He also visited my old friend at the Selayang Hospital on 19 October 2010.
He sat down immediately upon arrival.
Apparently, he cannot stand too long.
What is his age? 40+
What are his problems? High blood pressure and a diabetic.
His legs are swollen from time to time. He has to take few types of medicines daily.
Are you ready to change your diet to reduce the health problems? I asked.
Take more vegetables and fruits? Yes.
Reduce meat consumption? Very difficult. He likes “Bah Kut Teh” (pork herbal soup) very much.
Well, best wishes, my new friend.
Sunday, October 31, 2010
Saturday, October 30, 2010
Diary 208: Old friend warded
I acquinted with him 25 years ago while conducting my PhD research in a new village in Perak.
He was about 50 years then. Healthy and full of energy. He spoke freely on various topics of every day living.
In the last 25 years, we met a couple of times when I went back to the new village from time to time.
In 2009, I visited him in KL when he was diagnosed with prostate cancer . He was not well.
25 years have passed. Old friends are like the falling leaves. A few have passed away.
In early October 2010, he was admitted for treating multiple diseases.
Now, I look at this old friend at the Selayang Hospital. Dependent on oxygen, he can no longer speak. His son told me that it is a matter of time that his dear father would pass away.
In 20 years time, I will be in the 70+, just like this old friend.
How will happen to me then?
Lying in bed and dependent on oxygen?
I hope not.
That’s why I choose a healthy diet now to maintain good health.
He was about 50 years then. Healthy and full of energy. He spoke freely on various topics of every day living.
In the last 25 years, we met a couple of times when I went back to the new village from time to time.
In 2009, I visited him in KL when he was diagnosed with prostate cancer . He was not well.
25 years have passed. Old friends are like the falling leaves. A few have passed away.
In early October 2010, he was admitted for treating multiple diseases.
Now, I look at this old friend at the Selayang Hospital. Dependent on oxygen, he can no longer speak. His son told me that it is a matter of time that his dear father would pass away.
In 20 years time, I will be in the 70+, just like this old friend.
How will happen to me then?
Lying in bed and dependent on oxygen?
I hope not.
That’s why I choose a healthy diet now to maintain good health.
Thursday, October 28, 2010
Diary 207: Indications of healthy nations
How do people categorise the health conditions of nations?
Conventional indications: More hospitals, clinics, doctors, nurses, ambulances, beds....per 100,000 people... to serve the needs of the population.
My views on per 100,000 people:
Less hospitals, clinics, doctors, phydioyhrtspidyd, nurses, ambulances, beds....
Lower incidence of modern diseases such as obesity, diabetes, heart diseases and cancer.
Lower medical bills for government and individuals.
Lesser life assurance and health insurance costs.
Fewer visits to the clinics and hospitals.
Lesser MCs for workers.
Fewer number of pharmacies.
Lesser number of fast-food stores.
Conventional indications: More hospitals, clinics, doctors, nurses, ambulances, beds....per 100,000 people... to serve the needs of the population.
My views on per 100,000 people:
Less hospitals, clinics, doctors, phydioyhrtspidyd, nurses, ambulances, beds....
Lower incidence of modern diseases such as obesity, diabetes, heart diseases and cancer.
Lower medical bills for government and individuals.
Lesser life assurance and health insurance costs.
Fewer visits to the clinics and hospitals.
Lesser MCs for workers.
Fewer number of pharmacies.
Lesser number of fast-food stores.
Wednesday, October 27, 2010
Diary 206: Why ‘Western’ diseases threatening developing nations
Why do developing nations are now faced with modern chronic diseases such as obesity, diabetes, heart diseases and cancer?
As these nations develop economically, the middele class is expanding. The now have bigger spending power.
As societies develop, people’s diets change.
They tend to take more high-fat and high-sugar foods, often in Western-style fast food restaurants (Pasquet 2010).
Urban life also tends to be more sedentery. Many people stay in the air-conditioned offices for too long. They hardly do any exercise.
Note: Many families are suffering financially and mentally because one or more members are not in good health.
(Pasquet, Y. 2010. ‘Western’ diseases spreading. SF8, Fit4Life, The Star, 17 October 2010).
As these nations develop economically, the middele class is expanding. The now have bigger spending power.
As societies develop, people’s diets change.
They tend to take more high-fat and high-sugar foods, often in Western-style fast food restaurants (Pasquet 2010).
Urban life also tends to be more sedentery. Many people stay in the air-conditioned offices for too long. They hardly do any exercise.
Note: Many families are suffering financially and mentally because one or more members are not in good health.
(Pasquet, Y. 2010. ‘Western’ diseases spreading. SF8, Fit4Life, The Star, 17 October 2010).
Monday, October 25, 2010
Diary 205: ‘Western’ diseases coming to the East
In the past, we used to associate chronic illnesses such as obesity and diabetes with the rich and developed ‘Western’ nations.
