Your Health - 25 August 2015

THE STAR, TUESDAY 25 AUGUST 2015
special
YOUR HEALTH
In pursuit
of wellness
2 your health
Lifestyle plays
essential role
Sexual and reproductive health contribute to an overall sense of well-being among men and women alike.
Empowering men
By THERESA BELLE
HUMAN civilisation started out in
hunter-gatherer tribes, where
differences in physical ability led
to the creation of gender-specific
roles: men typically did the
hunting while women gathered
resources from the wild.
The physical size and strength of
men have placed them in positions
of power throughout history, all of
which laid the foundations of what
we now consider masculinity.
Masculinity is known by a
variety of terms, including
manliness and machismo.
Aggression and sexual arousal
became traits that are commonly
associated with men and have
become used as identifiers to
distinguish men from women.
Therefore, being masculine
became about fitting into a certain
box, the building blocks of which
were strength and sexual prowess.
As a result, boys grow up with a
certain pressure to live up to ageold expectations or risk becoming
less of a man.
Timely shift of attitudes

The role of sexual ability in
determining masculinity has
perhaps led to the belief that
failure to perform sexually calls a
mans very identity into question.
Even with the advanced state of
healthcare today, some men suffer
from all kinds of health issues,
including sexual disorders, in
silence because seeking medical
assistance is considered a sign of
inadequacy or weakness.
It comes as no surprise then that
men have shorter life expectancies
and a well-documented history of
poor health compared to women.
The situation is not all doom
and gloom though andrologist
Dr Mohd Ismail Mohd Tambi says
that awareness of sexual and
reproductive issues among men
has been on the rise, although
the hesitance to visiting a doctor
THE 2011 study Male sexual

dysfunction in Asia, published in
the Asian Journal of Andrology,
noted that many men viewed
their body as machines that can
be fixed with a simple solution if
something goes awry.
Applying the same logic to the
opposite effect, men should
maintain their machines for
better long-term performance
instead of sending it to the
workshop for a quick fix when
it breaks down.
Keeping yourself healthy and
fit is important in ensuring a
well-functioning sexual and
reproductive system.
Besides psychological and
emotional stressors, practising
unhealthy habits can eventually
take a toll on your sexual
performance and desire.
Here are some factors that
could contribute to sexual
dysfunction among men:
l Stress and anxiety Male
sexual performance relies heavily
on excitement and pleasure,
which can be compromised if you
are not in a healthy, happy
mental state.
Men who are unable to achieve
sexual excitement could be
stressed or depressed, or
experiencing performance
anxiety.
l Obesity Obese men tend to

have lower levels of testosterone,
which is the hormone responsible
for sperm production and libido.
They are therefore more
susceptible to erectile dysfunction
and fertility issues. On top of
that, men who are obese may
experience diminished sexual
desire.
l Smoking and substance
abuse Smoking can damage the
circulatory system and affect
blood flow, which makes it hard
to maintain or even achieve an
erection.
Fertility issues are also
common among smokers because
smoking can lower the sperm
count.
Drugs damage the systems
similarly, and while alcohol is
commonly mistaken as an
aphrodisiac, too much of it can
actually inhibit testosterone
production and affect your sex
drive.
l Lack of exercise and
sedentary lifestyle Physical
inactivity can be damaging to
health and lead to obesity. To
take back control of your wellbeing, start eating healthier
and incorporate some form of
exercise in your busy schedule.
Embarrassment should not deter you from bringing your health issues to
a doctor.
It comes as no
surprise that men
have shorter life
expectancies and a
well-documented
history of poor
health compared
to women.
regularly is still visible.
Most men wait too long then
come to see me expecting an
overnight cure, which is just not
how it works, he says.
For example, Dr Mohd Ismail
explains that the treatment of
erectile difficulties often involves
investigating and curing the root
cause, which may take some time.
Sexual dysfunction can be
caused by health conditions or
medication used to treat those
conditions. It is usually an
indicator of an underlying issue,
which must be addressed
primarily, he explains.
Consultant urologist and
transplant surgeon at Columbia
Asia Hospital Puchong Dr Arumuga
Kumar observes that partners play
an increasingly important role in
men bringing their sexual issues to

light.
We see a trend of spouses
pushing men to seek treatment,
and some patients even come
with their partners now instead of
suffering alone without being able
to express it, he says.
This highlights the importance
of support and understanding
within relationships, which go a
long way in dismissing thoughts of
inadequacy or shame among men
with sexual issues.
Stress and anxiety are known
contributors of sexual dysfunction
but can also be the product
of it, thus trapping men in an
unfortunate cycle that they find
tough to break out of on their own.
More than meets

the eye
According to Dr Arumuga,
a common condition faced by
Malaysian men is erectile
dysfunction, both psychogenic
(caused by psychological or
emotional stressors) and
vasculogenic (caused by
blood vessel dysfunction).
The former is commonly
associated with premature
ejaculation, occurring more
often among younger men.
Smoking can cause erectile dysfunction and lower sperm count.
Psychological stressors are

not the only contributor. A 2011
profile on Malaysian mens health
challenges published in the Asian
Journal of Andrology emphasised
the holistic approach adapted in
modern healthcare, which includes
male psychological, social and
physical health.
We have to take overall health
into account when discussing
sexual health. More often than
not, these sexual conditions are
the result of other diseases, says
Dr Mohd Ismail.
These include major noncommunicable diseases such as
diabetes or blood pressure and
cardiovascular complications.
Diabetics, for example, may

experience nerve control issues
that can cause ejaculatory
disturbances.
Diabetes also affects
microcirculation, which can then
affect bodily functions, including
those of sexual organs, says
Dr Sendhil Kumar, consultant
ophthalmologist at Mahkota
Medical Centre.
The eyes can be an indicator
of a persons general health
condition because of the micro
blood vessels they contain, which
make them the window to a
bodys microcirculatory network.
> SEE PAGE 4
4 your health
Taking a proactive stance

> FROM PAGE 2
It is common for ageing men to
experience sexual difficulties as a
result of waning health, but
doctors are reporting that this is
not just an issue of age anymore.
Sedentary lifestyles and
unhealthy habits are making
modern Malaysian men a lot more
susceptible to diseases than their
predecessors, and unless active
measures are taken to turn this
trend around, it can cause an
inevitable decline into more
widespread sexual dysfunction.
Overcoming as one
Dr Mohd Ismail remembers a
time when the extent of male
involvement in sexual health was
providing semen samples for
fertility tests.
It is great that more men know
about the variety of issues they
could face today and strive to take
their sexual health seriously, he
says.
It would therefore be more
beneficial to educate men on how
to safely and thoroughly manage
their sexual health instead of
enforcing ideologies of sexuality.
Organisations such as the PT
Foundation, for example, provide
HIV/AIDS support and counselling
to men who have sex with men
and other vulnerable groups, while
The Befrienders provides mental
and emotional support.

In todays society, improved
attitudes towards sexual and
reproductive health mean that
men are more concerned and
their partners more considerate.
Although the existence of these
organisations and changing norms
signify growing attention and
effort towards bettering the social
climate, perceptions of masculinity
continue to dictate male attitudes
towards sexual health.
The best way to move forward
is with an open mind and a
primary concern for well-being,
which can foster educational
discourse in empowering men
to love and care for their bodies
the same way women are
encouraged to.
Exercise keeps the body fit, which

facilitates functions of all systems.
Truth or myth?
Andrologist Dr Mohd Ismail
Mohd Tambi says that many of
the common misconceptions his
patients have about their sexual
health are about masturbation,
including:
Excessive masturbation can
cause fertility issues as constant
ejaculation exhausts semen.
It can cause rapid ejaculation
or erectile dysfunction.
However, it is important to
remember that:
Excessive masturbation can
be detrimental to health as it
exhausts the mind and body.
Chronic mastubators can make up
excuses to keep their habit going.
It can become addictive
because of the pleasure and
feelings of relief it provides.
It can contribute to overall
dissastisfaction with your sex
life, as some men become too
accustomed to their own methods
that they are unable to climax
through intercourse with a
partner.
Common male
sexual issues
EVALUATION of sexual
dysfunction involves a detailed
review of medical, sexual and
psychological history and a
physical examination.
Doctors may ask many personal
questions about your sex life, but
rest assured that it is part of the
diagnostic process and will not
disclose your information without
your consent.
Here are the main types of
sexual dysfunction faced by men:
l Ejaculation disorders
These occur when a man is able to
perform sexually but experiences
anomalies during ejaculation.
They consist of:
Premature ejaculation, which
refers to ejaculation that occurs
before or too soon after physical
stimulation (including
penetration). This is often caused
by performance anxiety,
antidepressant medication or
nerve damage to the back and
spinal cord.
Inhibited or retarded
ejaculation, which is when
ejaculation takes too long or
occurs after a long delay of
stimulation.
Retrograde ejaculation, also
referred to as dry ejaculation,
which is when the ejaculate is
forced back into the bladder

rather than go through the
urethra and out the end of the
penis. Men who suffer from
diabetic neuropathy (nerve
damage), who have recently
undergone surgery on or near
the pelvic area and who are on
certain medication may face
this rare condition.
l Erectile dysfunction Also

known as impotence, this refers
to the inability to attain or
maintain an erection suitable
for intercourse. This condition
often indicates nerve damage or
affected blood flow but may also
be caused by psychological factors
or existing diseases.
Peyronies disease, a condition
in which scar tissue develops
inside the penis and causes
curvature and painful erections, is
another rare cause of erectile
dysfunction.
l Inhibited sexual desire
Also known as loss of libido or
diminished sexual desire, this is
commonly experienced by men
as they enter their golden years.
This condition may also indicate
testosterone deficiency or poor
mental and physical health.
your health 5
Restore your ideal well-being

IF you are in your 40s, often feel
tired or depressed, lack energy and
are not enjoying your relationship
with your partner as you used to,
you might be dealing with low
testosterone levels.
Testosterone is a hormone
responsible for male physical
characteristics such as facial,
pubic and body hair, muscle
development and sperm
production.
Low testosterone levels do not
only affect older men. Testosterone
levels can begin to decline by about
1% to 3% as early as at the age
of 30.
As the decrease in testosterone
levels is gradual and at a rate of
about 1% per year, most men will
only realise its impact when they
have experienced a drastic drop in
testosterone levels in their mid-40s
to 50s.
This testosterone deficiency is
sometimes referred to as
andropause (the male equivalent
of menopause) or late-onset
hypogonadism.
Just like with oestrogen in
women, the decline in testosterone
levels in men is part of the ageing
process. As a result of this decline,
sex drive, muscle mass
development and various other
physiological issues will slowly be
affected.
In some cases, low testosterone
Diminished testosterone levels can effect familial relationships.
levels can lead to more serious

problems, including premature
ejaculation and erectile
dysfunction, which can affect
relationships.
Symptoms of andropause:
l Low libido (sex drive)
l Decreased erectile quality
l Decreased lean body mass
l Lack of muscle bulk and
strength
l Increased abdominal fat
l Diminished physical or work

performance
l Bone loss and osteoporosis
l Hair loss or decreased body
hair
l Changes in mood (irritability,
depression, anger, mood
swings)
l Enlarged breasts
l Low or zero sperm count
Low testosterone has also been
known to aggravate risk factors of

diseases such as cardiovascular
disease, diabetes and hypertension.
Natural remedy
Testofen is a unique fenugreek
seed (Trigonella foenum-graecum)
extract, standardised to 50%
Fenuside and patented and owned
by Gencor Pacific Group Inc,
United States.
The companys research an

Testofen indicated that Testofen
displays testosterone-like activities
such as improving androgenic and
anabolic functions.
A double-blind, randomised,
placebo-controlled clinical study
published in Phytotherapy in 2001
was conducted on 60 healthy men
aged 25 to 52.
The Testofen group was assigned
to receive 600mg of Testofen daily
for six weeks and results showed
that 85.2% of them experienced
an overall positive effect on the
physiological aspects of libido as
early as three weeks after
consumption.
The active group also
experienced a statistically
significant increase in sexual
function and performance as well
as an increase in muscle strength,
energy levels and well-being.
Testofen was proven to be well
tolerated by all subjects of the
study. It is safe and has shown no
adverse effects on kidney function,
liver enzymes and blood
biochemistry.
Therefore, it is suitable for
long-term use to help increase
testosterone levels in men.
n For more information,

call Cambert (M) Sdn Bhd
at 1300 881 712 or e-mail
ask-prime@cambert.com.my
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6 your health
DIABETES is one of the most

prevalent non-communicable
diseases among Malaysians.
However, many people do not
realise that there is a long list of
complications that can arise from
diabetes, not least of which is
diabetic eye disease.
Also known as diabetic
retinopathy, eye diseases that occur
as a complication of diabetes affect
the blood vessels and nerve
(retina) in the eye.
This is why it is important to go
for regular eye check-ups as
advised by your doctor, says
Dr Sendhil Kumar Somasundaram
consultant ophthalmologist at
Mahkota Medical Centre.
Once the eyes baseline health
is determined, the ophthalmologist
will set a timeline for regular
check-ups.
The duration of diabetes and
control of blood sugar levels have
a significant relationship with the
health of the retina. Patients may
not display symptoms, but there
can still be ongoing damage to
the eye. Thus, screening and
early detection is essential, says
Dr Sendhil.
He explains that diabetes affects
the blood vessel walls within the
retina, which become more porous
and leak or get blocked, causing
poor blood circulation. This leads
to poor visual function.
Symptoms of diabetic eye
disease include:
l Progressive or sudden
deterioration in vision
l Distortion of vision (wavy
Controlling eye disease

exercise and not smoking, says
Dr Sendhil.
However, if you have diabetes,
proper management of your
diabetes is crucial for control of the
eye disease.
Compounding effects of the eye
disease include a long duration of
diabetes coupled with poor
management and other noncommunicable diseases such as
hypertension and high cholesterol.
Another compounding effect on
diabetic retinopathy is smoking.
The risk of developing an eye
disease is increased two-fold in
diabetics who smoke.
Dr Sendhil Kumar
Somasundaram,
consultant
ophthalmologist at
Mahkota Medical
Centre.
Treatment and
management
lines in the vision)
l Dark patches or spots in the

vision
During an eye check, an
ophthalmologist will look into the
eye to examine the health of the
retina and take pictures of or scan
the interior surface of the eye if
necessary.
Nipping it in the bud

