Wednesday, June 17, 2015

Parents Must Read: 10 childhood illnesses to look out for



People with compromised immune systems like pregnant women, newborn babies and the sick can be seriously affected by chickenpox.
How does it spread? – This very infectious disease spreads through direct contact. The virus could also spread when an infected person coughs or sneezes, or when you touch the fluid in the chickenpox blisters.
The scabs of the blisters are not considered infectious.
Incubation/ infectious period – The most infectious period is 1 or 2 days before the blisters appear until a week or so after they have dried up. Once infected it would take 10 to 20 days for symptoms to appear.
First signs and symptoms – Children will usually feel sick and have a fever. Sometimes a cough, sore throat, loss of appetite and a headache may be present. The red spots will appear 1 to 2 days after the onset of fever.
Preventive measures – The best way of preventing chickenpox is to get vaccinated.
References
What is it? – Croup is a viral infection of the respiratory tract that usually occurs as part of a cold. The infection causes the vocal cords to swell, resulting in a hoarse voice and the disease's distinguishing symptom, which is a low raspy ‘barking’ cough.
How does it spread? – Croup is contagious and will spread by close contact and touch. Germs can spread when an infected person coughs and sneezes.
Incubation/ infectious period – Croup could last 5 to 6 days and those having croup or a cold associated with it will be infectious within this period.
First signs and symptoms – A cold which will progress to the ‘barking’ cough which will be worse at night, a low, raspy voice and slight difficulty in breathing when coughing.
Preventive measures – Limiting contact with those who are infected and regular sanitising and washing of hands can help prevent the spread of croup.
References:

How does it spread? – You can get infected with E. Coli by consuming contaminated food (undercooked food, unpasteurised milk, fresh produce, and unhygienic preparation of food), water contaminated with animal or human faeces and through personal contact.
People with compromised immunity such a pregnant mothers, young children and the sick are especially susceptible to this.
Incubation/ infectious period – Symptoms start 3 to 4 days after contact with E. Coli and the symptoms could last up to a week.
First signs and symptoms – Diarrhoea with blood, stomach cramps, nausea and vomiting.
Preventive measures – Washing hands properly after using the toilet and not consuming undercooked meat if you have a compromised immune system will help prevent you from getting an E. Coli infection. Of course, staying away from someone who has the infection will help as well.
References:
The Haemophillus influenza bacterium has 6 different types (from A to F), with type B being the most deadly. Hib is one of the main causes of meningitis in children.
How does it spread? – Hib can be transmitted through droplets when an infected person coughs and sneezes.
Incubation/ infectious period – When a child is diagnosed with Hib through a blood test, they will most probably need hospitalisation.
First signs and symptoms – Hib causes several problems once the infection gets into the blood stream and spreads into the lungs and brain. Fever, decreased alertness, breathing problems, joint pains and stiff neck are initial symptoms of this infection.
Preventive measures – Hib is completely preventable though vaccination.
References:

How does it spread? – HFMD can be spread though sneezing, coughing and through the faeces of an infected person. The liquid inside the blisters also spread the disease.
Incubation/ infectious period – As this is highly contagious, school-going children with HFMD should be kept at home until the blisters dry up and their doctor gives them the green light to return to school.
First signs and symptoms – Sore throat, fever, blisters in the mouth and throat, hands, feet, and sometimes on their buttocks. Headaches, vomiting, diarrhoea and loss of appetite could also be present.
Preventive measures – Washing hands with soap before eating, washing hands thoroughly after using the toilet and avoiding contact with those infected.
References:

The inflammation of the liver can occur due to consuming food contaminated with faeces (especially undercooked seafood found in contaminated water), or due to a viral infection.
How does it spread? – The main way Hepatitis A spreads is through ingestion of faeces of an infected person. When people eat and drink contaminated food and water they can contract hepatitis A.
If the faeces of a child who has hepatitis A get on toys at a daycare or play centre, other children who touch it and put their hands in their mouths can get it as well.
Incubation/ infectious period – If the hepatitis A virus enters the system it may take 2 to 3 weeks for symptoms to be visible, and a few weeks thereafter for total recovery.
First signs and symptoms – Loss of appetite, nausea, tiredness, weight loss, abdominal pain, fever, jaundice, discoloured urine and stools.
Preventive measures – Hepatitis A can be prevented though a vaccination.
References:

