For many decades, we were wondering if there is a place for complementary medicine in Malaysia.
Yes, there now is.
We saw the establishment of Malacca College of Complementary Medicine (MCCM) in 2008 which is in line with Malaysian government policy on Traditional/ Complemenary Medicine (T/CM).
T/CM shall optimally be integrated into Malaysian health care system to achieve a holistic and integrative approach towards enhancing health and quality of life.
MCCM is meant to impart formalised quality education and training to students wanting to become T/CM practitioners while adhering strictly to regulatory and quality assurance standards.
MCCM is affiliated with the University of Natural Medicine in Sante Fe, the United States.
Potential employment for MCCM graduates: wellness centres, companies marketing health products, food supplements and related equipment, health tourism industry,naturopathic centres, anti-smoking and drug addiction centres.
Tuesday, August 31, 2010
Monday, August 30, 2010
Diary 156: Treatment for pancreatitis?
The type of pancreatitis treatment depends on the severity abd cause if the pancreatitis.
It may involve a physical examination, blood test and imaging tests (e.g. ultrasound or computed tomography scan) to diagnose and assess acute pancreatitis.
Supportive treatment is then given.
Drinking and eating are refrained for a few days to allow the pancreas to rest.
Intravenous (IV) fluid is given to replace water lost from vomiting.
Medications or nutritional supplements are given via IV fluids.
Antibiotics are given if infection is present.
Oxygen is given for patients who have trouble breathing.
If sever pain or vomiting does not improve, a nasogastric tube (a thin, flexible plastic tube inserted through the nose and throat down into the stomach) may be needed to remove the contents of the stomach.
Analgesia to treat the pain.
Treatment for underlying causes: stop alcohol consumption, endoscopic removal (ERCP) removal of gall stones, surgery to remove dead dead or infected pancreatic tissues in the most severe cases, known as necrotising pancreatitis.
[Source: Dr Tan HUCK Joo, MD, “Watch that pancreas”. SF8 health at Large, Fit4Life, The Star, 22 August 2010].
It may involve a physical examination, blood test and imaging tests (e.g. ultrasound or computed tomography scan) to diagnose and assess acute pancreatitis.
Supportive treatment is then given.
Drinking and eating are refrained for a few days to allow the pancreas to rest.
Intravenous (IV) fluid is given to replace water lost from vomiting.
Medications or nutritional supplements are given via IV fluids.
Antibiotics are given if infection is present.
Oxygen is given for patients who have trouble breathing.
If sever pain or vomiting does not improve, a nasogastric tube (a thin, flexible plastic tube inserted through the nose and throat down into the stomach) may be needed to remove the contents of the stomach.
Analgesia to treat the pain.
Treatment for underlying causes: stop alcohol consumption, endoscopic removal (ERCP) removal of gall stones, surgery to remove dead dead or infected pancreatic tissues in the most severe cases, known as necrotising pancreatitis.
[Source: Dr Tan HUCK Joo, MD, “Watch that pancreas”. SF8 health at Large, Fit4Life, The Star, 22 August 2010].
Sunday, August 29, 2010
Diary 155: Causes of pancreatitis?
Causes of Acute Pancreatitis: gall stones and long-term alcohol abuse. These two factors contribute 80% of all acute cases.
Gallstones (formed in the gall bladder) can block the pancreatic duct or duct bile, trapping the digestive juices inside the pancreas.
Prolonged over-consumption of alcohol can damage the pancreatic cells and trigger inflammation.
Other causes if AP: abdominal injuries, after ERCP (a procedure to remove gallstones from the bile duct), medications, abnormalities of the pancreas, and very high levels of triglyceride (a type of fat) in the blood.
[Source: Dr Tan HUCK Joo, MD, “Watch that pancreas”. SF8 health at Large, Fit4Life, The Star, 22 August 2010].
Gallstones (formed in the gall bladder) can block the pancreatic duct or duct bile, trapping the digestive juices inside the pancreas.
Prolonged over-consumption of alcohol can damage the pancreatic cells and trigger inflammation.
Other causes if AP: abdominal injuries, after ERCP (a procedure to remove gallstones from the bile duct), medications, abnormalities of the pancreas, and very high levels of triglyceride (a type of fat) in the blood.
[Source: Dr Tan HUCK Joo, MD, “Watch that pancreas”. SF8 health at Large, Fit4Life, The Star, 22 August 2010].
Saturday, August 28, 2010
Diary 154: What is pancreatitis?
Pancreatitis means inflammation of the pancreas.
When the pancreas is inflamed, the diggestive enzimes it secrets become active within the gland (pancreas) and start digesting the pancreatic tissue. This causes further damage to the pancreas.