Once the patient becomes
symptomatic, meaning his or her

sight is affected, the problem may
be controlled but is not always
reversible. Early detection is
therefore crucial so that the
problem can be controlled at an
early stage.
The underlying cause of diabetic
retinopathy is, of course, diabetes.
The only way to prevent
diabetic eye disease is to prevent
diabetes altogether; this means
leading a healthy and active life
with a balanced diet, enough
Dr Sendhil explains that the best

way to manage and treat diabetic
retinopathy is a holistic approach.
To this end, Mahkota Medical
Centre will soon open the Mahkota
Diabetic Centre, where patients
will be able to complete necessary
tests and assessments and consult
with a range of experts for
example, a foot care expert,
ophthamologist, dietician and
physician in one place.
At the end of the day, patients
will be given a comprehensive
overview by a physician of their
condition and advised on what
steps to take for treatment and

control.
Treatment depends on the
stage of the diabetic retinopathy.
The first thing to do is control the
co-morbidity this means
controlling other diseases such as
diabetes or hypertension, says
Dr Sendhil.
Treatments (if necessary)
include:
l Laser treatment
l Drugs A drug is injected into
the eye to control the disease. This
treatment may need to be
repeated
l Surgery For more severe
cases such as when the vitreous
fluid in the eye is filled with blood
due to a haemorrhage of the blood
vessels. It may clear up by itself
but sometimes surgery is required.
Based on research data, a
significant number of people who
have been living with diabetes for
20 years and more will have some
degree of diabetic retinopathy,
reveals Dr Sendhil.
Reversing the condition is not
always possible, but by picking up
the problem in a timely manner,
and with sufficient treatment and
control, the condition can be
stabilised to prevent loss of sight.

call 06-285 2999.
your health 7
xxxxx
The World Health Organization recommends specific DHA intake for different age group.
Food for thought

DOCOSAHEXAENOIC acid (DHA) is an
omega-3 fatty acid, which is an important
structural component that ensures cells in
the brain, retina, heart and other parts of the
nervous system develop and function
properly through all stages of life.
Research has shown that the average
Malaysians diet contains less than the
recommended amount of DHA.
With new research and technology,
Naturel has created alternative ways to
incorporate foods fortified with DHA in the
daily diet.
Omega-3 DHA is vital to ensure the wellbeing of the body across all ages.
The World Health Organization (WHO) has
set a guideline of the recommended amount
of DHA intake.
A total of 150mg DHA is recommended for
toddlers, whereas a total of 200mg DHA is
suggested for growing children and adults.
Two slices of bread with Naturel Forte
DHA spread contains 14mg of DHA, which is
equivalent to 175ml of DHA milk.
The right consumption of DHA can help
the brain, eye, heart and other parts of the
nervous system develop and function
properly.
Taking 600mg of DHA daily along with a
healthy diet can result in a positive
improvement in childrens reading, memory
and behavior.
Infancy is an important phase of growth
and development, where the infant relies on
a balanced supply of nutrients.
The infants brain develops during the first
two years of his or her life. As DHA helps
brain growth, it is important that infants
receive adequate amounts of DHA in their
diet as it contributes to the development of
tissues and the brain.

The WHO-recommended amount of
150mg of DHA 150mg can help boost visual,
cognitive, and psychomotor growth.
DHA for boys

DHA is a catalyst for children, especially
young boys, to reach their maximum
intellectual potential.
DHA makes up about 15% to 20% of the
brains cerebral cortex. A research paper
published in Nutrients in 2013 showed that
DHA consumption positively affects
Attention Deficit Hyperactive Disorder
(ADHD), a disorder that is often experienced
by children.
A notable elevation in sustained attention
and working memory were observed in
healthy young boys who consumed DHA.
DHA for all

Contrary to popular belief, DHA should
not only be consumed by infants, but also
adults as it plays an integral role at every
stage of a humans life.
Adequate DHA consumption can result
in many health benefits for people as it
supports the body and its systems while
decreasing the risk of many chronic
diseases.
Get the goodness of DHA in every meal
from Naturel Forte DHA cooking oil and
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DHA is an
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8 your health
Quick treats for the family

ONE of the best ways to learn to
love multigrains is to whip up
some deliciously wholesome
meals with them. This will not
require you to turn your diet
around instead, simply
incorporate multigrain cereal in
simple everyday recipes such as
these:
Nestum Pancakes
Ingredients:
l Pancakes
- 100g self-raising flour
- 50g Nestum All Family Cereal
- tsp salt
- 50g caster sugar
- 120ml Nestl Full Cream UHT
milk
- 2 eggs, separated
- 50ml oil
l Yoghurt cream topping:

- 1 cup (250g) Nestl Greek
Yoghurt
- cup (125g) whipping cream
l Fruit toppings:
Sliced or cubed fruits such as
bananas, strawberries and
mangoes.
Steps:
Sift self-raising flour into a
medium-sized mixing bowl and
stir in the Nestum, salt and sugar,
setting aside two tablespoons of
the sugar for later.
Make a well in the middle of
the flour and pour in the milk.
Add egg yolks and oil and stir
Nestum Jumbo
Chocolate Chip Cookies.
Nestum Pancakes.
together until well mixed.

Beat egg whites with a balloon
whisk or electric beaters until thick
and foamy. Add the reserved two
tablespoons of sugar and continue
beating for another minute.
Fold half the beaten whites into
the batter to lighten the mixture,
then carefully fold in the
remaining whites.
Put a non-stick frying pan on
medium heat and lightly grease
with a dab of oil. Pour one
tablespoonful of batter per
pancake on the heated frying pan,
leaving 2cm to 3cm of space
between each pancake. When
golden brown, carefully flip the

pancakes and cook the other side.
Remove them from the pan and
continue making all pancakes this
way until batter is used up.
Serve pancakes topped with a
spoonful of yoghurt and slices of
fresh fruit.
Nestum Jumbo
Chocolate Chip Cookies
Ingredients:
- 150g plain flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- tsp salt
- 60g Nestum All Family Cereal
- 150g semi-sweet or bittersweet

chocolate chips
- 80g walnuts, roughly chopped*
- 150g unsalted butter, left to
soften at room temperature
for 10 minutes
- 140g light brown sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Steps:
Sift flour and baking powder
together. Stir in salt and Nestum
All Family Cereal as well as the
chocolate chips and walnuts.
Place butter and sugar in a
medium-sized mixing bowl
and beat with a wooden spoon
until light and fluffy about
five minutes.
Add the egg and vanilla
and continue beating until
well incorporated.
Stir in the flour, Nestum,
chocolate chips and nuts mixture.
To form large cookies, place about
two rounded tablespoons of
mixture into a mound on a paperlined baking tin.
Flatten gently with a spoon (so
cookies are about 0.5cm thick) and
bake in a preheated oven 170C.
Bake until cookies are crisp and
golden brown around 20 minutes
(as the cookies are large).
Cool baked cookies on a wire
rack and when cool store in an
airtight container.
Above quantity makes about
12 large cookies.
*Alternatively, use roughly
chopped roasted salted peanuts
instead of walnuts.
your health 9
Healthy and
wholesome choice
WITH the vast amount of dietary
and nutritional information we
are exposed to daily, it can be
confusing to discern what we
should include in our diet. When
that happens, it is best to return to
basics and improve on our dietary
staples.
One of the most widely
recognised dietary staples are
grains from cereal to rice, our
daily meals often include some
source of grains that supply several
essential nutrients to the body.
However, most of the readymade products we are exposed to
in the market consist of refined
grains.
A wholegrain kernel consists of
three layers: the bran, endosperm
and germ. The bran is rich in fibre,
vitamin B and minerals, while the
endosperm contains carbohydrates
and protein.
Refined grains are processed at
the mill to remove the bran and
germ, leaving only the endosperm,
which is rich in carbohydrates (this
provides the bulk of our energy
once it has been transformed into
glucose).
Many consumers have found
a healthier alternative in
wholegrains. As the name suggests,
wholegrains are grains with the
germ, bran and endosperm intact,
thus containing nutrients not found
in refined grains.
Multigrain vs wholegrain
Wholegrain is not to be confused
for multigrain the latter refers to
foods containing more than one
type of grain, which may include
oats, corn or wheat.
Nestls corporate wellness
manager Cher Siew Wei says this is
why it is important to check food
ingredient listings when shopping.
Look out for indicative words
such as wholegrain, wholemeal or
wholewheat on food labels to know
you are selecting a wholegrain
product that is not just multigrain,
she says.
Nestls Nestum uses three
types of grains, which are corn,
wholemeal wheat and rice, for a
complete blend of aroma, taste and
nutrition. It is a good source of
both wholegrains and multigrains.
Its signature aromalicious
aspect has been commended by
consumers, who find the
wonderful aroma of toasted grains
both appetising and enjoyable.
Although the market is still
greatly dominated by refined grain
products, Cher says that a wider
acceptance of wholegrain can now
be seen.
While the latter can be
unpopular for its distinct taste,
the key is to slowly incorporate
wholegrain into your diet, allowing
yourself time to grow accustomed
to its different taste and feel.
Grains are already such a big
part of our diet, so we should now
strive to replace the refined grains
we consume with a healthier
option of higher quality, says Cher.
Getting children involved in the kitchen allows them to appreciate

their meals.
Fit for all ages
As grains are staple in our diet,

it comes as no surprise that
wholegrains are suitable and even
beneficial to a wide variety of
consumers of various age groups.
Cher encourages parents to
introduce wholegrains in their
childrens diet as soon as they
can eat solid food, as the nutrients
in these grains can aid growth
and development.
Multigrains made of
wholegrains are a good source
of carbohydrate and fibre.
Multigrains with high fibre content
slow down digestion, thus allowing
a slower release of energy. This
ensures a more stable supply of
energy, says Cher.
This benefit of multigrains can
be seen as opposed to refined
grains, which provide short
bursts of energy while the
remaining carbohydrate is left to
be transformed into excess fat if
not used for energy.
This can be especially beneficial
for children, who require a
sustainable source of energy to
carry them through daily activities
such as playing and learning.
Wholegrains are also rich in:
l Iron, which aids in the
formation of red blood cells. Red
blood cells play the important role
of carrying oxygen to all parts of
the body and an iron deficiency
(the most common type of
nutritional deficiency worldwide)
can lead to anaemia.
l Protein, which is important in
healthy formation of body tissues
and bones. It is crucial that
children receive adequate protein
in their diet to ensure optimum
growth.
l Vitamin B1, which aids
in energy release from
carbohydrate foods.
l Vitamin C, which improves
absorption of iron in the body.
l Various essential vitamins
and minerals.
Fibre is not just important
for children. It is essential
that everyone consumes fibre
as it eases digestion and helps
facilitate regular bowel
movement.
The National Health and
Morbidity Survey 2011 reports
that Malaysians do not eat
sufficient fruits and vegetables,
which are primary sources of
fibre in a regular diet.
This must change if Malaysians
are serious about creating a
generation of healthier, fitter
individuals, and a vital first step
could be examining our diet to
identify how we can improve it
to achieve a better quality of life.
Loving multigrains
CHILDREN are constantly exposed
to new food and it can be hard to
get them to eat foods that seem
bland or unappetising.
Thus, it may be difficult to
introduce them to healthier
options such as multigrains.
Nestls Ccorporate wellness
manager Cher Siew Wei believes
this creates an opportunity for
parents to get creative in making
meals interesting for their
children and get them to love
healthy, wholesome alternatives.
Here are some ways you can
get your little ones to enjoy
multigrains:
l Bring your children grocery
shopping. Expose them to
multigrain foods such as cereal,
bread and biscuits, and offer them
options. Getting children involved
in the selection process lets them
share the decision and feel
involved.
l Play food games to make
nutrition more exciting.
For example, get children to
categorise food items in the
pantry and use the time to
educate them on the nutritional
value of various foods.
l Make a wholesome
multigrain porridge. Instead of
plain white rice porridge, use
multigrain cereal to make warm
porridge. Add milk, dried fruits
and nuts to make the meal more
deliciously nutritious.
l Make a refreshing
smoothie. Blend chilled milk,
yoghurt, fresh fruit and multigrain
cereal together for a healthy,
yummy treat. Use different fruits
to make smoothies of various
colours as children love exciting
and colourful foods. Smoothies
can work as a great, quick energy
boost outside meal times.

l Spread peanut butter or
jam on multigrain crackers.
Children who are used to sugary
biscuits may find multigrain
crackers bland at first. These
crackers can be made tastier with
a little peanut butter or jam.
You can even make cracker
sandwiches as a quick snack for
your little ones.
l Make multigrain French
toast. Soak multigrain bread in
beaten eggs and milk, then grill
both sides for a delicious treat.
Most young children love eating
eggs cooked in any way.
l Substitute breadcrumbs
with multigrains. When making
your own chicken or fish nuggets,
use multigrain cereal to coat them
instead of breadcrumbs. Not
only is this more nutritious with
its high protein content, but
multigrain cereal such as Nestum
will also provide a crunchy
texture and an appetising aroma.
l Make hot multigrain
beverages. Adding multigrain
cereal to hot beverages boosts
their nutritional and fibre content.
This is a clever way to make your
childs hot chocolate drink
healthier and more delicious.
l Make crunchy cutlets. Add
multigrain cereal with mashed
potatoes and minced meat to
make cutlets.
l Look up recipes together.
Make a game out of looking up
interesting recipes online and let
your children choose what they
want to eat. Letting a children
have a hand in planning meals
assures them that their opinion
matters and would likely get them
more excited about a healthy
multigrain meal.
Multigrain cereal
is especially
beneficial to
growing children.
Make the switch

