strength.
l Complete your exercise
routine with stretching exercises
for all the major muscle groups.
If keeping t and healthy
throughout your adult life and into
old age is not enough to convince
you to be physically active, bear in
mind that your actions inuence
your children.
Parents set the example for
their children in terms of lifestyle
choices, so parents play a big role
in instilling healthy habits in their
children.
Component What is it? How do you work it?
Aerobic exercises. These are exercises that
get the heart pumping and work the muscles.
Examples are jogging, running or swimming.
Cardiovascular
fitness (aerobic
fitness)
The ability of the heart to keep going
efficiently for a long duration of time
during demanding physical activities.
Exercises such as planking or squats. Muscular endurance
(stamina)
The ability of a group of muscles to keep
working in a given period of time.
Check your body fat or go for a health and
fitness screening to determine your body
composition.
Body composition The quantification of the major
structures of the body such as muscle,
bone and fat.
Strength training or weight training. Make
sure you stretch thoroughly after training to
avoid cramps or sore muscles.
Muscular strength The amount of strength required by a
muscle group to cope with a specific
action.
Stretching exercises. Yoga also improves
flexibility and balance.
Flexibility The ability of muscles and limbs to bend
and move smoothly and to perform
movements in their full range.
Other components are:
l Agility
l Balance
l Speed
l Reaction time
l Coordination
The most important components
in tness are cardiovascular
endurance and body composition.
The different components of fitness
Myth
Weight training gives you big masculine muscles
Reality
Testosterone is responsible for a muscles bulk, and women just do not
have enough testosterone to bulk up like a man. So you will not end up
looking like Arnold Schwarzenegger if you lift weights.
Myth
At the gym, exercise machines are better than free weights
Reality
Machines isolate specific muscles so you burn fewer calories on them
than on free weights. Also, many exercise machines are actually
designed for men, making it tough for women to get into proper
form on them.
Myth
Cardio alone will help you lose weight
Reality
The best way to lose weight through exercise is to combine a cardio
workout with strength training. Add a healthy diet to the mix and you
are well on your way to your fitness goal.
Myth
You cannot work out when you are menstruating
Reality
Though you may feel like lying down and eating chocolate, your body
actually needs exercise during menstruation. Physical activity can
relieve cramps, headaches, fatigue and anxiety. If you do not feel
you can handle vigorous exercise, simple stretching or yoga can be
enough. Just ensure you do not do any inverted pose such as head or
handstands.
Exercise myths for women
The Grayns
rice cooker
removes
sugar from
rice during
the cooking
process,
making it
healthier to
consume.
Getting the best out of rice
RICE, being part of most
peoples staple diet, is likely
the main source of calories for
people. What many remain
oblivious to, however, is that
consuming rice can jeopardise
ones health due to the high
sugar content found in this
popular source of carbohydrate.
Studies have shown that
excess sugar increases blood
pressure, unhealthy cholesterol
levels and triglyceride levels in
the body.
A teaspoon of sugar contains
approximately 16 calories; one
bowl of rice is equivalent to 10
teaspoons of sugar.
The consumption of added
sugar can lead to the formation
of cavities, cause weight gain
and brings minimal benets
to ones health as it lacks
important nutrients such as
bre, vitamins and minerals.
People who exceed the
recommended intake of sugar
are three times more likely to
die of heart problems than those
who consume less than 10%.
Hence, regular rice eaters
need to consider how rice might
possibly be affecting their
health.

Making rice healthier

Fortunately, rice can be made
healthier for consumption. The
key lies in the way rice is cooked
to remove its sugar.
Backed by extensive
research, the researchers
at Grayns Labs USA Inc and
Ascenteus Research developed
the Grayns rice cooker, which
uses an innovative technology
to remove sugar from rice
through its four-stage cooking
process known as RevoCook.
Rice contains two starches
amylose and amylopectin.
Rice contains high amounts of
amylopectin and low amounts
of amylose, meaning there is
more sugar content to cause the
rapid rise of blood sugar levels.
Rice was traditionally
cooked with lots of water,
which contained the dissolved
unhealthy starch and was
thrown away during the
cooking process.
This differs from the
traditional rice cooker found
in most homes, which cooks
rice without dissolving and
discarding the unhealthy starch.
This means that rices sugar
is included in your bowl of
rice, explaining the intense
sleepiness that some people
experience post-lunch as
sugar peaks prompt a ood
of insulin into the body,
shocking the body from a
state of hyperglycemia to
hypoglycemia.
This is where Grayns
rice cooker can benet rice
eaters. Grayns dissolves the
amylopectin in rice so that
consumers can enjoy their
favourite carb without the
sugar.
This means that rice will
have a lower glycemic index,
not only keeping you full and
energetic for longer but making
rice healthier for consumption.
With Grayns, you no longer
need to worry about keeping
rice as a staple part of your diet
at the expense of your heart.
The Grayns rice cooker
is currently offered at an
introductory price of RM1,988
(normal price RM2,188).
n For more information,
call 1300 887 474 or visit
www.grayns.com
A cup of healthy indulgence
A
N alarming 3.6 million
adults are estimated to
be affected by diabetes in
Malaysia, according to the Obesity
Prevention Council.
Malaysia has also been rated
the highest among South-East
Asian countries for obesity.
According to the British
Medical Journal, The Lancet, 49%
of women and 44% of men in this
country are found to be obese.
High sugar intake causes
obesity and is one of the
contributing factors to the high
incidence of diabetes.
Daily Right Friends for Life
was created to provide healthy
beverage alternatives to sugar-
based beverages.
The secret to these guilt-free
tasty treats is stevia, a plant native
to South America.
Stevia is widely used all over
the world and consumed by
millions of people daily. The
products are sweetened by the
naturally occurring sweetness
derived from stevia.
It is blended with freeze-dried
coffee beans or cocoa with pea and
soya protein and enhanced with
cholesterol lowering bres.
These stevia beverages meet
societys needs for a healthier,
tastier low-calorie alternative
to todays high-sugar and high-
calorie products.
l Daily Right Friends for Life
comes in three variants Stevia
White Coffee, Stevia Hazelnut
White Coffee and Stevia Cocoa
Drink.
Stevia White Coffee This special
blend is created from two unique
types of coffee beans, the sweet
Santos Brazilian Beans and the
Toraja Sulawesi Beans, bringing
together a oral sweetness with
a full-bodied aromatic texture.
It is then fused with a creamer
consisting of mixed from pea,
soy and palm oil and lightly
sweetened with stevia.
Stevia Hazelnut White Coffee
The secret to this combination
roast is the generous amount
of hazelnut oil spread over the
wholesome Santos Arabica Coffee
Beans. Combined with a pea, palm
and soy creamer and sweetened
lightly with stevia, consumers
get a luxurious and wholesome
texture.
Stevia Cocoa Drink Indulge
in this cocoa drink with its
silky smooth texture created by
pea, palm and soy creamer and
sweetened with the low-calorie
stevia.
It will give you a robust caramel
fruitiness and a wonderful stevia-
chocolate taste.
n For information, call
1800 880 2273 (CARE) or
03-7785 6288 or visit
www.caremark.com.my
Daily Right Friends for Life products come in various flavours,
all sweetened naturally by stevia to provide a healthy option to
sugar-based beverages.
Innovative hearing solution
T
HE intelligent and rened
Moxi Kiss, created by
global innovator of hearing
solutions Unitron, has won two
prestigious international awards
the Red Dot Award: Product
Design: 2014 and iF product
design award 2014, signifying its
excellence in product design.
Within Moxi Kiss is Unitrons
automatic programme that
incorporates SmartFocus and
SpeechZone technologies and
offers natural sound quality,
outstanding speech intelligibility
in noise and undetectable
transitions to changing sound
environments.
As an ingenious hearing
instrument, no push buttons are
needed for wearers to put them on
and regain their hearing again.
Moxi Kiss is designed to be
intelligent and beautiful. The
hearing instruments outer shell
was designed with precision to the
micron level and a G2 curvature to
ensure a luxurious nish.
Advances in mechanical
design ensure Moxi Kiss internal
functionality upholds Unitrons
commitment to high-delity
natural sound, providing wearers
a high degree of listening
comfort even in the most noisy of
environments, says Ara Talaslian,
vice-president of research and
development of Unitron.
Jan Metzdorff, president of
Unitron, says, In creating Moxi
Kiss, our team worked with the
best in the world, pushed through
design barriers and created an
outstanding product design
that is intelligent, beautiful and
truly worthy of international
recognition.
In a recent survey, Unitron
customers from several key
countries gave Moxi Kiss high
marks for satisfaction specically
for its comfort on the ear, overall
design and shape and the high-
quality look and feel.
It is an effortless experience as
the Moxi Kiss is fully automatic.