Pancreatitis may be acute (sudden, short-term) or chronic (ongoing, long term).
Both acute pancreatitis (AP) and chronic pancreatits (CP) can become sever and lead to serious or even lfe-threathening complications.
Patients with severe AP may also have other organ involvement, such as kidneys and lungs.
[Source: Dr Tan HUCK Joo, MD, “Watch that pancreas”. SF8 health at Large, Fit4Life, The Star, 22 August 2010].
When the pancreas is inflamed, the diggestive enzimes it secrets become active within the gland (pancreas) and start digesting the pancreatic tissue. This causes further damage to the pancreas.
Pancreatitis may be acute (sudden, short-term) or chronic (ongoing, long term).
Both acute pancreatitis (AP) and chronic pancreatits (CP) can become sever and lead to serious or even lfe-threathening complications.
Patients with severe AP may also have other organ involvement, such as kidneys and lungs.
[Source: Dr Tan HUCK Joo, MD, “Watch that pancreas”. SF8 health at Large, Fit4Life, The Star, 22 August 2010].
Friday, August 27, 2010
Diary 153: Know the pancreas
The pancreas is a leaf-shaped gland located behind our stomach.
It is part of the our digestive system that produces two pints (946 ml) of digestive juices a day.
The digestuve juices or enzymes produced break down carhohydrates, protein, and fat from the foods we eat.
The pancreas also produces hormones such as insulin, which converts sugar in the blood into energy to be stored in the liver, keeping your blood sugar level under control.
Wah! Pancreas is so important to our body system.
Take care, do not supply the body with too much sugar as the pancreas may not be able to convert them into energy thus resulting in the rise in blood sugar level.
In short, love pur pancreas. It helps us to keep diabetes at bay.
Say “Thanks” to the pancreas for performing the above important tasks.
It is part of the our digestive system that produces two pints (946 ml) of digestive juices a day.
The digestuve juices or enzymes produced break down carhohydrates, protein, and fat from the foods we eat.
The pancreas also produces hormones such as insulin, which converts sugar in the blood into energy to be stored in the liver, keeping your blood sugar level under control.
Wah! Pancreas is so important to our body system.
Take care, do not supply the body with too much sugar as the pancreas may not be able to convert them into energy thus resulting in the rise in blood sugar level.
In short, love pur pancreas. It helps us to keep diabetes at bay.
Say “Thanks” to the pancreas for performing the above important tasks.
Thursday, August 26, 2010
Diary 152: Medical centre looks like a hotel
I went to visit a family member at the this medical centre located in Subang Jaya last week.
It looks like a hotel rather than a traditional hospital if not seeing medical staffs moving around.
The medical staffs are smiling when talking to you.
They represent the various ethnic groups in the country.
You see 1 Malaysia there, staffs comprising various ethnic groups.
They work professionally.
I have a feeling that if the management of this country wants to succeed, there is little choice but to see how the private sector hospital is managed.
The medical centre charges a relatively high fee.
It is for those affordable who want good services.
It looks like a hotel rather than a traditional hospital if not seeing medical staffs moving around.
The medical staffs are smiling when talking to you.
They represent the various ethnic groups in the country.
You see 1 Malaysia there, staffs comprising various ethnic groups.
They work professionally.
I have a feeling that if the management of this country wants to succeed, there is little choice but to see how the private sector hospital is managed.
The medical centre charges a relatively high fee.
It is for those affordable who want good services.
Wednesday, August 25, 2010
Diary 151: Frances Yip is now cancer-free
Those in their 50s like me would remember this popular singer.
Who is she?
The 62-year old Hong-Kong-born songtress has career that spans 4 decades, 80 albums to her name and loyal fans all over the year.
2010 marks the 14th year she is cancer-free. She was diagnosed with breast cancer in 1996.
The cancer was detected in the early stage.
Next steps taken: removed the lump, went for six weeks of radiotherapy.
Food: Frances Yip became very careful with her food, eating only organic produce and very little, if any processed food.
“I am a vegetarian but I don’t eat a lot of red meat. I eat a lot of tofu and vegetables and I very rarely eat ready-made stuff,” she says.
She now lives in Australia for the last 5 years.
[Source: S. Indramalar, “A new life”, T8 Lifestyle Startwo, The Star 16 August 2010].
You must be wondering how she becomes a vegetarian, giving up all the nice and tasty food.
I guess the motivational force is that she likes to keep on singing on stage. She just enjoys doing so. That is why she will be becoming to perform in Malaysia in the next few months.
Who is she?
The 62-year old Hong-Kong-born songtress has career that spans 4 decades, 80 albums to her name and loyal fans all over the year.
2010 marks the 14th year she is cancer-free. She was diagnosed with breast cancer in 1996.