HERES how you can steadily
replace refined grains in your
diet with wholegrains:
l Look out for the word
whole on food labels when
shopping for grain food items.
l Replace small portions of
your meals with wholegrains
or multigrains. For example,
if you eat two slices of bread
in the morning, start eating a
slice of wholemeal bread with
a slice of white bread.
If you want to make the
change with rice, replace a

third of your portion with
brown rice but keep white
rice on your plate. The key is
to allow yourself time to
accept the change.
l Look for creative ways
to integrate wholegrains into
your diet. Be it a smoothie,
porridge or Nestum-coated
cutlet, try tweaking your
multigrain cereal in new
ways to keep your meals
exciting.
10 your health
Stop excessive
sweating
AS it is often embarrassing when excessive
perspiration shows on the underarm or
odour from sweaty armpits or feet travels
through the air, excessive sweating can
affect ones professional and social life.
There are two types of sweat glands:
l Eccrine glands are largely distributed
throughout the body and responsible for
regulating body temperature through the
release of sweat onto the bodys surface.
l Apocrine glands, also known as scent
glands, are found mainly in the armpits
and groins. Sweat produced from apocrine
glands is mainly responsible for body odour
because the sweat is high in protein and
fatty acids, which bacteria can break down
easily.
Using anti-perspirants is the most
common and effective way of treating
excessive sweating.
Perspirex has been known for more than
30 years as one of the worlds most effective
anti-perspirant manufacturers with its
patented formulation against excessive
sweat and odour.
Perspirex anti-perspirants are clinically
proven, safe and reliable and can provide
protection for up to five days. The brands
patented formulation is fragrant, stain-free
and kind to sensitive areas of the skin.
Perspirex works by temporarily blocking
the 25,000 sweat glands in the armpit area.
The main ingredient, aluminium chloride,
reacts with water in the sweat glands to
form a deep keratin plug in the gland. This
plug seals the sweat gland, temporarily
halting sweat production.
However, the keratin plug is not a
permanent fixture. With the shedding of
dead skin cells on the surface of the skin, the
plug will soon be expelled in the process,
resulting in the sweat gland becoming active
again.
It takes two to seven days for this process
to complete a cycle, which explains the need
to only apply Perspirex two to three times a
week. Perspirex enables you to remain

protected even when you shower, swim or
bathe, so there is no need to reapply during
the day.
Perspirex is used at night before going
to bed as the sweat glands are less active
at night. For optimal results, apply on
completely dry and unbroken skin, and let
the skin dry after application and before
putting on clothes.
The formula works while you sleep. Wash
off the following morning with soap and
water. There is no need to reapply.
For a start, use Perspirex every night until
you have achieved the desired effect (usually
within a week).
For sensitive skin, apply every second
night for two weeks. Thereafter, apply
Perspirex two to three nights a week or as
often as your body needs it. Do not use the
product within 48 hours after hair removal.
The Perspirex Original Antiperspirant
Roll-on (25ml) for the underarm and the
Perspirex Antiperspirant Hand and Foot
Lotion (100ml) are each retailed at RM59.90
at Guardian Health & Beauty and other
leading pharmacies.
n For more information, call 03-6156 6733 or

e-mail somedico@somedico.com.my
Perspirex antiperspirants can

provide up to five
days of protection.
For maximum
goodness
WHEN using a conventional
centrifugal juicer, as much as
40% of juice extract might go to
waste. This means that if you
spend about RM10 daily on
fresh fruits and vegetables
which amounts to more than
RM3,600 in a year to
create healthy and
cleansing juice, about RM1,450
worth of produce would have been wasted
because your juicer cannot extract from it
optimally.
Due to the way centrifugal juicers work,
there is a limitation to how much juice
they can squeeze out of your fruits and
vegetables. To get more nutrients out of
your produce, a better solution is to use a
masticating juicer that can extract more
juice than centrifugal juicers.
Kuvings Whole Slow Juicer is a
masticating juicer that comes installed with
a very strong motor. Although it has a high
torque, the juicer has a slower crushing and
squeezing action.
This design allows it to squeeze out
more extract from fruits and vegetables,
particularly soft and leafy vegetables such
as wheatgrass and spinach.
Here are three reasons Kuvings should be
your preferred juicer:
l Wide-mouth design
One of the biggest advantages Kuvings
has over other masticating juicers is its
wide-mouth feed chute design and its
patented whole-fruit juicing system.
This innovative design allows the juicer to
accommodate whole fruits without needing
to cut them, which results in hassle-free
juicing. This feature also slows down the
oxidation of fruits used in the juicing
process, allowing you to enjoy your juice
before it has a chance to turn brown.
l Powerful motor
Kuvings comes fitted with a 240W motor
that produces three times the torque of
other masticating juicers. The motor has
been tested and found strong enough to pull
a stationary car.
A consumer study that conducted a side-
Kuvings
Whole
Slow
Juicer.
by-side comparison between a centrifugal

juicer and the Kuvings Whole Slow Juicer
found that Kuvings produced 40% more
juice from the same amount of produce. This
is a direct result of the higher squeezing
power from its powerful motor.
l Healthier juice
As eating fruits and vegetables alone has
its limitations, one of the benefits of juicing
is the increased daily intake of nutrients
from produce. Nutrients are only absorbed
after our digestive system has broken down
the tough plant cell walls, making the
process slow and inefficient.
Kuvings Whole Slow Juicers strong
crushing action is able to break down
these tough plant cell walls to transform
homogenised plant cells into readily
absorbed nutrient-carrying cells.
These cells are absorbed 12 times faster,
which explains the surge of energy felt after
drinking a glass of freshly made green juice.
Studies conducted in NUC Electronic
BioNutrient Lab in Daegu, South Korea, has
found that juice produced using the Kuvings
Whole Slow Juicer contains four times more
nutrients than the average juicer.
Kuvings Whole Slow Juicer can be
purchased from major retailers such as Cold
Storage, Isetan, Jasons Food Hall, Mercatos,
Live It Up!, Harvey Norman and DMarket.
In conjunction with Merdeka celebration,
Isetan is running a special Kuvings
promotion in all its stores.
n For more information, call 03-5885 4151.
your health 11
Easy access to
health screening
IJNs new Wellness Centre opened its doors this year with improved facilities and services.
THE National Heart Institute or IJN professes

the importance of human understanding
and caring for their body and health as a
preventive step for medical conditions.
To do so, a yearly physical examination to
evaluate basic and vital bodily functions is
recommended.
With the advancements of medical
technology, it is now a given to have a
complete and in-depth screening of all major
bodily functions, especially the heart, to
ascertain ones level of health.
If you are looking for a place to do so, IJNs
Executive Screening Programme (ESP) is an
option that offers a comprehensive testing of
the major bodily functions including the
heart, liver, kidneys and lungs.
The packages include those for young
adults aged 20 and above, as well as
customised versions for athletes, diabetics
and women.
Making an appointment in IJN is a breeze
clients have the choice of calling the
institute or arranging for the appointment
online via its website.
After an appointment is arranged, clients
will also get a short message service from
the hospital as a reminder.
During the screening, clients can expect a
wide range of examinations, including chest
X-ray, lung function test, blood and urine
test, treadmill and ECG (electrocardiogram).
At the end of the ESP, a cardiologist will
consult the client to discuss the results from
the ESP medical report.
While the whole process may sound
overwhelming, it is necessary for a complete
assessment of your level of health.
Nevertheless, the clients do not have to
fret about undergoing the screening
programme, even if it is their first time, as
the staff will assist them throughout the
entire session.
The nerve-racking experience of having

to wait for your results can be intimidating
but at the IJN Wellness Centre, you will feel
comfortable thanks to its hotel lounge
ambience.
While waiting, you can help yourself to
the food and beverages served there, which
is a service that is part of the ESP package.
While the ESP is generally suitable for
anyone, those who are swamped by a hectic
schedule such as working professionals will
appreciate the ESP because it only takes
about half a day to complete the screening
and obtain the test results.
That means that you will not have to
worry about having to reschedule your
appointments, meetings and other duties
nor will you need to return to the institute
another day to collect your results.
Furthermore, the ESP at IJN is manned by
highly trained medical staff and a host of
cardiac experts, so you can rest assured that
you are in good hands.
IJN perseveres to educate Malaysians on
the need to continually screen their health
and take preventive measures to ensure
that they live a life that is healthy and
fulfilling.
IJN encourages you to enrol in the heart
screening programmes if you:
l Are above 30 years old for males or
above 35 years old for females
l Have a family history of heart disease
l Tire easily
l Are overweight
l Experience prolonged periods of job
stress
l Smoke and consume alcohol regularly
l Have not undergone medical check-ups
for a significant period
n For more information, call 03-2600

6421/2600 6423 or e-mail esp@ijn.com.my
Patients will feel comfortable at the IJN Wellness Centre.
12 your health
Prevent metabolic syndrome

METABOLIC syndrome is a group
of the most dangerous heart attack
risk factors such as diabetes,
abdominal obesity, high cholesterol
and high blood pressure, which
often occur as a result of a
combination of overeating and
living a sedentary lifestyle.
If these metabolic abnormalities
occur all at once, it may
significantly increase the risk of
contracting heart diseases.
The underlying cause of
metabolic syndrome has been
largely attributed to insulin
resistance and central obesity.
Insulin resistance happens when
some cells in the body use insulin
less effectively than normal, which
eventually leads to an increase in
body fat, putting the person at risk
of getting metabolic syndrome.
Central obesity is when a person
has excessive weight around the
middle and upper parts of the
body.
It is often associated with
abdominal obesity, blood lipid
disorders, inflammation, insulin
resistance, prediabetes and
diabetes, and increased risk of
cardiovascular diseases.
Metabolic syndrome may be
present if you have three or
more of these signs occurring
simultaneously:
l Blood pressure 130/85

mmHg
l Fasting blood sugar
(glucose) 100mg/dL
l Large waist
circumference (length around
the waist): Men 40 inches,
women 35 inches
l Low HDL (good)
cholesterol: Men 40 mg/dL,
women 50mg/dL
l Triglycerides 150mg/dL
Dietary management and
lifestyle adjustments are the
key factors in the treatment
and prevention of metabolic
disorders.
A daily diet that consists of
wholegrains helps maintain a
healthy body weight, prevents
abdominal obesity and
improves utilisation of insulin.
Oats, a type of wholegrain,
contain oat beta-glucan, which is
found most prominently in the
bran of oats.
A study published in Vascular
health and risk management in
2006 and another in Critical
reviews in food science and
nutrition in 2008 showed that
beta-glucan in wholegrains were
beneficial for heart health and
helped slow down the absorption
of sugars from diet.
l Reduces blood sugar

Oat bran beta-glucan
gelatinous mixture delays
the release of the stomachs
contents into the small intestine
for further digestion.
This contributes to slower
production and release of
insulin by the pancreas and
slows the rate of glucose uptake
from the small intestine, thus
improving insulin sensitivity.
l Helps satiety
Effects of oat bran beta-glucan:
l Lowers cholestrol
Oat bran beta-glucan dissolves
inside the digestive tract and forms
a thick, viscous gelatinous mass
that binds with cholesterol-rich bile
acids to help prevent or reduce the
amount of LDL cholesterol
absorbed into the body.
Too much LDL cholesterol will
cause plaque build-up, which
narrows the arteries and
eventually leads to heart attack or
stroke.
Colonic fermentation of betaglucan produces short-chain

fatty acids, which affects satiety
by controlling the release of
various appetite-regulating
hormones.
Reduction in the amount of
food intake and feeling of satiety
helps control total energy intake,
which improves body composition
and facilitates fat loss.
l Improves intestinal health

Oat bran beta-glucan behaves as
a prebiotic, which is a beneficial
bacterium that ferments betaglucan to produce volatile fatty
acids used by the cells lining the
intestine to protect against various
bowel diseases.
Beta-glucan also helps promote
bowel regularity by bulking up and
softening stools.
l Anti-tumour, anti-microbial
and increases immune potential
Tests carried out on animal
subjects showed that oat bran betaglucan can stimulate immune
functions by activating monocytes/
macrophages and increasing the
amounts of immunoglobulin,
natural killer cells and killer
T-cells, which improve resistance
to cancer, bacterial infections and
parasitic diseases.
The Malaysian Dietary Guideline
recommends taking four to eight
servings of cereal foods daily for
adults, of which half should
contain wholegrains and cereal
products that are high in fibre but
low in fat, sugar and salt.
Essentially, oat bran beta-glucan,
when consumed in conjunction
with a diet low in saturated fat and
cholesterol, coupled with regular
daily physical activities can help
prevent the onset of metabolic
syndrome components and lower
the effects it has on individuals
who may already be suffering from
this syndrome.

call Quaker Care Line at
1800 881 399.
MEN, just like women, have their

own set of health issues that
causes considerable concern to
them. Here are some interesting
discoveries that could be helpful
to men around the world:
Possible new treatment

for hair loss in men
In a study conducted on mice
last year, scientists found a
molecule called laminins-511 that
makes hair grow by stimulating
hair follicles to start a hair growing
cycle.
These proteins that can be found
in mice, travel through the innerlayer of skin to induce hair growth.
Laminins-511 works by opening
hair follicles that get stuck during
the hair growth cycle and allowing
them to start a new growth cycle.
However, since mouse and
human hair growth are different,
scientists are conducting further
investigations on whether
laminins-511 will work on humans.
Cell phones causing

infertility in men
By keeping cell phones in
their side pockets, typically 2.5cm
away from the testicles, men are
exposing their testicles to
radiofrequency electromagnetic
radiation (RF-EMR) which could
reduce the quality of their semen.
According to researchers from
the University of Exeter in the UK,
semen that is exposed to RF-EMR
contain higher levels of damaging
your health 13
New breakthroughs
in mens wellness
Over-consumption of
alcohol can lead to
adverse health effects.
free radicals, which are a group of

atoms that are unstable and highly
reactive.
These damaging free radicals
can be harmful to cells and
are believed to accelerate the
progression of cancer and
cardiovascular diseases.
The study shows that RF-EMR
cause infertility in men by
lowering sperm motility (the ability
of sperm to move and swim), have
negative effects on sperm viability
(percentage of live sperm) and

lower concentration of semen (the
number of sperm per unit of
semen).
Heavy drinkers at higher

risk of stroke
According to a study carried out
at the University of Eastern Finland
last year, men who consume
alcohol more than twice a week
increase their risk of stroke.
The study shows that with

moderate consumption of alcohol
the risk of stroke is the lowest,
whereas with heavy consumption
of alcohol increases the risk of
stroke.
Heavy drinking increases the
risk of cerebral haemorrhage, a
type of stroke where there is
bleeding into the cerebrum, which
causes neurologic damage.
Heavy drinkers are three times
more likely to get a stroke
compared to someone who does
not consume alcohol.
Heavy drinking, combined with
other factors of stroke, such as high
blood pressure, diabetes, smoking
and being overweight, can further
increase the risk of stroke to more
dangerous levels.
New treatment option

for benign prostatic
hyperplasia
Benign prostatic hyperplasia
(BPH) is a condition in which the
prostate is enlarged but not
cancerous.
Research presented this year at
the American Society of

Interventional Radiologys
Annual Scientific meeting
revealed a new, minimally
invasive treatment option that
presents fewer complications to
the patient.
The treatment involves
prostate artery embolisation
(PAE), a form of interventional
radiology treatment. Clinicians
were able to improve patient
symptoms regardless of the size
of the BPH before treatment.
The study involved 78 patients
undergoing PAE; 96% (75 out of
78) were considered technically
successful.
The study found that beside
improvement of symptoms,
quality of life significantly
improved for all patients.
Data from the study showed
continued symptomatic
improvement in patients six
months after treatment.
However, more research is
required to show efficacy of the
treatment one year and beyond,
as well as to compare the safety
and efficacy of PAE with other
common BPH treatments.
14 your health
Nurturing curious minds

IF your child remembers the mathematics
theories he or she has learnt in school and
breezes through all the direct questions but
struggles to complete situational questions,
there is a chance that your child is only at
the rote-learning level of his or her learning
progress.
As learning is an active process, your child
should not only depend on memorising but
must understand his or her lessons, be able
to apply the lessons to solve problems as well
as correlate lessons learnt with one another
and to his or her surroundings.
To learn effectively, your children must
be emotionally ready every time they go to
school. If they hesitate to go to school, you
must give them positive motivation to uplift
their spirits.
You can motivate them to achieve
more by offering them positive words of
encouragement and nutritious food that
feeds the brain.
Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA),
eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), B1, B2, B3, B6
and B12 vitamins, folic acid and iodine are
among the important nutrients required

to stimulate childrens brain, especially the
frontal lobe that controls their emotions,
reward pathway, motivation and curiosity.
These nutrients stop dopamine from
breaking down in the frontal lobe,
subsequently elevating childrens
self-motivation and curiosity.
Curiosity powers up childrens ability
to learn actively, while self-motivation
helps them to diligently preview upcoming
lessons, do their homework, review lessons
and perform independent study.
This is probably why schoolchildren who
receive high levels of DHA and EPA in their
diet have been observed to attend classes
regularly.
Long-term memory is not just for
restoring lessons; it helps your children
process the data they have received from
teachers and retrieve a specific piece of
information every time it is needed to solve
a certain problem, either while doing
homework or applying it in real life.
DHA has anti-inflammatory properties
JoyAmaze Inspired chocolate milk contains important

nutrients for your childs healthy development.
to shield the neurons in the cerebral

hippocampus, the part of the brain essential
for memory function.
Magnesium, a mineral that helps
individuals to concentrate, stimulates the
hippocampal region too.
JoyAmaze Inspired is a rich chocolate milk
that provides children with DHA, EPA,
carbohydrates, proteins, 12 types of vitamins
and 10 minerals.
You can improve your childs performance
with JoyAmaze Inspired.
This advertorial is brought to you by
JoyAmaze.

call 1300 881 268.
your health 15
Sleep soundly
STATISTICS show that 45% of all adults snore
occasionally while 25% are habitual snorers.
According to a study by the British
Snoring and Sleep Apnoea Association,
partners of snorers are kept awake two
hours each night, losing some two years of
sleep over the average course of a marriage.
Snoring is aggravated by a small jaw,
obesity, sinusitis, smoking, alcohol,
tranquillisers, sleeping pills, a flabby soft
palate or uvula or an enlarged tongue. Any
snoring is a sign that breathing is disrupted.
It can lead to sleep apnoea, a disorder that
causes people to stop breathing for 10 to 30
seconds at a time while they are sleeping.
Often, it is the partner who recognises the
symptoms.
Yap Ming Tian (pic) was aware that he
was a snorer, but last year, it became so bad
that he would wake up several times in the
middle of the night, gasping for breath.
This continued when
Yap visited his daughter
in London six months
ago. His daughter, a
doctor, instantly
recognised it as apnoea.
Experts say most do
not even know they
have apnoea, but
it is as common
as diabetes and
wakes you from
deep sleep,
rendering you
tired and
unable to
function properly the next day.