This means that the hearing aids
are always working intuitively to
ensure that wearers can get the
best of their hearing.
Moxi Kiss has won
the Red Dot Award:
Product Design:
2014, a testament of
its innovative design.
Moxi Kiss is designed
to be intelligent and
beautiful. The hearing
instruments outer
shell was designed
with precision to the
micron level and a G2
curvature to ensure a
luxurious finish.
With the binaural phone
technology, the callers voice is
heard clearly through both ears.
As a high-technology device, its
smart features help to enhance the
wearers quality of life, making
communication clearer, faster and
hassle-free.
The Moxi Kiss is only available
at 20dB Hearing outlets.
call 1800 882 032 or e-mail
customercare@20dbhearing.com
or visit www.20dbhearing.com
Solving the snoring issue
SNORING is caused by air being
forced past obstructions in the
upper airway, causing the soft
tissue to vibrate.
Although the snorers sleep
is not affected, they are often
oblivious to how much this
affects their sleeping partner.
Snoring is aggravated
by obesity, sinusitis, smoking, alcohol,
tranquillisers, sleeping pills, a abby soft
palate, uvula or an enlarged tongue.
Snoring can lead to sleep apnoea,
a disorder that causes people to stop
breathing for about 10 to 30 seconds at a
time while sleeping.
Most people dismiss snoring as a small
matter but if you wake up feeling tired and
your work performance is affected, you
should seek medical attention.
Yap Ming Tian was aware that he was
a snorer. Last year, he would wake up in
the middle of the night gasping for breath.
This happened several times a night and it
affected his wifes sleep as well.
During a visit to London six months ago,
Yap experienced the same restless sleep. His
daughter, a doctor, instantly recognised it as
apnoea.
Apnoea sufferers are often diagnosed
as being exhausted and most people do
not even know they have it. It is a common
problem and can cause disruptions to sleep
and cause one to be tired the next day.
Apnoea is potentially life-threatening as
it causes a rise in blood pressure, reduces
the ow of oxygen to the brain and can
possibly lead to a stroke, heart attack or
death.
Sufferers have been known to experience
impaired mental abilities, emotions and
disrupted work performance.
It can cause memory problems, weight
gain, impotence and headaches. There are
many ways to treat the condition, including
the use of herbal tonics and sprays, drugs or
mandibular advancement devices.
Conventional methods use nasal
continuous positive airway pressure devices
and doctors may sometimes recommend
surgery.
Yap eventually acquired a mandibular
device called the Somnoguard. The
Somnoguard is made from a exible
material and resembles dentures.
Fitting involves boiling the mouldable
thermoplastic, cooling it and
inserting it into the mouth for
the correct t and bite.
Developed in Germany
by medical enterprise
Tomed Dr Toussaint GmbH in
cooperation with ENT (ear, nose
and throat) university clinic in Mannheim,
the device serves to shift the lower jaw
forward during sleep.
This allows the respiratory tract to open
up further.
Advancement of the lower jaw up to
10mm with 0.5mm accuracy is made with
the adjustment of a screw on the device.
Clinical examinations in the Mannheim
sleep laboratory have shown that snoring in
80% of patients disappeared completely or
almost completely with the use of this oral
device.
The rate of dangerous nocturnal
breathing arrests was reduced by up to 60%.
When Yap tried the device, he slept
soundly for the rst time in years. He has
since decided to be a distributor of the
device to help fellow sufferers in Malaysia.
Approved by European health authorities
and the United States Food and Drug
Administration, the device is convenient
and can be stored easily when travelling.
Yap with the Somnoguard, the device that helped
him solve his snoring and apnoea problem.
Creating awareness on breast cancer
B
REAST cancer is the most
common cancer among
women in Malaysia. One in
20 cases of cancer in women are
breast cancer cases.
Survival rate with improves
with early detection, which is why
self-examination is important,
says Dr Ng Char Hong, consultant
breast surgeon at Sunway Medical
Centre.
Self-examination increases
breast awareness. Every woman
from her teens onwards should
know how to examine her breasts
and become familiar with them so
that they can detect any change
or anything unusual in them, he
says.
The age factor
Malaysian guidelines say that
women aged 50 to 75 should have
a mammogram every two years.
Of course, this does not preclude
those aged 40 to 49 from having
mammograms.
If the recommended screening
age seems high, it is because
most of the statistics and data on
breast cancer have been collected
from developed countries where
incidences of cancer happen later
in life, explains Dr Ng.
In Malaysia, breast cancer is
prevalent in women in the 40 to
49 age range, so women at this
age and in the years leading up to
it should be more aware of their
breast health.
Dr Ng cites the example of
Thailand where the prevalence
of breast cancer is at around 45
years old, so the recommended
screening age there is 35.
The risk of developing breast
cancer does increase with age,
but this does not mean that
young women do not develop the
disease.
Breast cancer can develop at
any age.
Detecting breast cancer in
women below 40 is sometimes
dicult because breast tissue
is generally denser in younger
women.
This means that it is a little
harder to detect a lump through
a screening test such as a
mammogram.
Many young women also
ignore the signs such as a lump
detected during a regular breast
self-examination or unusual
nipple discharge because they
believe they are too young to
develop breast cancer or they have
no family history of the disease.
The majority of our patients
dont have a family history of
breast cancer.
Though family history does
play a role, it is not a major one,
says Dr Ng.
Lymph nodes
With breast cancer, there are
two entities that are affected the
lymph nodes and the breast tissue
itself.
Part of the treatment for breast
cancer is to remove the lymph
nodes affected by the cancerous
cells. This is called axillary node
clearance and is also a way to
control the spread of the cancer.
This procedure causes
lymphedema, which is swelling
in the affected arm and may also
cause a loss of sensation in the
underarms (where the lymph
nodes are located), and a tightness
of movement in the arms.
Before this procedure is
carried out, a sentinel lymph node
biopsy can be performed.
This should ideally take place
in stage 1 or early in stage 2 of the
cancer where there is no palpable
lymph node under the armpit,
says Dr Ng.
Basically, breast cancer tends
to spread in a predictable fashion,
following the ow of lymph, he
explains.
A sentinel lymph node biopsy is
a surgical procedure to determine
if the cancer has spread to the
rst lymph node closest to the
cancerous area.
From there, the doctor can
determine how extensive the
surgery to clear the lymph nodes
has to be.
Sentinel lymph node biopsy has
only become popular in Malaysia
in the last ve years, so it is not
available everywhere yet.
Conserving or
reconstructing
When performing a breast
conserving surgery, we try to be
as conservative as we can during
surgery, so we only remove the
cancer and conserve what we can.
The patient then has to follow
explains Dr Ng.
If breast conservation is out of
the question like when the cancer
has spread too widely, then a
mastectomy will be performed.
The patient then has a choice
of whether or not to reconstruct
the breast using silicone
implants or with an autologuous
reconstruction procedure.
Moving on
Patients who are recovering
from breast cancer are encouraged
to get back to an active lifestyle as
soon as they can.
Once you feel well enough, you
should go back to work and start
some physical activity to
get yourself healthy again, says
Dr Ng.
Sexual health does not have to
be compromised by breast cancer.
Patients can become sexually
active again as soon as they feel
they want to.
We only caution against
getting pregnant if the patient
is still undergoing radiotherapy,
chemotherapy or hormone
therapy for the cancer, he
continues.
There have been incidences of
breast cancer being detected in
women while they are pregnant.
There is no correlation between
pregnancy and breast cancer;
it is just that more women get
pregnant at a later stage of life
when the risk of breast cancer is
naturally higher.
In these cases, there will be a
multidisciplinary meeting called
to discuss the best treatment
options.
The discussion will involve
the oncologist, obstetrician,
neonatologist, anaesthetist and
psychologist, among others.
Cancer at this stage does not
have to mean termination of the
pregnancy. There are ways to
manage it and certain treatments
are safe. Chemotherapy, for
example, is safe after 14 weeks of
pregnancy, says Dr Ng.
These patients can deliver at
normal term. Breastfeeding is
usually not encouraged as most
patients will be undergoing
further treatment.
We will probably see more of
these cases in the next decade as
women are having children later
in life, says Dr Ng.
Men and breast cancer
Men account for 1% of breast
cancer cases in Malaysia.
According to Dr Ng, there are
about 4,000 new cases of breast
cancer in Malaysia every year, so
about 40 of them are in men.
Treatment is exactly the same,
and the expectation of survival
is exactly the same as that of
women.
However, there are generally
less survivors because breast
cancer in men is usually detected
in the later stages, he says.
The reason for this is the lack
of awareness in men that they can
develop breast cancer.
Men can carry out the same
self-examination that women
do; it is actually easier for a man
to detect a lump in his breast
because there is not as much
breast tissue as a woman.