The health landscape has now changed.
Health experts met in Berlin in mid-October 2010 found that these ‘Western’ disease are making rapid inroads in the developing nations.
The diseases are not confined to the rich nations.
World Health Organisation (WHO) figures found that about 80% of new cases of cancers, diabetes and cardiovascular diseases are now being recorded in poorer parts of the world.
This is the “consequences of importing lifestyles from Western countries”, noted US National Institutes of Health head Francis Collins at Berlin’s Charite Hospital.
According to the WHO, the worst-affected areas are Southeast Asia and the western Pacific.
Take note: Malaysia is part of Southeast Asia.
(Pasquet, Y. 2010. ‘Western’ diseases spreading. SF8, Fit4Life, The Star, 17 October 2010).
The health landscape has now changed.
Health experts met in Berlin in mid-October 2010 found that these ‘Western’ disease are making rapid inroads in the developing nations.
The diseases are not confined to the rich nations.
World Health Organisation (WHO) figures found that about 80% of new cases of cancers, diabetes and cardiovascular diseases are now being recorded in poorer parts of the world.
This is the “consequences of importing lifestyles from Western countries”, noted US National Institutes of Health head Francis Collins at Berlin’s Charite Hospital.
According to the WHO, the worst-affected areas are Southeast Asia and the western Pacific.
Take note: Malaysia is part of Southeast Asia.
(Pasquet, Y. 2010. ‘Western’ diseases spreading. SF8, Fit4Life, The Star, 17 October 2010).
Sunday, October 24, 2010
Diary 197: Cleaning eyes with wheatgrass juice
As we gradually age, one of the symptom is poor eye sight.
Before we get into the complicated treatments and operations, it may be good to just clean our eyes naturally.
Normally, people clean their eyes with eye-drops purchased over the counters and pharmacies.
Commercial eye drops usually contain permissible level of preservatives.
We have another choice to clean the eyes naturally.
Use wheatgrass juice.
Purchase organic wheatgrass from your nearest organic shops.
Obtain the juice from an extractor, if you have one.
If not, just pound it to get the fresh juice.
The eyes normally feel uncomfortable initially.
You likely find some wastes coming out from the eyes the next morning.
If you are confident, do it over a few nights.
My wife and I have been cleaning our eyes with wheatgrass juice for the past 2 weeks before we go to bed.
It is good to find wastes in our eyes the next morning.
Before we get into the complicated treatments and operations, it may be good to just clean our eyes naturally.
Normally, people clean their eyes with eye-drops purchased over the counters and pharmacies.
Commercial eye drops usually contain permissible level of preservatives.
We have another choice to clean the eyes naturally.
Use wheatgrass juice.
Purchase organic wheatgrass from your nearest organic shops.
Obtain the juice from an extractor, if you have one.
If not, just pound it to get the fresh juice.
The eyes normally feel uncomfortable initially.
You likely find some wastes coming out from the eyes the next morning.
If you are confident, do it over a few nights.
My wife and I have been cleaning our eyes with wheatgrass juice for the past 2 weeks before we go to bed.
It is good to find wastes in our eyes the next morning.
Saturday, October 23, 2010
Diary 203: Gout
As one is approaching 40 years of age, be careful of gout.
Gout is a condition caused by too much uric acid in the body. This causes tiny crystals of urate to form and deposit in the tissues, thereby causing inflammation, especially the joints.
The uric acid crystals can also become kidney stones and adversely affect kidney function.
Uric acid is the product of the breakdown or metabolism of purines, which are present in our cell DNA. As our body’s cells die, the chromosomes break down and release purines, which are then converted to uric acid. This uric acid is then excreted in the urine and gut.
Gout is associated with obesity, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes and dehydration.
Arthritis is the most common way gout presents.
What are the foods rich in purine?
Animal organ: liver, kidneys, brain.
Shellfish: mussels, prawns and crabs.
Beverages: beer, hard liquor.
Soft-drinks: corn-syrup based drinks.
Gout is a condition caused by too much uric acid in the body. This causes tiny crystals of urate to form and deposit in the tissues, thereby causing inflammation, especially the joints.
The uric acid crystals can also become kidney stones and adversely affect kidney function.
Uric acid is the product of the breakdown or metabolism of purines, which are present in our cell DNA. As our body’s cells die, the chromosomes break down and release purines, which are then converted to uric acid. This uric acid is then excreted in the urine and gut.
Gout is associated with obesity, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes and dehydration.
Arthritis is the most common way gout presents.
What are the foods rich in purine?
Animal organ: liver, kidneys, brain.
Shellfish: mussels, prawns and crabs.
Beverages: beer, hard liquor.
Soft-drinks: corn-syrup based drinks.
Friday, October 22, 2010
Diary 202: Toxic stress cycle
How does this happen?
It begins with the digestive system.