Apnoea is potentially life-threatening as it
raises blood pressure, reduces the flow of
oxygen to the brain and can, at worst,
lead to stroke, heart attack and even death.
Common ways of treatment are by
using herbal tonics and sprays, drugs or
mandibular advancement devices.
Conventional methods use nasal
continuous positive airway pressure
devices. In very serious cases, doctors
may recommend surgery.
Yaps daughter saw a mandibular device,
called the Somnoguard, which she felt suited
her fathers needs.
The Somnoguard is made from a flexible
material and resembles dentures.
Developed in Germany, the device shifts
the lower jaw forward during sleep to
further open up the respiratory tract.
Advancement of the lower jaw up to
10mm with 0.5mm accuracy is made with
the adjustment of a screw on the device.
Clinical examinations in the University
of Mannheim sleep laboratory have shown
that snoring in 80% of patients disappeared
completely or almost completely with the
use of this device.
The rate of dangerous nocturnal breathing
arrests was reduced by up to 60%.
When Yap first tried the device, he slept
soundly for the first time in years and has
since become a distributor of the device in
Malaysia.
n For more information, call 03-7954 3622

visit www.getupfresh.com
Joint treatment
DYSFUNCTION in the sacroiliac (SI) joint is a
common cause of lower back and/or leg
pain. Leg pain can be particularly difficult
and may feel similar to sciatica or pain
caused by lumbar disc herniation.
The SI joint is small and very strong,
reinforced by strong ligaments that surround
it. It does not have much motion and
transmits all the forces of the upper body to
the pelvis (hips) and legs. Therefore, the joint
acts as a shock-absorbing structure.
The presence of pain is caused by an
alteration in the normal joint motion that
results in:
l Too much movement (hypermobility
or instability) The pain is typically felt in
the lower back and/or hip and may radiate
to the groin area. In this case, the ligaments
are lax due to previous pregnancy or
trauma.
l Too little movement (hypomobility or
fixation) The pain is typically felt on one
side of the lower back or buttocks and can
radiate down the leg. This occurs in the
degeneration of the SI joint.
The pain usually remains above the knee,
but at times pain can extend to the ankle or
foot. The pain is similar to sciatica, or pain
that radiates down the sciatic nerve.
Diagnosis of SI joint dysfunction is difficult
because the symptoms mimic other common
conditions, including mechanical back pain
conditions such as facet syndrome and
lumbar spine conditions such as herniated
disc and radiculopathy (pain along the sciatic
nerve that radiates down the leg).
Hence, diagnosis of SI joint dysfunction
is made by exclusion. To confirm the
diagnosis, SI joint block is done.
Carry out
diamagnetic
therapy with
the CTUMega 18.
Treatment of SI joint dysfunction includes

various modalities:
Ice, heat and rest
Medications
Physical therapy and exercise
Supports or braces
SI joint injections
Surgery fusion of the SI joint
Diamagnetic therapy and the usage of
Spinz Double Gear belt have shown
remarkable and lasting relief in the
treatment of this difficult condition.
n Look out for the advertisement in

this StarSpecial.
16 your health
Self-examination saves lives

WHILE testicular cancer is
uncommon among young teenage
boys, it is the most common type of
cancer diagnosis in males between
the ages of 15 and 35.
Testicular cancer is almost
always curable if it is detected
and treated in its early stages.
Men should perform a testicular
self-examination (TSE) every
month to familiarise themselves
with the normal shape and size
of their testicles.
The TSE is an easy and simple
way for men to identify anomalies
in the form of lumps or bumps on
the surface of their testicles. These
irregularities may be the initial
signs of testicular cancer.
How to examine yourself

The ideal time to examine your
testicles is after a warm bath as
heat relaxes the scrotum, allowing
you to spot and feel abnormalities
more effectively. Here are the
simple steps:
l Stand in front of a mirror and
search for any swelling on the
scrotal skin.
l Examine each testicle
individually, using both hands
carefully. Place your index and
middle fingers under the testicle
with the thumbs placed on top of
it, forming a pincer-like gesture.
l Roll the testicle gently between
the thumbs and fingers.
You should not at any point feel
pain during a TSE. Also, do not be
shocked to find that one testicle is a
DID you know that you could be
carrying a sexually transmitted
infection and passing it without
knowing?
The human papillomavirus
(HPV) is the most common
infection of the reproductive tract
and will affect many sexually
active people both men and
women at least once in their
lifetimes.
Transmitted through intimate
skin-to-skin contact (sexual
intercourse, oral sex and anal
sex) and contact of the mucous
membrane (the lining on the inside
of the body), the majority of HPV
infections do not show any
symptoms, signs or disease and
may disappear on their own.
But persistent infection can
cause not only cervical cancer
among women (nearly all cervical
cancer cases are linked to HPV)
but also genital warts, unusual
growths, lumps, sores and other
forms of cancer around the areas
of the head, throat, neck, anus and
genitals of both men and women.
Current knowledge
Preventive measures against
HPV are exceptionally important
as current medications only treat
the health problems caused by
the virus and not the virus itself.
Furthermore, researchers have
yet to discover a way to test men
for the virus and detect early
cancer cells. With no symptoms,
men may carry the virus in the
genitals unknowingly, spreading
the virus and developing the
Males should start testes self-examinations from the age of 15. When detected early, testicular cancer is highly curable.
little larger than the other; this is

completely normal.
Things to note
You will firstly find the
epididymis, a soft tube-shaped
structure at the top and bottom of
the testicle (the epididymis stores
sperm and is rather sensitive).
Once you are acquainted
with this structure, it can be
eliminated as a suspicious lump.
Oftentimes, cancerous lumps

are found on the sides of the
testicle but can sometimes appear
on the front.
Lumps on or attached to the
epididymis are not cancerous.
As each testicle is examined,
concentrate on feeling for lumps
and note that they may be as tiny
as a grain of rice.
If you find small hard lumps
or swelling, notice changes in
the colour or size of a testicle, or
experience any pain or discomfort

in your groin, immediately inform
a urologist.
However, be mindful that
the following symptoms are not
usually signs of testicular cancer:
l Pimples
l Isolated lumps that are not
attached to anything
l Pain or a burning sensation
during urination
l Presence of blood in the
urine or semen
Embarrassment should never

be an excuse to evade a doctors
examination.
Always remember that if
you are in doubt, have yourself
checked, even if it is only for
peace of mind.
Ultimately, only a physician
can make a definitive positive
or negative diagnosis.
When it comes to your
health and well-being, never
compromise.
Understanding the common threat
The human papillomavirus (HPV) affects men as well as women, so boys and young men should consider vaccination.
symptoms later on in life.

Globally, there is limited
knowledge regarding HPV
infections and vaccination among
the male population and many are
unaware that they are vulnerable
to the related cancers, specifically
anal, penile and oropharyngeal
(areas related to the mouth such as
throat, tongue and tonsils) cancers.
This is largely due to the fact that
vaccines Cervarix, Gerdasil and
Gerdasil 9 are marketed as cervical
cancer vaccines and even medical
practitioners are providing
consultation and education focused
only at women.
Though the World Health
Organization identified education
about HPV-related diseases

as a public health priority, it
only recommends national
immunisation programmes
for girls and women.
In Malaysia, recognising that
vaccination reduces the risk of
cervical cancer (the third most
common cancer among
Malaysian women) and genital
warts by 70% and 90%
respectively, a national HPV
vaccination programme is offered
to 13-year-old girls for free.
The National Population and
Family Development Board has a
catch-up programme for those
aged 18 who have not been
vaccinated, available at all
government clinics around

the country.
How it affects men

The risk factors that could cause
men to develop HPV-related
cancers include persistent HPV
infection, the number of sexual
partners a person has, smoking,
sexual activity with other men and
a weakened immune system due
to medication.
The effects of being infected
with HPV may also cause men
anxiety, embarrassment and longterm psychological, sexual and
relationship problems.
In addition to protecting oneself,
men are encouraged to get

vaccinated to eliminate the
possibility of spreading the virus
to their future partners as there
are still many men and women
who have not received the HPV
vaccination.
A study published in the
Cancer journal by the American
Cancer Society four months
ago concluded that vaccinating
12-year-old boys is a cost-effective
strategy for preventing throat
cancer later on in life, a disease
affecting men between 40 and 60
years of age and found to be
roughly four times more common
among men compared to women.
As the practice of vaccinating
12-year-old boys is not common
in Malaysia, it is generally
recommended that males receive
a catch-up vaccine by the age of
21 while those with compromised
immune systems be vaccinated
until the age of 26.
The HPV vaccines are given
in three separate doses over a
period of six months; each dose
costs approximately RM300 at
many medical institutions.
The spread of HPV will remain
a constant threat if only half
of the population is educated
about it.
This is why the Health Ministry
needs to work hand-in-hand with
medical practitioners to create
greater awareness of this health
risk among the male population.
THE inside of the nose is lined with

what is called the nasal mucous
membrane, which traps and
removes incoming dirt particles.
This continuous layer is also
connected to the eyes, throat,
middle ear and sinuses.
Rhinitis refers to the
inflammation of the nasal mucous
membrane, which produces
symptoms such as sneezing, runny
nose or congestion.
Allergic rhinitis occurs when the
bodys immune system is in a
hypersensitive state, causing the
nasal mucosal membrane in the
nose to be inflamed upon exposure
to even harmless allergens present
in the environment.
Allergies stem from an
individuals immune system being
over-reactive.
When an allergic persons
immune system is in a
hypersensitive state, the body
mistakes harmless substances
present in the environment as
germs and mounts an attack
against them.
Allergies commonly occur on
mucosal areas such as the nose
(nasal allergies or allergic rhinitis),
eyes, sinus (sinusitis), skin (hives),
gut (stomach upsets) and lungs
(asthma).
Anti-allergy medicines work by
treating the symptoms of the
allergy after an allergic reaction
has taken place.
Anthistamines are commonly
prescribed to help dry up a runny
nose and alleviate the itchy, sneezy
your health 17
Overcoming allergies
Various medicines are available to relieve nasal allergies.
tendency of allergic rhinitis.

Decongestants may help relieve
congestion, but they do not cure
sinusitis. Antibiotics are often
employed when an infection in the
sinus sets in.

Steroids help reduce
inflammation and allow better
drainage of the sinuses besides
relieving the allergic tendency of
the nasal passages but the longterm use of steroids can lead to
nose bleeds and infections and
stunt the growth of children who
take them.
Symptomatic drug treatments
help but they do not address the
root problem of the immune
systems hyper-reactive state.
On the other hand, natural
alternatives such as vitamin C,
echinacea and fish oils have long
been expounded to help with
allergies.
However, their actions are nonspecific against nasal allergies.
Alternative medication has
advanced significantly where
considerable research has been
done on phytomedicines (plant
medicines) to help patients gain
better control over their allergies.
In particular, European
researchers at the Ruder Boskovic
Institute in Croatia have
discovered that an activated
astragalus root extract known as
Lectranal possessed immuneregulating actions to calm the
hyper-sensitive nature of the
immune system and prevent
allergic-prone noses from having
allergic reactions in the first place.
Unlike antihistamines,
decongestants or steroid sprays
that block allergic symptoms,
Lectranal works by modulating

the immune system to
differentiate between what is
harmful and harmless in the
environment.
By doing so, the immune
system learns how to respond
discriminately and optimally.
The acclaimed phytomedicine
journal Phytotherapy published
a study in 2010 on the use of
Lectranal, which showed that
treatment with Lectranal resulted
in an overall improvement of
nasal allergies by more than 70%
after at least six weeks of
treatment (one dose of one capsule
twice daily).
Its novel mechanism of action
targeted at the root of allergies has
the potential to interfere with the
natural course of the disease.
Lectranal presents an
opportunity to prevent allergies
from becoming more serious
health conditions such as asthma
as well as prevents the
development of new allergies.
This article is brought to you by
the Nuvaceuticals Division of
Nuvanta Sdn Bhd.
n For further information,

contact 03-5636 3758 or e-mail
pharmacist@nuvanta.com
18 your health
The autism scare
Crucial need
for protection
Measles incidence in Malaysia per a million pop; 1980 - June 2015
700
IR per 1million pop
70
600
60
50
40
500
30
20
400
10
0
2000
2002
2004
2006
2008
2010
2012
2014
2000
2002
2004
2006
2008
2010
2012
2014
300
200
100
0
1980
1982
1984
1986
1988
1990
1992
1994
1996
1998
Graph of measles incidence for every one million individuals in Malaysia.
THE Health Ministry (MOH)

recently reported a spike in the
number of measles cases in Kuala
Lumpur and Selangor this year
by the end of June, 73 cases had
been reported in the area. These
cases involved patients ranging
from one month to 43 years old,
and 79% were found to have never
received the measles vaccination.
The main reason for the high
incidence of measles in Malaysia is
low measles vaccination coverage
in certain areas.
To be effective, the
immunisation coverage for measles
must be more than 95% at all times
in all localities and communities.
This will provide protective
immunity against measles to all
members of the community,
meaning there will hardly be
a susceptible person in the
community for the virus to infect.
This is called herd immunity.
Poor coverage disrupts herd
immunity and increases the
susceptible population.
Following the recent increase in
the number of measles case in
Selangor, including one reported
death, the State Health Department
initiated a month-long
immunisation campaign.
The campaigns objectives
are to increase awareness on
immunisation, and improve
perception and clear doubts about
vaccines from the minds of the
public.
During the month, immunisation
mop-up activities are being carried
out in areas with high risk of
measles occurrence.
A public concern
The Malaysian Health Ministry
(MOH)s National Immunisation
Program provides protection
against 12 diseases to all children
under 15 years old.
VACCINATIONS have been