When to carry
out a breast
self-examination
l Women should start
self-examinations from the
age of 20.
l Breast self-
examinations should be
carried out once a month
somewhere between day
seven and day 10 from the
rst day of menses.
l For post-menopausal
women or those who do
not have menses, breast
self-examination should
be carried out on the same
date every month so that it
becomes a regular habit and
you do not forget to do it.
l Men should carry out
regular self-examinations
too, as they are also at risk of
developing breast cancer.
Pedicled TRAM flap (transverse
rectus abdominis myocutaneous
flap).
Immediate breast reconstruction
using latissimus dorsi muscle and
implant/expender.
Delayed breast reconstruction
using latissimus dorsi muscle and
implant/expander.
Extended latissimus dorsi breast reconstruction (LD) (breast construction
using tissue flap).
This surgical procedure
involves using tissue (skin, fat
or muscle) from another part
of the body to reconstruct the
breast. The tissue, called a
flap, usually comes from the
abdomen, back, inner thighs
or buttocks. It is the main
alternative to implant-based
reconstruction.
Autologuous
recontruction
A lymph node is an organ that
enables the proper functioning
of the bodys immune system.
It acts as a filter for foreign
particles and cancer cells.
Lymph nodes are distributed
throughout the body, including
in the neck, armpits, thorax
and thighs.
What are
lymph nodes?
up with radiotherapy to ensure
that all the cancerous cells are
destroyed, says Dr Ng.
Conservation is not only
cosmetically pleasing and
retains the bodys balance, it is
also benecial to the patients
psychological, emotional and
sexual health.
Nowadays, doctors tend to be
more for conserving as much as
possible, especially as there are
modern techniques available in
Malaysia to enable this.
These oncoplastic techniques
are a combination of oncology
surgery and plastic surgery,
Self-examination
increases breast
awareness. Every
woman from her
teens onwards
should know
how to examine
her breasts and
become familiar
with them so that
they can detect any
change or anything
unusual in them.
Dr Ng Char Hong
Dr Ng Char Hong, consultant breast
surgeon at Sunway Medical Centre.
StarSpecial 21
TMC Fertility Centre was
established in 1994 and over
the years has expanded
its facilities. The centre is
able to accept and treat
complex and rare infertility
cases through assisted
reproduction techniques
(ART) and pre-implantation
genetic diagnosis (PGD),
which result in better success
rates.
The centres vision is to
provide advanced medical
and technological support
to couples with fertility
challenges. To date, more
than 3,700 babies have
been conceived using IVF at
the centre and the number
continues to grow.
The centre has been
listed in The Malaysia Book
of Records for the Highest
Number of IVF Babies
Produced by A Single
Practise.
With branches in
Puchong, Penang, Johor
Baru and Kepong, the TMC
Fertility Centre has been on
a constant path of growth
and success.
The centre has seen
patients from around Asia as
well as Europe, the Americas
and Africa.
In conjunction with the
centres anniversary, special
privileges and benefits are
offered to Maybank credit
card holders.
About TMC Fertility
Centre
Dr Nurhazinat Yunus, consultant
obstetrician, gynaecologist and fertility
specialist at the TMC fertility centre.
A fine needle is used to inject a single sperm directly into an egg in IVF treatment.
Improving IVF pregnancy rates
D
R Surinder Singh has
led Tropicana Medical
Centres highly skilled
and experienced team through
its fertility centres many
achievements and successes. His
excitement, especially when he
talks about the centres genetic
testing of embryos through pre-
implantation genetic diagnosis/
screening (PGD/PGS), is plain to
see.
PGD/PGS is a genetic/
chromosomal testing that is
performed on an embryo prior to
placing the embryo in a patients
uterus.
PGD/PGS
techniques
such as
Complementing fertility
assessments with laparoscopy
DR Nurhazinat Yunus, consultant
obstetrician, gynaecologist and
fertility specialist, complements
the team of consultant
obstetricians and gynaecologists
at Tropicana Medical Centres
Fertility Centre.
She served in a number of
government hospitals before
joining TMC and has 14 years
of experience in obstetrics and
gynaecology.
She was an honorary lecturer
at the International Islamic
University of Malaysia for
several years and is accredited
for laparoscopic and endoscopic
procedures, including
laparoscopic hysterectomy.
While endoscopy generally
means that the surgeon looks
into the body through a natural
orice, laparoscopic surgery
requires an incision through the
skin to insert the instrument.
Both are minimally invasive
surgical procedures.
Dr Hazinat uses laparoscopy
to complement fertility
assessments.
This includes diagnosing
mild endometriosis and pelvic
inammatory disease (PID),
which can look normal through
ultrasound assessments,
and treating gynaecological
she says.
Gynaecologists are even able to
remove bigger broids that once
required open surgery.
The morcellator, a surgical
instrument used for division and
removal of large masses of tissue,
facilitates the removal of broids
of 10cm in size through just a 1cm
opening.
We can work on benign cysts
up to 8cm across, which requires
more time, better instruments and
higher skill. The doctors here are
trained but some may prefer to
work on smaller cysts, she says.
Experience and expertise can
inuence a doctors decision.
Safety is another consideration.
Dr Hazinat says that
laparoscopy complements TMCs
fertility focus. Commonly, doctors
use the hysterosalpingogram
(HSG), an X-ray test that involves
placing an iodine-based dye
through the cervix and taking
X-rays, to help evaluate the shape
of the uterus and to see if the
fallopian tubes are blocked.
According to Dr Hazinat,
patients who have heavy periods,
dysmenorrhoea or irregular
menstrual cycles are likely
candidates for laparoscopy or
hysteroscopy.
This affects 40% of her patients
because the majority of them
have problems such as broids,
endometriosis, PID or endometrial
polyps.
Even though the wounds are
small, many of the laparoscopic
operations are major operations.
However, unlike open surgery, the
patients recovery is faster.
03-6287 1000/018-211 1088
While endoscopy
generally means
that the surgeon
looks into the
body through a
natural orifice,
laparoscopic
surgery requires
an incision through
the skin to insert
the instrument.
Both are minimally
invasive surgical
procedures.
problems such as ovarian cysts,
intrauterine polyps, endometriosis
and PID.
Dr Hazinat, who has 10 years
of experience with laparoscopy,
says that thanks to technological
improvements, the procedures
have become easier, faster and
safer.
The image that transmits
from the camera to the monitor
through that small opening is very
clear, almost like you are looking
directly at the organ structures,
comparative genetic hybridisation
(CGH) allow the testing of all
chromosomes and are currently
the most comprehensive
technology used.
Chromosomal abnormalities
are the major cause of
miscarriages and implantation
failures.
PGD will help identify
if genetic/chromosomal
abnormalities are present in IVF
embryos.
This in turn, helps couples
make informed decisions about
what to do during the IVF process.
Embryos unaffected by genetic
or chromosomal abnormalities
are then selected for transfer to
the uterus.
Dr Surinder explains that such
testing is important because
20% to 80% of eggs produced are
chromosomally abnormal. This
increases with the age of the
mother, especially if she is more
than 40 years old.
As even a morphologically
perfect embryo can contain
chromosomal abnormalities,
PGD/PGS is crucial to select
healthy embryos.
According to Dr
Surinder, the industry
is now entering the
beginning of an IVF revolution
several robust randomised
trials have produced conclusive
evidence that PGD improves IVF
pregnancy rates.
Current studies on its use
have proven that it increases
pregnancy rates because of higher
implantation rates and gives
mothers the assurance of healthy
babies.
Another benet of the method
is it allows the transfer of a single
healthy embryo in IVF, thus
lowering the risk of multiple
pregnancies.
PGD/PGS can also screen
for genetic diseases such
as thalassaemia, which is a
hereditary condition. Given that
one in every 20 Malaysians is a
thalassaemia carrier, this test is
crucial if both parents are carriers.
As thalassaemia does not
usually show symptoms, carriers
might only realise they have the
gene when it is too late.
Traditionally, if both parents
are thalassaemia carriers, they
may decide to remain childless
as the risk of their child getting
thalassaemia is high.
Babies that are alpha
thalassaemic usually die in the
womb or soon after birth.
PGD/PGS may enable parents
who have thalassaemia or carry
the trait to give birth to healthy
babies. Embryos are tested for the
thalassaemia gene before being
transferred to the mothers uterus.
This not only prevents couples
from having children with
thalassaemia major but can also
stop the thalassaemia trait from
running in the family.
A key factor that impacts
results is the centres investment
in modern technology and
research and development.
Incubators are used to culture the
embryos and mimic the condition
of the womb.
Smaller incubators that hold
fewer embryos make it easier to
achieve a consistent temperature.
New treatment modalities have
also made procedures safer and
more patient friendly.