The cancer was detected in the early stage.
Next steps taken: removed the lump, went for six weeks of radiotherapy.
Food: Frances Yip became very careful with her food, eating only organic produce and very little, if any processed food.
“I am a vegetarian but I don’t eat a lot of red meat. I eat a lot of tofu and vegetables and I very rarely eat ready-made stuff,” she says.
She now lives in Australia for the last 5 years.
[Source: S. Indramalar, “A new life”, T8 Lifestyle Startwo, The Star 16 August 2010].
You must be wondering how she becomes a vegetarian, giving up all the nice and tasty food.
I guess the motivational force is that she likes to keep on singing on stage. She just enjoys doing so. That is why she will be becoming to perform in Malaysia in the next few months.
Tuesday, August 24, 2010
Diary 150: Cancer treatment with herbal medicine
How effective is herbal medicine in cancer treatment?
This is a difficult question to answer.
While some herbs may be helpful, other may not. Besides, some herbs are also toxic.
My opinion: do not take anything one is not sure of.
When one eats an apple, one knows it is an apple.
Similarly, when one takes herbal medicine, one should also know its content.
If the practitioner is willing to reveal the content, you may wish to try if you have some degree of confidence.
What if he/she is not willing to reveal the content?
Think twice before one consumes it.
It is good remember that there is no miracle herb in the world.
If one continues to consume acidic food, the so-called miracle herb would be of little help.
Change your diet to consume alkaline food is most important and the miracle herb may play its supportive role.
This is a difficult question to answer.
While some herbs may be helpful, other may not. Besides, some herbs are also toxic.
My opinion: do not take anything one is not sure of.
When one eats an apple, one knows it is an apple.
Similarly, when one takes herbal medicine, one should also know its content.
If the practitioner is willing to reveal the content, you may wish to try if you have some degree of confidence.
What if he/she is not willing to reveal the content?
Think twice before one consumes it.
It is good remember that there is no miracle herb in the world.
If one continues to consume acidic food, the so-called miracle herb would be of little help.
Change your diet to consume alkaline food is most important and the miracle herb may play its supportive role.
Monday, August 23, 2010
Diary 149: Visiting an 81-year old cancer patient
AC sent me the following message on 21 August 2010.
“Hi Dr Lim, sorry to disturb you as I could not reach you by phone. My name is AC, a member of Subang Jaya Buddhist Association. I also attended your talk and have a copy of your book, Eating for Good Health. I appreciate if I can get a Mandarin version of the book for my father to read. He had just finished his operation on colon rectum cancer and was of course asked by the doctor to go for chemotherapy for 30 shots. I am very worried if he can even last a few shots as he is already 81 years old. I am thinking if there is an alternative method to prolong it in an easier way for him to on his life. Hope to hear from you soon. Thanks. Cheers.”
The next day, 22 August 2010, I invited AC to the house to pick up the health book and showed a video on the scientific findings on how health food can prolong a cancer patient’s life.'
I was touched by AC’s sincerity to assist his father. Since I had some free time in the afternoon, AC brought me to see his father (staying in the vicinity).
During the hour interaction, it was again obvious that cancer treatment is not confined to taking health food alone. It has to be holistic. In particularly, the family ‘conflict’ has to be resolved to enable her father to embark on a journey of healthy eating to prolong his life, irrespective whether he undergoes radiotherapy or not.
I later sent two SMS to AC. Her SMS replies:
“Thanks so much for your kindness in spending an hour with my father. For your precious sharing which I indeed so grateful to your kind effort. Will update you on my father’s progress later. Meantime, would appreciate your feedback on on Dr Chan’s method on his website. Wishing you a great week ahead. With metta.”.
“Thank you very much for your encouragement. We certainly respect his decision as he is quite a wise person to me. I have forgiven him. Thank you again for your kindness. May you and your familybe always blessed with love, joy, health and abundance of wealth. With metta.”
To AC: The good health of my family members is our wealth. This treasure is to be valued by all, not my family alone.
“Hi Dr Lim, sorry to disturb you as I could not reach you by phone. My name is AC, a member of Subang Jaya Buddhist Association. I also attended your talk and have a copy of your book, Eating for Good Health. I appreciate if I can get a Mandarin version of the book for my father to read. He had just finished his operation on colon rectum cancer and was of course asked by the doctor to go for chemotherapy for 30 shots. I am very worried if he can even last a few shots as he is already 81 years old. I am thinking if there is an alternative method to prolong it in an easier way for him to on his life. Hope to hear from you soon. Thanks. Cheers.”
The next day, 22 August 2010, I invited AC to the house to pick up the health book and showed a video on the scientific findings on how health food can prolong a cancer patient’s life.'