subject to great scrutiny and
attention for some time now.
With the growing antivaccination movement in
Western countries especially the
United States, drawing global
concern, several questions have
been raised on safety of vaccines.
In 1998, British medical
journal The Lancet published an
article by Andrew Wakefield that
linked the MMR (measles,
mumps, rubella) vaccine to
autism in children. Naturally, this
sent a ripple of fear through the
nation, which slowly spread
around the world.
This research paper
singlehandedly caused a modern
anti-vaccination wave that
outlasted its credibility. Following
a decade of controversy and
investigations, Wakefields paper
was declared not only unethical,
but bogus the researcher had
doctored most of his report. He
has since had his medical licence
revoked and his paper retracted
from The Lancet.
The MMR-autism paper has
been described as the one of the
most damaging medical hoaxes
of our time for the impact it
created several anti-vaccination
movements started in that
decade, and parents who refuse
vaccination for their children for
fear of causing autism exist until
this day.
Some may argue that the
increasing number of cases of
autism today as opposed to
decades ago serve as testament
to the dangers of vaccine. The
reality of it is that medicine and
technology have improved in
leaps and bounds to simplify the
diagnosis of autism spectrum
disorders, so they are easier to
recognise and diagnose today.
There is therefore no proven
link between vaccines and
developmental disorders among
children, and this should not be a
reason for refusing vaccinations.
The benefits
of vaccination
far outweigh
the risk of
side effects.
While it is good that many

parents are more medically aware
and literate today, they also have
to practise careful discretion when
it comes to selecting reliable
sources of information, says Dr
Chong Chee Keong, the director at
the Health Ministrys Disease
Control Division.
Just like other medicines,
vaccines do cause some side
effects. Side effects after taking a
vaccination are called adverse
events following immunisation.
Unfortunately, this has been
used as an opportunity to spread
wild claims against immunisation.
This is potentially harmful if more
and more people choose to refuse
vaccinations.
There are three types of side
effects:
l Common, usually mild
symptoms, self-limiting and can be
treated at home
l Moderate, symptoms that
need medical attention but may
not require hospitalisation
l Serious, needing urgent
medical attention and may require
hospitalisation
However, the public should
note that the benefits of
vaccinating far outweigh the risk
of side effects, making vaccination
the best and cheapest public
health intervention method today.
Measles the disease

Proper and timely vaccination is vital if you or your children are to lead
healthy lives.
The vaccines protect against

tuberculosis, Hepatitis B, polio,
diphtheria, pertussis, tetanus,
Haemophilus influenza type b,
measles, mumps, rubella and
diseases caused by the human
papillomavirus.
Children in Sarawak are also
vaccinated against the Japanese
Encephalitis disease, which is
endemic to the area due to
widespread pig farming in rural
areas and greater exposure to the
mosquito vector.
The vaccines are provided free
at public clinics, widely known as
Klinik Ibu dan Anak and Klinik
Desa.
Child vaccinations are subject to
parental consent and there have
been cases where parents refuse to
give consent.
There is currently no legislation
that requires parents to get their

children vaccinated. The only
exception is when an outbreak
occurs.
The MOH provides information
and consultation to the public so
people can make wise decisions on
immunising their children.
Selangors measles cases serve as
a reminder of the crucial need for
vaccinations.
It is not merely a matter of
personal choice, as immunisations
protect communities and not just
the individual. Refusing
vaccination can put not only
yourself at risk, but your loved
ones too, says Dr Chong Chee
Kheong, director of the Centre of
Disease Control.

visit www.moh.gov.my
MEASLES is a highly contagious,

serious disease caused by a
virus. When a case of measles is
detected, there may be another 15
to 20 persons already exposed to
the virus.
In 1980, before widespread
vaccination, measles caused an
estimated 2.6 million deaths
globally each year. In 2013,
approximately 145,700 people
died of measles in the world.
It remains one of the leading
causes of death among young
children.
Countries with good health
services, including an accessible
vaccination programme, should
not have any death due to
measles.
The measles virus is spread by
coughing and sneezing, close
personal contact or direct contact
with infected nasal or throat
secretions.
The virus remains active and
contagious in the air or on
infected surfaces for up to two
hours. It can be transmitted by an
infected person from four days

prior to the onset of the rash to
four days after the rash erupts.
The virus infects the mucous
membranes, then spreads
throughout the body.
The first sign of measles
appears about 10 to 12 days after
exposure and it usually starts with
a high fever.
A runny nose, cough, red and
watery eyes (conjunctivitis) and
small white spots inside the
cheeks can develop in the initial
stage.
After three to four days, a rash
erupts, usually on the face and
upper neck, then it spreads to the
body, eventually reaching the
hands and feet. The rash lasts for
five to six days.
This disease can be deadly to
those who are not able to fight the
infection and those not suitable
or eligible for immunisation,
such as children under a year
old or immunosuppressed
people such as those undergoing
chemotherapy.
your health 19
Reporting adverse events

AMONG the primary worries of
anti-vaccination movements are
the negative effects the vaccine
could cause.
Vaccines are safe and vaccine
reactions are generally mild, such
as injection site swelling, injection
site pain, rash and fever.
These reactions can be better
anticipated and managed if
healthcare professionals as well
as consumers are aware of the
possible adverse effects.
Occasionally, serious reactions
have been reported soon after
immunisation and the public is
fast to put blame on the vaccine.
However, investigations have
shown that most of the serious
reactions are due to other
underlying medical conditions in
the patient.
This is why the Health Ministry
(MOH) closely monitors these
adverse events through a reporting
system under the National
Pharmaceutical Bureau (NPCB).
From 2000 until June this year,
we received only 133 reports of
reactions to the measles
vaccination.
About 25% of the reports were
of fever, rash and pain at site of
injection. These are considered
mild side effects, says Rokiah
Isahak, senior principal assistant
director at the Centre for PostRegistration of Products, National
Pharmaceutical Control Bureau
(NPCB).
The NPCB created this reporting
system in 1987 as a channel for the
public to report the adverse effects
they experienced from vaccines.
This system is called the
Reporting of Adverse Events
Following Immunisation (AEFI).
When a drug or a vaccine is
registered, it has to be proven
to be of good quality, safe and
effective through clinical trials.
Side effects are normally
discovered during clinical trials,
but these trials only involve a
select group of healthy individuals.
Thus, when a drug is released
into the market and consumed
Parents should monitor

their children closely after
vaccinations so any side
effects can be noticed
immediately.
by members of the public, some

people, especially those with
existing health conditions, may
experience different, specific
reactions.
We want to be able to keep
track of these adverse cases and
investigate them further, as well as
discover new effects of existing
drugs, says Rokiah.
The NPCB continuously monitors
all drugs after they have been
released into the market.
It collects these reports and
presents its findings to the
Malaysian Adverse Drug Reaction
Advisory Committee (Madrac),
which provides the Drug Control
Authority (DCA) with information
and recommendations pertaining

to drug safety issues.
The DCA implements changes
through directives, most
commonly to update information
on drug labels to include the new
side effects or precautionary
measures.
Occasionally, when a risk is
unacceptable, a drug product may
be withdrawn from the market.
Rokiah says this is why it is
important for members of the
public to report adverse effects of
drugs in the market.
We pick up the signal that
something is wrong through these
reports and rectification is carried
out to prevent it from happening
in the future, she explains.

The NPCB also carries out
regular risk communication with
doctors, pharmacists and other
healthcare professionals so they
are aware of any update, can share
it with their patients and can do
their part to monitor adverse
events.
As a member of the World
Health Organization (WHO) Drug
Monitoring Programme, the NPCB
also has a responsibility to report
all adverse effects in the country so
this information can become
accessible to a global audience.
WHO has a global database that
members from all over the world
use as an important reference to
Know about homeopathy

THE term homeopathy vaccine
is a misnomer for there is actually
no such thing.
There are, however, a few
homeopathic preparations used
for prophylaxis (preventing a
disease from occuring).
Studies undertaken in this
aspect, especially on safety and
efficacy, show that homeopathic
preparations are yet to fulfil the
stringent internationally
recognised standards required for
medical products before they can
be fully accepted by consensus of
the medical fraternity and
regulatory authorities.
However, the effectiveness of
conventional vaccines is well
established through large scale
studies.
Homeopathic organisations
representing homeopaths,
recognised by their respective
regulatory agencies worldwide,

have given their acceptance and
endorsement to the conventional
vaccinations to protect against
vaccine preventable diseases.
The Malaysian Homeopathic
Medical Council holds this same
view, says its president, Zainul
Azmi Ahmad.
Other homeopathis
organisations around the world
have also affirmed their
endorsement of conventional
vaccines, including the
Australian Homeopathic
Association; the Society of
Homeopaths, United Kingdom;
the Faculty of Homeopathy,
London; the European
Commitee for Homeopathy;
European Central Committee
for Homeopathy; and the
International Council For
Homeopathy.
Though homeopathic
preparations can be used
as alternatives to
medicines, the Malaysian
Homeopathic Medical
Council endorses the use of
conventional vaccinations
to properly protect against
preventable diseases.
When a drug is
released into
the market and
consumed by
members of the
public, some people,
especially those
with existing health
conditions, may
experience different,
specific reactions.
compare the prevalence and trends
of adverse reactions to drug that
occur globally.
Any safety issue of concern to
the public will be made accessible
through NPCBs official website
or through the media, so that the
public can take precautions and
seek help from healthcare
professionals for further
management.
Members of the public
experiencing adverse reactions
from vaccines administered by a
healthcare professional should
report through:
l Health centres
l Doctors who administer
vaccines at a private
healthcare facility
Or report directly:
l Through downloadable forms
from portal.bpfk.gov.my, filled
up and faxed to 03-7956 7151
l Phone call to 03-7883 5400/
5409
n For more information, visit

www.moh.gov.my
20 your health
The bald truth

WHY do men lose hair? Dihydrotestosterone
(DHT) is a derivative of the male hormone
testosterone. At high levels, it attacks hair
pulp and causes hair follicles to gradually
shrink.
As a result, hair starts thinning, especially
from the forehead and crown area and if
untreated, a bald spot will continue to
increase in diameter and leave the head
completely bald.
The main area of concern in hair loss is
the scalp. If hair follicles become clogged
with sweat, dirt and grime, it prevents new
hair from growing and existing hair strands
become weak as nutrients are not able to
reach the roots.
As a herbal remedy, ginseng improves
blood circulation at hair follicles, refines and
rehydrates the scalp as well as has antiinflammatory properties.
Chinese Liquorice is another herbal
remedy that helps stabilise oil production.
Excessive oil production results in an oily
scalp while inadequate production leaves the
scalp dry.
Other remedies include Radix, which
nourishes the kidney and regulates blood
flow to the scalp, and ginger, which is used
Hair thinning and balding can be frustrating

for men.
to eliminate dandruff, improve blood

circulation and strengthen hair roots.
Yun Nam Hair Care uses three steps
to treat hair loss:
l Cleanse Impurities that clog the
hair follicles are removed with a specially
formulated ginseng shampoo, which
allows hair follicles to breathe.
l Strengthen Hair roots are
strengthened to prevent hair fall. To achieve
this, a unique blend of herbs is applied on
the scalp to improve blood circulation.
l Rejuvenate Herbal essence is
massaged onto the scalp to stimulate inactive
hair follicles, which should result in growth
of new strands of hair.
Managing
joint pain
Many people start
experiencing joint
pains as they age.
You can get a private consultation with the

experts at Yun Nam Hair Care regarding
your hair loss problem and regain your hair
and confidence with natural hair therapy.
n For more information, call 03-2610 3232.
AS the population ages, more and more

people are looking for support to help their
joints work better, last longer and make it a
little bit easier to get up in the morning.
Modern pain relief has moved beyond
just blocking pain people are looking for
ways to keep their joints healthy to feel good
and work longer without feeling pain.
To gain this, more and more people
are looking for products with natural
ingredients.
There is a growing population using
products with natural ingredients.
People want healthy, natural alternatives
for joint support. There is a growing global
market for egg membrane products.
Almost all of the nutrients naturally
occurring in egg membrane have been
shown to support joint health and flexibility
and 450mg of BiovaFlex daily provides
enough of these nutrients to be effective.
The nutrients include:
l Collagen As people grow older and
their natural collagen production slows,
their tendons, ligaments, cartilage and skin
pay the price.
In a 1993 double-blind study published in
Science, collagen was shown to decrease the
number of swollen and tender joints in
patients with arthritis within a three-month
period, whereas patients receiving a placebo
showed no such improvement.
BiovaFlex contains greater than 15%
collagen (Types I, V and X) sourced
exclusively from egg membrane, which
means no animals are harmed during its
production.
l Elastin Allows tissues in the body to

retain its shape when pinched, stretched or
contracted.
It contains desmosine and isodesmosine,
which contribute to elastins rubbery
properties and stimulate the bodys
production of elastin.
BiovaFlex egg membrane typically
contains greater than 20% of elastin.
l Glycosaminoglycans An integral
part of joint cartilage and other connective
tissues, they are the building blocks by
which chondrocytes rebuild damaged
cartilage. BiovaFlex typically contains more
than 10% to 20% of glycosaminoglycans.
Egg membrane also contains a
transforming growth factor, which plays a
crucial role in tissue repair, cellular

differentiation and immune function.
BiovaFlex egg membrane is water-soluble
and can be taken daily as 450mg capsules.
The egg membrane is completely
sustainable and a green product. It does
not come from endangered exotic animals,
threatened environments or rare, nonsustainable plants.
It is extracted from common chicken
eggshells, previously considered to be a
useless by-product of the United States
liquid egg industry.
Egg membrane is removed from eggshells
using Biovas patented eco-friendly OvaPure
process.
Once isolated from the shell, the
membrane is rendered water soluble
via a patented process called Hydro5.
The entire range of proteins, antioxidants,
amino acids and other vital nutrients
abundant in egg membrane are fully
retained throughout the process and
delivered in every dose of BiovaFlex.
Joint health is an increasing problem
as an ageing, more active population
demands a natural solution to aid joint
support and flexibility.
As a solution, egg membrane does not
contain just one but several nutrients
believed to aid joint movements.
Although people with egg allergies should
consult a healthcare professional before
using an egg membrane product, there have
been no adverse results reported from its
use.
BiovaFlex egg membrane is tested for
allergenicity, cytotoxicity, genotoxicity and
acute oral toxicity, and research results
showed that the egg membrane is safe for
human consumption.
Moving freely and without discomfort is
vital to maintaining a desired quality of life
in an ageing population.
Although natural joint health ingredients
are common and readily available, few have
shown the level of efficacy, safety and ease of
use comparable to BiovaFlex.
This information is brought to you by
an in-house pharmacist at Cambert (M)
Sdn Bhd.

call 1300 881 712 or e-mail
ask-kordels@cambert.com.my or
visit www.kordels.com.my
your health 21
Premium
quality
vermicelli
JATI premiere vermicelli is 100%
machine-made and auto-packed
to ensure consistency of quality,
strict conformance to
specifications and stringent
hygienic condition.
Jati premiere vermicelli is:
l Made from the best quality
rice
l Cholesterol-free
l Gluten-free
l Free of added preservative
and additive
l Hundred percent machinemade
l Auto-packed for hygienic
purposes
It comes in handy 300g packs.