The food taken is not properly digested, it pass through the body in an undigested form, will be putrefied and produce toxins.
If one is constipated, more toxins travel and congest the liver via the blood vein at the intestinal wall.
The main function of the liver is to filter blood and neutralise toxic matters.
If the congested liver is unable to neutralise these toxins, it will store them in the liver.
Some toxins are recycled, i.e. passing to te kidneys, lung and skin to be excreted. Some are stored in the lymphatic tissue, heart and muscles.
If toxins are not eliminated and remain long in our body, they can lead to diseases.
It begins with the digestive system.
The food taken is not properly digested, it pass through the body in an undigested form, will be putrefied and produce toxins.
If one is constipated, more toxins travel and congest the liver via the blood vein at the intestinal wall.
The main function of the liver is to filter blood and neutralise toxic matters.
If the congested liver is unable to neutralise these toxins, it will store them in the liver.
Some toxins are recycled, i.e. passing to te kidneys, lung and skin to be excreted. Some are stored in the lymphatic tissue, heart and muscles.
If toxins are not eliminated and remain long in our body, they can lead to diseases.
Thursday, October 21, 2010
Diary 201: Invest in Health
If you have limited or extra money, what would in invest in?
Most people would choose properties, houses, shares and children’s education.
As years pass by, we find that the above are less important any more.
We are facing declining health. We are visiting the clinics and hospitals more frequently now.
What should we do now?
We need to seriously think of investing our money in health.
It does not mean purchasing a better life assurance policy.
It does not mean purchasing a health care insurance and medical card.
It does not mean investing in keeping stem cells in the medical bank.
It simply means invest in healthy foods that can help us to reclaim our health.
Yes, take health food to keep diseases and illnesses at bay.
This type of investment ensures a happier life in the days to come.
Most people would choose properties, houses, shares and children’s education.
As years pass by, we find that the above are less important any more.
We are facing declining health. We are visiting the clinics and hospitals more frequently now.
What should we do now?
We need to seriously think of investing our money in health.
It does not mean purchasing a better life assurance policy.
It does not mean purchasing a health care insurance and medical card.
It does not mean investing in keeping stem cells in the medical bank.
It simply means invest in healthy foods that can help us to reclaim our health.
Yes, take health food to keep diseases and illnesses at bay.
This type of investment ensures a happier life in the days to come.
Wednesday, October 20, 2010
Diary 200: Back Pain Treatments
What are the treatments for back pains provided by the medical specialists?
Who are these specialisits?
Doctors: Medication to ease the pain.
Physiotherapists: correct your posture or teach you exercises to strenghen your back muscles.
Chiropractors: physical therapy. Chiropractic is a health care discipline and profession that emphasizes diagnosis, treatment and prevention of mechanical disorders of the musculoskeletal system, especially the spine, under the hypothesis that these disorders affect general health via the nervous system.
Surgeons: perform spine surgery when all the above fail.
Take note of other causes of back pain: problem with work, stress, problems with family. For these causes, the solutions are different.
Who are these specialisits?
Doctors: Medication to ease the pain.
Physiotherapists: correct your posture or teach you exercises to strenghen your back muscles.
Chiropractors: physical therapy. Chiropractic is a health care discipline and profession that emphasizes diagnosis, treatment and prevention of mechanical disorders of the musculoskeletal system, especially the spine, under the hypothesis that these disorders affect general health via the nervous system.
Surgeons: perform spine surgery when all the above fail.
Take note of other causes of back pain: problem with work, stress, problems with family. For these causes, the solutions are different.
Tuesday, October 19, 2010
Diary 199: Back Pain
Back pain is often associated with the elders.
It is often considered the hall-mark of old age.
The most common cause of back pain is muscle strain.
Other causes are problems due to the wear-and-tear of the cushions (discs) in between bones of the spine.
Disc problems in the spine include degenerated disc, bulging disc, herniated disc, thinning disc and disc degenerated with osteophyte formation.
Kindly take note that back pain is not confined to the elders.
According to Dr Stefan Hellinger, a German orthopaedic spine surgeon, the ageing of the spine starts very early, as early as 18 years old.
Problems such as degenerated and herniated (or slipped) discs often occur when one has passed 30 to 40 years of age. This is when the discs – once soft and spongy – become harder.
This is also when people slowly start to fee the pain as the discs that are out of place press on the surrounding nerve, and pieces of the nerves that break away might irritate the other nerves around them.
(Lim Wey Wen, “Spine snips”, SF10, Fit4Life, Sunday Star, 10 October 2010).
It is often considered the hall-mark of old age.
The most common cause of back pain is muscle strain.
Other causes are problems due to the wear-and-tear of the cushions (discs) in between bones of the spine.
Disc problems in the spine include degenerated disc, bulging disc, herniated disc, thinning disc and disc degenerated with osteophyte formation.
Kindly take note that back pain is not confined to the elders.
