Natural health April 2018

Published by: 

Editor’s Message 

All for Health, Health for All! 

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Natural Health 

Do you need to think twice about 

going to the doctor when someone 

in the family falls sick? 

Have you resorted to quicker 

alternatives or buying cheaper 

medicine due to financial 

constraints? If yes, we empathise 

that you had to think about this 

essential basic need when it should 

have been provided by your country, 

government or workplace. 

If no, consider yourself one of the lucky ones because according to the World Health 

Organisation (WHO), at least half of the world’s people is currently unable to obtain 

essential health services. 

WHO is turning 70 this year and in conjunction with World Health Day on April 7, the 

organisation is calling on world leaders to live up to the pledges they made when they 

agreed to the United Nation's Sustainable Development Goals in 2015, and commit 

to concrete steps to advance the health of all people. This means ensuring that everyone, 

everywhere can access essential quality health services without facing financial hardship. 

If you wish to know how you can play your part this World Health Day, read our Cover 

Story for more details! 

April is also the month that celebrates World Earth Day. This year, the Earth Day Network 

aims to educate millions of people about the health and other risks associated with 

the use and disposal of plastics, including pollution of our oceans, water, and wildlife, 

and about the growing body of evidence that decomposing plastics are creating serious 

global problems. 

From poisoning and injuring marine life to the ubiquitous presence of plastics in our 

food to disrupting human hormones and causing major life-threatening diseases and 

early puberty, the exponential growth of plastics is threatening our planet’s survival. 

In Malaysia, although a growing number of services have chosen to use biodegradable 

packaging materials and charges extra for plastic bags at selected stores and 

supermarkets, don't you think it's safer for both the environment and your wallet if 

you brought along reusable bags or opted out of single-use plastic bags? 

After all, environmental activist, Wendell Berry once said people should know that this 

world was not given to us by our forefathers but rather borrowed from our children. 

Browse the Eco + Green section of this magazine and we will tell you how you can 

contribute and cherish this environment for our future generations! 

For better healthcare services and environment-friendly initiatives, 

Punitha Kumar 

AcePremier.com Sdn Bhd (829271-K) 

N-2-6, Plaza Damas, 60, Jalan Sri Hartamas 1, 

Sri Hartamas, 50480 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. 

T: +603-6203 2522 F: +603-6203 4522 

E: info@acepremier.com www.AcePremier.com 

Publisher 

John Lim 

Editor 

Punitha Kumar 

Editorial Team 

John Lim 

Thiagarajan 

Punitha Kumar 

Marketing & Sales 

Fiona Lim 

Adeline Chin 

Theresa Pok 

Creative Team 

Nasyiha Badela 

Jeannie Chen 

Advisory Panel 

Dr Abdul Jamal B. Mohd Thalha 

Orthopaedic Surgeon 

Sentosa Medical Centre 

Dr Koh Chuan Keng 

Consultant Dermatologist 

President 

Dermalogical Society of Malaysia 

Dr Rajbans Singh 

Consultant Physician and Geriatrician 

Healthy Ageing Specialist 

Pantai Medical Centre and 

President, Malaysian Wellness Society 

Printer 

Times Offset (M) Sdn Bhd 

Bangunan Times Publishing 

Lot 46 Subang Hi-Tech 

Industrial Park, Batu Tiga, 

40000 Shah Alam Selangor 

Distributor 

Pansing Marketing Sdn Bhd 

NATURAL HEALTH encourages reader feedback. 

Please email to editor@acepremier.com 

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without the permission of the publisher. 

NATURAL HEALTH magazine is published 12 times a year by 

AcePremier.com Sdn Bhd 

Disclaimer 

Editorial material herein is provided for information only. Reader 

are cautioned not to use this information as a substitute for 

regular professional health care and consultation. Although 

great care has been taken in compiling and checking the 

information given in this publication, the publisher, authors, 

advisors and agents shall not be responsible or in any way 

liable for continued currency of the information or for any 

errors, omissions or inaccuracies in this publication whether 

arising from negligence or otherwise howsoever, or for any 

consequences arising there from. The inclusion or exclusion 

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Copyright © 2018. AcePremier.com Sdn Bhd. 

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Advertorial 

Shower & Cream 

For the Athlete in You! 

Do you love to play sports but dread taking 

showers due to dry and sensitive skin? 

Well, don't worry as dry and sensitive skin 

is a medical condition that is common 

among athletes. If you suffer from eczema 

or acne-related problems, it only makes 

matters worse. But, with a proper skincare 

routine, you can easily have healthy skin! 

So, give your skin the royal treatment with 

Eubos ® Med Sensitive Skin Shower & 

Cream because with Eubos ® , it is more 

than just skin deep. 

The Eubos ® Med Sensitive Skin Shower & 

Cream is a mild shower cream that assures 

very gentle cleansing and simultaneous 

skin care. 

How does it give you a healthy and happy 

skin? Well, the Shower & Cream comes 

packed with panthenol (provitamin B5), 

a natural ingredient that hydrates skin, 

reduces itching and inflammation, and 

accelerates healing in epidermal wounds. 

If you wish to safeguard your skin from 

dehydration and maintain a smooth and 

soft skin, the Eubos ® Med Sensitive Skin 

Shower & Cream is your best bet. It is 

especially suitable for athletes with dry 

and sensitive skin, as daily cleansing will 

not cause irritation, redness or rashes due 

to the absence of harsh chemicals. 

Another key feature of this shower cream 

is that it has a selective blend of protective 

ingredients that balances lipid content in 

skin. Lipids are protective oils that form 

your skins protective barrier function as it 

works as emollients, softening your skin 

and providing elasticity. 

Thus, Eubos ® Med Sensitive Skin Shower 

& Cream not only cleanses, hydrates and 

moisturises, it increases skin flexibility, 

prevents dryness and irritation, and 

provides a one-step formula for a regal, 

royal and sporty skin! 

Eubos ® Med Sensitive Skin Shower & Cream 

• Alkali and Soap-Free 

• Colourant-Free 

• Physiological pH 

• Paraben-Free 

• Dermatologist-Approved 

• No Cocamidopropyl Betaine (CAPB) 

Available at all leading pharmacies. Imported and distributed by Propharm (M) Sdn Bhd. 

Contact 03 6243 6389 or visit www.eubosonline.com for more details.

NATURAL & Beauty 

Help! I Have Dry Skin and Eczema! 

The itch and discomfort from dry skin and eczema can be really uncomfortable, 

but that doesn’t mean that you always have to resort to creams and lotions 

containing high levels of chemicals and additives. There are actually many 

things in your kitchen that you can use to relief the effects of the skin condition. 

Baking soda 

Baking soda is effective in battling itches of all 

kinds. Draw up a tub of warm water and add a 

cup of baking soda. Immerse yourself in it and soak 

for 30 to 60 minutes, then air dry or gently pat 

your skin dry with a clean towel. If you only have 

a small affected area to treat, make a baking soda 

paste by mixing three parts baking soda and one 

part water. Apply the paste to the itch but only if 

the skin is not broken. 

Oatmeal 

You will be surprised with how cooling and soothing 

oatmeal is on your skin. Simply add two cups of 

oatmeal to a lukewarm bath and soak to soothe 

your itchy and painful skin. Just warm water will 

do, not hot water, as the latter can irritate the skin 

and aggravate the itch and pain. 

Lemon 

Lemon is the common ingredient in many home 

remedy recipes to treat itchy skin. With the aromatic 

substance in a lemon containing anaesthetic and 

anti-inflammatory properties, it has been proved 

to help reduce itching. Just squeeze undiluted 

lemon juice on itchy skin and allow it to dry. Be 

cautious though. Lemon could be too strong for 

sensitive skin. 

Basil 

Basil contains high amounts of eugenol, a topical 

anaesthetic. Place half ounce of dried basil leaves 

in a one-pint jar of boiling water and keep it 

covered to prevent the escape of the aromatic 

eugenol from the tea. Let it cool down and dip a 

clean cloth into the tea and wipe down itchy skin 

as often as necessary. 

Mint 

Mint is a highly valued medicine by the Chinese 

folk. Abundant in menthol, mint has anaesthetic 

and anti-inflammatory properties when applied 

topically. Mint also contains high amounts of the 

anti-inflammatory rosmarinic acid which is readily 

absorbed into the skin. Just place an ounce of dried 

mint leaves in a pint of boiling water to make mint 

tea. Cover the tea and cool it. Similar to basil, dip 

a clean cloth in the tea and apply it to the itchy 

area when necessary. 

Thyme 

Another spice on the rack for anti-itch rinse is 

thyme. This herb contains large amounts of the 

volatile constituent thymol which has anaesthetic 

and anti-inflammatory properties. This means that 

other than numbing that irritating itch, it reduces 

inflammation caused by scratching. For a thyme 

rinse, start with half an ounce of dried thyme leaves 

in a one-pint jar of boiling water. Cover and cool, 

then apply to affected areas with a clean cloth. If 

dandelion root is in season, add an ounce of 

dandelion root and half ounce of dried thyme leaves 

into one quart of boiling water. 

Cold water 

Whenever you feel an itch or pain, simply head to 

the bathroom and let cold water run down your 

body. Since cold and itch travel along the same 

nerve fibres, the cold is able to jam the circuits and 

numb the itch. Ice packs can also be an instant 

remedy for your itchy skin. You might prefer hot 

water as it feels good, but it is only temporary and 

often leaves you feeling itchier later. 

Coconut oil 

Hydrating your skin is an important factor in eczema 

and an overnight spot treatment on these skin areas 

with coconut oil results in much improvement by 

the next morning. Soak yourself in lukewarm water 

until your fingers shrivel as this indicates a fully 

hydrated skin. Pat your skin dry, leaving it slightly 

damp and apply a thick layer of coconut oil on the 

affected areas. Wear socks, gloves and a long 

sleeved pyjama top if you need to and head to bed. 

You should have a peaceful itch-free night of sleep 

and improved skin in the morning. Coconut milk 

can also be used to reduce skin dryness. Just rub it 

onto your face and body and leave it overnight. 

Natural Health * April 2018 VOL 90 

3


Aloe Vera 

Aloe Vera is better known for treating burns 

but not many know that it is also useful in 

reducing itches. Other than moisturising your 

skin, it will also form a protective layer that 

keeps impurities from entering your pores. So, 

snap off a leaf, slice it and rub the gel on the 

itch. You might want to put on moisturiser 

after applying aloe as it can leave your skin 

feeling tight. 

Milk and honey 

Not only are milk and honey good as drinks, 

they can also help to reduce itch. Pour some 

milk into a bowl, dip a clean washcloth into 

the milk and apply it to the dry itchy skin patch 

for five minutes. With the anti-inflammatory 

properties, it is very soothing for inflamed, dry, 

itchy skin. A milk bath once a month is also 

helpful. As for honey, simply heat two teaspoons 

of honey lightly and apply it to skin while the 

honey is still warm. Leave it on for 15 minutes 

and wash it off. It can help to lock in moisture 

besides having antioxidant and anti-microbial 

properties. That explains why it is widely used 

in over-the-counter skincare products. 

Beeswax 

For eczema patients, a mixture of honey, olive 

oil and beeswax is heaven-sent. Melt the 

beeswax in a pan over low heat, stirring 

occasionally. Once melted, remove it from the 

heat and mix in honey, olive oil and stir well. 

The warm mixture should then be poured into 

an airtight container and stored in a refrigerator; 

it should be able to last for three months. For 

a longer shelf life and enhanced healing 

properties, add in a few drops of vitamin E oil. 

Clove oil 

Cloves contain eugenol to numb your nerve 

endings, so you won’t feel that persistent itch. 

You can buy a bottle of clove oil from some 

health food stores that stock imported products 

but if you have difficulty finding a bottle, you 

can make your own. To do so, crush four fresh 

cloves (or six if the cloves you have are old) 

and put them in a container. Pour olive oil into 

this container and leave it for a week to 

produce some clove oil good enough to cure 

your itch. Strain the oil before using it; dab 

some cotton into the oil and apply evenly on 

your affected areas. 

WHAT’S New 

Target your Skin with Watsons Essential Range 

Skin acts as the first line of defence against external 

aggressors as its constant exposure to elements such as 

UV rays, pollution and stress can weaken the skin barrier. 

This results in a weakened skin barrier, which leads to 

various skin sensitivities such as dry skin and visible redness. 

As such, the Target Pro by Watsons Essential Range has 

been carefully developed to combat and improve the skin 

barrier, resulting in long-term youthful and strong skin. 

Originating from Japan, the products are scientifically 

and dermatologically-formulated with only the safest 

skin care ingredients, treating particular problem areas 

but also strengthening the skin’s barrier to reveal one’s 

timeless beauty. 

This skincare range has two key ingredients - Diamond 

Sirt and Ceramide. Diamond Sirt acts as an essential DNA 

protector that prevents skin cell damage and delays the 

process of skin cell degeneration. This means younger 

looking skin for a longer period of time. Ceramide on the 

other hand, is a powerful ingredient to replenish and lock 

in moisture while simultaneously boosting the skin’s natural 

barrier function. 