It is a cheaper and shorter way
to getting a child. Patients who
benet most are those who are of
an advanced maternal age, those
who are predisposed to genetic
abnormalities or who have had
recurrent miscarriages or IVF
failures.
PGD has been seen to lower
the chances of miscarriage from
20% to 4.6%, says Dr Surinder.
Dr Surinder Singh
is the consultant
obstetrician and
gynaecologist,
fertility specialist
and head of the TMC
Fertility Centre, Kota
Damansara.
Marigold 100% Juice comes in a variety of flavours.
Savouring the
goodness
of fruit juice
M
OST people do not consume enough
fruits and vegetables in their
everyday diet and drinking fruit juice
can provide a serving of fruit to their daily
requirement.
Fruits and vegetables should make
up one third of a healthy, balanced diet.
Drinking fruit juices such as Marigold 100%
Juice provides nutrients, vitamins and
minerals that complement our daily diet.
While you may enjoy drinking fruit
juices, you should also consume whole
fruits and vegetables to obtain bre.
Choosing your
fruit juices
When you shop for fruit juices, be sure
to look out for the words 100% fruit juice
printed on the label.
100% juice fact:
l Unless otherwise stated on the label,
100% fruit juices have no added sugars or
sweeteners. The only sugar in it comes
naturally from the fruit.
l Fruit juices are a valuable source of
vitamins and minerals, as well as a
unique nutritional compound called
phytonutrients. They complement
whole fruits as part of a healthy diet and
contribute to our daily uid intake.
Marigold 100% Juice is 100% natures
best, with no added sugar, preservatives
or articial colouring and is fortied with
vitamin C.
Enjoying your juice
throughout the day
l Jumpstart the day
Jumpstart your day with a glass of
Marigold 100% Juice during breakfast. Fruit
juices help the detoxication process and
prevent constipation.
A 250ml glass of Marigold 100% Orange
Juice provides 100mg of vitamin C that
meet 100% of the recommended dietary
allowance (RDA) to help boost the immune
system.
l During the day
Drinking Marigold 100% Juice during
the day helps boost hydration, making
it healthier compared to carbonated or
caffeinated drinks.
Try the Marigold 100% Juice Carrot &
Mixed Fruits variant to get the balance of
both fruits and vegetables during lunch. The
beta-carotene found in carrots help reduce
sunburn and increase the skins resistance
towards sun damage.
It is also an excellent source of dietary
bre and contains other vitamins and
potassium that help boost immunity and
reduce cholesterol levels.
l Before Dinner
Drinking fruit juices before dinner will
help induce your appetite and aid the
digestive system after a meal.
It enables better absorption and helps to
detoxify your system while providing you
energy.
Marigold 100% Juice uses the freshest
sun-ripened fruits with no preservatives so
you can enjoy the delicious goodness of real
fruits.
Marigold 100% Juice has no added
sugars or sweeteners. The sugar in it comes
naturally from the fruits.
Marigold 100% Juice comes in 250ml and
one-litre packs, making it convenient sizes
for on-the-go or at-home consumption.
It is available in seven avours 100%
Orange Juice, 100% Apple Juice, 100% Carrot
& Mixed Fruits Juice, 100% Mixed Apple
Grape Juice, 100% Mixed Apple Cranberry
Juice, 100% Mixed Tropical Fruits Juice and
100% Pear & Mixed Berries Juice.
It is available in all hypermarkets,
supermarkets, mini markets and
convenience stores nationwide.
Marigold 100% Juice provides a healthier
diet for you and your family.
Drinking fruit juices
before dinner will help
induce your appetite and
aid the digestive system
after a meal. It enables
better absorption and
helps to detoxify your
system while providing
you with energy.
Less invasive heart surgery
H
EART surgery is a major
medical procedure. It can
improve or save your life,
but recovery from surgery may be
long and you may have to live with
a large scar on your chest.
This is not something that
many people want, especially
women.
Minimally invasive cardiac
surgery, also known as keyhole
heart surgery, leaves minimal
scarring.
This method is used when
repairing or replacing damaged
aortic or mitral valves in the heart,
explains Datuk Dr Jeswant Dillon,
chief consultant cardiothoracic
surgeon and clinical director of
Adult Cardiothoracic Surgery
at the National Heart Institute
(known by its Bahasa Malaysia
acronym IJN).
The function of the cardiac
valves is to allow ecient blood
ow through the four chambers of
the heart.
During the cardiac cycle, blood
ow is unidirectional forward
and the valves prevent backward
ow regurgitation or leakage.
Heart valve conditions that are
treatable by minimally invasive
surgery are:
l Mitral or aortic valve
regurgitation the valves do not
close tightly, causing backow of
blood.
l Mitral or aortic stenosis where
the opening of the affected valve is
narrowed.
Fixing the problem
The diseased valves are usually
replaced using either biological
(bovine tissue) or mechanical
prosthesis. Some patients do
experience some problems with
articial heart valves.
Those who have a mechanical
valve may experience thrombosis
(a blood clot) or need for
anticoagulation. A bioprosthetic
valve may degenerate in time and
require reoperation.
Dr Dillon explains that in some
cases, repairing the valve through
minimally invasive surgery may
be more effective and preferred
over replacement especially for
leaking mitral valves.
The usual method of open
heart surgery leaves a big scar in
the middle of the patients chest. A
minimally invasive approach via a
mini thoracotomy requires just a
small opening about 4cm to 6cm
in length to access the diseased
valves.
The surgeon will make an
incision between the fourth and
fth ribs on the right side of the
chest, he says.
Not only is this method
more ecient for the surgeon,
it is especially benecial for the
patient.
As compared to conventional
open heart surgery, the patient
will experience:
l Less pain as the incision is
smaller and the ribs and sternum
do not have to be cut through or
spread apart.
l Less bleeding, hence less blood
transfusion.
l A faster rehabilitation time and
faster return to normal daily life.
l A good cosmetic result as the
scar is small and away from the
middle of the chest.
The incision is made below
the nipple in men and under the
breast in women. Most of the
time in women, once the incision
is fully healed, the scar is well
hidden.
In order to competently handle
the specialised equipment and
surgery, surgeons have to be
trained in this method.
The surgeons are required to
be competent valve surgeons in
the conventional method before
embarking on this minimally
Datuk
Dr Jeswant
Dillon.
Palmar, or sweaty palms, is the most common type of hyperhidrosis.
Treatments for sweaty palms
SWEATY palms may be a sign
of nervousness that many
people experience, but what
if your palms become sweaty
for no apparent reason, and are
excessively so to the point that
they are dripping?
This is a medical condition
called hyperhidrosis. The human
body will sweat to regulate body
temperature, cooling you down
when you are too hot.
Hyperhidrosis is basically
when a person experiences an
abnormal amount of sweating
that is in excess of what is
normally required to regulate
body temperature.
About 3% of people in
South-East Asia suffer from
hyperhidrosis, says Datuk Dr
Jeswant Dillon, chief consultant
cardiothoracic surgeon and
clinical director of Adult
Cardiothoracic Surgery at IJN.
The condition occurs equally
in men and women, and many
people experience the onset of
the condition in their late teens
and early-20s.
It can be inherited a child
of an affected parent has about
a 25% chance of developing the
condition.
What causes it?
There are generally four types
of hyperhidrosis:
l Cranio-facial affecting the
face and head
l Axillary affecting the
armpits
l Palmar affecting the palms
of the hands
l Plantar affecting the soles of
the feet
These can occur individually
or together; palmar
hyperhidrosis is the most
common type.
About 80% of cases of
palmar hyperhidrosis start from
childhood.
Hyperhidrosis is idiopathic,
which means the primary cause
is usually unknown.
Secondary causes include
other medical conditions such
as hyperthyroidism, diabetes or
tuberculosis.
The mechanism of primary
hyperhidrosis is due to an
overactive sympathetic nervous
system, which is the part of the
body that aids in controlling the
internal organs.
Treatments
This condition not only
has a medical impact on the
person, it also causes social and
psychological problems, says
Dr Dillon.
In Malaysia, many people
are not aware that excessive
sweating to this degree is a
medical condition, or that it is
treatable, he continues.
There are a few non-surgical
methods to treat this condition:
l Topical these are
antiperspirants that contain
aluminium chloride.
l Oral these medications
contain anticholinergic agents
that block the bodys production
of sweat.
The side effects include
dryness in other parts of the
body, such as the mouth and
eyes, which causes discomfort to
the patient, and is thus generally
not recommended.
l Iontophoresis this involves
passing ions through the skin at
the affected parts of the body.
This method requires
repeated treatments, usually
over a course of six months, and
is time consuming with possible
relapse upon stopping treatment.
l Botox injections of
Botox into the affected areas
inhibit sweating. It may be a
useful treatment for axillary
hyperhidrosis.