According to Dr Stefan Hellinger, a German orthopaedic spine surgeon, the ageing of the spine starts very early, as early as 18 years old.
Problems such as degenerated and herniated (or slipped) discs often occur when one has passed 30 to 40 years of age. This is when the discs – once soft and spongy – become harder.
This is also when people slowly start to fee the pain as the discs that are out of place press on the surrounding nerve, and pieces of the nerves that break away might irritate the other nerves around them.
(Lim Wey Wen, “Spine snips”, SF10, Fit4Life, Sunday Star, 10 October 2010).
Monday, October 18, 2010
Diary 198: Herbs to cure cancer
Someone asked my opinion on a special herb that claimed to cure cancer.
Can a special herb cure cancer?
It all depends on what do we mean by ‘cure’.
To different people, it may mean a few months, a year or a few years.
That is why to the medical experts, a cancer patient is regarded ‘cured’ once he/she survives the 5 years line.
In reality, many cancer patients face cancer recurrence after 5 years.
How effective is that herb in curing cancer is yet to be seen. It may be helpful for some times.
I have met this lady diagnosed with breast cancer lengthening her life with all types of herbs till year 4 before passing away.
Those researching on medicinal plants will tell us that plants have varying degree of toxicity.
What type of herbs do you recommend for cancer patients?
I am dealing with people's life, I just cannot recommend which herbs are best for cancer.
Be that as it may, I am not against herbs or modern treatments. If the patient wants to go for chemo or radio, taking herbal products, we have to respect the choice and even encourage him or her if it is best for him/her.
But, I always caution them that they should know what they are taking and the physicians recommending the herbs should be professionally trained.
In the mean time, I suggest cancer patients to adjust their diet, mental, emotional, motivation, environment and human relationship that could help lengthening their life.
Health needs a holistic approach, including herbs where appropriate but certainly not herbs alone.
Can a special herb cure cancer?
It all depends on what do we mean by ‘cure’.
To different people, it may mean a few months, a year or a few years.
That is why to the medical experts, a cancer patient is regarded ‘cured’ once he/she survives the 5 years line.
In reality, many cancer patients face cancer recurrence after 5 years.
How effective is that herb in curing cancer is yet to be seen. It may be helpful for some times.
I have met this lady diagnosed with breast cancer lengthening her life with all types of herbs till year 4 before passing away.
Those researching on medicinal plants will tell us that plants have varying degree of toxicity.
What type of herbs do you recommend for cancer patients?
I am dealing with people's life, I just cannot recommend which herbs are best for cancer.
Be that as it may, I am not against herbs or modern treatments. If the patient wants to go for chemo or radio, taking herbal products, we have to respect the choice and even encourage him or her if it is best for him/her.
But, I always caution them that they should know what they are taking and the physicians recommending the herbs should be professionally trained.
In the mean time, I suggest cancer patients to adjust their diet, mental, emotional, motivation, environment and human relationship that could help lengthening their life.
Health needs a holistic approach, including herbs where appropriate but certainly not herbs alone.
Sunday, October 17, 2010
Diary 197: At the funding raising dinner
CETDEM, an environmental NGO, organised this slow food dinner on 16 October 2010.
To support the occassion, I purchased a ticket. This is the first time I paid RM200 to attend a dinner.
In the meantime, I took the opportunity to promote my health books to raise fund for CETDEM.
It was an evening where health food, based on Macrobiotic diet and planned by June Ka Lim, was served.
Many of the guests appeared to be taking non-health food normally. It was a big change for them. One of the guests told me that surprisingly the food served was nice.
The few dishes were served slowly with speeches, lucky draws, slide presentation and auction in between.
It was a great occassion to meet old and new friends.
I will network with those intested to promote healthy eating lifestyle.
Knowing that I am also a Hainanese, a lady asked whether I am taking the popular Hainan chicken rice.
No, I have given up taking chicken. I do not mind taking the rice. I am still a Hainanese.
To support the occassion, I purchased a ticket. This is the first time I paid RM200 to attend a dinner.
In the meantime, I took the opportunity to promote my health books to raise fund for CETDEM.
It was an evening where health food, based on Macrobiotic diet and planned by June Ka Lim, was served.
Many of the guests appeared to be taking non-health food normally. It was a big change for them. One of the guests told me that surprisingly the food served was nice.
The few dishes were served slowly with speeches, lucky draws, slide presentation and auction in between.
It was a great occassion to meet old and new friends.
I will network with those intested to promote healthy eating lifestyle.
Knowing that I am also a Hainanese, a lady asked whether I am taking the popular Hainan chicken rice.
No, I have given up taking chicken. I do not mind taking the rice. I am still a Hainanese.
Friday, October 15, 2010
Diary 196: Handling cancer using a holistic approach
I totally agree with this quotation that “All chronic diseases cannot be cured if the body is not detoxed first. Detoxification is the first step to take control of your health. Complete cure should encompass physical, mental, emotional and spiritual aspects of the person. This is because we all are a holistic being!”