(Left to right) Hot Cleansing Gel, Toner, Daily Moisturiser (SPF 27) and Night Cream 

4 Natural Health * April 2018 VOL 90

WHAT’S New 

KKLIU 2287/2017 

Let's Maca About It 

SpoonHealth's Maca is truly deserving of the label 

'superfood' because it is not only rich in protein, 

carbohydrates and fibre – but as a supplement it is nutrient 

dense – making it a newly-found favourite among 

modern-day health conscious folks. SpoonHealth’s 

Organic Gelatinised Maca Powder packs a nutritional 

punch with calcium and iron. This root has also been 

dubbed the 'Peruvian ginseng' due to the fact that, like 

its Chinese counterpart, it is an adaptogen. Adaptogens 

are non-toxic natural substances that improve your body’s 

ability to adapt to stress, be it environmental or internal. 

At SpoonHealth, the Maca root is ground into a powder 

then goes through a gelatinised process that removes the 

starch, making it more soluble in your daily smoothies, 

yoghurt, oatmeal or porridge. 'Gelatinisation' does NOT 

refer to gelatin, and no animal-derived ingredients were 

used in producing any SpoonHealth products, making it 

vegan-friendly as well. 

Just two tablespoons a day is needed to reap the many 

benefits of Maca. SpoonHealth’s Maca Powder is sold in 

150g and 300g jars, priced at RM69.90 and RM116.90 

respectively. Look out for its bold yet minimalistic jars at 

all Caring Pharmacies and your neighbourhood natural 

wellness stores, or buy it online. 

It's A Meeracle! 

Malaysian skincare brand, Meeracle, has products made from 

a breakthrough gemstone formula comprising diamond, ruby 

and pearl extracts. A unique blend of extracts from the three 

precious stones, the propriety gemstone formula is sourced from 

France and specially formulated to leave skin radiant, youthful 

and flawless. 

Try the new and improved, lightweight and easily absorbed 

Meeracle Facial Serum 30ml (RM79) that also contains 23 

natural active ingredients to bring about noticeable difference 

in a short time or the Meeracle Facial Cleanser 50ml (RM49) 

which contains malachite, another gemstone that helps control 

excess oil and has anti-bacterial properties to treat acne problems. 

This cleanser also contains the proven ingredients of soothing 

aloe vera and anti-aging green tea, leaving skin feeling pure 

and refreshed after every wash. Best used together as a set, the 

Meeracle Facial Serum and Cleanser are suitable for all ages and 

skin types. 

Two is Better than One! 

Neutrogena ® Hydro Boost Capsule In Serum are anti-oxidant capsules, suspended in a lightweight yet intensely 

hydrating gel serum to keep the purity of the active ingredients intact. 

The serum contains a new-and-improved Moisture Sensor Complex, replenishing moisture whenever and wherever 

your skin needs it most, while repairing and rebuilding the skin barrier to lock in moisture. The capsules, powercharged 

with potent anti-oxidants, fortify the skin barrier and protect against recurring dryness. 

How-to: Press pump to combine the serum with freshly activated anti-oxidant capsules. Smooth a pearl-sized 

amount evenly over face and neck in gentle, massaging strokes. 

Meanwhile, the Neutrogena ® Hydro Boost Water Gel keeps skin hydrated apart from 

repairing skin barrier damage caused by pollution. The unique Moisture Sensor Complex detects 

dry areas, automatically replenishing moisture to skin wherever needed. 

How-to: After applying serum, massage a pea-sized amount of Water Gel onto face and neck 

until fully-absorbed. 

The Neutrogena ® Hydro Boost Capsule In Serum (30ml) is priced RM75.90 while the 

Neutrogena ® Hydro Boost Water Gel (50g) is RM63.70. 


5

WHAT’S New 

Get a Facial Lift from Neal's Yard 

English skincare brand Neal's Yard Remedies is launching its new OxyLift 

Carat Facial treatment on April 18 at its brand new Organic Spa outlet 

in Bangsar Village. 

The 105-minute long treatment uses a premium Frankincense Lifting range, 

which is designed to unwind the effects of time, infusing the goodness 

of organic essential oils into skin. Let yourself slip away into a perfect state 

of relaxation as skilled therapists employs a therapeutic combination of 

platinum beauty roller ReFa Carat and Oxygen Jet. The ReFa Carat is a 

platinum roller that lifts facial contours and improves drainage, used to 

tighten and lift skin while the Oxygen Jet delivers pure oxygen deep into 

the skin’s layers, improving the absorption of the products used. 

The facial treatment is available at Neal’s Yard Remedies Organic Spa, as 

well as Neal’s Yard Remedies Therapy Rooms located at Bangsar Village, 

The Gardens Mall and The Starling Mall. 

Dairy Good Fernleaf Yogurt! 

Looking for Insta-worthy breakfast shots? Well, try Fernleaf's new yoghurt choices with rolled oats, nuts, 

seeds and berries for a fulfilling breakfast and good photographs! 

The yummy yoghurt is not only good for breakfast, of course. It works well as a snack all day long! For 

an afternoon pick-me-up, you can make fruit yoghurt smoothie or a yoghurt dip for celeries, bananas, 

carrot sticks, cucumber sticks and wholemeal biscuits. Or, use it as a zesty dressing for your garden salad. 

Fernleaf Yogurt comes in four delicious variants – natural, strawberry, mix berries and mango. Each cup 

is 110g and priced at RM1.50. 



Eco 

Fashion 

GREEN 

FASHION 

TO SAVE 

THE 

WORLD 

Eco fashion, ethical fashion, sustainable fashion, 

eco-friendly fashion and green fashion. You 

would have heard of the terms, but what are 

they really? Although eco fashion may sound 

like a new trend but it started out way back as 

an organic movement in the 60's. In fact, it’s not 

even a trend but rather a movement that has 

grown to revolutionise and transform the 

fashion industry of the 21st century. 


7


Eco 

Fashion 

GREEN 

FASHION 

TO SAVE 

THE 

WORLD 

What is Eco Fashion? 

The nonprofit Sustainable Technology Education Project (STEP) 

defines eco-fashion as clothes “that take into account the 

environment, the health of consumers and the working 

conditions of people in the fashion industry”. 

But that was not the case until recently, as many eco clothing 

manufacturers were focusing only on the final product. Like 

many other industries, cost reduction was a high priority. 

Production was often outsourced to sweat shops with unethical 

business practices, fabrics were often treated with high levels 

of pesticides and other chemicals, which contributed to green 

house gases, which were never given much thought. 

The late 90s activist movement against worker exploitation, saw 

a new code of labour practices for clothing companies being 

created resulting many sweat shops of the apparel industry being 

shut down, and more people supporting the need for fair trade, 

leading to employees being paid with respectable wages and 

quality working conditions. 

Material of clothing in the fashion industry has also seen changes 

the past decade. Organic cotton is one of the major developments 

within eco fashion. Although the production of all cotton creates 

a fairly large carbon footprint, choosing organic is the safer 

route for the environment, as it is free of chemical fertilisers and 

toxic pesticides. 

All-natural fibres such as silk, hemp, and even bamboo have also 

found their way as sustainable materials. Being resistant to bacteria 

and mold, these fibres are easier to grow, improve soil quality 

and are even biodegradable. Animal fibres such as wool, alpaca 

and cashmere are also finding their way to the eco fashion runway. 

Using plant-based dyes, as well as new printing quality, which 

adds colour to clothing without using water is another turning 

point for eco fashion industries contribution to a greener earth. 

With more inspired key players in the eco fashion industry 

improving both the creation as well as the production of apparel, 

eco fashion is a rapidly growing movement. Some of the biggest 

fashion houses are already displaying extensive 'green collections'. 

Nowadays, eco fashion is no longer attached to the hippy tiedyed 

stereotype of the past. It has now been adopted by clothing 

distributers for the masses as well as the high fashion couture 

of the runways. 

One argument still persist, that the eco-fashion development is 

over-priced, as many consumers still view it as elite. However, 

as more and more sustainable apparel companies enter the 

market, the supply will begin to match the high demand, and 

prices will begin to level out… hopefully. 



One of the hottest trends in the world of style is eco friendly 

or natural fibre clothing. But what really separates eco 

fashion from ordinary clothing? There are a few elements 

that make a great outfit into an eco-friendly one: 

Organic materials 

Clothing made from all or mostly all organic materials is usually 

said to be eco fashion. The style of clothing made from these 

organic fabric clothing can range from sleepwear, outdoor 

apparel and activewear to the latest in haute couture. Choosing 

materials not treated with pesticides and herbicides clearly 

benefits the earth. But it may also help the wearer as well. There 

is a growing body of evidence that traces the chemicals used in 

growing cotton and other materials may remain in the fibres. 

These traces could be absorbed through the skin of the wearer, 

especially if they sweat. 

Healthy, plant-based dyes 

Even organic materials can become less eco-friendly if the dyes 

used are synthetic, heavy metal based or otherwise dangerous 

to the workers who make the clothing, the earth or the wearer. 

Choosing clothing dyed with healthy, natural plant-based dyes 

means less irritation for the consumer and less toxic exposure 

for the clothing makers and the earth. 

Free trade practices 

Another element of eco fashion has to do with the way the 

clothing is manufactured and sold. If the employees making the 

clothing are not paid a livable wage, or if the working conditions 

are substandard and hazardous, the clothing fails the free trade 

practices test. That means otherwise good clothing made from 

natural or even organic fabrics might not be a true eco fashion 

if the workers are children or if adult workers are paid only 

pennies for their labour. 

Sustainable materials 

Even if the material used in a garment is not organic, it may be 

a sustainable material. That means it's produced from a crop 

that can be replanted and regrown without damaging the eco 

system. Cotton or hemp grown in an environmentally-friendly 

way, even if some chemicals are used, would qualify as 

sustainable. Other examples of sustainable, eco-friendly fabrics 

might include animal based choices like wool, alpaca and 

cashmere. Unlike leather and suede, the animals need not be 

harmed in gathering the fibres. 

Giving back to the community 

A final test of true eco fashion is whether the company is giving 

back to the community. Are they setting aside a certain portion 

of their profits for charities or environmental action? Are they 

working to improve the lives of so-called Third World employees 

making the garments? Are they planting trees for catalogs or 

supporting local (or remote) schools? One of the tenets of the 

eco lifestyle is recognising the interconnectedness of the earth 

and its people, and sharing the bounty with those in need. 

Make full use of limited natural resources 

One of the positive side effects of the global recession has been 

a growing awareness of limited natural resources. People are 

more anxious than ever to reduce their carbon footprint and 

protect the earth. Eco fashion is just one expression of that shift. 


9


Add Antioxidants to Your Diet 

Understanding free radicals and antioxidants 

We hear about the process of oxidation in our daily life – apples turning brown 

and fish becoming rancid in a few hours or days. Oxidation is a natural occurrence 

which happens to all cells. However, what are the dangers of oxidation to our body? 

Before delving in any further, let’s start with the basics – free radicals. 

To refresh your knowledge on chemistry, various cells are found 

in the human body and these cells are made up of countless 

different types of molecules consisting one or more atoms of 

one or more elements fused by chemical bonds. The four main 

components of atoms are nucleus, neutrons, protons and 

electrons and the main characteristic of the atom is to achieve 

maximum stability. In order to do that, the atom needs to fill its 

outer shell by gaining or losing electrons or sharing its electron. 

Normal cell Cell Attacked by Free Radicals Cell with Oxidative Stress 

Onset 

of 

DISEASE 

Usually, bonds split in a nice way where the molecules have their 

paired electron. However, when weak bonds split, free radicals 

are formed. They are very unstable and this causes them to react 

quickly with other compounds to achieve stability. When the 

nearest stable molecule is attacked, it becomes a free radical 

itself trying to attack another nearest stable molecule; thus the 

chain effect. Simply put, free radicals are bullies which reside in 

your body, making other nice cells to become bullies as well. 



When these free radicals are on a rampage, killing another cell 

is not the main issue as the body could regenerate another one. 

What you need to worry is the window to diseases that the 

attack opens when your cells are injured which damages the 

DNA. We all know that when the cells mutate, it will grow and 

reproduce abnormally at an alarming rate. 

Did you know? 

Although the body does create these free radicals to neutralise 

viruses and bacteria, free radicals are also spawned by 

environmental factors such as pollution, radiation, cigarette 

smoke, herbicides and pesticides which causes an excessive 

amount of free radicals to be present in our body. That is why 

you need antioxidants to combat these free radicals. 

Antioxidants are molecules which can safely interact with these 

free radicals to terminate the chain reaction before any vital 

molecules are damaged. They neutralise the free radicals by 

donating their own electrons which ends the chain reaction. 

Since the antioxidants are stable in either form, they do not 

become free radicals. Although these free radicals can be 

controlled by several enzyme systems within the human body, 

the principle micronutrient antioxidants are vitamin E, betacarotene 

and vitamin C. 

Antioxidants for beauty and health 

As mentioned before, free radicals can damage your cells, 

causing abnormal growth and reproduction, all of which are 

processes that cannot be stopped by your body. This could lead 

to a variety of diseases which involves a few chronic diseases 

such as cancer, heart disease, Alzheimer’s disease and Parkinson’s 

disease. Your immune system will also be weakened. There is 

also the damage in skin cells caused by cumulative sunlight. 

That is why you will need to have sufficient antioxidant in your 

body to combat the free radical effects and decrease the risk 

of falling prey to these diseases. 