I was touched by AC’s sincerity to assist his father. Since I had some free time in the afternoon, AC brought me to see his father (staying in the vicinity).
During the hour interaction, it was again obvious that cancer treatment is not confined to taking health food alone. It has to be holistic. In particularly, the family ‘conflict’ has to be resolved to enable her father to embark on a journey of healthy eating to prolong his life, irrespective whether he undergoes radiotherapy or not.
I later sent two SMS to AC. Her SMS replies:
“Thanks so much for your kindness in spending an hour with my father. For your precious sharing which I indeed so grateful to your kind effort. Will update you on my father’s progress later. Meantime, would appreciate your feedback on on Dr Chan’s method on his website. Wishing you a great week ahead. With metta.”.
“Thank you very much for your encouragement. We certainly respect his decision as he is quite a wise person to me. I have forgiven him. Thank you again for your kindness. May you and your familybe always blessed with love, joy, health and abundance of wealth. With metta.”
To AC: The good health of my family members is our wealth. This treasure is to be valued by all, not my family alone.
Saturday, August 21, 2010
Diary 148: Long life
How long can we live?
In Malaysia, the average life span is about 75 years.
But, for the people of Bama in the Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region of China, at 70 one is still considered young enough to carry out demanding physical work.
In 2000, the census in Bama showed that there were 3,160 people aged between 80 and 89, and 76 people aged over 100. The eldest was 123 years old.
It is common to see elderly folk in their 80s or 90s, and families of four or five generations living under one roof.
There are no no obese people in Bama.
It is rare to come across elderly people suffering from common health problems such as high blood pressure, diabetes, gout or even cancer.
Many of the villagers have never been to a hospital.
What are Bama’s secret of longevity?
Non-material culture, hard labour, geographical terrain, climate, diet and social background are contributing factors.
In terms of diet, the villagers eat simplest of meals, including corn, groundnuts, rice, millet, sweet potatoes, soybean, pumpkin, sweet potato leaves, mushroom and bamboo shoot.
They love to eat corn gruel, rice porridge and steamed buns, and drink home-brewed rice wine.
No meat at all?
No. Meat from local pygmy pig, goat, chicken and duck is eaten sparingly as vegetable are the staple food.
If there is a chance, I certain like to visit Bama village in the future.
[Source: Foong Thim Leng, “Longevity rules”, T2 Lifestyle Startwo, The Star 16 August 2010].
In Malaysia, the average life span is about 75 years.
But, for the people of Bama in the Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region of China, at 70 one is still considered young enough to carry out demanding physical work.
In 2000, the census in Bama showed that there were 3,160 people aged between 80 and 89, and 76 people aged over 100. The eldest was 123 years old.
It is common to see elderly folk in their 80s or 90s, and families of four or five generations living under one roof.
There are no no obese people in Bama.
It is rare to come across elderly people suffering from common health problems such as high blood pressure, diabetes, gout or even cancer.
Many of the villagers have never been to a hospital.
What are Bama’s secret of longevity?
Non-material culture, hard labour, geographical terrain, climate, diet and social background are contributing factors.
In terms of diet, the villagers eat simplest of meals, including corn, groundnuts, rice, millet, sweet potatoes, soybean, pumpkin, sweet potato leaves, mushroom and bamboo shoot.
They love to eat corn gruel, rice porridge and steamed buns, and drink home-brewed rice wine.
No meat at all?
No. Meat from local pygmy pig, goat, chicken and duck is eaten sparingly as vegetable are the staple food.
If there is a chance, I certain like to visit Bama village in the future.
[Source: Foong Thim Leng, “Longevity rules”, T2 Lifestyle Startwo, The Star 16 August 2010].
Friday, August 20, 2010
Diary 147: Food at school canteen
What are the food to be served at Malaysian school canteen.
Below are three types of food outlined by the Guideline on the Management of School Canteen 2008: Collaboration between health Ministry & Education Ministry.
Suitabe food: (a) rice, noodles, porridge, yong tau foo, curry puffs, sandwiches, vadai, meehon, corn, bread and biscuits. (b) fresh fruits like papaya, guava, star fruit and banana.
Food not encouraged: food with high sugar, fat and oil, artificially coloured drinks, ice-cream and carbonated drinks.
Prohibited food: (a) sweets, chocolate, pickled foods and snacks with artificial flavour and colour. (b) expired and alcoholic food and drinks.
Responsible parents and teachers should raise awareness among children about the above types of food.
Below are three types of food outlined by the Guideline on the Management of School Canteen 2008: Collaboration between health Ministry & Education Ministry.
Suitabe food: (a) rice, noodles, porridge, yong tau foo, curry puffs, sandwiches, vadai, meehon, corn, bread and biscuits. (b) fresh fruits like papaya, guava, star fruit and banana.