Perhaps, the additional factors I would add are whether the cancer patient wants to live longer, his environment, and human relationship.
Yes, if cancer patients wish to live longer, he/she has to adjust their motivation, diet, physical, mental, emotional, environment and human relationship.
They may consider doing the followings.
Motivation: Strong will to live longer
: Vow to serve society
: Be a volunteer
Diet: Switch to health food, especially organic if you can afford
: Give up smoking and drinking wine/beer/carbonated drinks
: Do simple fasting by reducing food intake or fruit/vege juice fasting
Medicines/herbs: Take when necessary and when you are confident
: Know what you are taking and possible side impacts
: If you are not sure, do not take it
Physical: Detoxify body
: Inhale lots of natural oxygen, especially learning qi-gung
: Exercise daily to sweat out the accumulated toxin
Mental: Calm the mind
: Befriend with other cancer patients at Quolin qi-gung session
: Get supports from family members living together
Emotional: Reduce anger and anxiety
: Recite religious verses
: Listen to calming/religious music
Environment: Harmonious relation with others
: Stay away from polluted environment
: Help to conserve the environment
Human relationship: Resolve all conflicts
: Forgive and seek forgiveness
Perhaps, the additional factors I would add are whether the cancer patient wants to live longer, his environment, and human relationship.
Yes, if cancer patients wish to live longer, he/she has to adjust their motivation, diet, physical, mental, emotional, environment and human relationship.
They may consider doing the followings.
Motivation: Strong will to live longer
: Vow to serve society
: Be a volunteer
Diet: Switch to health food, especially organic if you can afford
: Give up smoking and drinking wine/beer/carbonated drinks
: Do simple fasting by reducing food intake or fruit/vege juice fasting
Medicines/herbs: Take when necessary and when you are confident
: Know what you are taking and possible side impacts
: If you are not sure, do not take it
Physical: Detoxify body
: Inhale lots of natural oxygen, especially learning qi-gung
: Exercise daily to sweat out the accumulated toxin
Mental: Calm the mind
: Befriend with other cancer patients at Quolin qi-gung session
: Get supports from family members living together
Emotional: Reduce anger and anxiety
: Recite religious verses
: Listen to calming/religious music
Environment: Harmonious relation with others
: Stay away from polluted environment
: Help to conserve the environment
Human relationship: Resolve all conflicts
: Forgive and seek forgiveness
Thursday, October 14, 2010
Diary 195: Helping Mother Diagnosed With Cancer
WC and her sister BY brought their 79-year old mother to visit me in the evening of 14 October 2010.
The elder looked good and in high spirit.
The sisters hesitated whether to tell their mother truth about cancer.
During the interaction with my mother-in-law, the elder came to accept that she has been diagnosed with cancer.
She needs to adjust her life.
What is her immediate wish?
She wants to visit relatives staying in Medan, Sumatra, Indonesia.
That should be given top priority.
Does she want to go for modern treatment?
No. Her decision should be respected.
She is willing to change her diet by taking more health food too.
How about canned food and over-night foods? No more.
How about her favorite chocolates? No more.
The family is willing to offer assistance to her. She decides to stay with BY to overcome her problem.
She is a brave and determined elder. With strong family support and BY’s natural healing medication, she should be able to survive the test of time.
The elder looked good and in high spirit.
The sisters hesitated whether to tell their mother truth about cancer.
During the interaction with my mother-in-law, the elder came to accept that she has been diagnosed with cancer.
She needs to adjust her life.
What is her immediate wish?
She wants to visit relatives staying in Medan, Sumatra, Indonesia.
That should be given top priority.
Does she want to go for modern treatment?
No. Her decision should be respected.
She is willing to change her diet by taking more health food too.
How about canned food and over-night foods? No more.
How about her favorite chocolates? No more.
The family is willing to offer assistance to her. She decides to stay with BY to overcome her problem.
She is a brave and determined elder. With strong family support and BY’s natural healing medication, she should be able to survive the test of time.
Wednesday, October 13, 2010
Diary 194: Spending time with your child
As parents, we need to create a harmonious family condition in the family that enable our children to grow healthily and happily.
No matter how busy we are, the most important thing to do daily is spending time with our children.
It is during this daily interaction that the children share their feelings with us.
This role is normally played by my wife with me as a supportive role.
My wife would inform me about the situation and solutions when necessary.
I provide my views to the children indirectly in appropriate occasion.
It is a learning process for me and my two children.
No matter how busy we are, the most important thing to do daily is spending time with our children.
It is during this daily interaction that the children share their feelings with us.
This role is normally played by my wife with me as a supportive role.
My wife would inform me about the situation and solutions when necessary.
I provide my views to the children indirectly in appropriate occasion.
It is a learning process for me and my two children.