With antioxidants, you could strengthen your immune system. 

Your body works better at warding off colds, flu and other 

infections. So, start incorporating fruits and vegetables in your 

diet. Vitamin C, a type of antioxidant, stops the chain reaction 

before it starts by capturing the free radicals and neutralising 

them. On the other hand, vitamin E is a chain-breaking oxidant 

which breaks the chain reaction by sitting in a membrane. 

Other types of antioxidants are lutein which helps your eyesight 

and may help to prevent cataracts; lycopene which has been 

shown to reduce the risk of prostate cancer and cardiovascular 

disease; selenium which creates antioxidant enzymes to prevent 

cell damage as well as protecting the body from poisons and 

Vitamin A which assists in vision, cell growth and improve 

immune function. 

Of course, antioxidants are also vital for beautiful skin. Vitamins 

C and E as well as selenium help to protect your skin against 

sun damage and skin cancer. According to Karen E. Burke, MD, 

PhD, of Mount Sinai School of Medicine’s Department of 

Dermatology, these antioxidants function by speeding up the 

skin’s natural repair systems and inhibiting further damage. 

However, you shouldn’t supply children with selenium as it may 

interfere with the proper formation of tooth enamel. 

Another natural antioxidant found in the body is coenzyme Q10 

which helps in cell growth while protecting them from damages 

of cancer. According to a study published in the journal Biofactors, 

application of this coenzyme Q10 can minimize the appearance 

of wrinkles. 

Retinoic acid, an active form of vitamin A, is important in antiageing 

skin care as it could treat fine wrinkles, age spots and 

rough skin cause by sun exposure. According to a study published 

in the Journal of Dermatological Science, researcher discovered 

that treatment with retinoic acid could restore elastic fibres 

which keep the skin taut and reduce 

the appearance of wrinkles. 

Flavonoid in green tea and chocolate 

is also a strong antioxidant which could 

protect the skin from cancer and 

inflammation. This is concluded in a 

German study in the Journal of 

Nutrition which found that woman 

who drank hot cocoa with a high 

concentration of flavonoid for 3 months 

had smoother and softer skin compared 

to those who drank hot cocoa with a 

lower flavonoid concentration. 


11


Antioxidant detective: 

The best antioxidant-rich foods 

1.Berries 

Rich in proanthocyanidins which helps to prevent cancer and 

heart diseases, blueberries, raspberries and blackberries are great 

additions to yogurt and cereals, even taken just as a snack. 

4.Green Tea 

Containing high concentration of catechin polyphenols, they 

work in the body with other chemicals to heighten levels of fat 

oxidation and thermogenesis. Green tea has also been shown 

to be preventative against cancer, heart disease and high 

cholesterol. 

2.Broccoli 

As the most nutritious vegetable, broccoli contains more vitamin 

C than an orange and more calcium than a glass of milk. Filled 

with phytonutrients, it can lower the risk of many types of 

cancers. Broccoli is also easily served, simply by steaming or 

boiling it. Of course, it is also a perfect addition to salads or 

stir-fries. 

3.Garlic 

There is a reason for it to be used as the flavouring agent for 

any dish, from natural antibiotic to kill off some strains of harmful 

bacteria, to decrease blood pressure and cholesterol. Garlic is 

also known to remove heavy metals from the body, prevent 

cancer and act as an antifungal and antiviral agent. 

5.Tomato 

Tomatoes net the gold medal in containing the powerful 

anticancer agent, lycopene. Fat is vital for optimal absorption 

of lycopene. Thus, adding a fat dose of the healthy olive oil in 

your spaghetti is a smart trick to increase your lycopene levels. 

Of course, there is also other 

antioxidant rich food which you can 

always add into your diet: 

Good sources of lycopene 

Watermelon, pink or red grapefruit 

Good sources of selenium 

Brazil nuts, tuna, beef, cod, turkey, chicken breast, eggs, 

cottage cheese, brown rice, enriched while wheat bread, 

black walnuts. 

Good sources of vitamin C 

Asparagus, cabbage, cantaloupe, honeydew, watermelon, 

cauliflower, lemons, oranges, fortified breads or grains 

or cereals, kale, kiwi, potatoes, spinach. 

Good sources of vitamin E 

Wheat germ oil, almonds, sunflower seeds, sunflower 

oil, safflower oil, hazelnuts, peanut butter, corn oil, 

spinach, soybean oil, kiwi and mango. 


HEALTH Scoop 

Diabetes is 5 Separate Diseases, Scientists say 

A new study has revealed that diabetes can be separated into five different diseases and treatment could be tailored to each form. 

Carried out by the Lund University Diabetes Centre in Sweden and the Institute for Molecular Medicine Finland, the study looked 

at 14,775 patients including a detailed analysis of their blood. 

The results, published in The Lancet Diabetes and Endocrinology, showed the patients could be separated into five distinct clusters. 

• Cluster 1 – severe autoimmune diabetes is broadly the same as the classical type 1 Diabetes – it hit people when they were young, 

seemingly healthy and an immune disease left them unable to produce insulin 

• Cluster 2 – severe insulin-deficient diabetes patients initially looked very similar to those in cluster 1 – they were young, had a 

healthy weight and struggled to make insulin, but the immune system was not at fault 

• Cluster 3 – severe insulin-resistant diabetes patients were generally overweight 

and making insulin but their body was no longer responding to it 

• Cluster 4 – mild obesity-related diabetes was mainly seen in people who 

were very overweight but metabolically much closer to normal than those 

in cluster 3 

• Cluster 5 – mild age-related diabetes patients developed symptoms when 

they were significantly older than in other groups and their disease tended 

to be milder 

Experts said the study marked future changes in care for diabetics but changes 

to treatment would not be immediate. 

Source: BBC 

Speed over Quantity 

How does your body know you have consumed enough water 

to quench your thirst? From the rate you gulp down a glass, 

of course! 

New research has revealed that the speed of which you drink 

outweighed the amount you drink. Although this does not 

explain how and why we are thirsty, a group of researchers at 

the California Institute of Technology has shed some light on 

being thirsty. 

The group carried out a test on thirsty mice as it gulped down 

water. The results showed if you allowed a mouse to take big 

gulps of water, it would spur neurons into action. But giving it 

water in a gel form, which had to be chewed before it could be 

swallowed, did not. Neither did providing water in tiny, twosecond-long 

sips, even when the animals consumed the same 

total amount of water. In fact, giving the mice oil to drink had 

just the same effect on the neurons as gulping water. 

Don't Kiss your Baby on 

the Lips?! 

If your baby has not developed teeth, refrain from kissing 

them on the lips as this may spread harmful bacteria. 

Celebrity Dentist, Dr Richard Marques told The Independent 

recently that baby teeth have a different type of enamel and 

dentine to adult teeth. 

The enamel is much thinner on a baby and it is also more 

likely to decay. Therefore, transfer of saliva between 

individuals could increase the likelihood of spreading illness. 

He also said parents should refrain from sharing cutlery with 

their children and blowing on their food. 

Source: The Independent 

Source: NY Times 


13

HEALTH & Wellness 

Let's Talk About 

Depression 

The phrase “I feel depressed today” or “This has been such a depressing week” are 

so commonly used, that it often diminishes the suffering of patients with depression. 

Thus, in this expert article, Gleneagles Kuala Lumpur Consultant Psychiatrist, 

Dr Lu Ann Chong explains the mental illness as Clinical Depression or clinically 

depressed to clearly distinguish it from the more often used form of "depressed". 



unexplained abdominal pain, social withdrawal and refusal to 

attend school. Children in mid to late teens with clinical 

depression may engage in multiple forms of destructive behaviour. 

Recreational drug usage can be seen as a form of self-medication. 

Mixing with the 'wrong type' in school may be a result of needing 

approval of a peer group, a feeling of belonging that the young 

adults do not experience at home. There are children that selfharm 

by using sharp objects to cut their forearms or other parts 

of their body, causing superficial injuries. 

More dangerously, there are young women and men who 

overdose on prescription or illegal drugs. Assessments of these 

suicidal attempts have to be done carefully to distinguish between 

action and intent. Most are what we commonly refer to as 'cry 

for help' as opposed to a genuine desire to die. Young adults 

that engage in this sort of self-harming behaviour do not 

necessarily have clinical depression. It arises from a maladaptive 

form of coping with stress and rejection. 

Clinical About Depression 

Clinical Depression is a condition that is very different from 

feeling low. Firstly, there is a strict diagnostic criteria that trained 

specialist adheres to make the diagnosis. In order to fulfill the 

criteria for clinical depression, one must have pervasive low 

mood that is sustained for at least two weeks. In addition, there 

is a reduction in energy levels and loss of capacity of enjoyment. 

Interest and concentration is also reduced. 

Sufferers complain of marked tiredness after even minimum 

effort. Sleep is usually disturbed and so is appetite. There can 

be a decrease or increase in sleep and appetite. There is loss of 

self-esteem and self-confidence, alongside ideas about feelings 

of guilt and worthlessness. These can often be accompanied 

by suicidal thoughts and without proper intervention, suicidal 

acts itself. 

There are no blood tests or concrete investigations that can 

produce a diagnosis, and therefore skilled talking sessions with 

psychiatrists can differentiate between clinical depression, which 

is serious and require treatment, from normal everyday sadness. 

In fact, it is very common for a young adult who has self-injured 

to express a sense of relief on doing so. When gently questioned 

further, most will say that the pain they incur on themselves 

helps relieve the feeling of numbness or stress they feel inside. 

All suicidal attempts have to be assessed individually to rule out 

clinical depression. However, it is not a given fact that it is a 

presenting symptom of clinical depression. 

One useful way to look at reasons why someone presents with 

clinical depression at different stages of their lives can look at 

what type of challenges that person will typically face and have 

to overcome at that particular stage of life. Young adults in their 

late teens and early twenties are struggling with finding or 

defining their own self-identity. 

This is a case example on identity and role confusion. Mr B is a 

24 year old accountant who suffers from feelings of guilt about 

his homosexuality. He dreads any family social event where he 

is often asked about girlfriends. He feels that as the only son in 

his family, he is letting his family down. He feels like a fraud. He 

tries internet dating and met with some unpleasant encounters 

that increases his feelings of guilt, shame and self-loathing that 

slowly develop into clinical depression. 

Depression Across Age Groups 

Children and Teenagers 

There is a misconception that childhood is a time where one is 

free from responsibilities and has the freedom to enjoy life. It is 

often inconceivable to adults that a child may be unhappy to 

the degree that he or she develops clinical depression. Society 

has changed so rapidly that there are tremendous pressure on 

young children and adults. This includes the increase in divorce 

rates as well as in environments where the parents choose to 

stay together for the sake of the children but unintentionally 

subject their children to choose between parents in arguments 

and bear witness to scenes where ugly words are exchanged. 

While these are the more common reasons within the family 

context where clinical depression can arise, physical and sexual 

abuse are contributors too. 

For children in their early teens, clinical depression present more 

atypically as physical ailments. For example, persistent and 


15


Mid to Late 20s 

Adults in their mid to late twenties have another major life 

challenge – overcoming feeling of isolation and achieving 

intimacy with another person. Most of the clients that I see in 

their mid-twenties and early 30s talk about this a lot. Many have 

disappointments, ranging from finding out about infidelities to 

breakup of a long-term relationship. Those that don’t deal with 

rejection, abandonment and loss are the children who come 

from broken families themselves. Many women who enter into 

abusive relationships are often a result of a vicious cycle of abuse 

they themselves have encountered as young children. 

Modern society makes demands of one finding a soul mate, 

someone that 'completes you'. This is a misleading concept. 

One should be independent and confident on their own and 

their life-long partner is one that compliments them, not 

complete them. This can result in feelings of loss and abandonment 

that can lead to clinical depression. Statistically, women are twice 

as likely to be clinically-depressed compared to men. 

Men and women having navigated through the tumultuous 

years of asserting their own self-identify and also successfully 

paired up in a healthy relationship face the next big milestone 

in their life – work. 

Adults between 30 and 40 years old 

The clients that I see in their 30s and 40s are mostly concerned 

with stress at work, dealing with difficult bosses; feeling that 

they don’t earn enough; the instability of the job market; the 

feeling that they do not have passion in the work they do. These 

are all modern phenomena. A generation or two ago, most of 

our forefathers will not talk about finding passion in their work. 

They work. They earn. They provide. 

Women now have the freedom to work and those who do, have 

pangs of guilt about choosing work over their children. Women, 

who give up work for children occasionally, feel that they missed 

out on climbing the corporate ladder and the change in power 

imbalance in their relationship with their partner. 

Overarching all of this is the concept of 'status anxiety'. Status 

anxiety is the feeling that everyone else is doing better than you. 

Social media sites such as Facebook and Instagram amplifies 

this feeling that everyone else is travelling more, hanging out 

and eating in more interesting places, having more interesting 

friends, generally having an overall more interesting life that 

you do. Women are more likely than men to seek help if they 

feel that they may be depressed. 

Most work-stressed men choose alcohol as a solace for the 

misery they feel. Alcohol by itself is a mood depressant. Excessive 

alcohol use can lead to alcoholism, which not only impacts their 

health in their 40s and 50s, but more directly, their work 

performance. All these are toxic ingredients to the onset of 

clinical depression. 