Food not encouraged: food with high sugar, fat and oil, artificially coloured drinks, ice-cream and carbonated drinks.
Prohibited food: (a) sweets, chocolate, pickled foods and snacks with artificial flavour and colour. (b) expired and alcoholic food and drinks.
Responsible parents and teachers should raise awareness among children about the above types of food.
Thursday, August 19, 2010
Diary 146: Donation for sick persons
The Chinese dailies carry these request for donation practically everyday.
16 August 2010’s Sin Chew Daily reported a two and a half year old native from Sarawak requires a public donation of RM120,000 for cancer treatment.
19 August 2010’s Sin Chew Daily reported 28-year old Chinese requires RM100,000 for treating his leukimia.
There are more and more people who are sicks out there.
Some of them are from the low income class.
The society has to bear their medical expenses.
Some of them are not able to maintain their families.
Some even want to give their young children away.
While donation helps temporarily, the long term solution lies in raising health awareness among the population.
One such awareness is the impact of the food taken daily on our health.
When more people take care of their diet, fewer people will asking for public donation.
May all of us take care of our health by taking health food to keep diseases at bay.
16 August 2010’s Sin Chew Daily reported a two and a half year old native from Sarawak requires a public donation of RM120,000 for cancer treatment.
19 August 2010’s Sin Chew Daily reported 28-year old Chinese requires RM100,000 for treating his leukimia.
There are more and more people who are sicks out there.
Some of them are from the low income class.
The society has to bear their medical expenses.
Some of them are not able to maintain their families.
Some even want to give their young children away.
While donation helps temporarily, the long term solution lies in raising health awareness among the population.
One such awareness is the impact of the food taken daily on our health.
When more people take care of their diet, fewer people will asking for public donation.
May all of us take care of our health by taking health food to keep diseases at bay.
Wednesday, August 18, 2010
Diary 145: How my daughter gave up fried chicken?
My daughter (15 now) liked to take fried chicken from the fast food store before she was 10.
Reason: all her classmates were taken fried chicken. She wanted to eat too!
I brought her to the fast food store, but once every three months.
She had to drink lots of water after taking the fried chicken.
When she was 10, I brought her to visit a chicken farm.
That gave her a shock.
A small chicken became a big one in 35-40 days.
Why?
Growth hormone and antibiotics were used in chicken farming.
Since then, she gave up fried chicken.
Children learn and make their own decision.
Reason: all her classmates were taken fried chicken. She wanted to eat too!
I brought her to the fast food store, but once every three months.
She had to drink lots of water after taking the fried chicken.
When she was 10, I brought her to visit a chicken farm.
That gave her a shock.
A small chicken became a big one in 35-40 days.
Why?
Growth hormone and antibiotics were used in chicken farming.
Since then, she gave up fried chicken.
Children learn and make their own decision.
Tuesday, August 17, 2010
Diary 144: Having a cold?
Common cold is actually a group of diseases, all having the similar symptoms such as cough, runny nose, sore throat, and occassionally fever with headache.
The common cold is caused by viruses, tgy germs that spread by coughs and sneezes.
Common virues leading to comon cold are rhinovirus, adenovirus and coronavirus.
Most common colds are not caused by influenza virus.
The fact is, a common cold normally gets better on its own even if we do nothing about it.
(Source: Dr C.L. Teng, Aacchhooo! understand that the common cold is very different from flu. The Star’s Fit4Life, 1 August 2010)
How to avoid a cold?
Detoxify your body is the answer. Switch to health food to achieve this. For this reason, I have not experienced a cold for the last 15 years.
The common cold is caused by viruses, tgy germs that spread by coughs and sneezes.
Common virues leading to comon cold are rhinovirus, adenovirus and coronavirus.
Most common colds are not caused by influenza virus.
The fact is, a common cold normally gets better on its own even if we do nothing about it.
(Source: Dr C.L. Teng, Aacchhooo! understand that the common cold is very different from flu. The Star’s Fit4Life, 1 August 2010)
How to avoid a cold?
Detoxify your body is the answer. Switch to health food to achieve this. For this reason, I have not experienced a cold for the last 15 years.
Monday, August 16, 2010
Diary 143: Best milk for babies
How would a young mother raise her baby to grow healthily?
What is the best milk for the babies? Mother’s milk, cow’s milk or goat’s milk?
World Breastfeeding Week (1-7 August) is a gentle reminder that the best milk for babies is mother’s milk.
This is timely.
In the past, young girls grew up seeing their mothers, anties and neighbors breastfeed.
Nowadays, a lot of young women grew up without seeing their mothers breastfeed.