What is it? – Influenza, better known as the flu, is a highly contagious viral infection of the respiratory system. Those with compromised immune systems such as very young children, older people, pregnant mothers and the sick are more prone to complications of the flu.
How does it spread? – Coughing, sneezing, contact with infected saliva or through touching something touched by an infected person then touching your mouth, nose or eyes.
Incubation/ infectious period – Adults can be infectious 1 to 2 days before the onset of symptoms and 5 to 7 days thereafter. Those with compromised immune systems will be infectious for a longer period of time.
First signs and symptoms – Cold–like symptoms such as runny nose and sore throat, fever, head and body aches and tiredness. In rare cases diarrhoea and vomiting may be present.
Preventive measures – For a generally healthy child or adult, following safety measures such as regularly washing your hands with soap and water or sanitising your hands.
Covering your mouth when coughing or sneezing, wearing a surgical mask if you are with someone who has the flu, and not sending children with the flu to school will help prevent the virus from spreading.
Those with compromised immune systems, may consider the flu shot.
References:

Young children, teens and those with weakened immune systems are more prone to getting meningitis. Viral meningitis is more common and less severe than bacterial meningitis.
How does it spread? – Meningitis is contagious and can be passed on through coughing, sneezing and sometimes touching surfaces that have been touched by infected people.
Infectious period – Meningitis could last for almost 2 weeks and persons infected would be infectious during this time.
First signs and symptoms – Fever, stiff and painful neck, drowsiness, low alertness, headache, vomiting. Younger children may have flu-like symptoms and have shortness of breath. Babies may develop a rash and be grumpy.
Preventive measures – Talk to your child’s doctor about Hib, Meningococcal and pneumococcal vaccinations.
References:

What is it? – Mumps is a viral infection that causes painful swelling in the parotid glands, i.e. the glands that produce saliva.
Most often mumps goes away by itself but in some cases complications could arise in the form of meningitis, pancreatitis, or infections in the testicles or ovaries.
How does it spread? – Mumps is highly contagious and can be spread through direct contact or when an infected person coughs or sneezes.
Incubation/ infectious period – The incubation period is 2 to 3 weeks, and the infectious period is 7 days before and 9 days after symptoms appear.
First signs and symptoms – Fever, swelling of jaw and cheeks, pain in the jaw, headache, earache, sore throat, pain when opening the mouth, tiredness, loss of appetite, and in some cases vomiting.
Preventive measures – Mumps is completely preventable through vaccination. The mumps vaccine is routinely given in the MMR vaccine that includes measles and rubella.
References:

The pink eye comes from the infection of the conjunctiva, the transparent membrane that lines the eyeball.
How does it spread? – Conjunctivitis is highly contagious and could spread through direct contact and touch.
Infectious period – As long as the infected person’s eye is pink and there is a discharge, they could be infectious.
First signs and symptoms – Excess tearing from one or both eyes, a white or yellow discharge, itchiness and redness, an uncomfortable gritty sensation in the eye, sensitivity to light, burning sensation and blurred vision.
Preventive measures – The only way to prevent conjunctivitis is to follow good hygiene. Wash hands regularly with soap and water and avoid touching and rubbing your eyes even when they're itchy.
References:

Extracted from:
http://sg.theasianparent.com/10-childhood-illnesses-look/

After reading the above, you will realise that usually most of the above infections are caused by either viruses or bacteria. Infection occurs when the children's immune system is compromised.  For example, you may have noticed that some kids/ adults are more prone to catching a cold/ fever/ HFMD than others. This is because of their immune system is weaker. 