Adults between 40 and 50 years old 

Working men and women in their 40s and 50s are considered 

to be at the most productive period in their life. This cohort also 

holds more senior positions, have more responsibilities and tend 

to work harder than their younger counterparts. They have more 

on their shoulders. Mortgages, children education and keeping 

their health insurance makes any threat of job loss incredibly 

anxiety-provoking. 

Ironically, those that are stable in their job start to feel that 

they are stagnating if they are not being promoted. Job losses, 

fear of job loss, fear of lack of promotion, severe unhappiness 

and stress at work leads to exhaustion, burnt-out and clinical 

depression. Advice to slow down and take a break on the job 

front is often not listened to, due to status anxiety, as 

mentioned earlier. 



Adults above the age of 50 

Poor health is the major concern of those above 50 years old. 

Chronic illness, especially those associated with pain symptoms 

are most likely precursor to development of clinical depression. 

Those approaching death, start asking existential questions 

about the life they have lead, any legacy they have left behind, 

any impact they have made for society or their children and 

grandchildren. There are often regrets over failed relationships 

with loved ones. 

Life Conflicts 

Across all decades of life, clinical depression presents with similar 

symptoms, as I have outlined in the beginning. The reason why 

people become depressed at different ages depends on the 

major life conflicts they have to face at that time. Knowing what 

these are means that there are possibilities to put in safeguards 

to help people gain access help. For example, counselors in 

school settings will be a safety net for children and young adults 

to get access to psychiatric help. 

Work organisations can incorporate friendlier staff at the Human 

Resources Department to understand why someone may be 

struggling at work. Referrals to general practitioners from Human 

Resource to screen for mood disorders can be the first step to 

referral to psychiatrists. 

The Psychiatrist's Role 

The role of a psychiatrist is to first offer a confidential, nonjudgmental 

setting where the client feels safe in sharing what 

their troubles are. When the clients openly share their worries, 

problems and concerns, a skilled psychiatrist can pick up 

symptoms to alert them to the presence of clinical depression 

or not, asking open questions in a non-directive manner. 

This form of conversation exchange is more natural and intuitive 

in approach to correcting, detecting and confirming clinical 

depression compared to the 'tick box' approach to asking direct 

questions. As I was recently reminded, when reviewing a patient 

at the ward who happened to be a Consultant Specialist herself, 

when I greeted her with a friendly, "How have you been 

feeling?", she replied, "The patient always lies." 

The right treatment starts with the right diagnosis. The often 

repeated statements that antidepressants do not work is because 

they are often given to the wrong type of patients. There have 

been many years of high quality research on many different 

types of antidepressants, and the role of a psychiatrist is to first 

make the right diagnosis. 

Prescribing antidepressants is easy to do. Prescribing the right 

antidepressants to the right patient group takes skills. More 

importantly, there is no single best antidepressant. Different 

antidepressants have different side effects profile, depending 

on the age, gender and health condition of the patient. 

Besides simply prescribing medication, psychiatrists offer a safe 

place where the patient is able to ventilate their worst fears 

without the deep seated fear of rejection that almost all of us 

have about people holding judgments over us. That simple 

process of being able to talk is just as important as medication. 

Dr Lu Ann Chong's sub-specialty is Liaison 

Psychiatry where she covers the interface 

between medical presentations with comorbid 

Psychological/Psychiatric distress. 

She has specialist training and interest 

particularly in Young Onset Dementia and 

Perinatal Psychiatry (Antenatal and Postnatal 

Anxiety/ Depression). 


17


The Lowdown on 

Pilates 

"The great thing about pilates is that just about everyone 

– from couch potatoes to fitness buffs – can do it" 



Pilates (pronounced: puh-lah-teez) is a 

body conditioning routine that seeks to 

build flexibility, strength, endurance, and 

coordination without adding muscle bulk. 

You might think Pilates is a new type of 

exercise or even a fad, but it has been 

around for decades, and as the exercise 

of choice for dancers and gymnasts. It was 

originally used to rehabilitate bedridden 

or immobile patients during World War I. 

Why Pilates? 

The human body is a versatile machine, 

able to adjust and compensate for muscle 

weakness caused by physical injury, 

repetitive athletic regimes, and the daily 

habitual motor movements of work and 

home life. But long-term compensation 

leads to muscle imbalance, permanent 

misalignments and misspent energy, 

leaving one's body susceptible to further, 

more serious trauma. Pilates is the fitness 

training solution that combines exercise 

and physiotherapy for the restoration of 

proper body alignment and optimum 

physical performance. 

There are two ways to exercise in pilates: 

1. Today, most people focus on the mat 

exercises, which require only a floor 

mat and training. These exercises are 

designed so that your body uses its 

own weight as resistance. 

2. The other method uses a variety of 

machines to tone and strengthen 

the body, again using the principle 

of resistance. 

Why is Pilates effective? 

Pilates embraces the anatomy and 

biomechanics of your body: it concentrates 

on developing those muscles which wrap 

around joints and are responsible for 

proper alignment – the deep stabilising 

muscles of the torso, core abdominal and 

back muscles, muscles along the spinal 

column – as well as the scapular regions 

and your particular weakened muscles. 

The secret is non-impact resistance that 

resembles muscular contractions and 

eliminates stress on your joints, making 

Pilates safe, versatile, and effective for all 

ages and fitness levels. Toned, stretched, 

and lengthened, your muscles will acquire 

the strength and flexibility needed for a 

balanced, agile, and healthy body. 

Who can benefit from 

Pilates fitness training? 

Whether you are a fitness enthusiast 

or pure beginner, you can benefit from 

the Pilates lifestyle. From physical 

rehabilitation for special needs personage 

to performance enhancement for 

seasoned athletes, Pilates is intentionally 

customised for your unique health history 

and physical demands. The result is a body 

that is free of old tensions and ready to 

gain new altitudes. 

The benefits of Pilates 

• Exercise safely and effectively toward 

dynamic functional fitness. 

• Free yourself from lower back and joint 

pain, neck and shoulder tension. 

• Lose inches off your waistline and 

acquire a slim, sleek body without 

adding bulk. 

• Improve your posture, rebalance muscles 

around joints, and prevent muscle & 

soft tissue injury. 

• Develop and refine your agility and 

flexibility. 

• Observe joint safety with non-impact 

exercise. 

• Improve balance, coordination, 

circulation, and lung capacity. 

Who founded Pilates? 

• Heighten overall body awareness. 

• Relieve stress and tension. 

Getting started 

The great thing about pilates is that just 

about everyone – from couch potatoes to 

fitness buffs – can do it. Keep these tips 

in mind so that you can get the most out 

of your pilates workout. But, before you 

begin any type of exercise programme, 

it's a good idea to talk to your doctor, 

especially if you have a health problem. 

• Stay focused. Pilates is designed to 

combine your breathing rhythm with 

your body movements. The goal of 

pilates is to unite your mind and body, 

which relieves stress and anxiety. 

• Be comfortable. Wear comfortable 

clothes and keep in mind that pilates is 

usually done without shoes. If you start 

feeling uncomfortable, strained, or 

experience pain, you should stop. 

• Let it flow. When you perform your 

exercises, avoid quick, jerky movements. 

Every movement should be slow, but 

still strong and flexible. Joseph Pilates 

worked with dancers and designed his 

movements to flow like a dance. 

• Don't leave out the heart. The nice 

thing about pilates is you don't have to 

break a sweat if you don't want to — 

but you can also work the exercises 

quickly to get your heart rate going. 

The Pilates Method of exercise was developed by Joseph Pilates in the 1920s. 

It was originally used as a rehabilitation programme for prisoners of war and 

was later found to be of great benefit to anyone seeking a higher level of 

fitness. The work was kept alive over the years by a small group of Pilates' 

devoted students until just a few years ago, when exercise science caught up 

to the principles that Pilates had been teaching all along, and now we enjoy 

the rich evolution of the Pilates work that we have today. 


19


5 Ways Healthy Living 

Impacts Your Heart 

Eat well. Exercise. Get enough omega-3s. Chances are, you’ve 

heard tips on making heart-healthy choices before. But how do 

your good decisions affect heart function? 

When it comes to making informed decisions, many people don’t 

understand how it can affect heart health and overall bodily 

wellness and for good decisions to have staying power, it’s 

important to understand the impact they’re having. 

When you lose weight, you can see the difference. But the results 

of a healthier heart are more difficult to measure. Herbalife 

Nutrition Advisory Board Member, Dr Louis Ignarro takes a look 

at five healthy choices and how they impact your heart. 



Heart healthy choice: Exercise 

Impacts: Blood flow 

We all know activities like running, cycling and swimming are 

good for you, but why are they heart-healthy choices? Along 

with improving overall bodily health, exercise helps blood vessels 

relax and widen or dilate. Relaxed blood vessels allow blood to 

flow efficiently and nourish the heart, which stimulates Nitric 

Oxide (NO) production in the body. Since Nitric Oxide controls, 

regulates and protects the cardiovascular system, the result is 

clear: more exercise equals more Nitric Oxide, which results in 

a healthier heart. 

Heart healthy choice: Eating a balanced diet 

– especially omega-3s 

Impacts: Cholesterol and overall health 

A healthy diet is as good for your heart as it is for your taste 

buds. Fresh fruits, vegetables, proteins and whole grains give 

your body the energy and nutrients it needs to maintain overall 

health. Foods like fatty fish (salmon, mackerel and tuna), 

flaxseeds, walnuts, pumpkin seeds and soybeans are jam-packed 

with omega-3 fatty acids, and consumption of EPA 

(eicosapantaenoic acid) and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) 

omega-3 fatty acids may reduce the risk of heart disease. Not 

only is fish a great substitute for foods like beef, which is high 

in saturated fats, but the omega-3s help to support a healthy 

cardiovascular system by maintaining cholesterol and triglyceride 

levels already within the normal range. 

Heart healthy choice: Lowering stress 

Impacts: 

Blood pressure and cholesterol levels 

If you think activities like yoga, meditation and deep breathing 

aren’t for you, think again. Doing stress-relieving activities can 

do more for your body than you might think. A recent study 

found that chronic stress is linked to coronary heart disease and 

that stress management is an important part of heart health. 

While there are a lot of theories on how lowering stress can 

help keep the heart healthy, many researchers believe that 

increased stress levels can worsen other states in the body. For 

example, if you have high blood pressure or cholesterol, stress 

can cause these levels to rise even further. Stress may also impact 

the way blood clots, which may increase the risk of a heart 

attack. People with lower stress levels may be more likely to 

exercise and eat well, both of which are important for a healthy 

heart. So, lowering stress not only helps you feel better, it also 

keeps your body balanced and supports healthy blood pressure 

and cholesterol levels. 

Heart healthy choice: Losing weight 

Impacts: Blood circulation and 

overall heart health 

Did you know that even moderate weight loss can have a huge 

impact on the health of your heart? A healthy weight lowers 

the risk of heart disease, stroke, high blood pressure and diabetes 

not to mention positively impacts overall physical health. But 

how does it do this? 

While there are lots of benefits of weight loss, it especially 

impacts blood circulation. One study found that when body 

weight—especially belly fat—is within a healthy range, arteries 

are better able to expand, which results in better blood flow. 

Since optimal blood flow is one of the keys to a healthy 

cardiovascular system, weight loss (or maintenance, if you’re at 

a healthy weight), can be one of the most important steps 

toward supporting a healthy heart. 

Heart healthy choice: 

Supporting the endothelium 

Impacts: Nitric Oxide production, blood 

flow and blood pressure 

Many people are taking steps to support the endothelium but 

don’t even realise it. In fact, you may have never even heard of 

this important organ before. Our bodies contain 6 trillion 

endothelial cells, which line 60,000 miles of blood vessels in a 

single layer; together, those 6 trillion cells make up an organ 

known as the endothelium. 

Nitric Oxide is one of the most important molecules in the 

cardiovascular system and increased Nitric Oxide results in 

increased blood flow to the organs, which supports healthy 

blood pressure and a healthy cardiovascular system. But for all 

this to happen, the 'production house' of Nitric Oxide – the 

endothelium – needs to be supported. 

Doing the things we’ve already 

discussed – exercising, eating a 

healthy diet, lowering stress and 

losing weight – all contribute to 

endothelial health. Supplementing 

with targeted nutrients like 

omega-3 fatty acids, CoQ10, krill, 

garlic and green tea also help keep 

your endothelium healthy by 

providing the nutrients it needs to 

function at its best. A healthy 

endothelium results in healthy Nitric 

Oxide levels, which impacts blood 

flow and blood pressure – not to 

mention the functioning of the 

entire body. 

Keep Up the Heart-Smart 

Lifestyle 

You can’t always see the results of 

your hard work, but now you know 

the impact your heart-smart 

decisions are having on your 

cardiovascular system. So, keep 

making healthy choices, and 

remember that each good decision 

you make does take you one step 

closer to a healthier heart. 

Dr Louis Ignarro 


21

FITNESS Bytes 

Sweat Hotels 

Hotels that serves as a health nut's playgrounds 

are aplenty in America 

There are people who check into hotels wanting a relaxing 

getaway and there are people who check into hotels to break 

a sweat, literally. 