Is breastfeed simple or difficult?
The expert advises that the mothers need to remember three things: feed early, feed frequently and feed properly.
What if mothers do not practise breastfeed for one reason or another?
The best alternative is plant-based milk. Choose organic plant-based milk from the organic shops.
What is the best milk for the babies? Mother’s milk, cow’s milk or goat’s milk?
World Breastfeeding Week (1-7 August) is a gentle reminder that the best milk for babies is mother’s milk.
This is timely.
In the past, young girls grew up seeing their mothers, anties and neighbors breastfeed.
Nowadays, a lot of young women grew up without seeing their mothers breastfeed.
Is breastfeed simple or difficult?
The expert advises that the mothers need to remember three things: feed early, feed frequently and feed properly.
What if mothers do not practise breastfeed for one reason or another?
The best alternative is plant-based milk. Choose organic plant-based milk from the organic shops.
Sunday, August 15, 2010
Diary 142: Love Our Liver
The liver is the largest internal organ of our body.
Liver performs various crucial functions.
It metablolises most of the nutrients that are absorbed by the intestines.
It detoxifies the blood by removing medications, alcohol and potentially harmful chemicals from the bloodstream – processing them chemically so that they can be expelled from the body by the digestive or urinary systems.
It produces clotting factirs and other proteins.
It stores certain vitamins , minerals and sugars.
It regulates fat stores.
It controls the production and excretion of cholesteral.
It can regenerate its cells within a few weeks.
There are two common forms of liver disorder. Hepatitis is inflammation of the liver while cirrhosis is scarring of the liver. These two conditions may progress to liver cancer.
Keeping our liver healthy is essential to keeping our entire self healthy.
Lover our liver, take good care of it so that it can take care of us.
[Information source: S.Y. Chong (2010), Taking care of your liver, The Star 25 July 2010].
Liver performs various crucial functions.
It metablolises most of the nutrients that are absorbed by the intestines.
It detoxifies the blood by removing medications, alcohol and potentially harmful chemicals from the bloodstream – processing them chemically so that they can be expelled from the body by the digestive or urinary systems.
It produces clotting factirs and other proteins.
It stores certain vitamins , minerals and sugars.
It regulates fat stores.
It controls the production and excretion of cholesteral.
It can regenerate its cells within a few weeks.
There are two common forms of liver disorder. Hepatitis is inflammation of the liver while cirrhosis is scarring of the liver. These two conditions may progress to liver cancer.
Keeping our liver healthy is essential to keeping our entire self healthy.
Lover our liver, take good care of it so that it can take care of us.
[Information source: S.Y. Chong (2010), Taking care of your liver, The Star 25 July 2010].
Friday, August 13, 2010
Diary 141: Harmful radiation
Most of us cannot avoid using mobole phone these days.
But, be careful.
There is this "Invisible Killer", harmful Electro Magnetic Frequencies (EMF) and Electro Magnetic Radiation (EMR) that threathens our life in the long run.
Some scientists have proclaimed EMF/ EMR pollution, or electro-smog, as the most damaging form of pollution facing mankind today, and may even threaten our very existence on earth.
We are now exposed to 100 million times the amount of EMF/EMR as compared to our grandparents. There are numerous studies and coverage available on the Internet on this growing but unstoppable menace to mankind.
There are currently 4 billion mobile phones and 10 billion more electronic devices (laptops, computers, scanners, games consoles, etc) and household appliances (TV, microwaves, refrigerators, vacuum cleaners, hairdryers, etc) , including cars and vehicles emitting EMF/EMR.
Swift off these devices when not in use.
Let’s protect ourselves from harmul radiation.
For further information, you may read the book on Low Level Radiation: The Invisible Killer - Growing Threat From Electromagnetic Fields. Published by the Consumer Association of Penang, Malaysia.
But, be careful.
There is this "Invisible Killer", harmful Electro Magnetic Frequencies (EMF) and Electro Magnetic Radiation (EMR) that threathens our life in the long run.
Some scientists have proclaimed EMF/ EMR pollution, or electro-smog, as the most damaging form of pollution facing mankind today, and may even threaten our very existence on earth.
We are now exposed to 100 million times the amount of EMF/EMR as compared to our grandparents. There are numerous studies and coverage available on the Internet on this growing but unstoppable menace to mankind.
There are currently 4 billion mobile phones and 10 billion more electronic devices (laptops, computers, scanners, games consoles, etc) and household appliances (TV, microwaves, refrigerators, vacuum cleaners, hairdryers, etc) , including cars and vehicles emitting EMF/EMR.
Swift off these devices when not in use.
Let’s protect ourselves from harmul radiation.