Do you know that despite there are differences between bacteria or viruses, they share common characteristics:

They are determined, adaptable and ready to strike at any moment. 


Understanding medicine bring side effects and besides vaccine and limited drugs, there is very little modern medicine can offer as protection.

The best solution is to avoid these microorganisms all together but this is certainly impossible. 

The only other alternative is to maintain a healthy immune system. The Human immune system is very complex and effective because it is also evolving to catch up with ever-changing microorganisms. 

Clearly, the health of immune system depends largely on what our children eat and their lifestyle choice. 

Immune system requires nutrition that comes from wholesome plant foods. 

Superfoods are the plant foods that contain disease-fighting nutrition for the immune system, which are Phytochemicals, antioxidant and polysaccharide. 

Do ensure we include these disease-fighting nutrients on our children's daily diet to enhance their immune system. 

Superfoods rich in

1. Phytochemical: Cactus, Soy Bean

2. Antioxidant: Ginseng Berry, Rose, Blueberries, Grape Seed 

3. Polysaccharides: ABM mushroom, Shitake Mushroom, Maitake Mushroom, Kumazasa 


Shared,
Joselyne
90909942

Monday, June 15, 2015

SUPERFOODS for your Heart and Liver

How can we prevent from getting stroke and heart attack?

By maintaing a healthy diet (consume more plant foods) and healthy lifestyle 


PLANT FOODS that help promoting HEART and LIVER health:

1. SOY BEAN:

1. Rich in phytosterols, zero cholesterols, low calories
Help lower LDL (bad) cholesterols and increase HDL (good) cholesterols, thereby promoting heart health. 

Why phytosterols?

To compete with Cholesterol to be incorporated into mixed micelles (mixture of bile salts, lipids, sterols formed in the small intestines)
Phytosterols have a greater affinity for micelles than cholesterols, causing the cholesterols to be excluded from the absorption process.

2. Research shows that an unhealthy diet high in SODIUM and low in POTASSIUM may lead to high blood pressure and atherosclerosis, both of which are main risk of STROKE. 

Soy rich in potassium, which helps the body to get rid of excess sodium, thus lowering the risk of stroke. 

2. PSYLLIUM HUSK:

1. Rich source of phytosterols like beta-sitosterol and stigma sterol. Studies have shown that psyllium husk can lower total and LDL cholesterol, helping to reduce heart disease risk. 

2. High fiber content aid weight management. The dietary fiber can help lower total cholesterol levels in the body too. The soluble fiber (form a gel-like substance on intestine) helps lower blood cholesterol levels by slowing down the absorption of cholesterol through small intestine. it helps clear away LDL cholesterol. 

** important to note that fiber will NOT inhibit the absorption of vitamins and minerals. On the contrary, it enhances the absorption of minerals. 

The human body requires around 20-35g of dietary fiber daily for sufficient nourishment. 

For reference:
Apple with skin = 2.8g only. 

Per 100 g food
Pysllium Husk = 78 g fiber 
Chia Seed = 38 g fiber
Oat = 11 g fiber
Whole wheat bread = 7 g fiber
Broccoli = 3 g fiber
Orange = 2 g fiber 
Banana = 2 g fiber 
Strawberry = 2 g fiber
White Rice (Cooked) = 0 g fiber

3. CACTUS, CACTUS FRUITS, GINSENG BERRY, GRAPE SEED, ROSE and SEAWEED:

Cactus/ Cactus Fruits: 
1. High anti-inflamation properties helps to reduce inflammation in the blood vessel. 

2.Contain proline and taurine. Proline aids in collagen formation, atherosclerosis prevention, and tissue repair. Taurine helps to combat heart disease, protect against diabetes, lower high blood pressure and decrease anxiety. 

3. Cactus extract helps to decrease cholesterol and triglycerides level, reduce LDL (bad) cholesterols, prevent high blood sugar level, stabilise diabetics' blood sugar level, promote cardiovascular health. 

Ginseng Berry:

1. Ginseny berry is considered a tonic for the blood. It can lower the blood pressure to normal levels and even reduce cholesterols.