The Washington Post recently reported hotels are placing greater 

emphasis on fitness and attracting guests that are interested to 

have a business meeting, staycation or family outing that 

incorporates tennis classes, combat classes and high-tech studios 

for cycling. 

The Hotel at Midtown, Chicago is one fine example. The hotel 

has 15 indoor tennis courts, multiple pools, golf simulators, a 

high-tech studio for cycling, a stunning yoga room and Pilates 

studio, a boxing ring; indoor and outdoor turf-lined fields and 

a spa. 

At the Houstonian Club in Houston, you could pay USD15,000 

to USD29,000 per year to be a member at the posh health 

facility. Or you could spend about USD340 to stay overnight at 

the Houstonian Hotel, Club & Spa for a taste of the good life, 

which includes three pools, nine tennis courts, 200-plus classes 

a week in cycling, yoga and Pilates and other areas such as 

boxing and a cushioned outdoor track that’s just under a mile 

in length and connects to nearby trails. 

Fit on Social Media 

Impact on reading exercise-related posts from 

friends and family makes one more conscious 

about body image, university study says 

Do you post your fitness routine on social media? Do you 

receive 'likes' and comments from your followers? 

But, have you ever thought about how your pictures of 

flexing your muscles or drinking a protein smoothie might 

affect others? 

Researchers from the University of Arizona in Tucson and 

Texas State University in San Marcos, United States recently 

led a study on the outcomes of social media posts about 

exercise and the findings indicate that people who see a lot 

of fitness-related posts from their friends may become more 

self-conscious about their own bodies. 

In the study that involved 394 participants, 304 provided 

complete sets of data. Of these, 232 participants "reported 

engaging in at least some exercise," so the final sample was 

restricted to this group. The findings revealed the impact of 

exercise-related posts on the viewers could work out both 

for the better and for the worse. 

Researchers said, "Good can come out of this, in the sense 

that it can make some people more interested in exercising 

and feel better about exercising, but it might make other 

people feel worse about themselves if they're more concerned 

with their weight." 

Medical News Today 

The Washington Post 


FITNESS Bytes 

Back that Fat Out 

Do you have fat deposits on the sides of your 

lower back? Here are 2 easy workouts to get rid 

of it! 

Side Leg Lift 

This side leg lift exercise is designed to stabilise the pelvic-lumbar 

and oblique muscle regions, as well as lateral flexion, which 

strengthens torso muscles around the spinal region. 

• Lie straight on the floor on your right side, with your leg, hip 

and side all against the mat. The right arm can rest behind 

your head or in front of your body for balance and support. 

• Rest your left leg on top of your right one, stacked on top 

of it. 

• As you exhale, lift both legs off the ground together by about 

3 or 4 inches. Be sure to initiate the movement from the core 

of your body. 

• As you inhale, lower the legs back toward the mat, keeping 

your feet slightly above the ground itself as if hovering 

above it. 

• Repeat this movement 6 to 8 times before lowering your feet 

back to the ground. 

• Switch to your left side and repeat. 

Tire yourself with Tires 

Incorporate tires into your workout to shock 

the body and force muscles to work in new 

ways, fitness instructor says 

Tire workouts help build strength, endurance and burn 

major calories. 

Kick@55 Fitness Owner, Rebecca Gahan said, "If you always 

use the same equipment for strength training, your muscles 

adapt and your progress plateaus. Integrating a tire into your 

workout will shock the body and force your muscles to work 

in a completely new way. Plus, let’s be honest – just lifting 

that tire can make you feel pretty badass, right?" 

For safety reasons, it's important to start out with a lighter 

tire that's suitable for your activity level and strength. Luckily, 

you don’t need a heavy tire to reap the benefits. 

Give yourself some space and do tire flips across the floor. 

Gahan said, “Squat down, lift the tire from the bottom, and 

then flip it." It sounds easy, but it’s super challenging, so be 

prepared to use all your strength. 

She added that the routine meant receiving the benefits of 

a weighted squat along with upper body resistance. Gahan 

said the step could also be paired with a broad jump. 

"Do back and forth tire flips with a broad jump by flipping 

the tire, broad jumping to the other side and then flipping 

the tire again." 

Men's Health 

Swimming 

Think about lengthening your body through your fingers and 

toes and lifting to your maximum as you do this exercise. 

• Begin by lying on your stomach with your arms in front of 

you against the mat. 

• Slowly lift your arms and legs off the floor, as if moving into 

a "Superwoman" or "Superman" position, keeping them 

together as they hover over the mat. 

• Inhale as you lift your right arm and left leg at the same time. 

Exhale. 

• Inhale again as you lift your left arm and right leg higher until 

your movements start to resemble "swimming" in the air. 

• Do 3 sets of 8 switches from right to left. 

Healthline and American fitness pro, Michelle Kalisz 


23

FITNESS & Weight Loss 

Enjoy the 

Workout, 

Watch Out 

for Injuries 

From some trainers 'No pain, no 

gain' really means 'you should feel 

some pain'. While mild discomfort 

is to be expected, especially for 

those just beginning a new fitness 

routine, pain is a natural warning 

sign. Pay attention to it. 



A good workout routine will test you, but 

shouldn't damage you. As muscles get 

used, especially somewhat beyond their 

usual range, lactic acid, micro-tears and 

other physiological changes occur that 

result in muscles being built up stronger 

than before. 

But if you are experiencing back pain, neck 

aches, knee joint soreness and other 

symptoms, you should consult with an 

expert. Your technique may be wrong, 

you may be trying to do too much, too 

soon, or you may have a medical problem 

that should be addressed. 

Work up to any vigorous routine slowly. 

How slowly will vary from person to 

person, depending on age, experience, 

prior exercise routines and overall fitness. 

Get muscles warm and limber before 

cranking it up. Most strains and rips result 

from being too cold and not stretching, 

or extending more than you're ready for. 

Warm-ups should take at least 15 minutes 

and include very gentle jogging in place 

or jumping jacks to get the cardio and 

lung systems working well. They should 

include some slow, gradual stretching to 

get joints lubricated and muscles relaxed 

Warmups 

should 

take at least 15 

minutes and include 

very gentle jogging in 

place or jumping jacks 

to get the cardio 

and lung systems 

working well 

and gently lengthened. Warm-ups that 

are too short can easily lead to stretched 

or torn cartilage that takes a long time 

to heal. 

Don't let inexperienced trainers, or socalled 

'friends' embarrass you into 

believing you have to get out and run five 

miles two weeks after an injury, surgery 

or other debilitating condition. Physical 

therapy and exercise sometimes requires 

that you work against discomfort, but you 

don't leap over tall buildings the first 

day out. 

Every person committed to fitness will 

want to push him or herself to achieve 

excellence. But an attitude that leads to 

overdoing it is counter-productive to your 

goal. You're working to improve or 

maximise health and overall body tone 

and strength – not proving you are 

'mentally tough'. 

Before you begin a new routine that 

involves activities that are unfamiliar, get 

guidance from an expert. Next to bad 

warm-ups or overdoing it, incorrect 

technique is the leading cause of injury. If 

you don't know how to use a station at 

the weight machine correctly, don't be 

embarrassed to ask. No one is born with 

this knowledge. 

Anyone who mocks you for ignorance, 

isn't someone whose opinions you have 

reason to heed. 

Be aware of your environment while you 

go through your routine. It's easy to get 

into a rhythm, get concentrated on your 

workout and end up crashing into a wall 

or a nearby person. Jogging especially 

requires that you pay attention to the 

surface you run on and the people and 

cars around you. No shoe in existence 

will keep you from slipping on a muddy 

patch. Only awareness and good reflexes 

can help. 

Stay within your comfort zone as you 

gradually expand it. One of the foremost 

reasons people give up on workouts is 

injuries produced by working beyond their 

capacity. That makes working out no 

longer fun. Building up, while you build 

out, to increase your ability to do more, 

faster will keep you going for years 

to come. 

Your health will thank you for exercising 

common sense, while you exercise 

your body. 


25


7 Good Reasons 

Why You Should Invest In 

Home Fitness Equipment 

Gyms are so easy to find these days that they’re pretty much in every corner of town. There is the 

one at the malls where you pay a few hundred for membership and the community one where 

usage is much cheaper. And then, there are gyms too at the condo you live in and some companies 

even have the resources and premises large enough to set up a gym for their employees. Many 

prefer to head to the gym instead of working out at home on home fitness equipment for a variety 

of reasons. Maybe they enjoy going to the mall, maybe they are hoping to meet Mr or Miss Right 

running on the threadmill as well. But, there are good reasons to why you should switch to 

exercising at home and investing in several home fitness equipment. Let’s take a look at 7 of the 

best reasons why you should head to the fitness store to purchase some home fitness equipment! 



3.You save on membership fees and more 

If you do some simple calculations on the amount that you 

spend yearly on gym membership fees, you’ll find the 

amount equivalent to the cost of a home fitness equipment. 

Forking out a thousand or two on an exercise machine might 

seem like a huge amount compared to the hundred or two spent 

monthly on fees but in the long-term, you’d benefit. At least 

you’d get to keep the machines too at the end of the day. 

Heading to the neighbourhood gym incurs extra expenses too 

in the form on travelling costs and parking fees. It is even worse 

if the gym is at the mall – there is a very high tendency that 

you’d be spending more than you intend to! 

4. Exercising at home is more fun 

How can you resist working out if there’s a treadmill or an 

exercise bike staring at you in your living room? You can get on 

the treadmill or bike while watching your favourite TV show or 

film, unlike at the gym where you’d have to watch some movie 

playing while barely being able to hear a thing. You can blast 

your favourite tunes at home too if you wish; there might 

be some tunes that really get you going. Working out at 

home also boosts your confidence since there won’t be any 

buffed men (or women) huffing and puffing, making you feel 

inadequate or uncomfortable. 

1. Privacy and personal space 

You can work out to your heart’s content in the comfort of your 

own home. You don’t have to worry about people checking 

you out, there is no one to judge you and you can wear 

the most worn-out clothes you have. Even better is that you 

won’t feel pressured when you’re using certain fitness equipment 

as there won’t be anyone waiting to use them, unlike being at 

the gym where you would have to share the fitness equipment 

with other members. Some gyms impose time limits on the use 

of some equipment too, so now you can spend as long as you 

want working out, as long as your body permits you to do so. 

2. You save time 

Why get stuck for hours in traffic on your way to the gym? And 

then, most gyms are located in popular malls, so you’d spend 

another 15 minutes circling the parking lot looking for a space 

before making your way up and through the huge mall to get 

to the gym. You’re wasting precious time just making the 

trip to the gym and home again. Multiply that hassle by the 

number of times you visit the gym in a week – definitely a lot 

of time spent commuting, unless there is a gym right beside 

your office or you work at the mall itself. Plus, you’ll get irritated 

too once you’re stuck in traffic, resulting in a bad mood that 

could jeopardise your workout routine at the gym. So why not 

head home to work out on your fitness equipment, saving 

yourself time and emotional distress. 


27


5. Various choices of fitness equipment 

You don’t have to use whatever the gym has if you don’t like 

them. Just get whatever you fancy and place them at home. 

There are so many products to choose from these days for every 

requirement and budget, depending on your concerns and what 

you aim to achieve. Many types of exercise equipment offer 

affordable ways to include aerobic workouts in your fitness 

plan. If weight loss is your goal, cardio exercise machines can 

help you get into shape. If space is an issue, a stationary bike 

can offer an effective alternative which will take up less room. 

Free weights will allow you to build an exercise programme to 

match your strength while resistance bands offer additional 

ways to incorporate strength training into your workout schedule. 

At the end of the day, it can be quite difficult to pick just one, 

so take your pick from the usual must-haves: the treadmill, 

exercise bike, an exercise ball, an exercise bench and a set of 

dumbbells to begin with. 

6. A variety of workouts 

The right fitness equipment lets you have a variety of fun 

exercises such as the hammer curls, shoulder raises, deadlifts, 

squats, concentration curls and dumbbell curls that you can 

start off doing. These are simple but yet highly effective and can 

be done in the comfort of your own home for your wellbeing. 

All you need is good stamina, a good dose of determination 

and a clear goal to achieve. 

7. Portability of equipment 

Most home fitness equipment are portable, else they 

wouldn’t have made their way into your home. The larger 

ones might be a little difficult to move around but they can still 

be transported if you wanted to move them to another spot in 

the home or to another location. Smaller items such as weights, 

resistance bands, exercise balls, skipping ropes and trampolines 

are far more portable, so you can even bring them along with 

you if you go on a short trip or such. 

Everyone wants to stay in shape but is it really worth going through all the hassles of being a gym member? Some 

may still prefer to be surrounded by a bunch of sweaty and smelly people while the rest would prefer to stick to 

their own comfort zone, which is to have their own gym at home where they can just exercise however and 

whenever they like. Both fitness options definitely have its own plus points, so it really depends what one prefers. 


COVER Story 

UNIVERSAL 

HEALTH 

COVERAGE: 

EVERYONE, 

EVERYWHERE 

who.int/healthforall 

#HealthForAll 


29

COVER Story 

All for Health, 

Health for All! 

World Health Day falls on April 7, each year and this year, 

countries are focusing on #UniversalHealthCoverage for all 

What is Universal Health Coverage? 