Each pack contains three crusts
of vermicelli, each weighing
100g.
The vermicelli is produced by
Twenty-Twenty Food Industries
Sdn Bhd in Kedah, which is a
member of the Serba Wangi
Group of Companies.
It is produced using imported
machinery and state-of-the-art
equipment for its fully
automated process from the
production to packaging of Jati
Premiere Vermicelli.
The company possesses some
of Malaysias much-coveted
accreditations HACCP (Hazard
Analysis & Critical Control
Points), ISO 9001:2008 and the
halal certification by Jakim
(Jabatan Kemajuan Islam
Malaysia).
About Serba Wangi
Serba Wangi Sdn Bhd is one

of the nations leading rice
producers-cum-distributors.
Its activities range from
processing to packaging and
marketing the more than 20
varieties of rice products under
the flagship name of Jati.
Among its various renowned
household names are Kapal
Layar, Songhe Fragrant Rice,
Carnation, Fres-Harves and the
Lotus Fragrant Rice. Some of
these are 100% packed and
imported from Thailand.
Serba Wangi has ventured
downstream to add value
to its products, starting with
ecoBrowns Original and
ecoBrowns Gold range,
before producing cereals and
beverages, which are nutritious
derivatives of brown rice.
Serba Wangi possesses a
nationwide distribution network
for its products.
It has branches all over
Malaysia in Penang, Perak,
Selangor, Negri Sembilan,
Malacca, Johor and Pahang.
With its vast logistic network,
Serba Wangi is placed in the
best position to service its
customers effectively
nationwide.
n For more information, call

1800 887 423 (1800 88 RICE) or
e-mail info@malaysiarice.com
or visit www.malaysiarice.com
Jati premiere
vermicelli is
machine-made
and auto-packed
to ensure
quality.
AN audiologist is a hearing
healthcare professional specialising
in identifying, diagnosing, treating
and monitoring disorders of the ear
or hearing loss.
Audiologists are trained to
diagnose, manage and treat hearing
or balance problems with nonmedical treatments such as hearing
aids.
They usually work with ENT (ear
nose and throat) specialists to give
the most desirable hearing solution
for the patients.
Audiologists evaluate a clients
hearing and diagnose possible
problems by conducting a specific
hearing assessment, which depends
on the clients age and condition.
For instance, Pure Tone
Audiometry is suitable for adults
while Auditory Brainstem Response
test is appropriate for infants.
As hearing experts, audiologists
carry out diagnosis and evaluation
in a systematic approach.
They begin with a medical history
enquiry to comprehend clients
hearing health status, lifestyles and
health or medical conditions.
This is followed by an ear
examination using a tool called
otoscope, before determining the
appropriate type of hearing
assessment or referring them to
ENT specialists should the condition
require medical treatment.
Helping you hear

When hearing aid is necessary,
the audiologist will prescribe the
most suitable hearing aid for the
client, perform hearing aid fitting
and provide counselling in
communication strategies.
As certain clients will not be able
to accept the diagnosis, an
audiologist plays a significant role
as a hearing counsellor and needs to
understand the psychological
aspects of patients.
Once the hearing assessment and
fitting have been done, follow-up
visits are essential to enable gradual
improvement of a clients hearing
ability along with the auditory
acclimatisation process.
A persons hearing system usually
takes three months to accept
hearing aid amplification.
During the follow-up sessions,
hearing aid adjustments will be
made based on observations and
listening experiences. Most hearing
instruments fitted today are
modifiable and adjustable to suit
most users needs.
Sometimes, audiologists perform
Real Ear Measurement, which is
useful in verifying optimum
amplification while clients are
wearing the hearing aids.
An audiologist diagnoses, manages

and treats a patients hearing problems
through non-medical methods.
Follow-up visits include reviews

of care, cleaning and protective
maintenance of instruments,
troubleshooting minor problems,
annual check-ups of your hearing
and advice on listening strategies.
20dB Hearing owns a network of
hearing care outlets in Malaysia and
is celebrating its 13th anniversary
by giving exclusive offers on the
latest Siemens hearing aids.

call 1800 882 032.
22 your health
Empowering
by monitoring
NISSEIS promise to its customers is
reflected in its slogan Stability,
Accuracy and Reliability. The
Japanese company, which
specialises in household and
professional medical equipment,
is one of the most seasoned
digital blood pressure monitor
manufacturers on the international
arena.
Nissei first manufactured the
digital blood pressure monitor in
1978, making it a pioneer in this
field. Since then, the company has
expanded its operations to produce
a range of arm- and wrist-type
monitors suitable for use across
the world.
Its presence in 53 countries has
allowed Nissei to capture 10% of
the global digital blood pressure
monitor market.
Based in Japan with factories in
Japan, China and Indonesia, the
company heavily invested in
research and development to
enhance efficiency and spur
innovation.
Nisseis line of monitors comes in
arm and wrist variations. Its WSK1011 model is the first wrist-type
blood pressure monitor to pass the

European Society of Hypertension
(ESH) International Protocol 2010
(IP2010).
ESH is a top platform for
scientific exchange in hypertension
from which Nissei blood pressure
monitors received the IP2010
accreditation for clinically proven
accuracy. This recognition stands
as testament to the reliability of
these devices.
Stability and reliability are also
enhanced by the signature design
of award-winning industrial
designer and medical doctor Kazuo
Kawasaki. The WSK-1011 model is
as user-friendly as it is functional,
boasting features such as:
l Automatic inflation to adjust
the cuff to a size that fits.
l M-shaped cuff A patented
design to ensure closer contact
with the wrist, enabling accurate
measurement. The wrist-type
blood pressure monitor was
previously considered an
unreliable medical diagnostic tool;
however, this issue has been solved
by the WSK-1011s M-shaped cuff.
l Multifunctional capability to
detect pulse rate, pressure and

heartbeat rate.
l Small and handy design,
enabling convenience and
portability.
l User-friendly display with large
characters suitable for the elderly.
With this product, we are
reaching out to a wide target
market beyond medical suppliers
and healthcare professionals, says
Kon Takabatake, manager of
Domestic and Asian Sales
Department at Nissei.
The ultimate goal is mass
adaptation by the public, with
every household having at least
one monitoring device of its own.
When people can track their
progress and see results, they are
likely to be continuously motivated
and take charge of their wellbeing, he says.
Recognising Malaysians
increasing concern for their own
health and well-being, Nissei is
optimistic that its products will be
embraced by individuals and
families who want to be in control
of their health.
(From left) Fimaco Sdn Bhd sales and marketing manager Mary Chua and
managing director Chew Leng Huat with Nissei partners Kon Takabatake,
manager of Domestic and Asian Sales Department, and Kazuki Ishii, chief of
Quality Management Department.
Also in the Nissei product range

is the DSK-1031 blood pressure
monitor, which was launched
locally in June.
This upper arm type device
shares the technical features of the
WSK-1011, making it more than a
blood pressure monitor.
The universal fit cuff of an armtype blood pressure monitor such
as the DSK-1031, which can be
extended to 42cm, accommodates
users of various body types and
sizes.
Additionally, the cuff condition
indicator ensures that the cuff is
positioned just right to produce an
accurate reading without causing
discomfort.
Measured blood pressure
values are classified according to
the World Health Organization
guideline, which gives users a
general idea of what their
reading indicates.
Looking forward, Nissei hopes
to bring its recently launched
bluetooth-enabled blood pressure
monitors to Malaysian shores by
next year.
This technology enables users
to generate daily reports based on
their readings and send the data
to a panel doctor with the
accompanying application.
Nissei is dedicated to creating
simple yet highly functional and
accessible medical products for
the public. The WSK-1011 and DSK1031 monitors are available at
pharmacies nationwide, along with
several other models.
Fimaco Sdn Bhd.

call 03-6279 8888.
HAVE you ever searched frantically

for your glasses only to find them
on your head or turned up for an
appointment on the wrong day?
These are some signs of a limited
working memory.
Working memory is the system
that is responsible for the transient
holding and processing of new and
already stored information, an
important process for reasoning,
comprehension, learning and
memory updating.
This ability to hold on to a piece
of information temporarily to
complete a task is vital in
managing our lives.
Below are descriptions of your
working memorys role in three
essential areas:
l Professional life
Working memory is very
important in the office.
A strong working memory
empowers a professional to
perform well under pressure,
remain organised and prioritise
activities.
Professionals with strong
working memory capacities are
efficient with their time and well
equipped to multitask.
your health 23
Failing memory?
l Daily life
Working memory is constantly
functioning in your everyday life.
You need a good working memory
to help you keep track of tasks
more efficiently. With a strong
working memory, actions stay
anchored to the past (where goals
are set) and connected to the
future (where goals are met).
Poor working memory hinders
the capacity to do things on time
and in the proper sequence.
l Social life
We use working memory
constantly in social situations.
People with poor working memory
often experience difficulty in their
social interactions due to their
inability to focus and remember
important events and
engagements. Unfortunately, these
lapses can often be misinterpreted
as indifference or disinterest.
A healthy working memory

enables a person to remember
important facts, be an attentive
listener and be aware of others
emotional and physical needs.
Improve your memory

EGb 761 (Ginkgo biloba extract
EGb 761) is a highly purified,
standardised extract of Ginkgo
biloba leaves and has antioxidant
properties as a free radical
scavenger that removes free
radicals from the body. Free
radicals can cause apoptosis
(programmed cell death), which
can lead to memory impairment.
With its standardised
pharmaceutical quality, EGb 761 is
safe as its ginkgolic acid is less than
500ppm, an amount that does not
cause bleeding. EGb 761 is used in
52 countries and is the preferred
therapeutic grade of ginkgo biloba
among healthcare professionals for

the treatment of memory
deficiency and blood circulation
problems.
EGb 761 promotes vasodilation
and improves blood flow through
the arteries, veins and capillaries.
The psychological and
physiological benefits of EGb 761
are based on its primary action of
regulating neurotransmitters and
exerting neuroprotective effects in
the brain, protecting against or
retarding nerve cell degeneration.
A study published in Psychologie
Medicale in 1987 showed that
elderly patients recorded the
highest improvement in their
memory performance by taking
one tablet of EGb 761 (40mg) three
times a day together with regular
memory exercises. With better
blood circulation throughout the
body and especially the brain, EGb
761 helps to improve your memory
and delay the risk of aged-related

memory loss.
Learn more
If you are looking into improving
memory or are facing memory
problems, find out more about
EGb 761.
You may also ask for a screening
using the Cardiovascular Risk
Factors, Aging and Dementia
(CAIDE) dementia risk score to
predict late-life risk of dementia.
EGb 761 is distributed by EP Plus
Group Sdn Bhd and it is available
at pharmacies and physicians
near you.
EP Plus Group Sdn Bhd, a Medical
Edutainment Specialist.

call 03-6205 2728.
Tiger Balm Plasters come in

warm and cool variants.
Medicated
plasters for relief
A TRUSTED brand for
generations, Tiger Balm is the
brand of choice for a wide range
of product offerings from herbal
ointments to muscle rubs and
plasters.
In keeping with Tiger Balms
heritage of providing herbal
remedies and with the aid of its
storng brand equity, Tiger Balm
has launched Tiger Balm Plasters
in two variants warm and cool.
Tiger Balm Plasters are
analgesic and a mild antiinflammatory products. Once
applied, the ingredients are
absorbed into the skin to
stimulate blood circulation,
which helps to expedite the
healing process.
Tiger Balm Plaster (warm)
contains ingredients such as
menthol, mentha oil, eucalyptus
oil and capsicum extract to ease
muscle fatigue and pain, stiff
shoulders, contusions, sprains,
backaches and arthritic pains.
Its quick permeating and warm
action provides speedy relief
and comfort for hours.
Tiger Balm Plaster (cool), with
ingredients such as menthol,

mentha oil and eucalyptus oil.
It provides long-lasting pain
relief for a number of maladies,
including stiff neck and
shoulders, muscle aches,
arthritic and back pains,
contusions and sprains. Its quick
permeating action also provides
fast relief and comfort for hours.
Simply clean and dry the area
of application before putting on
a plaster. Peel off the protective
film and apply the plaster to the
affected area once or twice a
day. Apply the plaster half an
hour after bathing and remove
the plaster one hour before
bathing.
Tiger Balm Plasters are
available in two sizes (small or
large) to meet your specific
needs and come in packs of two
plasters. They are available at all
major retailers, supermarkets
and pharmacies.
n Look out for the

advertisement in this
StarSpecial.
KKLIU No.2107/2014
24 your health
Masculine vitality
EVERY man strives to be seen as a
real man, admired by those
around them. Shouldering the
expectations placed upon them,
men have sought to give their
best in their careers and provide
for their family.
After the long search to uncover
something that would give men
more energy and make them
stronger, there is now something
for men Nu-Prep Lelaki Tongkat
Ali.
One capsule, many

benefits
In a single capsule, Nu-Prep
Lelaki brings you the remarkable

benefits of tongkat ali (Eurycoma
longifolia Jack).
Tongkat ali is a traditional
herbal remedy that has been
trusted for generations to increase
masculine vitality as well as
alleviate a host of maladies.
It has long been believed to
have beneficial properties and
traditional medical practitioners
even call tongkat ali the cure for
1,000 diseases.
Tongkat ali is especially
beneficial to masculine health
and vitality. It increases energy,
stamina, strength and physical
fitness and helps overcome
Nu-Prep Lelaki is made up of
pure tongkat ali root extract.
lethargy, improve blood

circulation and enhance overall
wellness.
It also helps men build lean
muscle and strengthen the body.
Quality product for

men
Tongkat ali has
been shown to
enhance muscle
strength and size,
especially during intensive
strength training, helping you
develop key characteristics of a
real man.
A study in the United States
on competitive cyclists found
that it also helped to speed up
recovery from fatigue.
Men all over the world can
enjoy the many health benefits of
Nu-Prep Lelaki, knowing that it
meets stringent international
standards.
It is patented in the United
States, European countries, Japan
and Malaysia, and is approved
by the United States Food and
Drug Administration and has
ISO22000:2005 certification.
With Nu-Prep Lelaki, you are
assured of getting a high-quality
product because it is made from
pure tongkat ali root extract and
xxxxxx xxxxxxx
Nu-Prep Lelaki brings the remarkable benefits of Tongkat Ali.
not the bark, leaves or other parts

of the plant.
It is also made to preserve its
bioactive ingredients, is watersoluble for optimal absorption
and comes in a standardised
dosage for optimum benefits.
Moreover, Nu-Prep Lelaki was
developed in association with the
renowned Massachusetts Institute
of Technology in the US.
With the many health benefits

that it offers to men, Nu-Prep
Lelaki Tongkat Ali can help
improve your masculine health
and vitality. Its the real thing for
the real man. Start taking
Nu-Prep Lelaki today.
n Look out for the advertisement

in this StarSpecial.
KKLIU No.2396/2014
Tongkat ali root.
your health 25
Farewell
to joint
troubles
Veronica Albela is now free of joint pains.
VERONICA Albela first started

experiencing arthritis in her
right knee when she was 48
years old.
She says, People dont
immediately see anything wrong
with me but on the inside I felt
like a handicapped person.
Things that most people take for
granted such as walking and
going up the stairs were a daily
struggle for me.
It is overly simplistic to say
arthritis causes joints to lose
function because the cartilage
layer in between the bones gets
worn down over time.
It is largely due to an enzyme
found in joints called jointageing enzymes or known
scientifically as matrix
metalloproteinases (MMP
enzymes).
MMP enzymes break down
joints and these enzymes
normally exist in our joints in a
balanced state as it is involved in
frequent joint remodelling
processes.
However, when the body
begins producing too much
of these enzymes, the joints
break down faster than they
can rebuild.
Joint damage and
inflammation ensue, leading to
joints degradation and hence,
symptoms of pain, stiffness and
swollen joints.
When this situation persists,
bone spur formation takes place.
Bone spurs are tiny pointed
outgrowths of bone caused by
local inflammation and may
cause numbness, tenderness,
limited joint movement and
great pain.
Damage control
The key to lasting joint
flexibility and mobility is
to control MMP enzymes to
preserve lasting joints function.
The active New Zealand greenlipped mussel extract known as
Biolane is in fact an MMP
enzyme inhibitor.
Biolane works by preventing
MMP enzymes from overtly
breaking down joints.