Tuesday, October 12, 2010
Diary 193: Child’s health and the mind
When a child continually complains of a physical discomfort with no apparent medical reason, it is possible that the child has emotional problems that he or she is unable to cope with.
Examples of such stress among children are as follows.
Being teased or bullied at school.
Ignore by schoolmates and friends.
Do not perform well in an exam.
Unresolved family issue.
Moving to a new house or changing a new school.
Loss of a family member.
The inability to overcome stressful situations such as the above can be important causes of physical complaints.
Once the problem is identified, talked about and handled appropriately, the symptoms may abate naturally or resolve completely.
The parents play the most important role in handling such cases.
Examples of such stress among children are as follows.
Being teased or bullied at school.
Ignore by schoolmates and friends.
Do not perform well in an exam.
Unresolved family issue.
Moving to a new house or changing a new school.
Loss of a family member.
The inability to overcome stressful situations such as the above can be important causes of physical complaints.
Once the problem is identified, talked about and handled appropriately, the symptoms may abate naturally or resolve completely.
The parents play the most important role in handling such cases.
Monday, October 11, 2010
Diary 192: Body and mind connection
The body refers to the physical structure and the various organs in the body.
Modern medication is generally focussed on the physical body as the source of disease.
The other important aspect is the mind.
The mind relates to the psychological (e.g. emotion, memory, thought, perception, imagination) and intellectual aspects of our being.
“Mind” problems refer to illnesses with a psychological cause, such as anxiety and depression.
It is now increasingly realised that in treatment body and mind cannot be separated.
The body affects the mind. Constant physical discomfort or ailments such as headache can affect a person’s mood or thinking, causing him or her to become anxious or depressed.
The mind affects the body. It means feelings and emotions affect physical health. When one is under pressure, abdominal pain may increase and headache occurs. When one is afraid, the heart beats faster and body sweats profusely. This is because the state of mind signals the body to release the hormone adrenaline, which is responsible for those symptoms.
Keep the body and mind healthy, we will be healthy.
Modern medication is generally focussed on the physical body as the source of disease.
The other important aspect is the mind.
The mind relates to the psychological (e.g. emotion, memory, thought, perception, imagination) and intellectual aspects of our being.
“Mind” problems refer to illnesses with a psychological cause, such as anxiety and depression.
It is now increasingly realised that in treatment body and mind cannot be separated.
The body affects the mind. Constant physical discomfort or ailments such as headache can affect a person’s mood or thinking, causing him or her to become anxious or depressed.
The mind affects the body. It means feelings and emotions affect physical health. When one is under pressure, abdominal pain may increase and headache occurs. When one is afraid, the heart beats faster and body sweats profusely. This is because the state of mind signals the body to release the hormone adrenaline, which is responsible for those symptoms.
Keep the body and mind healthy, we will be healthy.
Sunday, October 10, 2010
Diary 191:Erectile dysfunction
This is a complaint of men above 50.
In simple words, erectile dysfunction or impotence, is the inability to achieve and maintain a food erection.
For men suffering from erectile dysfunction, their sexual lives are affected and they may also be depressed.
What would these men do to overcome erectile dysfunction?
To enhance their sexual lives with their partners, they take drugs while others take herbal medicines.
In the United States, 3 drugs are approved for the treatment of erectile dysfunction in men: Viagra, Cialis and Levitra.
The question to ask is whether there is any serious side effect of taking these drugs?
Is the claim that the adverse effects were found to be mild to moderate?
Time will tell.
To save and stay healthy, keep these drugs at a distance.
If you are in good health, you are unlikely to suffer from erectile dysfunction.
In simple words, erectile dysfunction or impotence, is the inability to achieve and maintain a food erection.
For men suffering from erectile dysfunction, their sexual lives are affected and they may also be depressed.
What would these men do to overcome erectile dysfunction?
To enhance their sexual lives with their partners, they take drugs while others take herbal medicines.
In the United States, 3 drugs are approved for the treatment of erectile dysfunction in men: Viagra, Cialis and Levitra.
The question to ask is whether there is any serious side effect of taking these drugs?
Is the claim that the adverse effects were found to be mild to moderate?
Time will tell.
To save and stay healthy, keep these drugs at a distance.
If you are in good health, you are unlikely to suffer from erectile dysfunction.
Saturday, October 9, 2010
Diary 190:Talk at Malaysian Meteorological Department
In the morning of 29 September 2010, I delivered the health talk entitled “Hidup sihat tanpa ubat”literally meaning living healthily without medicine.
Upon request, the talk was delivered in two languages, Malay and English while the power point slides were in the Malay language.
Before the talk commenced, a participant wanted to purchase my health book at a very special discount.
I told him the book price was already discounted.
He insisted to have extra discount as he wanted to be the first purchaser.
I advised him to listen to the presentation first before asking for the special discount.