Receiving health services you need, when and where you need them without 

facing financial hardship. 

Why does Universal Health Coverage matter? 

Countries that invest in Universal Health Coverage (UHC) make a sound 

investment in their human capital. In recent decades, UHC has emerged as a 

key strategy to make progress towards other health-related and broader 

development goals. Some countries have already made significant progress 

towards universal health coverage. But half the world’s population is still unable 

to obtain the health services they need. If countries are to achieve the SDG 

(Sustainable Development Goals set by the United Nations) target, one billion 

more people need to benefit from UHC by 2023. 

Several UHC Facts and Figures 

• At least half of the world’s people is currently unable to obtain essential health services. 

• Almost 100 million people are being pushed into extreme poverty, forced to survive 

on just USD1.90 or less a day, because they have to pay for health services out of their 

own pockets. 

• Over 800 million people (almost 12 per cent of the world’s population) spend at least 

10 per cent of their household budgets on health expenses for themselves, a sick child 

or other family member. 

• In richer countries in Europe, Latin America and parts of Asia, which have achieved 

high levels of access to health services, increasing numbers of people are spending at 

least 10 per cent of their household budgets on out-of-pocket health expenses. 

• All UN Member States have agreed to try to achieve universal health coverage (UHC) 

by 2030, as part of the Sustainable Development Goals. 


COVER Story 

Strengthen Population Health 

Health Ministry Director General , 

Datuk Dr Noor Hisham Abdullah 

said the Malaysian health care 

system will strengthen the 

universal health coverage of the 

country by focusing on three main 

strategies namely to strengthen 

population health, create a 

sustainable health system and 

promote the health industry. 

Health is the responsibility of everyone. Dr Noor Hisham said 

the ministry was focused on 'Health in all policies and legislation' 

via innovative and integrated efforts of all relevant stakeholders 

and communities. 

Create a Sustainable Health System 

Provision of equitable, safe and quality healthcare should be the 

basis for the measurement of accessibility, responsiveness and 

universal health coverage leaving no one behind. To ensure 

access and coverage in a quality healthcare system, the MOH 

has introduced the Family Doctor Concept whereby each 

individual and their family members will be assigned to a doctor 

and team that monitors, follows up their illness and wellbeing 

and offers risk intervention accordingly. 

Through the implementation of the Family Doctor Concept, 

emphasis is given to population registration and risk profiling, 

multidisciplinary and integrated bundled care and strengthening 

continuity of care for referral cases. 

Promote the Health Industry 

The Malaysia Healthcare Travel Council (MHTC), which is a 

corporatised body under the purview of ministry, streamlines 

healthcare service providers and industry players in both the 

private and government sectors, to create a comprehensive and 

holistic healthcare travel ecosystem that is benchmarked against 

global standards. 

In Malaysia, fertility and cardiology treatments are among the 

top five treatments sought after by healthcare travellers, alongside 

orthopaedics, oncology and aesthetics. To support MHTC’s 

agenda, as much as RM30 million was allocated in Budget 2018 

to boost Malaysia’s healthcare travel industry. This is in line with 

the national economic blueprint where healthcare travel has 

been identified as one of the National Key Economic Areas 

(NKEA) set to drive the country towards a high-income nation 

by 2020. 

Dr Noor Hisham summarised by saying the ministry's World 

Health Day 2018 message was to "Promote healthy lifestyle and 

shift from illness to wellness-focused to sustain lifelong quality 

of life and healthy nation." 


31

COVER Story 

#HealthForAll 

The World Health Organisation (WHO) is 

turning 70 this year and in conjunction 

with World Health Day, WHO is calling on 

world leaders to live up to the pledges they 

made when they agreed to the Sustainable 

Development Goals in 2015, and commit 

to concrete steps to advance the health of 

all people. This means ensuring that everyone, everywhere can 

access essential quality health services without facing financial 

hardship. 

On April 7, this year: 

World Health Day will shine a spotlight on the need for UHC 

and the advantages it can bring. WHO and its partners will share 

examples of steps to take to get there through a series of events 

and conversations held at multiple levels. 

The aim is to inspire, motivate and guide UHC stakeholders to 

make commitments towards UHC: 

Inspire—by highlighting policymakers’ power to transform the 

health of their nation, framing the challenge as exciting and 

ambitious, and inviting them to be part of the change. 

Motivate—by sharing examples of how countries are already 

progressing towards UHC and encourage others to find their 

own path. 

Guide—by providing tools for structured policy dialogue on 

how to advance UHC domestically or supporting such efforts 

in other countries (such as expanding service coverage, improving 

quality of services, reducing out-of-pocket payments). 

How Can You Get Involved? 

Individuals, civil society and health workers 

• Communicate your needs, opinions and expectations to local 

policymakers, politicians, ministers and other people 

representatives. 

• Make the necessary noise to ensure your community health 

needs are taken into account and prioritised at the local level, 

including through social media. 

• Invite civil society organisations to help raise your community 

needs to your policymakers. 

• Share your stories as affected communities and patients with 

the media. 

• Organise activities like discussion forums, policy debates, 

concerts, marches and interviews to provide people an 

opportunity to interact with their representatives on the topic 

of UHC via media and social media. 

Media 

• Highlight initiatives and interventions that help to improve 

access to quality services and financial protection for people 

and communities. 

• Show what happens when people cannot obtain the services 

they need. 

• Hold policymakers and politicians accountable, via 

documentaries on UHC pledges they have made and strengths, 

weaknesses and new challenges to be addressed (such as 

increase in non-communicable diseases or ageing population). 

• Create platforms for dialogue between beneficiaries, 

communities, their representatives and policymakers, through 

talk shows, interviews and radio. 

Source: World Health Organisation (WHO) 


ECO+Green 

Happy Earth Day! 

This year, Earth Day will focus on spreading awareness on ending 

plastic pollution. Read on and learn why you should carry a reusable 

container or bag the next time you choose to purchase food or items. 


33

ECO+Green 

The Origin Story 

Earth Day kicked off almost 50 years ago when people took to 

the streets to protest negative impacts of industrial development 

in the US. 

Due to this, global ecological awareness started growing, laws 

were being enacted and organisations were up and coming. 

Today, April 22 is a global event with almost 200 countries taking 

part in what is the largest civic-focused day of action in the 

world. 

Earth Day Organisation President, 

Kathleen Rogers said, “It is a day of 

political action and civic participation. 

People march, sign petitions, meet 

with their elected officials, plant trees, 

clean up their towns and roads. 

Corporations and governments use it 

to make pledges and announce 

sustainability measures. Faith leaders, 

including Pope Francis, connect Earth 

Day with protecting God’s greatest 

creations, humans, biodiversity and 

the planet that we all live on.” 

End Plastic Pollution 

This year, the theme focuses on ending plastic pollution and 

creating support for a global effort to eliminate single-use plastics 

along with global regulation for the disposal of plastics. Lead 

organiser of Earth Day worldwide, the Earth Day Network aims 

to educate millions of people about the health and other risks 

associated with the use and disposal of plastics, including 

pollution of our oceans, water, and wildlife, and about the 

growing body of evidence that decomposing plastics are creating 

serious global problems. 

From poisoning and injuring marine life to the ubiquitous 

presence of plastics in our food to disrupting human hormones 

and causing major life-threatening diseases and early puberty, 

the exponential growth of plastics is threatening our planet’s 

survival. 

EDN has built a multi-year campaign to End Plastic Pollution. 

Goals include ending single-use plastics, promoting alternatives 

to fossil fuel-based materials, promoting 100 per cent recycling 

of plastics, corporate and government accountability and 

changing human behavior concerning plastics. 

EDN’s End Plastic Pollution campaign includes four major 

components: 

• Leading a grassroots movement to support the adoption of 

a global framework to regulate plastic pollution, 

• Educating, mobilising and activating citizens across the globe 

to demand that governments and corporations control and 

clean up plastic pollution, 

• Educating people worldwide to take personal responsibility 

for plastic pollution by choosing to reject, reduce, reuse and 

recycle plastics, and 

• Promoting local government regulatory and other efforts to 

tackle plastic pollution. 


ECO+Green 

10 Shocking Facts about Plastic Pollution 

FACT 1 

8.3 billion metric tons (9.1 billion US tons) of plastic has 

been produced since plastic was introduced in the 1950s. 

The amount of plastic produced in a year is roughly the 

same as the entire weight of humanity. 

FACT 2 

Virtually every piece of plastic that was ever made still 

exists in some shape or form (with the exception of the 

small amount that has been incinerated). 

FACT 3 

91% of plastic isn’t recycled and since most plastics don’t 

biodegrade in any meaningful sense, all that plastic waste 

could exist for hundreds or even thousands of years. 

FACT 4 

500 million plastic straws are used every day in America. 

That’s enough to circle the Earth twice. 

FACT 5 

Nearly 2 million single-use plastic bags are distributed 

worldwide every minute. 

FACT 6 

100 billion plastic bags are used by Americans every year. 

Tied together, they would reach around the Earth’s equator 

773 times! 

FACT 7 

One million plastic bottles are bought every minute 

around the world – and that number will top half a trillion 

by 2021. Less than half of those bottles end up getting 

recycled. 

FACT 8 

Eight million tons of plastic winds up in our oceans each 

year. That’s enough trash to cover every foot of coastline 

around the world with five full trash bags of plastic… 

compounding every year. 

FACT 9 

There is more microplastic in the ocean than there are 

stars in the Milky Way. 

FACT 10 

If plastic production isn’t curbed, plastic pollution will 

outweigh fish pound for pound by 2050. 

Source: Science Advances, National Geographic, World Economic Forum Report, The Guardian, National Park Service, Earth Policy Institute, 

United Nations and EarthDay.org 


35

ECO+Green 

So, How Can You Make a Difference? 

Strive to live sustainably with these simple steps. 

Imagine if a billion people around the world follow suit. 

Plant a Tree 

2018 Tree Planting Activity 

Global Environment Centre Malaysia 

The monthly tree planting activity is aimed at conserving various 

species of peat swamp and restoring deteriorated areas (at the 

North Selangor Peat Swamp Forest) to its former glory, retaining 

the original characteristics of the peat swamp forest. It promotes 

environmental awareness and the planting activity is designed 

to attract different interest groups, including children. 

The tree planting activity is sponsored and you do not have to 

pay! 

The participation is on a first come, first served basis, limited to 

100 participants with 400-600 seedlings for each of the planting 

session — in one hectare area of the forest reserve. 

The dates for 2018, which all take place on a Saturday, are now 

open for registration: 

• 28 April 

• 22 September 

• 30 Jun 

• 27 October 

• 21 July 

• 24 November 

• 18 August 

Wanna know more? Visit gec.org.my for more details. 

3313 project 

Landskap Malaysia 

The 3313 project is a public campaign for the reforestation of 

tropical rainforest trees in Malaysia. The project encourages 

individuals and corporate groups worldwide to contribute by 

adopting rainforest trees that are endemic, rare and indigenous 

in Malaysia. 

The ‘3313’ project means that a contribution towards one tree 

will cost RM33 per tree. All proceeds will be channeled towards 

the Tropical Rainforest Living Collection (TRLC) projects in 

Malaysia. Through 3313, tree(s) are planted on their Living 

Collection sites. 

There are three Living Collection sites in Malaysia now: 

• Tropical Rainforest, The Living Collection Merisuli, Lahad Datu, 

Sabah 

• Windows into the Wild: Tropical Rainforest Living Collection 

Banun, Amanjaya Forest Reserve, Perak 

• The Tropical Rainforest Living Collection & Rafflesia 

Conservation, Lojing Forest Reserve, Kelantan 

Wanna know more? Visit landskapmalaysia.org and trcrc.org 

for more details. 

Plan a CSR Tree Planting Day 

Free Tree Society 

The Free Tree Society welcomes corporations and groups to 

come and join them for a mass planting session. Typically, they 

can bag and plant 50 seeds/seedlings per person during a twohour 

planting session. Free Tree Society will then nurture the 

seeds that are planted and grow them, ready to be given away 

to good homes. 

Wanna know more? Visit freetreesociety.org for more details. 


ECO+Green 

Recycle 

If you haven’t already, start recycling 

even if your town or city doesn’t 

require you to do so. Head to the 

nearest recycling centers and make the 

effort to recycle your glasses, cans and 

papers. Secondly, consider a hybrid 

vehicle. With car makers producing 

more reasonably priced hybrid vehicles 

which will help to cut down pollution, 

why not get them? 

Carpool 

Carpooling is also a good choice. Or 

you could always utilize public 

transportation. If you live close enough 

to work or classes, why not walk or 

cycle? What you say can also help. 

Spread the word to others or speak-up 

at local government meetings and talk 

about things like pollution, recycling 

and deforestation. You could also be 

more proactive by joining green 

websites, starting a green group or 

talk to your kids about the issue at 

hand. Invite your kids to come up with 

ideas and educate them. 

Change a bulb 

Simpler things you can do are switching 

your light bulbs to compact fluorescent 

bulbs which last longer while 

consuming lesser energy compared to 

incandescent bulbs. You can also use 

natural cleaning agents. 

Carry a canvas bag 

Invest on canvas or recycle bags instead 

of plastic bags. Make use of greywater, 

which is water used in other chores, 

to flush the toilet or water the garden. 