Biolane also contains
antioxidant properties, besides
demonstrating several significant
anti-inflammatory actions,
including preventing immune
cells from indiscriminately
attacking the joints.
Through this multi-action
approach, including MMP
enzymes control, antiinflammatory and antioxidant
actions, the joints are nurtured
to repair and regain normal
function.
Biolane also presents MMP
enzymes from going out of
control actually delivers longterm joint preservation and
functionality.
Although there is no cure
for arthritis, Biolane has made
it possible to control the
degradation so that joints are not
destroyed prematurely.
Patients will need to undergo
a treatment course of at least
three months with Biolane
before effects are felt.
Biolane is not a painkiller
Hence, patients may still need to
consume painkillers before of
Biolane starts to take effect.
The additional advantage of
Biolane is its stomach-protecting
properties.
It helps protects the stomach
when taken together with
painkillers, leading to a
reduction in gastric lesions by
more than 50%.
In the long run, when jointageing enzymes are in balance
aided by Biolane, patients may
find that they need not rely on
their painkillers any more.
Albela took Biolane regularly
for three months and improved
enough to walk down a flight of
stairs pain free. Four years later,
she is still pain-free and has
returned to doing gardening
at home.
This article is brought to you
by the Nuvaceuticals Division of
Nuvanta Sdn Bhd.

03-5636 3758 or 1300 881 712 or
e-mail pharmacist@nuvanta.com
Advanced traditional medicine

JIN BIN Group produces traditional
Chinese medicine by using scientific
methods. The group has more than
30 years of experience in the
manufacturing of herbal medicines
under the brand Hurixs.
The group is committed to using
premium-quality herbs, innovative
technologies for its production lines,
and a team of qualified research and
development personnel to ensure
the safety and quality of its products.
Jin Bin Group manufactures the
formulae at their facility in Malaysia
and conforms to the rigorous Good
Manufacturing Practices guidelines.
The group controls all phases of
the production process, including
the procurement and testing of raw
ingredients.
It combines outstanding
formulations by its qualified masters
of traditional Chinese medicine with
strict standards, utilising modern

equipment and methodologies to
manufacture and package products.
The group employs advanced
technology in herbal extraction and
concentration. Through scientific
ways of producing herbal medicines,
good bioavailability and proper
molecular size, the herbal extract is
easily absorbed by the body.
Jin Bin Groups bestseller, Hurixs
600 Fluaway capsule, is used for
relief of the flu. It will not cause
drowsiness or sluggishness.
Hurixs 600 Fluaway capsule
has won the best OTC
medicine for flu award
in Watson HWB
Awards for six
consecutive years
(2010-2015).
Hurixs Cool Inhaler
helps to ease nasal
congestion and running nose, and

provides relief from colds.
Another bestseller is Hurixs Sirap
Ubat Batuk Gamat & Madu Plus,
which is used for reducing phlegm
and relieving cough, sore throat,
hoarseness, body heat and colds.
Hurixs Travel-Care is specially
produced by Jin Bin Group for those
who tend to get motion-, sea- and
air-sickness when travelling. Hurixs
Travel-Care is used to relieve
dizziness, headache and
vomiting while travelling.
Jin Bin Group is committed
to manufacturing quality
medicines that are healthy,
natural and worth the money.
n Look out for the

StarSpecial.
KKLIU No.2235/2013
26 your health
Rest and recover

A DAILY sedentary lifestyle for
most of us probably involves sitting
in the same slouching position for
hours.
While people learn to overlook
muscle soreness, mild numbness
and discomfort, these symptoms
are signs of having chronic back
pain from the prolonged pressure
put on the body by poor posture.
A solution to this is the Gintell
DVas HD massage chair, which
will soothe your body, mind and
soul.
The Gintell DVas HD is
ergonomically designed for an
unparalleled full body massage
experience. The state-of-the-art HD
massage technology is the worlds
first to provide a thorough massage
that works along the spine and
extends towards the hips, buttocks
and thighs.
Equipped with five exclusive
humanised massage techniques, it
The Gintell DVas HD features five massage techniques.
Sitting in the same slouched position for hours can cause chronic pain.
effectively improves blood

circulation and digestive health
as well as encourages muscle
recovery.
The Gintell DVas HD also
features the SV-Chiro Track, which

offers absolute coverage of more
than 110cm in length with an
extended massage track that
reaches the buttocks and thighs.
The Gintell DVas HD massage

technology is capable of targeting
often unreachable zones, providing
38% more massage coverage.
Not only that, the highly
intensive and humanised massage
is enhanced with yo-yo knuckle
rollers that consist of flexible dualroller mechanism, giving a realistic
massage therapy.
In addition, the Foot Guasa
mode that resembles human-like
massage will soothe tired feet after
a long day, whereas the Yoga
Stretch mode helps to relieve stress
and boost energy altogether.
Also, the Gintell DVas HD comes

with a zero-gap recliner feature,
which is an advanced forwardsliding technology that offers full
reclination for absolute comfort
and optimum usage of space.
Equipped with the most up-todate functions, the Gintell DVas
HD massage technology is tailored
for men with hectic lifestyles to
provide relief for fatigued muscles
while restoring wellness.

call 1800 886 332 or visit
www.gintell.com
Relief for diabetic

skin conditions
DIABETIC dermopathy is a skin
condition commonly seen in
patients with long-standing
diabetes mellitus, with reported
incidences among them ranging
from 30% to 55%.
The condition is characterised
by small spots or patches of
brownish skin lesions, which
usually occur on the lower legs.
The spots or patches are
slightly scaly and are usually
round or oval.
It occurs more commonly in
diabetic patients above the age
of 50.
However, if you are a younger
patient with diabetes, you can
expect the lesions to occur
within a time frame of 10 to 20
years after the first diagnosis.
Although diabetic dermopathy
does not require treatment, it
may be an indicator of more
serious complications of
diabetes. Diabetic dermopathy
can also be a concern
cosmetically as the brownish
spots on the legs can be
unsightly.
I was worried and consulted
a doctor as I was told the skin
problem can become worse and
progress to become a wound,
Hooi Wei
Yong.
Diabetic dermopathy may be an

indicator of more serious diabetic
complications.
says Hooi Wei Yong.

I was prescribed a lotion
containing hydrolysed activated
collagen with high-concentration
glycerine and the lotion has
helped me in regaining my
original skin tone. I began to see
the positive effects after a
month.
Keeping your diabetes under
control is the most important
factor in preventing the skinrelated complications of
diabetes. Proper skin care can
also help reduce your risk of
developing skin-related
problems.
In trials carried out at local
hospitals, 10 patients (five men
and five women) with the mean
age of 50 were given one to two
drops of hydrolysed activated
collagen and high-concentration
glycerine-based lotion to be
applied daily on their legs.
Though the skin conditions
treated ranged from severe
bilateral scalding dermopathy to
milder cases of dry skin, the
changes have been remarkable,
says Dr Harikrishna Nair,
the chief wound physician
presiding over the trials at the
hospitals.
This article is brought to you
by Soza Healthcare Sdn Bhd.
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StarSpecial.
AS men age, they are likely to

experience hair loss, increased
body fat and lack of energy. Some
may also lose their sex drive as
they get older.
Most men mistakenly think that
these symptoms are a natural part
of ageing but chances are that they
may be suffering from low
testosterone levels.
Testosterone is an essential male
hormone responsible for the sex
drive, sperm count and fertility.
It is also vital for the
maintenance of muscle and bone
mass, fat distribution and
production of red blood cells.
Experiencing a decrease
Most men begin to experience a
gradual decline in testosterone,
typically by 1% every year after the
age of 30.
However, a stressful lifestyle,
your health 27
A natural boost
constant exposure to toxins and
chemicals, alcoholism, drug abuse,
obesity and certain health
conditions such as diabetes or
kidney diseases can significantly
affect testosterone levels regardless
of age.
Low testosterone levels can
negatively impact mens sexual life
as well as their physical and
emotional health, which may result
in increased body fat, impaired
physical performance and
irritability.
While various drugs or
chemicals can be used to increase
male hormone levels, they might
cause harmful side effects.
Hence, it is better to boost
testosterone levels the natural way
such as by making changes to your

lifestyle through maintaining a
healthy weight, practising fitness
routines, getting enough sleep and
eliminating stress.
Herbal remedies
There are natural herbal
remedies available that can help
boost hormone levels while
improving mens health and
vitality as a whole.
Tongkat ali, called the natural
Viagra, is a herb native to
Malaysia and Indonesia that is
traditionally used to help men
enhance testosterone levels.
It also helps enhance sexual
performance, increase muscle
mass and
strength and
improve
energy and
vitality.
Maca, which
is called Perus
national treasure,
is also a valuable
herb beneficial to
mens health and
energy.
It has been popularly
used for thousands of years
to increase strength, energy and
stamina, known to also boost
libido, improve sperm count and
fertility.
The synergistic blend of tongkat
ali and maca help to raise
You can
maintain good
testosterone
levels with
tongkat ali.
testosterone levels and enhance

mens health and vitality.

VitaHealth.

VitaHealth at 03-7729 3873.
28 your health
Holistic wellness
EMPLOYEES are the biggest assets
of any organisation. Having happy,
productive people creates a
positive effect on the working
environment as well as the
companys growth.
The National Health and
Morbidity Survey 2011 found that
more than 2.6 million adults were
unhealthy and had stress issues
at work.
This shocking find is a warning
sign for Malaysians, especially
working adults, as their declining
health will affect the profitability
and competitiveness of their
respective employers and
corporations.
Fortunately, most work-related
diseases can be prevented with
holistic wellness programmes.

Wellness Academy offers holistic
healthcare education and nutrition
consultancy, which are aimed at
empowering organisations in
creating workplace wellness
through a range of professional
workshops, customised training
sessions, health screening tests
and nutrition consultancy.
Wellness Academy comprises a
team of experienced healthcare
professionals and nutritionists who
are passionate in educating and
inspiring corporate companies and
the public to make healthy choices
to get fit and live well.
There are three main platforms
developed by Wellness Academy
the corporate wellness programme
for the workplace, nutrition course

for the public and custom-designed
corporate wellness retreat.
The corporate wellness
programme helps employees get
healthier, even if that simply
means learning how to reduce
stress and muscle strain at work.
This programme also involves
outdoor activities for weight loss
and improvement of fitness and
mental health.
The nutrition course offers
insightful and straightforward
nutrition education to the public.
With its easy-to-understand
lectures and course materials,
participants gain knowledge and
an understanding of nutrition.
The custom-designed corporate
The Wellness Academys team of nutritionists.
wellness retreat provides

interactive workshops on nutrition,
health and wellness.
Participants of the retreat can
indulge in deliciously healthy,
nutritious meals and detox juice
throughout the day, take part in
outdoor activities and experience
soothing steam baths, sauna
and body massage sessions.

Through the holistic wellness
programmes by the Wellness
Academy, businesses can create
an environment that provides a
happier and healthier workforce.

call 03-7727 9999.
Correct your vision
In a single step, a small incision of less than 4mm is made in the cornea
by laser to remove a small piece of corneal tissue called the lenticule.
VISION correction surgery, also

called refractive and laser eye
surgery, is any surgical
procedure performed to correct
vision problems.
Over the past decades,
refractive surgeries have
improved the quality of life of
more than 30 million patients
with a higher than 95% patient
satisfaction rate.
These surgeries are
considered safe with predictable
results.
After undergoing refractive
and laser eye surgery, many
patients report having better
vision than they had at any
other time in their lives.
Laser-assisted in situ
keratomileusis (Lasik) is
presently the most performed
elective procedure in the
modern world.
In recent years, tremendous
advancements have been made
in this field. A new procedure
called ReLEx Smile (refractive
lenticular extraction, smallincision lenticule extraction) is
now gaining popularity on the
refractive eye surgery arena
worldwide.
Unlike conventional Lasik,
ReLEx Smile procedure does not
create flap and involves the use
of only one laser (the
femtosecond laser).
Instead of vaporising cornea
tissue to correct the underlying
short-sightedness and
astigmatism, ReLEx Smile carves
out a small piece of corneal
tissue called the lenticule and
removes it through a keyhole
incision (measuring 2.5mm
to 4mm).
This single-step, all-in-one

laser operation only takes about
30 seconds to correct one eye
and the entire procedure can be
completed in about 15 minutes
for both eyes.
This laser is fast and uses
low energy. The procedure is
odourless and silent, causing
minimal discomfort to patients.
Patients may experience mild
discomfort after the procedure,
but this usually lasts for only a
few hours.
Due to the smaller wound
caused by minimally invasive
surgery, ReLEx Smile results in
a much stronger eye and less
immediate postoperative
discomfort and tearing.
The use of a small incision
also means that fewer corneal
nerves are severed during the
procedure, leading to lower
probability of having dry eyes.
Most patients will experience
a dramatic improvement in their
vision a day after the surgery,
which will remain stable days
after the surgery.
ReLEx Smile is now the most
advanced vision correction
procedure available.
Keep in mind that laser vision
correction is still a surgical
procedure that carries surgical
risk, although the risk involved
is negligible and the success rate
is very high.
Be sure you discuss all options
in detail with your eye surgeon
or eyecare provider before
making any final decision.