This treatment can be
painful and only lasts for several
months, so repeated treatments
are required, making it costly
and cumbersome.
The surgical treatment is
called endoscopic thoracic
sympathectomy (ETS). It has
been available in Malaysia for
about 10 years, though medical
professionals do have to be
specially trained to perform this
procedure, reveals Dr Dillon.
Dr Dillon explains that
this method is actually a
thoracoscopic procedure
as it involves accessing the
sympathetic nerve through the
chest (a 1cm incision is made
under the armpit) assisted
by endoscopic video imaging
technology.
This type of surgery is carried
out by trained cardiothoracic
surgeons.
There is a 99% success rate in
treating palmar hyperhidrosis,
90% success rate for axillary
hyperhidrosis and 50% to
60% success rate for plantar
hyperhydrosis.
ETS is minimally invasive,
which means there is relatively
little pain, a faster recovery
period and cosmetic benets as
there is minimal scarring.
The incision cannot be seen
from the front or the back as it
is placed under the arm, well
hidden within the armpit. It is
also the only curative treatment
available, meaning that it is a
permanent cure, says Dr Dillon.
As with any medical
procedure, there are a few
side effects. Some patients
experience compensatory
sweating they feel that the
rest of their body experiences
excessive sweating as if in
compensation for the previously
affected areas not sweating any
longer.
In the majority of cases, this
usually corrects itself after about
six months.
Sometimes patients
experience extreme dryness in
the previously affected areas,
though this is usually tolerable.
invasive surgery, says Dr Dillon,
adding that this type of surgery
is more demanding and requires
a team of skilled professionals,
including trained surgeons,
anaesthetists, nurses and
perfusionists.
This is a relatively new
technology in Malaysia,
introduced in 2009, but there is a
good learning curve.
IJN is a training centre for
minimally invasive surgery
in the Asian region and
has had the opportunity
to develop good training
programmes for this
method.
There have been
good results in using
this approach as an
alternative to the
traditional method of
surgery, says Dr Dillon.
For any new surgical
method to be acceptable there
should be no compromise on
its safety and eciency.
The traditional method of open heart surgery (left, middle) leaves a big scar in the middle of the chest. Minimally invasive cardiac surgery (right) requires only
a small opening.
Getting ready for the good years ahead
A
LMOST every woman knows
about menopause as an
inevitable occurence but
what they do not realise is that
a woman is already on a journey
of change for a period of 10 to 15
years before menopause begins
(the average age is 51).
This phase of life before
menopause is termed
perimenopause and typically
affects women aged between
40 and 56.
Perimenopausal changes
As fertility is no longer a main
focus during perimenopause,
the oestrogen hormone starts
behaving erratically.
The highs and lows of
oestrogen levels can cause havoc
to a womans body, mind and
emotions. This is to be expected
as oestrogen affects more than
400 different functions in the
body.
During perimenopause,
a woman may start noticing
changes in different body systems
besides her menstrual cycle.
l Belly and body fat
One of most distinguishing
symptoms of perimenopause is
how the body manages fat.
During puberty, fat is
distributed to the breasts and
hip in preparation for a womans
child-bearing years. During
perimenopause and exit from
fertility, fat metabolism slows
down while fat re-distribution
takes place, distributing fats to
the belly more than the hip areas.
Body weight also increases while
weight maintenance becomes
dicult.
l Mood changes, anger and
irritability
As oestrogen is a mood
elevator, hormonal uctuations
during perimenopause can lead
to moodiness, feelings of sadness,
anxiety and irritability.
l Memory and concentration
Oestrogen imbalance also
affects memory because
oestrogen strongly affects
cognitive function. It helps
to regulate functions such as
memory, concentration and
mental exibility.
l Beauty and intimacy
Dry skin and loss of skin
rmness are more obvious during
perimenopause when oestrogen
levels vary.
As skin becomes thinner, it
is unable to retain moisture,
causing dryness to set in. Skin
in the genital areas is affected
too, leading to vaginal dryness,
irritation and infections.
Female pattern hair loss
(FHPL) is also a feature in many
perimenopausal women where
hair becomes dryer, thinner and
more diffused, especially at the
top of the head.
Finding balance again
Phytonutrients (plant nutrients)
such as genistein may hold the
key to feminine balance. Genistein
is an all-natural, phytooestrogen
antioxidant-metabolic-regulating
complex.
One of its main actions is to
mimic the properties of oestrogen
in a safe, selective and gentle
manner.
Being a natural complex,
genistein works differently from
hormone replacement therapy.
Genistein regulates hormone
levels by helping to ll in the gaps
when oestrogen levels are low,
while competing with oestrogen
in the body when levels are high.
By doing so, genistein
effectively regulates such
hormonal ups and downs in the
body.
Its actions are different from
the anti-inammatory effects of
evening primrose oil, which is
more suitable for pre-menstrual
syndrome (PMS).
Genisteins metabolic-
regulating benets on fat cells are
well established.
Women struggle with weight
gain despite not over-eating or
not exercising due to uncontrolled
hormonal levels.
Genistein acts as a fat regulator
to prevent fat formation,
reduce belly fat and inhibit fat
accumulation in the body.
It also aids improves mood and
memory, regulates bone building
and brings benecial effects to the
heart without any adverse effects
on the breasts or uterine tissues.
When deciding on a genistein
O
e
s
t
r
o
g
e
n
supplement, be sure to select one
derived from 100% organic soy
and one that is not genetically
modied (non-GMO) as close to
80% of soy products in the market
today are genetically modied.
Embracing femininity
How a woman cares for herself
during perimenopause will
decide how she looks, feels and
copes health-wise in her post-
menopausal days ahead.
Experience the wonders of
being a new woman and poise
yourself for the great years ahead.
n This article was contributed
by Nuvanta Nuvaceuticals.
For more information, call
03-5636 3758 or e-mail
pharmacist@nuvanta.com
Oestrogen levels
in a womans body.
Herbal preparation for piles
HAEMORRHOIDS or piles are enlarged and
engorged blood vessels in or around the
rectum.
Symptoms of haemorrhoids include pain,
bleeding, itching and swelling.
In certain cases, a lump may be felt in the
anus during defecation.
neo-HEALAR is a herbal preparation that
relieves the symptoms of piles as well as
anal ssures, which is a break in the skin
lining of the anal canal.
neo-HEALAR is available in ointment and
suppository form.
The ointment is used for internal and
external piles as well as anal ssures while
the suppositories are used for internal piles
and anal ssures.
The presence of aloe vera in neo-
HEALAR will help heal the wounds. Another
ingredient in neo-HEALER is Mentha
piperita (peppermint), which acts as an
antiseptic to provide a cooling and soothing
effect.
During the early stage of treatment, relief
of both pain and bleeding is noticeable.
However, patients are advised to
continue the use of neo-HEALAR three
times a day for at least three weeks for piles
to shrink and for optimum healing.
Treatment with neo-HEALAR may be
continued even after the rst three weeks
of use. If symptoms persist, consult a doctor.
neo-HEALAR is available at pharmacies
and clinics nationwide.
n For more information, call 03-7956 7677,
03-7957 8463, 04-229 6349 or 05-253 7498.
KKLIU 0380/2013
neo-HEALAR
relieves the
symptoms of
piles and anal
fissures.
A massage experience with a difference
T
HE Gintell D Aero Touch is
Gintells latest massage chair
equipped with the second
generation octopus massage
technology.
It takes care of the entire back
and lumbar area and provides full
body relief with its state-of-the-
art design mechanical arms and
rollers.
The massage chairs function
is combined with traditional
Japanese techniques and heat
therapy, which is an innovative
function of the Gintell D Aero
Touch called the Spa Moxage.
This technique traditionally
aims to maximise the benet of
massages by improving blood
circulation and releasing energy
blockages to ensure the balance of
energy ow in the body.
Another of its unique functions
is the 360
o
guasa. With the
combination of knuckle-like
rollers and the 3D aero airbags,
this function simulates the
traditional Chinese method
of guasa a gliding knuckle
technique applied to your feet to
help relieve heel pain and help the
discharge of uric acid, giving you
true reexology benets.
Also available is the 230
o

Thai and shiatsu body stretch,
which is a combination of yoga-
like stretching with rhythmic
acupressure that stretches your
body to create a deep state of
relaxation and increased vitality.
It is designed to improve
long-term incorrect posture and
prevent hunchbacks.
The full-body 3D airbags have
made Gintell D Aero Touch
different from the others as its
airbags cover close to 70% of body
massage area.
By using air pressure, the air
bags provide a pressure massage
that is similar to human palms.
It even has the capability to
massage different part of your
body concurrently.