37

Home & Family 

Advertorial 

Think clean air, Think millionair! 

Breathe Well with 

millionair 

The average adult at rest inhales and exhales around 7 or 8 litres of air per minute. That 

totals to around 11,000 litres of air in a day. But, how much of that air inhaled and 

exhaled is clean and keeps you healthy? 

millionair is an air purifier and air vitaliser paving the way to change your perceptions 

on air pollution and ionising radiation risks via its patented and Health Ministry-approved 

Air Vitamin ® formula. Natural Health speaks to millionair Inventor, Thean Kwai Kong, 

who tells us why this device is important for your health and well-being. 


Home & Family 

One in a Million 

Living up to its namesake, millionair is an 

air purifier and air vitaliser that wishes to 

trump all other similar devices in the market, 

setting itself aside as ‘one in a million’. 

The air purifier and air vitaliser eliminates 

microorganisms, bacteria, moulds and 

neutralise ionising radiation present in the 

air we breathe, apart from purifying it. 

But, how does it do that? Through a 

patented, trademarked and Health 

Ministry-approved formula known as 

Air Vitamin ® . 

It took almost seven years for millionair 

Inventor, Thean Kwai Kong to patent and 

register the formula which he created 

based on a combination of quantum field 

theory with hybrid molecules. 

The Air Vitamin ® formula, present within 

millionair, also enhances one’s immune 

system, promotes blood circulation, 

balances body pH levels and improves 

sleep quality. 

Proving the formula’s credibility, the air 

purifier and air vitaliser has undergone 

several laboratory analysis with the 

Environmental Technology-Research 

Laboratories (Anametrics Sdn Bhd) and 

was certified with positive results on 

decreasing total bacteria count, mites, 

yeast and mould, smoke, odour, and haze. 

Clean Home, Healthy You! 

Thean said, "Let's look at simple everyday 

routines such as sleeping at night. When 

you're asleep, you may be breathing 

microorganisms or bacteria without you 

realising and your body may have to put 

up a fight against it. With millionair, 

sleeping peacefully at night without any 

disturbances would be a reality as the 

device's mechanism gets rid of these 

pollutants and irritants." 

He added that, "If you are away from 

home for several days, one would naturally 

lock all doors and close all windows. But, 

once you arrive home, do you realise there 

is a faint odour or smell that is present 

once you walk in? millionair has the ability 

to run 24 hours in a day, 365 days in a 

year. If this air purifier and air vitaliser is 

left at home while you are away, it will 

ensure the air quality within confined walls 

are kept clean, preventing any occurrences 

of smells and odours." 

Balancing Body pH Levels 

A balanced body pH level is between 7.30 

and 7.45. Anything below that is acidic 

while anything above that alkaline. 

The danger begins when your body fluids 

contain too much acid as it is known as 

acidosis. Acidosis occurs when your 

kidneys and lungs can’t keep your body’s 

pH in balance. Many of the body’s 

processes produce acid. Your lungs and 

kidneys can usually compensate for slight 

pH imbalances, but problems with these 

organs can lead to excess acid accumulating 

in your body. 

millionair's Air Vitamin ® formula and the 

hybrid molecules the device emits allows 

Advertorial 

millionair Inventor, Thean Kwai Kong holding a radiation 

detector over the deivce to explain how it works 

one's body pH to turn into slight alkaline, 

allowing both mind and body to perform 

at optimum level. The results, however, 

may vary according to each individual and 

their respective health background.

Home & Family 

Neutralising 

Ionising Radiation 

Energy emitted from a source is generally 

referred to as radiation. Examples include 

heat or light from the sun, microwaves 

from an oven, mobile phones and 

televisions, X rays from an X-ray tube, and 

gamma rays from radioactive elements. 

Wavelength 

in metres 

Advertorial 

NON-IONISING 

IONISING 

10 3 10 -2 10 -4 10 -6 10 -8 10 -11 10 -15 

Sources of Radiation Exposure 

• Radiation is permanently present 

throughout the environment, in the air, 

water, food, soil and in all living organisms. 

Power Lines 

Radio & 

Mobile Phones 

Microwave Infrared Visible Ultra Violet X-Ray Gamma Ray 

Less Energy 

More Energy 

• Large proportion of the average annual 

radiation dose received by people results 

from natural environmental sources. 

• Each member of the world population 

is exposed, on average, to 2.4 mSv/yr of 

ionising radiation from natural sources. 

What is ionisation? 

Atoms consist of comparatively large 

particles (protons and neutrons) sitting in 

a central nucleus, orbited by smaller 

particles (electrons): a miniature solar 

system. Normally, the number of protons 

in the centre of the atom equals the 

number of electrons in orbit. An ion is any 

atom or molecule that does not have the 

normal number of electrons. The process 

that takes place is known as ionisation. 

Ionising Radiation 

Ionising radiation is radiation with enough 

energy so that during an interaction with 

an atom, it can remove tightly bound 

electrons from the orbit of an atom, causing 

the atom to become charged or ionised. 

People can be exposed to ionising radiation 

under different circumstances, at home 

or in public places (public exposures), at 

ELECTRON 

RADIATION 

their workplaces (occupational exposures), 

or in a medical setting (as are patients, 

caregivers, and volunteers). 

Non-Ionising Radiation 

Most non-ionising radiation has less energy 

than ionising radiation, this means it 

doesn’t have enough energy to change our 

cells in the same way as ionising radiation. 

Non-ionising radiation is used in a wide 

range of communications, electronic and 

other devices, including mobile phones, 

radio and TV. Different types of nonionising 

radiation – such as microwaves, 

radio frequency waves and electromagnetic 

fields – are linked with different uses, 

including radars and microwave ovens. 

IONISING RADIATION 

NUCLEUS 

Digital Dangers 

Are you surrounded by mobile phones, 

laptops, computers, WiFi modems, power 

base stations and other similar digital and 

electrical devices? Then you may be at risk 

of radiation. 

"When you inhale radiation, it disrupts 

your body. What happens when you 

Sources 

• World Health Organisation (WHO) 

• US Department of Energy (Office of Environment, Health, Safety and Security) 

• Health.HowStuffWorks.com 

• http://www.cancerresearchuk.org/about-cancer/causes-of-cancer/cancer-controversies/mobile-phones-wifiand-power-lines 

• http://www.who.int/mediacentre/factsheets/fs371/en/ 

• https://www.express.co.uk/life-style/health/845494/cancer-risk-radiation-wifi-internet 

• https://www.cancer.org/cancer/cancer-causes/radiation-exposure/extremely-low-frequency-radiation.html 

• https://www.healthline.com/health/acidosis#causes 

• https://www.medicaldaily.com/how-much-radiation-exposure-humans-372858 

inhale, come into contact or exposed to 

such radiation in the long run?" 

millionair neutralises ionising radiation 

present in the air and thus prevents it from 

entering your body. 

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previously exposed to radiation, in 

particularly ionising radiation which is a 

human carcinogen (according to the World 

Health Organisation (WHO)), please do 

consult a physician as you may be at risk." 

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Contact +6017 436 8091 to enquire or place an order and visit millionair.com.my for more details.

MINDFUL Living 

Are You Sleeping Well? 

Sleep is one of the most crucial aspects of our life. It’s a physiological process. It must be 

satisfied both qualitatively and quantitatively. Sleep is indispensable as a healthy diet or 

exercise. Sleep disorders, however, such as insomnia are quite common especially in old age. 

Read on to learn more about sleeping disorders during old age. 



Are you 60 years old and above with 

these symptoms? 

Nightmares, fidgets at night, shutting eyes doesn’t get you to 

sleep, struggles to stop thinking, able to sleep during the day 

but not at night or do you sometimes feel like you forget to 

breathe while sleeping at night? If you answered yes to these 

symptoms, you should start looking into your sleeping patterns 

and routine. 

Lack of sleep may have huge detrimental effects on health and 

it may affect blood pressure, respiratory rate and may even cause 

palpitation among the elderly. 

It may lead to mental blocks, irrational thinking, persistent agony, 

tiredness, clumsiness, fatigue, agitation, frequent conflict, 

frustration and forgetfulness. 

A maladroit, uncanny sleepless night can even increase the chances 

of vertigo. In clinical conditions such as stroke, sleeping in odd 

and uncomfortable positions may lead to complications such as 

bed sore and contractures. Please do not ignore snoring, as issues 

such as obstructive sleep apnea must be addressed appropriately. 

Wrinkles and sagging skin are inevitable with ageing and is more 

evident among insomniac elderly. Sleep droughts leaves us 

charmless and shuns away the glow from the face; therefore 

we must sleep well. 

Older people with the following diseases 

may have issues with sleep: 

• Patients with terminal illness 

• Respiratory issues such as asthma, bronchitis and etc 

• Women with urinary incontinence, menopause and etc 

• Psychiatric illness such as anxiety, depression and etc 

• Metabolic disorders such as obesity, gastric ulcer and etc 

• Neurological issues such as sciatica, migraine,stroke and etc 

• Musculoskeletal issues such as low back pain, arthritis and etc 

Diagnosis 

Scales such as the Athens insomnia scale, Pittsburg Insomnia 

rating scale and etc. can help in making a diagnosis. Wrist 

actigraphy has also been used while for sleep studies, 

polysomnography has been considered as the gold standard. 

Sleep Medicine specialists and family physicians will play the 

most important role in diagnosing and managing patients with 

sleep disorders. Prescribed drugs and appliances such as CPAP 

and BIPAP may also benefit. Dental surgeons might also be 

helpful. In this fast and ever changing world, the role of a 

psychiatrist and psychologist can’t be undermined. Cognitive 

behavioural therapy has also been corroborated. 

But these aspects are beyond the scope of this article and the 

intent of writing this article is to shed light on possible attributing 

factors and role of physiotherapy. 

• Hydrotherapy: Exercise in water can help promote relaxation. 

• Sava / Still position: Training to lie down may also make 

you comfortable and may induce sleep. 

• Laura Mitchell: Physiological relaxation method: It may 

abet you to move away from tension. 

• Jacobson progressive relaxation technique: By gradually 

contracting and relaxing muscle, these techniques may reduce 

stress and tension physiologically. 

• Respiratory physiotherapy: Techniques such as 

diaphragmatic, innocenti and Buteyko breathing technique 

may help the elderly by reliving respiratory distress and strain 

over the use of accessory muscles of respiration. For example: 

Sternocleido mastoid and Trapezius. 

• Positioning and Bed: Sleeping over hard mattress or a 

sophisticated bed is quite subjective. Using pillows and bolsters 

may provide comfort but you should be conscious as it may 

eventually lead to poor posture. 

A physiotherapist can also guide you on various sleeping 

positions after suffering with cerebellar stroke etc. (paralysis 

– to prevent abnormal tone), Parkinson’s disease or after a 

surgical procedure to prevent an abnormal posture.Alpha or 

Stryker frame may be helpful to comfort and prevent issues 

of bed sore. 

Post- operative procedures need a follow-up of guided and 

specific sleeping positions for example for those with cerebral 

stroke, prolapsed intervertebral disc and cardiothoracic surgery. 


43


• A number of corroborated evidence also shows effect of 

exercises in management of sleep disorders for example: 

»» 

Iuliana Hartescu et al (2015) found that increased physical 

activity improves sleep and mood outcomes in inactive 

people with insomnia. 

»» 

Xuewen Wang et al (2014) suggested that a single session 

of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise in older women can 

change sleep quality. 

»» 

Yang PYetal (2012) concluded that physical exercise could 

be an alternative or complementary approach to existing 

therapies for sleep problems. 

• Massages: Relaxes tensed muscles and reduces associated 

stress and anxiety. 

• Passive movements: Rhythmic movement of limbs may bring 

general relaxation. 

• Cardiovascular fitness: By improving CVS fitness, it may 

improve sleep quality. 

• Artistic maneuvers: Sketching, playing a musical instrument 

can help you to get composed and stay focus. 

• Room temperature: Optimum temperature, weather (air 

conditioner or room heater). 

• Technology: Avoid using smartphones, laptop and other 

sophisticated gadgets at night as they may keep you awake 

for a long time. 

• Fragrance: A pleasant room freshener may work well. Also 

don’t forget that body odour may become an issue for others. 

• Environment: Silent, relatively dark rooms (Don’t forget to 

keep a night lamp in close vicinity to prevent fall and associated 

injuries)may facilitate sleep for most of us except those who 

appreciate light instrumental music and the sounds from the 

television. 

Few suggestions to Sleep Better! 

• Contemplation may work for few. 

• Meditation: Calms you down by relaxing. 

• Traditional rituals: Washing feet before sleep. 

• Clothing: A comfortably fit cotton fabric cloth and bed sheet 

may be comfortable. 

• Naps for a short period of time have been considered a 

way to compensate sleep deprivation by some. 

• Sleep diary: Discipline is the key and details about waking 

up, sleep time details may help you to keep track and give 

a feedback. 

• Diet: Properly planned and structured diet may help the 

patient’s acidity, gastric reflux and regurgitation related 

disorders. Caffeinated drinks: Coffee, tea should be avoided 

around late afternoon and onwards. 