He insisted for that special discount claiming that that is how Chinese deals in business.
I gave in even though I am not in business. Promoting the books concerns life, not business.
After the health talk and question & answer session, he passed me an additional RM5 saying that he should pay the discounted price just like other people for such a wonderful talk.
It was a smiling session for all.
Upon request, the talk was delivered in two languages, Malay and English while the power point slides were in the Malay language.
Before the talk commenced, a participant wanted to purchase my health book at a very special discount.
I told him the book price was already discounted.
He insisted to have extra discount as he wanted to be the first purchaser.
I advised him to listen to the presentation first before asking for the special discount.
He insisted for that special discount claiming that that is how Chinese deals in business.
I gave in even though I am not in business. Promoting the books concerns life, not business.
After the health talk and question & answer session, he passed me an additional RM5 saying that he should pay the discounted price just like other people for such a wonderful talk.
It was a smiling session for all.
Friday, October 8, 2010
Diary 189: Program to reduce body weight
8 October 2010 is a historical day for FRIM, my work place.
As an effort to reduce body weight, about 20 staff members registered to participate in a special 3-month losing weight program organised by FRIM Club.
FRIM is probably among the few government agencies that take action to assist body weight reduction among the staff.
Within these 3 months, the focus is on 2 aspects.
First, adjust daily diet. For this purpose, I presented factors affecting obesity and how to reduce body weight in next 3 months.
Second, exercise. The participants will guided by trainers to do regular exercise of about 3 to 6 hours a week.
These are the enthusiastic peoples wishing to reduce body weight.
Their wish is likely to come true, I believe.
As an effort to reduce body weight, about 20 staff members registered to participate in a special 3-month losing weight program organised by FRIM Club.
FRIM is probably among the few government agencies that take action to assist body weight reduction among the staff.
Within these 3 months, the focus is on 2 aspects.
First, adjust daily diet. For this purpose, I presented factors affecting obesity and how to reduce body weight in next 3 months.
Second, exercise. The participants will guided by trainers to do regular exercise of about 3 to 6 hours a week.
These are the enthusiastic peoples wishing to reduce body weight.
Their wish is likely to come true, I believe.
Thursday, October 7, 2010
Diary 188: Other benefits of apple cider vinegar
Yes, this apple cider vinegar (ACV) is a wonderful drink.
Helps to improve digestion and assimilation.
Remove body toxin.
Flush out stony deposits.
Fights gallstones and kidney stones.
Fights arthritis and gout.
Keeps blood in right consistency and in low alkaline.
Brings down blood pressure and blood sugar level.
Rich in enzymes and potassium.
Note: choose organically certified ACV.
Helps to improve digestion and assimilation.
Remove body toxin.
Flush out stony deposits.
Fights gallstones and kidney stones.
Fights arthritis and gout.
Keeps blood in right consistency and in low alkaline.
Brings down blood pressure and blood sugar level.
Rich in enzymes and potassium.
Note: choose organically certified ACV.
Wednesday, October 6, 2010
Diary 187: Taking apple cider vinegar to reduce weight
What is so special about this apple cider vinegar (ACV)?
It helps to reduce obesity.
How?
Take this drink 3 times daily.
Mix two tablespoons of ACV with one or two tablespoons of raw honey in a glass of water.
It helps to reduce obesity.
How?
Take this drink 3 times daily.
Mix two tablespoons of ACV with one or two tablespoons of raw honey in a glass of water.
Tuesday, October 5, 2010
Diary 186: Diet for a healthy heart
What should we take to maintain a healthy heart?
Wholegrain cereals such as brown rice, oats, wholewheat bread and pasta, millet, buckwheat, barley.
Leafy vegetables, green salads, broccoli, zucchini, onions, Chinese greens,cabbage (red and white), potato, pumpkin, sweet potato.
Sea vegetables (an excellent source of minerals) such as nori, arame, wakame
Legumes (an excellent source of fibre and protein) such as lentils, kidney beans, haricot beans, adzuki beans, chickpeas.
Fresh fruits.
When we take the above foods, not only our heart is healthy. We should be in good health.
Isn’t it wonderful?
Wholegrain cereals such as brown rice, oats, wholewheat bread and pasta, millet, buckwheat, barley.
Leafy vegetables, green salads, broccoli, zucchini, onions, Chinese greens,cabbage (red and white), potato, pumpkin, sweet potato.
Sea vegetables (an excellent source of minerals) such as nori, arame, wakame
Legumes (an excellent source of fibre and protein) such as lentils, kidney beans, haricot beans, adzuki beans, chickpeas.
Fresh fruits.
When we take the above foods, not only our heart is healthy. We should be in good health.
Isn’t it wonderful?
Monday, October 4, 2010
Diary 185: Lessons learnt from the passing away
There is a lot to learn and think about if we observe phenomena occurring in daily life.