The mechanism extends to
unique functions such as the wave
swing and waist twist.
The wave swing is a gentle
but effective wave-like pelvic-
swinging motion that helps to
ease the tension of long hours of
sitting.
It stimulates the acupressure
points in the pelvic, hip and thigh
area, assists in posture exibility
as well as rms up the hips and
thighs.
The waist twist focuses on
the back area, helping to relieve
muscle tension and lower back
pain caused by prolonged poor
posture.
Also available are the
personalised massage
programmes that give you
customised massage experiences.
The Gintell D Aero Touch also
comes with a wireless bluetooth
control system.
It is an extension that provides
its users better control of the
massage chair using smart
phones or tablets with an Android
operating system.
It also allows user to play their
favourite music in their smart
devices via Bluetooth while
enjoying the massage.
The Android app is free for
download from the Google Play
store.
The Gintell i-So 3D EZY allows
you to adopt various exercise
postures that target specic
muscles at different parts of the
body, to effectively shape and
tone your stubborn fats, achieve
your desired gure and boost your
condence.
This new and innovative Gintell
i-So 3D EZY exercise machine
offers a 360
o
comprehensive
body workout with motions that
emulate natural walking, jogging
and running movements.
When compared with
conventional exercise machines,
Gintell i-So 3D EZY effectively
burns more calories, up to 180
calories in just 10 minutes.
Gintell is running a spend-
and-win contest to celebrate its
anniversary with the public.
Participants will stand a chance
to win attractive prizes. The
contests closing date is on Oct 31.

call 1800 886 332 or visit
www.gintell.com
The GT888 i-So 3D EZY is available in
pink and blue.
Depression can
be caused by
biochemical and
psychological
factors.
Overcoming
depression
THE death of Robin Williams was tragic and
reportedly attributed to the depression he
experienced just prior to his death.
Every year, more than 750,000 people
attempt suicide and 36,000 have died
from suicide. So, how can you help prevent
depression and suicide in your loved ones?
Suicide is a belief-related death and
often a result of severe, clinical depression.
Depression is not terminal but suicide is.
Symptoms of depression include having
a depressed mood or a loss of interest for
pleasure in daily activities, lasting for more
than two weeks, and feeling hopeless about
the future.
The way to overcome depression
is by seeking help from professional
psychologists.
The psychologists at the International
Psychology Centre in Kuala Lumpur receive
many calls everyday regarding depression
issues.
These callers can make an appointment
to have an initial assessment with one of
the trained psychologists at the centre to
diagnose their condition.
Depression can be caused by both
biochemical and psychological factors.
Psycho-laboratory tests such as the
neurotransmitter test can be prescribed to
patients to identify any biochemical cause
of their depression.
Neurotransmitters are brain chemicals
that inuence how we feel. Serotonin is the
main neurotransmitter linked to depression
and the neurotransmitter test identies
whether a patient has low serotonin levels.
The appropriate psycho-nutritional
supplements can then be recommended to
boost serotonin levels naturally.
The main treatment for depression
is anti-depression psychotherapy. This
consists of teaching the patient how
to challenge their depressive thinking,
emotion and behaviour to overcome their
depression effectively.
Several sessions of individual anti-
depression psychotherapy, couple therapy
(if the person is in a relationship) and
family therapy are normally needed to
enable proper recovery for someone to start
enjoying life again.
Depression can affect a persons
physical, social, emotional, mental and
spiritual health.
By uncovering the cause of depression
and teaching a person how to handle the
problem effectively, depression can be
overcome and prevented from recurring.
This is the advantage of getting help from
psychotherapy compared to medication,
says Dr Weng Lok Chan, the principal
consultant psychologist of PsyCare, Centre
for Personal Psychology at the International
Psychology Centre.
This article is contributed by PsyCare,
International Psychology Centres of
psychologists, personal therapists and
psychonutritional therapists.
n For more information, call 03-2727 7434
or e-mail info@psychology.com.my
Get your red blood
cell count checked
A
RECENT test conducted in Malaysia
showed that 43% of Malaysian women
suffer from low red blood cell count,
a condition where haemoglobin levels fall
below the normal range and cannot supply
enough oxygen to the body.
Red blood cells give blood its colour.
These cells contain haemoglobin, which
transfers oxygen from the lungs to the rest
of the body tissue.
Red blood cells are produced regularly
in our bone marrow. To produce these cells,
our body needs iron, protein and vitamins
from the food we eat.
When there are insucient levels of
haemoglobin in the blood system, the
amount of oxygen that gets transported
throughout the body is reduced, affecting
the function of organs and tissue.
When this condition occurs, you will
most likely feel dizzy, sleepy, lethargic,
unfocused and become pale.
The most signicant impact of low blood
cell levels in the body is fatigue. It affects
our daily lifestyle as we lack the energy and
concentration to complete our daily tasks.
A low red blood cell count is common
in women during their menstruation cycle
where a considerable amount of blood is
lost. This is why some women feel tired,
depressed or lose their appetite during this
time.
Apart from menstruation, an unbalanced
diet and irregular meals can also affect the
absorption of vital nutrients into our body.
One of the most important nutrients
to keep our red blood cell count healthy is
iron. It can be found in red meat, liver, dried
beans, peas, vegetables and dried fruits.
Women require more iron during
pregnancy and when breastfeeding as the
iron stored in the mothers body is used up
at a quicker rate by a growing baby.
Sangobion is an iron supplement
formulated with seven important elements
to keep red blood cells healthy.
Every tablet comes with vitamin C
and Sorbitol to improve iron absorption
into the body and reduce the incidence of
constipation. Other nutrients such as folic
acid and vitamin B12 are vital for foetal
development.
If you are constantly tired, sleepy or pale,
you may have a low red blood cell count.
Visit your nearest pharmacist to nd out
more about Sangobion.
n This article is brought to you by Merck
Consumer Health.
For more information, call 03-7494 3688 or
e-mail ch.my@merckgroup.com
KKLIU 1182/2014
Sangobion is an iron supplement
formulated with seven important
elements to keep red blood cells healthy.
One of the most
important nutrients to
keep our red blood cell
count healthy is iron.
It can be found in red
meat, liver, dried beans,
peas, vegetables and
dried fruits.
Women require more
iron during pregnancy
and when breastfeeding
as the iron stored in the
mothers body is used
up at a quicker rate by a
growing baby.
Treating pain with diamagnetic therapy
Clarisounds Focus
Customer Care
Premier Products, Unparalleled Service
Do your family members complain that you turn the TV volume up too loud?
Do you wish you can hear more clearly on the phone?
Do you fnd hearing others in a group discussion difcult?
Lot F17, 1st Floor Centrepoint,
Bandar Utama
Tel: 03-7728 2482
Mon. to Sat, 10am to 6:30pm
70B, Tanjung Tokong,
Penang
(Opposite The Bomba Station)
Tel: 04-8905 886
open daily, 10am to 6.30pm
J-7-1 Blok J 1st Flr
Setia Walk Puchong
(Opposite Tesco Puchong)
Tel: 03-5882 0096
Mon. to Sat, 10am to 6.30pm
Lot S-065, Mid Valley
Megamall
Tel: 03-2282 1882
open daily, 10am to 10pm
If you answer Yes to any of the above questions,
you may have a hearing loss.
According to Institute of Public Health, one in five
Malaysians has a hearing loss. As a result of the
hearing difficulties, people often suffer from social
isolation, frustration, loneliness and an overall
reduction in the quality of life.
Now, there is a simple solution.
With the technological breakthrough in recent years,
hearing aids can make an amazing difference in the
way you hear. Whats more it can be custom built
to fit perfectly into your ear that makes it almost
invisible to others.
Fitted by skilled hearing care professionals,
complete with an aftercare package, hearing aids
are an immediate and easy solution to bring back
your quality of life.
(Take proactive action today visit our Clarisound
outlets for a FREE HEARING CHECK.)
Can you see our invisible hearing aid?
Come and experience the miracle of modern
technology Bluetooth transmi ssi on f r om
mobile phone and TV directly into your hearing
aids!
www.clarisound.com
Youtube: clarisound.hearing
P
HYSIOTHERAPY is an
alternative treatment to
several types of ailments
such as joint stiffening, muscle
aches and weakening, stroke or
neurological conditions.
Adults whose bodies have
undergone years of strain
commonly experience back and
neck pains.
Physiotherapists apply a
hands-on, one-on-one approach
in treatment by rst establishing
individual complications through
examination, then carrying out
evaluation, diagnosis and physical
intervention.
Physiotherapists are trained in
manual techniques that improve
mobility, relieve pain, restore
function and limit disability.
They are also knowledgeable in
body mechanics and the various
therapeutic exercises that best suit
a patients needs.