References 

• https://sleepfoundation.org/ 

• www.csp.org.uk/sites/files/csp/secure/pogp-mitchell-2_0.pdf 

• Golub, R. M. (2012). “Insomnia”. JAMA. 307 (24): 2653–2653. DOI:10.1001/jama.2012.6219. PMID 22735439. 

• M. Dena Gardiner, (2005), The Principles of Exercise Therapy (Fourth Edition), Published by CBS Publishers & Distributors Pvt. Lt. 

• IulianaHartescu et al(2015), in a randomized controlled trial have found increased physical activity improves sleep & mood outcomes in inactive people 

with insomnia.Volume 24, Issue 5, October 2015, Pages 526–534 

• Xuewen Wang et al (2014),Sleep quality improved following a single session of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise in older women: Results from a pilot 

study, Journal of Sport and Health Science, Volume 3, Issue 4, December 2014, Pages 338-342 

• Yang, Pei-Yu et al. (2012), Exercise training improves sleep quality in middle-aged and older adults with sleep problems: a 

systematic reviewJournal of Physiotherapy , Volume 58 , Issue 3 , 157 - 163 

Disclaimer: 

This article has been prepared on the basis of various scientific literatures, stories narrated by old age people, own experiences 

and may not be universally accepted. You must consult your family physician/ Sleep Medicine specialist/ Physiotherapist and/or 

family members before making any changes to your sleeping routine. We are not to be held accountable or liable for the decisions 

you make purely based on this information. 

The author wishes to convey sincere thanks to Dr Jeban Daniel - Principal – Choithram College of Physiotherapy – Indore – M.P. 

– India for his valuable ideas and abstraction/contribution.This article was written by Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman (UTAR) 

Physiotherapy Department Lecturer, Tarun Amalnerkar. Tarun has a B.P.T., M.P.T. (Neurology) from India and can be contacted at 

tarun.amalnerkar@gmail.com 


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Recipes of the Month 

Grilled Butter Chicken 

Ingredients 

• 1 Whole chicken (around 1.3kg) 

• 200g Butter 

• 1 Tbsp spiced salt 

Method 

1. Wash and pat dry the chicken. Rub the cavity and skin with 

spiced salt. Let the chicken marinate in the fridge, overnight. 

2. The next day, remove chicken from fridge and set aside. Melt 

butter in a pan. Pour and cover chicken in melted butter. 

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Char Siew Puffs 

Ingredients 

• 1 Packet ready-made pastry 

• 1 Egg yolk mixed with 1 Tbsp water 

• 1 Tbsp white sesame seed 

• Oil 

Filling 

• 300g Semi lean minced meat of your choice 

• 1 Onion, chopped 

Seasoning 

• 1 1/2 Tbsp Char Siew sauce 

• 1/2 Tbsp oyster sauce 

• 1/2 Tbsp soy sauce 

• 2 Tbsp sugar 

• 1/2 Tsp dark soy sauce 

• 1 Tsp sesame oil 

Thickening Agent 

• 2 Tsp corn flour mixed with 1 Tbsp water 

Method 

1. Heat 2 tbsp oil in a wok and sauté chopped onions till fragrant. 

Toss in minced meat and stir fry till fragrant. 

2. Add seasoning ingredients and thickening agent. Cook for 

a few minutes till ingredients are combined. Remove dish 

from wok and let it cool for a few minutes before placing it 

in the fridge for an hour. 

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47

POST Event 

Congratulations Winners! 

It is all smiles for the winners of the Natural Health and A Healthy Lifestyle 

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Almost 100 brands were feted at the Starling Mall on January 24 for being the 

preferred and trusted choice in their offering of products and services. 

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49

NEWS & Events 

Take Care of your Feet! 

Pfizer and Diabetes Malaysia launch 

Blue Socks campaign to combat 

painful Diabetic Peripheral 

Neuropathy (pDPN) 

Does your feet hurt all 

the time? Does your 

feet have burning or 

shooting sensations? 

Is it numb? 

If you have these 

sensations or 

The Blue Socks campaign launch with (from left to numbness in your feet 

right) Pantai Hospital Kuala Lumpur; Consultant and the symptoms 

Endocrinologist, Dr Vijay Ananda Paramasvaran, 

Universiti Sains Malaysia Medicine & Senior persist, this may be a 

Consultant Endocrinologist. Professor Datuk Dr case of nerve damage 

Mafauzy Mohamed, Pantai Hospital Kuala Lumpur 

CEO, Erica Lam, Malaysian Endocrine & Metabolic or neuropathy because 

Society (MEMS), Dr Zanariah Hussein, Pfizer 

Malaysia Country Lead for Pfizer Innovative Health, despite advances in 

Jeff Bote and Diabetes Malaysia Vice President, diabetes management 

Jong Koi Chong 

and screening, half of 

Malaysian patients with six to 10 years of diabetes were 

found to have diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN) due 

to late diagnosis and poor diabetic control. 

To raise awareness and build understanding surrounding 

pDPN for patients, families and the public, Pfizer Malaysia, 

Diabetes Malaysa, the Malaysian Endocrine & Metabolic 

Society (MEMS) and Pantai Hospital Kuala Lumpur 

launched the 'Blue Socks' campaign on March 1. 

The Blue Socks campaign will run for six months, during 

which Diabetes Malaysia will be conducting public forums 

across Malaysia in various hospitals to educate the public 

on diabetes complications to empower them to proactively 

seek medical professional help for painful DPN and 

diabetes management. In addition, members of the public 

will also have a chance to share their support through a 

community walk – ‘Walk in Blue Socks’ to help promote 

healthier lifestyles, and enhance the understanding of 

pDPN at all stages from diagnosis to foot care management. 

Fonterra unveils key 

food trends set to 

shape Malaysia in 2018 

Pineapple wasabi cheesecakes and creamy tea macchiato 

may have sounded foreign a decade ago but in an 

'Instagram world', this is part of four key food trends that 

will shape the year ahead. 

Dairy company Fonterra Brands Malaysia recently presented 

Malaysia's top food trends during an exclusive media 

roundtable and it came as no surprise that the food industry 

needs to make food that looked good aesthetically for 

social media pictures apart from tasting good. 

The four food trends are: 

• Rise of the middle class premiumisation: With an 

increasingly urbanised population and expanding middle 

class with higher incomes, there is an exponential increase 

in demand for better quality and better value items. 

• Natural and healthy = quality: More and more 

consumers are motivated by the trend of natural foods 

and healthy living. 

• Indulgence and convenience (grab-and-go and snacking) 

• Menu innovation and customisation: As consumers 

develop more sophisticated tastes, they are increasingly 

driven to try new flavours and expect customised menus. 

Fonterra Brands Malaysia Management and Chef Pele 

Kuah (middle) presenting Fonterra's menu innovations 

'Include, Value and Empower' this World Kidney Day 

World Kidney Day took place on March 8 recently and the National Kidney Foundation of Malaysia (NKF) celebrated the 

day with a Bollywood fitness dance, health check-ups, talks and an organ donation campaign. 

The event, which took place at the NKF Berjaya Resource Centre, saw free 

health screening for blood pressure, blood glucose, blood cholesterol level 

and counselling given by NKF’s health professionals. 

World Kidney Day is observed globally every year on the second Thursday 

of March. This year, World Kidney Day promotes affordable and equitable 

access to health education, healthcare and prevention for kidney diseases 

for all women and girls in the world. The event also raised awareness on 

the need for timely diagnosis and proper follow up of chronic kidney 

disease in pregnancy. 


NEWS & Events 

Say NO to Cervical Cancer 

Women marathon to mark first HPV Awareness Day 

Cervical cancer is one of the top three most common cancers and the fifth cause of 

cancer deaths among women in Malaysia*. 

Most cases of cervical cancer are caused by HPV (Human Papillomavirus), which is a 

group of over 150 related viruses that can cause serious diseases. 

This year, a Malaysian Women Marathon was organised on March 4 to mark the 

inaugural HPV Awareness Day. The day is also an international initiative initiated by 

the International Papillomavirus Society (IPVS) to highlight the prevention and fight 

against HPV. The initiative is timely as 90% of HPV related cancers such as cervical 

cancer can be prevented with the availability of broader protection against HPV such 

as HPV screening and vaccination. 

(from left to right) Actress, Vanidah Imran, Malaysia 

Women Marathon Race Director, Karen Loh, University 

Malaya Medical Centre Consultant Gynaecological 

Oncologist, Professor Dr Woo Yin Ling and former 

Miss Malaysia/Universe, Genevieve Sambhi at the 

marathon launch 

In support of HPV Awareness Day, Cancer Research Malaysia and the University Malaya Medical Centre have come on board 

as global supporters to raise awareness about the availability of prevention tools, promote education about HPV and 

encourage people to take action against HPV. 

*Bruni L et al. Human Papillomavirus and Related Diseases in Malaysia. Summary Report 2016. ICO Information Centre on 

HPV and Cancer (HPV Information Centre). Retrieved from http://www.hpvcentre.net/statistics/reports/MYS.pdf. Accessed 

February 2018. 

A First for Malaysian 

Neurosurgeons – Gamma 

Knife Radiosurgery 

masterclass 

Sunway Medical Centre recently hosted its first Gamma 

Knife Radiosurgery masterclass for Malaysian neurosurgical 

trainees and neurosurgeons. The two-day masterclass 

was conducted by resident Sunway Medical Centre 

professionals Dr Ravi Krishnapillai and Dr Tho Lye Mun 

who demonstrated how Gamma Knife Radiosurgery can 

help treat neurological conditions. The masterclass also 

included a 'live surgery' demonstration on a patient under 

Sunway Medical Centre’s CSR initiative. 

The masterclass was organised by the Neurosurgical 

Association of Malaysia and typically held every six months 

at Hospital Kuala Lumpur with the aim of educating and 

updating neurosurgeons on the latest technological 

advancements including minimally invasive technology 

in treating tumours as well as industry updates. These 

advancements in neurosurgery provide neurosurgeons 

with an additional benefit in ensuring the safety of patients 

and lesser complications from surgery. 

Crocs unveils Spring/ 

Summer 2018 Athleisure 

Styles 

Crocs has upped the ante in innovative technology by 

making its shoes the most comfortable ever with the debut 

of LiteRide technology. 

The Crocs LiteRide is a revolutionary closed-cell material, 

reinforcing Crocs’ dedication to comfort, delivering 

consumers a delightful mix of support and sink-in softness. 

The Spring/Summer 2018 collection was launched on 

March 8 and is not only versatile in the gym or yoga studio, 

but looks and feels good enough to wear beyond exercise 

sessions. The easy-on-and-off comfort level and lightweight 

pack-ability adds true bliss to sportiness and stylishness. 

The Gamma Knife Radiosurgery device 

Shoppers trying out Crocs 

LiteRide shoes at 1 Utama 

Shopping Centre 


51

HEALTH & Tech 

Samsung develops App for Blood Pressure and Stress Levels 

There is a new health app in town and it comes with your smartphone. 

Samsung's Galaxy S9 and S9+ will incorporate a new digital health app that tracks 

your blood pressure and stress level while helping researchers collect data. 

The collaboration between Samsung Electronics and the University of California 

San Francisco (UCSF) named the app, My BP Lab. 

The app uses the Galaxy S9’s new optical sensor to directly measure blood pressure, 

allowing the smartphone to take readings without any external hardware. 

Researchers at UCSF will get personalised, on-demand information about users’ 

stress and blood pressure levels. One of the goals of the newly announced study 

aims to improve the accuracy of the blood pressure readings by collecting data from 

thousands of users. Researches also said they want to help users gain a better understanding of their stress and blood pressure 

levels, according to a statement released by Samsung. 

Users can opt into a three-week UCFS research study that will track stress and how experiences throughout the day impact users. 

Those who opted in will fill out questions about their behaviour, sleep and exercise. The researchers will then be able to match this 

with the blood pressure measurements and be able to give participants feedback on their stress levels. 

Google's AI to assess 

Heart Health 

One's eyes may be more than the window to one's soul as new 

health technology involving artificial intelligence (AI) and machine 

learning are underway. 

Wearable tech to help 

Stroke patients 

The recovery of stroke patients may speed up thanks to the 

ongoing development on wearable sensors in the US. 

Details of the study were released during an annual meeting 

of the American Association for the Advancement of Science 

in Texas. 

Scientists say the sensors are able to send information to 

doctors around the clock and would allow therapists to 

closely monitor the effectiveness of their care. 

Resembling small white sticking plasters, the sensors send 

information wirelessly and allows doctors and therapists to 

learn more about which muscle groups work and which can 

be targeted for improvement. 

By the end of 2018, the research team will have more 

information than ever before on stroke recovery. The scientists 

believe that their study could transform the way patients 

are treated in the future. 

In a study published in February 2018 in Nature Biomedical 

Engineering, Google AI researchers and Verily (a health tech 

subsidiary of Google) teamed up to develop a non-invasive 

procedure to assess future heart health with retinal imaging 

techniques. 

Scientists used AI cameras to observe the blood vessels behind 

the eyes of more than 250,000 individuals from the United 

Kingdom and United States. From the collected data, an algorithm 

predicted the next five years of cardiovascular health for each 

patient with over 70 per cent accuracy. 

Google Brain AI research group Product Manager, Lily Peng said 

the discovery meant more ways to diagnose health issues from 

retinal images although more testing is necessary before the 

procedure can be made public. 


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