03-7804 4051(PJ), 03-6093 1051
(Rawang) or 03-4022 6222 (KL).
your health 29
Make your
workout effective
EXERCISING at home using
functional trainers is more
productive as it involves training
your whole body to execute
everyday movements or activities.
This improves your functional
performances so you become
less prone to injuries and more
efficient in your daily life.
Functional trainers are designed
to bridge the gap between
traditional strength training and
strength training for specific sports
such as tennis and golf.
In addition to its popular Body
Solid & Marcy home gym range,
Fitness Concept recently
introduced the revolutionary
Inspire FT1 Functional Trainer,
which allows you to have complete
freedom of movement in any
direction and perform weight
resistance exercises.
These unrestricted exercises are
designed to help you move the way
your body naturally moves. Many
of the freestanding exercises focus
on the core, secondary and
stabilising muscles, giving you a
more efficient workout.
The Inspire FT1 is an excellent
The Inspire FT1 Functional Trainer allows you to do a variety of weight

resistance exercise.
piece of training equipment for

athletes interested in sport-specific
exercise movements or for people
looking to strengthen their overall
body, increase stamina and
coordination or lose weight.
Features of the FT1 include:
l More than 40 different
exercises With the colourful
instructional flip chart, you can try
more than 40 different exercises to
work different muscle groups.
l An eight-PC multifunctional
accessory kit A multifunctional
belt, easy curl bar, straight bar,
ankle cuff, swing handle, tricep
rope, two single handles and 5lbs
(2.27kg) add-on weights for
unlimited exercises.
l More than 30 height
positions using high/low pulleys
The quick, one-handed adjustable
pulley system adjusts to various
heights for all your exercise needs.
The Inspire FT1 Functional Trainer.
l Inspire Fitness app Use this

free and easy-to-use app with the
FT1 to achieve your health and
fitness goals.
The inspire FT1 Functional
Trainer is available exclusively at
Fitness Concept stores. Fitness
Concept is Malaysias largest fitness
specialist chain certified by the
Malaysian Book of Records with
46 outlets in leading shopping
malls nationwide.
Drop by Fitness Concept
roadshows at Aeon Bukit Tinggi
and Ikano Power Centre to try the
Inspire FT1 Functional Trainer
and receive a special introductory
offer.

call 03-8026 2222 or e-mail
enquiries@fitnessconcept.com.my
or visit www.fitnessconcept.com.my
30 your health
OVER millennia, humans have

found cherished companions in
animals. The earliest evidence of
the relationship between a human
and animal was discovered
recently in Israel, where a
12,000-year-old human skeleton
was found buried with its hand
lying on the skeleton of a sixmonth-old wolf cub.
Today, pets are prevalent in
households throughout the world,
with many families owning more
than one.
Pets certainly provide
companionship, but many people
are not aware of the health
benefits that pets also bring.
More than a companion

mutual affection between pets and
humans can produce a therapeutic
effect.
Physical contact can increase
levels of serotonin and dopamine
in your system, inducing feelings of
calmness and relaxation.
Most pet owners admit to
confiding their issues and struggles
to their pets, allowing for a chance
to unload their minds without
judgment and blame.
The mind becomes healthier as
well and you are at a lower risk of
developing mental health issues
such as depression and loneliness.
After all, having a dog greet you at
the door after work is an instant
mood booster.
l Reduce risks of allergies

While the common perception is
that pets should be avoided if you
come from an allergy-prone family,
research has revealed that the
opposite is, in fact, true.
According to studies conducted
by paediatrician James E. Gern
from University of WisconsinMadison, growing up around a
pet can reduce a childs risk of
developing allergies by 33%.
Studies also show that pet
owners have stronger immune
systems and are less likely to
develop asthma and skin
conditions such as eczema.
Adopting pets is therefore
encouraged in growing families.
l Help maintain an active

lifestyle
Having pets can encourage you
Having a dog as an
exercise partner is great
motivation to keep fit.
to be active and fit. As dogs need to

be taken for walks, you will benefit
from the daily exercise as well.
The National Institutes of Health
in the United States reported that
owners who regularly walked
their dogs were generally more
physically active and less likely to
become obese.
Other activities can be carried
out with dogs too, including hiking,

biking and jogging. If you want
to keep fit, having a dog as an
exercise partner can act as a great
motivation.
Regular exercise will not only
keep you healthy but also help you
maintain a positive outlook in life.
l Reduce stress
As touch is a basic human need,
l Impart sense of
responsibility
Apart from physical and mental
health, animal companions require
you to adopt a predictable schedule
while caring for them.
A pet needs to be fed, cleaned,
given exercise and shown love and
affection.
Having a routine not only helps
you stay organised, it directs your
mind away from the stress of any
problem you may face.
Holding the responsibility of
caring for a pet can also mould
childrens character and help them
in their overall development.
l Improve social relationships

Taking walks with your dog is an
excellent way to meet new people
and socialise. Since the same faces
would be seen daily, friendships
are more likely to blossom and be
maintained.
Events for pets such as Pet World
Malaysia 2015 provide
opportunities for pets and their
owners to participate in games and
activities that not only strengthen
the bond between human and
animal but also bring like-minded
people together.
l Help overcome mental

illnesses
Children or adults with learning
or mental disorders can practise
regulating their stress and calming
themselves through interactions
with animals.
In addition, caring for another
living being requires patience,
perseverance and gentleness
traits that will make them better
equipped to overcome the
challenges of their disorder.
Over the years, research has
shown that having an animal in
the home has a positive effect on
Alzheimers patients, reducing
anxious outbursts.
your health 31
Beauty
&Wellness
Suncare tips
THE public is generally aware that overexposure to the suns ultraviolet (UV) rays
can cause skin freckles, wrinkles, age spots
and even skin cancer. Yet, a lot of men do
not take the appropriate steps to protect
their skin or apply sunblock correctly.
Proper UV protection involves more than
simply applying any sunblock lotion that has
been lying in your cupboard over the years.
In addition, just because you did not notice
any sunburn from your last outing does not
mean that you were not exposed to UV
radiation.
Here are the easiest ways to protect
against UV damage:
l Cover exposed skin
Be it chores around the house, sports or
any outdoor activity, if you know that you
will be spending some time in the sun, wear
long-sleeved shirts, long pants and a widebrimmed hat that will cover your ears, eyes,
forehead, nose and scalp.
l Wear sunglasses
There are many sunglasses in the market
that offer UV protection that will not only
protect the areas around your eyes against
skin cancer but your eyes against eye
diseases such as cataracts and macular
degeneration (an eye disease that causes
vision loss).
l Do not use expired sunblock

Every bottle of sunblock has an expiry
date similar to our drinks and food. Over

time, the lotions protective properties and
formulas break down and it becomes less
effective. Many sunblock manufacturers
have a date stamp printed on their bottles
for easy reference.
If the bottle does not have an expiry date,
it is best to throw it out if you know it has
been more than two years since you bought
it. Expired sunblock can cause skin irritation
or rashes.
l Do not keep sunblock in the car

Although having a bottle of sunblock in
the glove compartment may be convenient,
the intense heat trapped in the car on a dayto-day basis can cause the chemical
compounds to react, making the lotion
ineffective in protecting the skin.
l Reapply sunblock at every outing

Sunblock can easily wash off when you
swim or sweat and you are likely to wipe
some of the lotion off as you dry yourself
with a towel. Whether or not the
manufacturer claims the product to be
water-resistant, you should reapply sunblock
every two hours for optimum protection.
l Use sunblock with high SPF ratings

The higher the sun protection factor (SPF)
rating, the more UV rays are filtered before
the light reaches the skin. It is recommended
to use a sunblock that is of SPF30 or higher.
32 your health
Beauty
&Wellness
HAIR loss is often associated with
stress and anxiety and is also the
result of failing to maintain a
healthy lifestyle.
The popular notion is that if you
eat more greens and nutritious
food, your hair is less likely to
fall off.
These assumptions are partially
true, as natural remedies can go
far in gracing you with stronger,
thicker hair.
However, hair loss is ultimately
determined by predisposed genetic
factors and the overall ageing
process of an individual.
Illnesses, emotional trauma,
health conditions, protein
deprivation and hormonal changes
may cause reversible hair loss, but
they are not determining factors in
what makes your hair fall out.
In other words, bald spots
and hair loss are inherited and,
therefore, cannot be entirely
prevented.
Still, it is possible to maintain
thicker, shinier hair for a longer
period of time through the use of
the right products and a healthy
diet that nourishes your hair.
Here are four steps you can take
to reduce hair loss and maintain
strong, healthy strands.
Keep a nutritious diet

Though this will not guarantee a
full head of hair, it will strengthen
your strands and make them less
prone to breakage.
Hair is primarily made of
protein, so protein-rich foods are
needed for healthy hair growth.
Leaner proteins such as fish,
chicken, soy products and eggs
should be consumed instead of
meatier meals such as steaks;
high-fat diets result in increased
There are easy and

effective ways to prevent
hair loss at home.
look of your hair as well as keeping

your scalp clean and healthy.
Know what to avoid

Like the rest of your body, your
hair is affected by unhealthy
substances. Tobacco, for example,
contributes to the reduction of
blood circulation in the scalp,
leaving hair more prone to
breakage.
Smoking can also accelerate
baldness, especially if it is genetic.
You should limit your alcohol
intake as well; constant
consumption can induce a lower
level of vitamins B and C within
your body, stripping hair of the
nutrients it needs.
Folic acid levels can also fall,
leaving hair weak and vulnerable
to thinning.
Avoid getting sweat

on the head
Combating hair loss

testosterone levels, which have
been linked to hair loss.
Increasing your vitamin intake
will surely benefit your hair over
the years as well. Vitamins A, B
and C have their respective merits.
Vitamin A promotes the growth
of cells and tissues in every part
of your scalp while vitamin B is
essential in the transfusion of
oxygen through your body.
Vitamin C helps to hold the
tissues in your hair together,

strengthening your strands.
Regular consumption of foods
rich in these vitamins will ensure
that your hair remains healthy.
Invest in quality
hair products
Keeping your hair and scalp
clean is necessary in preventing
hair loss. However, most shampoos
THE bodys first line of defence
against the harsh environment is the
skin, and a common skin disorder
faced by many is dry skin.
Severe dry skin can look unsightly,
giving a cracked and scaly surface
and causing itchiness. Possible causes
of dry skin include conditions such as
eczema, psoriasis, strong medication
and diabetes.
If you suffer from dry skin, keeping
yourself hydrated is of utmost
importance.
The recommended intake of water
was once said to be eight glasses a day
for both men and women but
research over the years has revealed
that the amount of water you drink is
dependent on your body weight.
It is recommended that women
should drink at least 2.2 litres and
men should drink three litres a day.
Another way to stay hydrated is to
moisturise every day, especially after
a shower because this is when your
skin most effectively absorbs the
goodness of the creams used.
If your skin is very dry, use a
product with urea and lanolin as
these ingredients help the skin to
retain water and seal in the moisture.
As the saying goes, prevention is
better than cure and if you are
diabetic, taking extra care of your feet
by moisturising daily can prevent
ulcers and impede foot amputations.
Dermal Therapy has been
providing skincare solutions
with its comprehensive range of
contain chemicals that may be

damaging to your hair.
Look for mild shampoos or
ones specifically formulated to
fight thinning hair. There are even
hair care products dedicated to
treating hair loss,
Products with natural herbs such
as rosemary and mint help boost
circulation in the scalp and nourish
hair follicles.
This can go far in improving the
Sweat is composed of lactic acid,

which can cause shrinkage of hair
follicles and the degeneration of
outer layers of hair.
Men with oily scalps tend to face
problems with dandruff, leading to
oily, unhealthy hair.
This is especially apparent in
those living in a tropical country
such as Malaysia, as they are more
vulnerable to the heat and sweat
more easily.
Shampoos with aloe vera or
neem can help with ridding your
scalp of dandruff and keeping it
cleansed.
Early detection is key to delaying
hair loss. If these natural methods
do not show desired results, try
consulting a dermatologist or
doctor for advice on overcoming
the problem of hair loss.
Hydrate your skin
Dermal Therapy provides effective solutions to treat common foot and skin
conditions.
products for more than 20 years.

Each of its products has been
specifically developed to deliver
utmost efficacy through an
innovative and exhaustive
research process to provide
solutions to dry skin problems
such as cracked heels, dry lips
and dry hands.
The non-greasy formulae are
easy to apply and lock in moisture
while protecting the skin from
harsh environmental conditions.
The products effectiveness come

from using a unique combination
of skin-nourishing ingredients such
as urea, shea butter, lanolin, aloe
vera and tea tree oil.
Dermal Therapy is a well-trusted
brand by families around the
world that provides fast and
effective solutions to treat common
foot and skin conditions.
n Look out for the advertisement

in this StarSpecial.

Your Health - 25 August 2015

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THE STAR, TUESDAY 25 AUGUST 2015

THE STAR, TUESDAY 25 AUGUST 2015

Timely shift of attitudes

THE 2011 study Male sexual

l Obesity Obese men tend to

men bringing their sexual issues to

More than meets

Smoking can cause erectile dysfunction and lower sperm count.

Psychological stressors are

Diabetics, for example, may

> SEE PAGE 4

THE STAR, TUESDAY 25 AUGUST 2015

THE STAR, TUESDAY 25 AUGUST 2015

Taking a proactive stance

and emotional support.

Exercise keeps the body fit, which

forced back into the bladder

l Erectile dysfunction Also

THE STAR, TUESDAY 25 AUGUST 2015

Restore your ideal well-being

Diminished testosterone levels can effect familial relationships.

levels can lead to more serious

l Diminished physical or work

known to aggravate risk factors of

The companys research an

n For more information,

The advancement of a distinct multi-disciplinary specialty private hospital group whose

Among the many attributes, one of the primary success

Among the highlights of CAH-PJ is spine surgery. The hospital

Above this medical governing structure at the facility,

ROC number: 388359

Columbia Asias latest addition is Columbia Asia Hospital

Nose & Throat Surgery; Ophthalmology; Urology;

olumbia Asia Group of Hospitals presence in

THE STAR, TUESDAY 25 AUGUST 2015

DIABETES is one of the most

Controlling eye disease

l Dark patches or spots in the

Nipping it in the bud

symptomatic, meaning his or her

Dr Sendhil explains that the best

steps to take for treatment and

n For more information,

THE STAR, TUESDAY 25 AUGUST 2015

Food for thought

tissues and the brain.

DHA for boys

DHA for all

n Look out for the advertisement in

THE STAR, TUESDAY 25 AUGUST 2015

Quick treats for the family

l Yoghurt cream topping:

together until well mixed.

golden brown, carefully flip the

- 150g semi-sweet or bittersweet

THE STAR, TUESDAY 25 AUGUST 2015

Getting children involved in the kitchen allows them to appreciate

Fit for all ages

As grains are staple in our diet,

boost outside meal times.

Make the switch

change with rice, replace a

THE STAR, TUESDAY 25 AUGUST 2015

week. Perspirex enables you to remain