Understanding
different types of pain
The rst vital part of
physiotherapy is examining the
body to correctly identify the type
of pain.
Pain can be dicult to
diagnose, especially since it can be
tough to accurately describe the
sensation that causes discomfort.
Nociceptive pain is caused
when special nerve endings
called nociceptors are irritated.
This is the pain you experience
when you burn yourself, twist
your ankle or stub your toe.
It is usually controllable and
temporary but chronic diseases
such as cancer or arthritis can also
be causes.
This type of pain typically
responds well to pain
medications, anti-inammatory
agents and other drug therapies.
There is also neuropathic
pain, which occurs when there is
actual nerve damage.
Nutritional imbalance,
alcoholism, toxins, infections,
autoimmunity or a tumour
pressing against the nerves can
damage the neural pathways,
causing pain. It is described
as a burning, heavy or numb
sensation.
A non-invasive
multifunctional therapy
Diamagnetic therapy utilises
an energy transfer system
through a high-intensity
magnetic pulse, creating
stimulation at a cellular level.
This allows for deeper
penetration than traditional
electrical therapy and prevents
aggravation of the inamed
tissue.
The effective control and
management of pain assured by
this therapy aligns with restoring
mobility to patients for a better
quality of life.
Diamagnetic
therapy also promotes accelerated
tissue repair, the movement
of cellular liquids encourages
drainage, which is important in
the repair of
affected tissues.
A study
by Panacea
Clinical
Research, a
research body
that provides
clinical research
solutions and
investigational trial
support to medical
device companies,
found diamagnetic therapy to be
effective for patients suffering
from osteoarthritis.
This therapy also works on
numerous other conditions
such as frozen shoulders, lower
back pain, stiff neck, joint pain,
rheumatic and inammatory
diseases, tennis elbows and
sports injuries.
Diamagnetic therapy is
applied in orthopaedics and
trauma to alleviate skeletal and
spinal issues, traumatic and
degenerative lesions, formation
of bony calluses, slipped discs,
fractures and pseudarthrosis.
It is also utilised in sports
medicine to treat tendonitis,
muscle contractures and tears,
distortions and contusions.
In neurology, diamagnetic
therapy is used with
inammatory and degenerative
affections.
This technology can also be
used in rehabilitation or post-
surgery recovery, largely due to its
non-invasive nature.
Bio-Pharmaceuticals currently
has 20 Diamagnetic Physio
Centres in Malaysia, bringing non-
invasive technology from Italy to
perform diamagnetic therapy.
Modern technology
This therapy can only be
carried out with a specic
machine the CTU-Mega 18
Diamagnetic Device.
It is a non-invasive system that
stimulates the inherent but weak
magnetic properties of water,
which is a major component of the
bodys cellular system.
Water is a diamagnetic matter.
In the presence of a magnetic
eld, water moves in the opposite
direction to the magnetic eld.
Bodily uids consist of 70% water
and are therefore, subject to this
principle.
The CTU-Mega 18 has been
hailed as the latest effective
system for the management of
pain in Malaysia.
Its non-invasive treatment
method eliminates the collateral
effects associated with treatments
involving electrical currents.
The lack of superconductors
makes it a small, portable and
inexpensive machine.
n For more information or a free
consultation, call 03-5525 4343.
The CTU-
Mega 18
Diamagnetic
device.
Resolving your hearing loss
H
EARING loss is often
undetected in young
children and this leads to
delayed treatment. As a result,
children with hearing impairment
would suffer delayed speech and
language development as well.
Among the elderly, many
tend to ignore it or are unaware
that they can be helped. As a
result, many have diculties
communicating with family
members and sacrice their social
life. Some may have the tendency
to develop dementia.
Those who suffer from hearing
loss should consult a qualied
audiologist.
Audiologists apply age-
appropriate tests to determine the
level of hearing loss.
Those with medically treatable
hearing impairment will be
referred to a ear, nose and throat
(ENT) surgeon for treatment.
However, 80% of hearing
impairment is not medically
treatable, will therefore be
managed by audiologists.
An audiologist will usually
apply amplication such as
hearing aids to manage hearing
impairment.
Before prescribing a hearing
aid, an audiologist will assess
the ability of the person to
discriminate speech and advice on
the benets of a hearing aid.
After prescribing the
hearing aid, the audiologist
will recommend that the user
goes through an acclimatisation
process, which takes three months
or more.
During this period, the user
needs to go for frequent follow-up
or ne-tuning of the hearing aid to
ensure he benets optimally from
the device.
In addition, counselling and
listening strategies can maximise
the benet. Often, family
members need to participate as
listening strategies involve both
speaker and listener.
www.20dbhearing.com
20dB Hearing, a group of
companies that owns a
large network of hearing
care outlets in Malaysia, is
also the first hearing care
professional in Malaysia to
offer customers a free take-
home trial of their hearing
aids at their clinics. You can
try the hearing aids at no
cost or commitment.
20dBs qualified
audiologists will administer
hearing tests to determine
what system of hearing aid
you require, after which they
will fit you with the device.
You will have 20 days to
test out the hearing aid at
home for free. If you find
the device unsuitable, you
can return it to the clinic at
no cost.
Free hearing aid
take-home trial
About 5.3% of the worlds population suffer from hearing loss.
Exercising is beneficial to post pregnancy mothers and their babies.
Exercises for mother and baby
MANY mothers can become overwhelmed
with the presence of a new baby and
neglect their own well-being.
However, it is important to continue
exercising as it not only improves tness
and stamina, but also lifts your mood and
keeps negative body image and postpartum
depression at bay.
It is advisable to consult your doctor or
wait at least six weeks after a caesarean-
section to start trying these postnatal
exercises:
l Walking
This time, include your baby. In the rst
to fth month after birth, put your child in
a front carrier and take him on short tri-
weekly walks.
At months six to eight, you should
move on to slightly more strenuous uphill
climbing with your baby in a backpack
carrier, and from the ninth month onwards,
steadily increase to walking with jogging
and exercising intervals.
Jogging exercises may include walking
lunges, bench push-ups, and right-angle
dips. You can do short reps while keeping an
eye on the baby.
l Pilates
Pilates develops control and endurance
in the body by engaging deep core muscles,
pelvic oor, hips and spine.
Curls and planks work butt, thigh,
abdomen and calf muscles in toning your
post-pregnancy body.
Additionally, Pilates combined with
lower abdominal exercises can help get rid
of that stubborn paunch.
With regular Pilates-incorporated
exercise, you develop muscle strength that
will help your body recover faster post-
pregnancy.
CC + Collagen DD + Fiber Collagen Enrich
A natural way to stay in shape
S
LIMWORLD CC++ is a
botanical beverage mix with
soy protein, marine collagen
and honey.
Collagen is the main protein in
the body. It provides structure to
cells and keeps the skin hydrated.
When we grow older, the
amount of collagen starts to
decrease.
Consuming collagen drinks
helps your skin tighten and leave
fewer stretch marks.
l Benets of CC++
- Reduces ne lines and wrinkles
- Prevents loss of moisture in the
skin
- Prevents roughness of the skin
- Prevents loss of skin elasticity
-Prevents uneven skin tone

SlimWorld DD++ is botanical
beverage mix with spinach and
passion fruit that helps detoxify
our body.
It also enhances the digestive
system and promotes weight loss
safely and naturally.
If you want to get rid of body
fat, start eating foods that are high
in bre.
Eating healthy high-bre food
makes you feel full, so you do not
overeat.
Natural foundation

SlimWorld Collagen Enrich
is specially formulated and is
made up of natural ingredients
such as aloe vera, asparagus,
pomegranate, apple polyphenol
and acai berry.
SlimWorld Collagen Enrich is
high in protein and provides a
good foundation for your skin.
With this foundation, your skin
will be rm.
The aloe vera that is used
in Collagen Enrich is a natural
source of hyaluronic acid, which
can absorb up to 1,000 times its
weight in water.
It moisturises and hydrates the
skin and can smooth out wrinkles.
Other ingredients such as
pomegranate, apple polyphenol
and acai berry are rich in
antioxidant properties and help
remove free radicals, smooth
away ne lines, eliminate the
signs of tiredness and keep our
skin looking young and nourished.
Get in shape
An established name in the
beauty industry, SlimWorld
Beauty House offers more than 30
types of slimming therapies.
The beauty centre is renowned
for its post natal programme
with celebrity clients, including
Ziana Zain, Erra Fazira, Wardina
Sayyah, Lisdawati and Azizah
Arin, who serve as a testament
to the effectiveness of the
programme in helping new
mothers regain their svelte gure.
An interesting component
of this programme is the Body
Contour System (BCS).
Twenty minutes on the BCS
machine is equivalent to 360 sit-
ups.