For further information, you may read the book on Low Level Radiation: The Invisible Killer - Growing Threat From Electromagnetic Fields. Published by the Consumer Association of Penang, Malaysia.
Thursday, August 12, 2010
Diary 140: High knee replacement cost
For severe or advanced arthritis, knee replacement surgery might be needed to help relief pain and improve the mobility of the joint.
This is the last resort to ‘cure’ knee joint pain.
The question is how much it costs to undergo knee replacement surgery.
The total cost is RM34,000 for various costs at a private medical centre in Subang Jaya in August 2010.
This sum is certainly high for the ordinary citizens in the country.
Let’s take care of our knee.
This is the last resort to ‘cure’ knee joint pain.
The question is how much it costs to undergo knee replacement surgery.
The total cost is RM34,000 for various costs at a private medical centre in Subang Jaya in August 2010.
This sum is certainly high for the ordinary citizens in the country.
Let’s take care of our knee.
Wednesday, August 11, 2010
Diary 139: High cancer treatment cost
He is an engineer, aged 50 plus, running his own consultancy firm.
About 3 years ago, he was diagnosed with cancer which spread to various parts of the body such as lung and liver.
Having going through various modern treatment such as chemotherapy, he is now on oral treatment.
He takes a tablet a day to fight cancer cells.
Each tablet costs about RM250.
This means that he has to spend about RM7,500 a month on the cancer treatment medicine alone.
This is a huge figure for many individuals.
Luckily, his business venture has enabled him to cover this cost.
Frankly, I cannot afford to spend RM7,500 a month or RM90,000 a year.
I rather take care of my health now instead of fighting cancer in the future.
About 3 years ago, he was diagnosed with cancer which spread to various parts of the body such as lung and liver.
Having going through various modern treatment such as chemotherapy, he is now on oral treatment.
He takes a tablet a day to fight cancer cells.
Each tablet costs about RM250.
This means that he has to spend about RM7,500 a month on the cancer treatment medicine alone.
This is a huge figure for many individuals.
Luckily, his business venture has enabled him to cover this cost.
Frankly, I cannot afford to spend RM7,500 a month or RM90,000 a year.
I rather take care of my health now instead of fighting cancer in the future.
Tuesday, August 10, 2010
Diary 138: Two health talks in one day
6 August 2010, Friday. I took a day’s leave to do two things.
In the morning, I delivered the health talk entitled “Living healthily without medicine” for the D’ Happy Club in SS2 Petaling Jaya, Selangor. The audience consisted 60 peoples, mainly pensioners.
By the afternoon, the same health talk “Makanan sihat sebagai ubat” was delivered for the benefits of staffs of Forestry Department peninsular Malaysia. Some of the officers have purchased my health books earlier.
It is good to talk to senior citizens and those still in employment.
Both categories of people can play a more effective role for Malaysia to achieve the status of a developed nation by year 2020.
Health is wealth.
Why should we contribute to the pocket of the medical doctors and hospital owners?
Keep our health in good shape.
Enjoy our life by taking health food.
In the morning, I delivered the health talk entitled “Living healthily without medicine” for the D’ Happy Club in SS2 Petaling Jaya, Selangor. The audience consisted 60 peoples, mainly pensioners.
By the afternoon, the same health talk “Makanan sihat sebagai ubat” was delivered for the benefits of staffs of Forestry Department peninsular Malaysia. Some of the officers have purchased my health books earlier.
It is good to talk to senior citizens and those still in employment.
Both categories of people can play a more effective role for Malaysia to achieve the status of a developed nation by year 2020.
Health is wealth.
Why should we contribute to the pocket of the medical doctors and hospital owners?
Keep our health in good shape.
Enjoy our life by taking health food.
Monday, August 9, 2010
Diary 137: Walk extra miles with good health
It is sometimes difficult for people to understand why I do not take many things during official tea break, lunch and dinner.
Not that I cannot take much of the foods and drinks.
They are just not my cup of tea!
Basically I choose health food to maintan existing good health.
There are still many things I wish to do during this life time.
Sharing health information and experience via talks and books are important.
I just want to help others to attain and regain health.
To achive this, showing a good example is necessary.
People observe what I consume.
I eat and drink what is shared in my health books.
Health food is my choice!
How about you?
Not that I cannot take much of the foods and drinks.
They are just not my cup of tea!
Basically I choose health food to maintan existing good health.
There are still many things I wish to do during this life time.
Sharing health information and experience via talks and books are important.
I just want to help others to attain and regain health.
To achive this, showing a good example is necessary.
People observe what I consume.
I eat and drink what is shared in my health books.
Health food is my choice!
How about you?
Sunday, August 8, 2010
Diary 136: Detoxify our body during fasting month
Fasting month is around the corner for Muslims.