Take the case of Mdm Kwa Geok Choo, aged 89, who passed away on 2 October 2010. She is the wife of Singapore’s first prime minister, Mr Lee Kuan Yew.
A stroke in 2003 had left her frail, with weakened peripheral vision. But, she continued to be active, accompanying her husband on numerous official local and overseas functions.
She suffered another 2 strokes in 2008 which left her unable to walk and speak.
She had been bedridden for over 2 years, unable to speak or move.
It was a tough time for her and the husband. Lee said that his wife’s illness was one of the hardest things for him to face.
She was a “tower of strength” to her husband and family, emotionally and intellectually.
He loves his wife. He talked to her nightly. He told her about his day’s work, read her favourite poems. He told her that he would try and keep her company as long as he could. He also said:”I’m not sure who’s going first, whether she or me.”
All these touched my heart.
What have I learnt from this incident?
First, take care of our health.
Second, love can keep life going.
Third, our number 1 supporter in life is our spouse. Love and care for each other.
Take the case of Mdm Kwa Geok Choo, aged 89, who passed away on 2 October 2010. She is the wife of Singapore’s first prime minister, Mr Lee Kuan Yew.
A stroke in 2003 had left her frail, with weakened peripheral vision. But, she continued to be active, accompanying her husband on numerous official local and overseas functions.
She suffered another 2 strokes in 2008 which left her unable to walk and speak.
She had been bedridden for over 2 years, unable to speak or move.
It was a tough time for her and the husband. Lee said that his wife’s illness was one of the hardest things for him to face.
She was a “tower of strength” to her husband and family, emotionally and intellectually.
He loves his wife. He talked to her nightly. He told her about his day’s work, read her favourite poems. He told her that he would try and keep her company as long as he could. He also said:”I’m not sure who’s going first, whether she or me.”
All these touched my heart.
What have I learnt from this incident?
First, take care of our health.
Second, love can keep life going.
Third, our number 1 supporter in life is our spouse. Love and care for each other.
Sunday, October 3, 2010
Diary 184: Have a healthy heart
26 September is World Heart Day.
Is your heart healthy?
It has a lot to do with the your diet.
It is important to know the main risk factors for cardiovascular or heart disease.
What are there?
Obesity.
High blood pressure.
Diabetes.
Smoking.
Elevated blood cholesterol and triglycerides.
Physical inactivity.
Is your heart healthy?
It has a lot to do with the your diet.
It is important to know the main risk factors for cardiovascular or heart disease.
What are there?
Obesity.
High blood pressure.
Diabetes.
Smoking.
Elevated blood cholesterol and triglycerides.
Physical inactivity.
Saturday, October 2, 2010
Diary 183: Interacting with cancer patient and family members
This family members brought their parents to visit me in the evening of 27 Sept 2010.
They brought a basket of fruits, a small surprise for me. Normally, I do not expect anything from visitors.
The71-year old father was dignosed with prostate cancer. He did not speak much even though I encouraged him to do so. His sons and daughter-in-law did the talking.
We exchanged views on various aspects of cancer and its treatment. My role is to exchange health informaton. The decision is theirs.
The good news is the family members are willing to assist their parents and themselves to reclaim good health.
This is a good sign.
If a cancer patient has the will power to adjust his diet and his way of life, he/she has a great chance of living a longer life.
The same thing applies to the other family members who are not in good health.
They brought a basket of fruits, a small surprise for me. Normally, I do not expect anything from visitors.
The71-year old father was dignosed with prostate cancer. He did not speak much even though I encouraged him to do so. His sons and daughter-in-law did the talking.
We exchanged views on various aspects of cancer and its treatment. My role is to exchange health informaton. The decision is theirs.
The good news is the family members are willing to assist their parents and themselves to reclaim good health.
This is a good sign.
If a cancer patient has the will power to adjust his diet and his way of life, he/she has a great chance of living a longer life.
The same thing applies to the other family members who are not in good health.
Friday, October 1, 2010
Diary 182: Vitamin B Complex
Vitamin B complex is a group of vitamins essential for optimum metabolism.
It includes thiamine, ribofavin, niacin, B6, folate, B12, panthothenic acid, biotin and choline.
This category of vitamins ensures the proper function of many systems of the human body.
It is required to convert carbohydrates into glucose, which is then used by the cells aa energy. This mechanism is commonly known as metabolism.
Vitamin is micro-nutrient where we just need a little daily.
What is the best source of Vitamin B complex?
Fresh fruits and vegetables.
It includes thiamine, ribofavin, niacin, B6, folate, B12, panthothenic acid, biotin and choline.
This category of vitamins ensures the proper function of many systems of the human body.
It is required to convert carbohydrates into glucose, which is then used by the cells aa energy. This mechanism is commonly known as metabolism.
Vitamin is micro-nutrient where we just need a little daily.
What is the best source of Vitamin B complex?
Fresh fruits and vegetables.
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