Other components of this
programme:
l Deep tissue manipulation
helps smoothen orange peel skin
and lymphatic drainage helps
break down and drain toxins.
A steam bath helps reduce
water retention while the toning
programme and hot mask help
lighten stretch marks.
l Garlic treatment system
(GTS) helps to expel excess wind.
Customers will burp or pass gas
after the GTS session.
Customers can expect to see
a reduction of between 5cm and
8cm in their waistline with the
BCS programme.
call 1300 889 933
SO, you have nally reached your golden
years. You have retired from work and
looking forward to kicking back and
enjoying all the things you promised you
would do once you were done with work.
However, a nagging problem exists that
shows itself in situations whether you are
with groups of people or watching TV alone,
telling you that your hearing is not what it
used to be.
Sounds are unclear and people appear
to be mumbling to you does this sound
familiar?
One in three people around the age of 60
will have a signicant hearing loss, so you
are by no means alone.
Knowing that you have a hearing
problem and doing something are two
different things.
There are a myriad of options when
it comes to hearing aids and hearing aid
providers but how do you choose what is
best for you?
Clarisound understands your concerns
and takes the time to listen to you in a
modern and welcoming environment.
With more than a decades worth of
experience operating in Malaysia, Kieran
McCarry and his team at Clarisound are
Have you heard?
There are a myriad of modern
and discreet wearing aids
available in the market.
One in three people
around the age of 60
will have a significant
hearing loss, so you are
by no means alone.
Knowing that you have
a hearing problem and
doing something are two
different things.
dedicated to bringing the highest standards
of hearing care to clients.
Modern hearing aids are small, discreet
and controlled by software and are highly
capable in dealing with even the most
complex of listening environments.
Gone are the days of big, beige-coloured
hearing aids of the past.
Customers are free to drop in at a centre
and have a chat with the team at Clarisound
and get a free, no-obligation hearing check.
n For more information, e-mail
kieran@clarisound.com
SlimWorlds
products
are made
of natural
ingredients.
The detoxification process of most toxins require two phases. Broccoli contains nutrients that support both phases.
Detoxify and revitalise your body
I
N todays world, women balance
demanding careers with taking
care of a family. Working late
hours and having irregular meals
add to the stress on their bodies
and in the long run, affects their
health.
To compound this, toxins
ingested daily from breathing
polluted air, consuming fast food
and drinking unhealthy beverages
push the immune system to the
limit.
Toxins may cause free radical
damage and oxidative stress in
the body, which leads to various
health problems. To protect your
body against these harmful toxins,
your immune system must be in
top condition.
Your immune system can
be bolstered by detoxication
enzymes and antioxidants.
Detoxication enzymes help
the body break down toxins while
antioxidants work by scavenging
or neutralising free radicals to
prevent them from wreaking
havoc in the bodys cells.
Dermareen Femax-Protek is
a specially formulated beverage
that gives you three benets
detoxication, revitalisation and
protection.
It has the ingredients to
support complete detoxication in
formulated with the busy woman
in mind.
It helps nourish the bodys cells
with the necessary nutrients for a
healthier body and more radiant
skin.
Revitalised cells are more
effective in cleansing and
detoxifying your body.
The key ingredient is the
broccoli extract BroccoRaphanin,
which contains essential nutrients
that aid liver detoxication and
help neutralise and eliminate
dangerous contaminants that
accumulate in your body.
There are two phases of liver
detoxication.
Phase 1 is the primary function
of the liver breaking down
harmful materials. In Phase 2, the
liver adds new components that
transform the harmful materials
into harmless forms.
Broccoli extract contains
nutrients that support both
phases.
There are few detoxication
products in the market that are
able to support both phases.
Dermareen Femax-Protek
contains six active ingredients.
Four are health enhancers that
support your health:
l Broccoli extract
(BroccoRaphanin)
l Cranberry concentrate
(Cranmax)
l Japanese knotweed
l Green tea
The other two are skin
nutrients:
l Hydrolysed collagen
l Tremella extract
call 03-7880 0103 or
04-660 5269
your body to eliminate toxins and
waste.
This product has been specially
Dermareen Femax-Protek.
Staying fit during pregnancy
PRE NATAL and post natal exercise should
be regular, light and quick. Women who
exercise during their pregnancy feel more
energised and alleviate body pain while
ensuring a faster return to their pre-
pregnancy body after delivery.
Pre-natal exercises
Pregnancy can be a tough time,
especially for rst-time mothers. There are
so many physical, hormonal and emotional
changes to cope with that you may nd it
hard to do much else.
However, a little bit of exercise can go a
long way in maintaining your overall health
and mood.
It is not advisable to exercise vigorously
past the rst trimester, or carry out exercise
routines that include lying on your back.
If you are an expectant mother, you might
want to try the following:
l Walking
As your body changes over nine months,
regular walking will allow you to better
adjust to the new body while improving
overall balance and coordination. Even short
daily walks can be a great start.
l Balance building
Swimming and water aerobics are great
prenatal exercises because you become
buoyant and less prone to injuries when you
are in the water.
Abdomen, oblique and lumbar muscles
stretch and strengthen simultaneously in
this all-in-one workout, which also helps
align the pelvis.
Barre workouts are also encouraged
to stretch hip exors and the lower back,
which is where many pregnant women
experience pain due to weight gain and a
shifting centre of gravity.
In fact, these exercises can help improve
posture, which can be a problem with an
expanding belly.
l Yoga
Hailed as the perfect exercise for
pregnant women, yoga utilises equilibrium
and symmetry to manage a rapidly
changing body while keeping it toned and
limber. Proper breathing techniques will
teach you to relax and not tense up in pain,
which can be of great use in the delivery
room.
It is easy to exert yourself with yoga,
though, so ensure that you join a beginners
class and skip dangerous moves or twisting
poses.
Many yoga centres have classes specially
for pregnant women.
Exercise during
pregnancy can help
maintain your overall
health and mood.
Women should take the responsibility of undergoing regular medical check-ups and health screenings to keep tabs on their
health.
Five health tests for women
W
OMEN have their own
set of medical risks and
conditions, which is
why every woman should go for
regular check-ups and health
screenings.
You know your body better
than anyone else and should share
knowledge of your diet, alcohol
or nicotine intake, lifestyle and
mental health with your doctor.
Here are the ve essential
health screenings every woman
should go for:
l Blood pressure, cholesterol
and diabetes tests
What: These three are basic
health tests and can be carried out
at any clinic or hospital.
When: You should check your
blood pressure and cholesterol
every two years and seek
treatment if they are above
average levels.
If you have high blood pressure,
diabetes or a family history of
these conditions, then checks are
necessary.
Why: High blood pressure
and cholesterol levels as well
as diabetes can be indicators of
greater problems with your body.
High blood pressure can cause
heart, kidney and eye diculties
while diabetes can cause
problems to most vital organs.
l Bone mineral density test
What: A Bone Density Scan
(DXA) scan is a low dose X-ray of
the spine and hip which is used to
test bone density.
This determines risk of
osteoporosis, which weakens your
bones and body.
When: Women above the age
of 50 should be tested at least
once.
Why: Lifestyle, diet and family
history can all contribute to bone
loss, especially if you lacked
calcium and vitamin D in your
formative years.
Menopausal women are at
risk of osteoporosis as the lack of
oestrogen speeds up bone loss.
l Breast cancer screening
What: During a mammogram,
low energy X-rays capture images
of your breast tissue to check for
signs of cancer.
When: Given the increasing
early risk of cancer, women of all
ages should go for mammograms
and Pap tests.
Women over the age of 50
should get checked at least every
two years.
Why: Family history and high-
risk lifestyles are factors that can
cause breast cancer and early
detection is vital for effective
treatment.
l Cervical cancer screening
What: A Pap test uses a
cervical cell sample taken during
a pelvic examination to check for
potentially cancerous conditions.
When: Every three years from
the age of 21 or if you are sexually
active. If you are past 30, you
should also test for HPV every ve
years.
Why: Regular Pap tests are
important in maintaining your
reproductive organs.
Cervical cancer is the second
most common cancer in Malaysia
and one of the leading causes of
death among women.
l Sexually transmitted
diseases (STD) and HIV tests
What: Chlamydia, gonorrhoea,
or syphilis symptoms can often be
overlooked until it is too late.
Sexual reproductive health is
vital for women, especially during
the childbearing years.
When: Get screened for
infections if you are sexually
active, especially with more
than one partner. Pregnant
women should be tested to keep
themselves and their baby safe.
Why: Contracting an STD can
make getting pregnant harder,
manifest into greater health issues
and in extreme cases, cause death.
Women who have unprotected
sex have a higher chance of
contracting STDs and HIV.

Your Health - 21 October 2014

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THE STAR Tuesday 21 October 2014

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