The month has special meanings to the Muslims.
An important aspect is related to health.
Whether one is a Muslim or not, fasting is important for one who wishes to maintain and reclaim good health.
Just imagine the impact of Muslim fasting (about 14 hours a day) for a period of one month.
If one does not over eat when breaking fast daily, one has a higher chance of regaining good health.
Much toxic accumulated in the body is expected to be detoxified during the fasting months.
The problem is some peoples have the tendency to over eat when breaking fast.
If what eaten is acidic food, health problems arise.
Do not miss the chance to detoxify and reduce weight during the coming fasting month.
Wishing all Muslims a happy fasting month.
The month has special meanings to the Muslims.
An important aspect is related to health.
Whether one is a Muslim or not, fasting is important for one who wishes to maintain and reclaim good health.
Just imagine the impact of Muslim fasting (about 14 hours a day) for a period of one month.
If one does not over eat when breaking fast daily, one has a higher chance of regaining good health.
Much toxic accumulated in the body is expected to be detoxified during the fasting months.
The problem is some peoples have the tendency to over eat when breaking fast.
If what eaten is acidic food, health problems arise.
Do not miss the chance to detoxify and reduce weight during the coming fasting month.
Wishing all Muslims a happy fasting month.
Thursday, August 5, 2010
Diary 135: Liquor, beer and wine
The liquor, beer and wine are difficult for the liver to metabolise.
People with liver disease should never drink alcohol at all.
Mixing alcohol with painkiller or other types of medications can be dangerous to your liver.
The mixture of alcohol and acetamonophen (an ingredient in pain killers and cough medication) can cause sudden, sever hepatitis ande even fatal liver failure.
[Information source: S.Y. Chong (2010), Taking care of your liver, The Star 25 July 2010].
People with liver disease should never drink alcohol at all.
Mixing alcohol with painkiller or other types of medications can be dangerous to your liver.
The mixture of alcohol and acetamonophen (an ingredient in pain killers and cough medication) can cause sudden, sever hepatitis ande even fatal liver failure.
[Information source: S.Y. Chong (2010), Taking care of your liver, The Star 25 July 2010].
Wednesday, August 4, 2010
Diary 133: Platelet Disorder
One common platelet disorder is idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP) or primary immune thrombocytopenic purpura.
It is a condition where one’s own antibodies attack and destroy platelets in one’s blood, increasing the risk of excessive bleeding as the level of platelets punge.
There are two types of ITP.
First, in children, there is the acute, self-limiting form that happens suddenly and often goes away even without treatment.
Second, in adults (more common in women than men), there is the chronic form that stays with the patient for years, as a cure for ITP is yet to be found.
The blood in people with ITP does not clot very well.
Patients will often complain of some bleeding in various parts of the body, a heavy flow when they are menstruating or bruises all over their body.
In sever cases, patients can experience serious haemorrhages (bleeding) that can be fatal.
It is a condition where one’s own antibodies attack and destroy platelets in one’s blood, increasing the risk of excessive bleeding as the level of platelets punge.
There are two types of ITP.
First, in children, there is the acute, self-limiting form that happens suddenly and often goes away even without treatment.
Second, in adults (more common in women than men), there is the chronic form that stays with the patient for years, as a cure for ITP is yet to be found.
The blood in people with ITP does not clot very well.
Patients will often complain of some bleeding in various parts of the body, a heavy flow when they are menstruating or bruises all over their body.
In sever cases, patients can experience serious haemorrhages (bleeding) that can be fatal.
Sunday, August 1, 2010
Diary 133: The Platelets
We often hear that if one is down with fever, watch out one’s platelet count.
What are platelets?
Platelets are minute, irregularly shaped bodies that act like sticky chemical plugs that stop blood from leaking out of our blood vessels.
Platelets play an important role in blood clot formation.
When there is an injury in the wall of a blood vessel (like suffering from a paper cut), platelets in the blood gather around the wound and set off a cascade of chemical processes to form a clot that will effectively stop the bleeding.
If one has too much platelets, it is easier for blood clots to form inside blood vessels and cut of blood supply to important organs.
If one has too little platelets, one might be at risk for excessive bleeding.
What are platelets?
Platelets are minute, irregularly shaped bodies that act like sticky chemical plugs that stop blood from leaking out of our blood vessels.
Platelets play an important role in blood clot formation.
When there is an injury in the wall of a blood vessel (like suffering from a paper cut), platelets in the blood gather around the wound and set off a cascade of chemical processes to form a clot that will effectively stop the bleeding.
If one has too much platelets, it is easier for blood clots to form inside blood vessels and cut of blood supply to important organs.
If one has too little platelets, one might be at risk for excessive bleeding.
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