2. Contain Ginsenosides - 4 times higher amount than the ginseng root. Enhance blood circulation therefore more efficient transport of oxygen and nutrients to the body organs from the heart. 

Grape Seed:

1. High antioxidant properties due to OPC content - antioxidant activity is 20 times higher than Vitamin C and 50 times higher than Vitamin E. Helps in inhibiting oxidative DNA damage. Oxidation is one of the MAIN causes of various diseases. The OPCs in grape seed can help to enhance DNA's ability to repair itself. 

It improves blood circulation by strengthening the blood vessels. 

Rose:
1. Rose has been used over the centuries to improve blood circulation

2. It enhances collagen production which is important for blood vessel elasticity. 

3. It strengthen the immune system by regulating and balancing it from giving inflammation. 

Seaweed:
1. Helps to stimulate collagen formation and cellular turnover (cell regeneration). Collagen is important to maintain elasticity of our blood vessel to prevent from getting stroke. 

2. It helps to prevent blood clotting, therefore promote healthier flow in the circulatory system. 

4. ASHITABA

1. It helps alleviate high blood cholesterol level

2. Contain chlorophyl that is excellent in cleansing the blood and liver. It also promotes the growth of good bacteria in the intestine. 

3. Contain flavonoids which have been linked to a reduced risk of cancer, heart diseases, asthma and stroke. 

4. Helps to regulate blood glucose level.

5. It inhibits histamine release, thereby preventing any allergic reaction.

6. Helps to promote bone formation and increase bone mass. 

7. Contain chalcones that stimulate Nerve Growth Factor which can alleviate Alzheimer's disease potentially. 

5. KUMAZASA

1. Has an excellent cleansing effect on the blood, thereby lowering blood pressure. 

2. Contain polysaccharides that can reduce excess cholesterol in blood vessels, help regain vitality and elasticity of the blood vessel, protecting against atherosclerosis. 

3. Its lignin has cleansing effect on the liver, enhancing liver filtering function. 


As a Convenience, you can get the above SUPERFOODS from the below wholesome food products. 

1. Oxyginberry Beverage/ Capsules 

Made of Cactus,Cactus Fruits, GinsengBerry, Grape Seed, Rose and Seaweed




2. 1-Shape

Made of Soy Bean, Psyllium Husk, American Ginseng and Fruits and Vegetables


3. Orchestra 

Made of Kumazasa and Ashitaba


All the above wholesome plant food products are formulated based on Science of Nutritional Immunology. 

Science of Nutritional Immunology studies the link between foods and immune system, and it's pioneered by Dr Jau-Fei Chen, who is the world-renowned Nutritional Immunologist from US. 

When we select the superfoods in the Oxyginberry, 1-Shape and Orchestra, a few criteria are being taken care of too 

1. Species
Ginseng berry we used are harvested from american ginseng and Ji Lin ginseng, and not korean ginseng.   

Korean ginseng is not suitable for daily consumption due to its heaty nature.
However American ginseng and Ji Lin ginseng are food grade which can be taken by all.  

2. Part


We use the grape seeds from the grapes as the seeds have the highest antioxidant level compared to the meat and the skin. 

For Ashitaba, only the sap from the cross-sectional stem are being collected as it contains highest nutrients. 

For Soy Bean, the skin and the seed are being removed as they contains mild toxins. 

3. Harvesting time 

Cactus and Cactus Fruits need to be harvested after 10 years growth to ensure high nutrition values. 

4, Food Synergy

Different combination of superfoods create the SYNERGISED food, which can be consumed daily by all, for a great health benefit. 


Third, Food Safety of Oxyginberry Beverage
  • Organic (free of pesticides) and non-genetically modified plant ingredients.
  • Free of preservatives, synthetic minerals.
  • Tested and free of heavy metals such as mercury, copper, lead, arsenic, and cadmium.
  • Tested and free of at least 1822 toxins including narcotics, steroid drugs, banned drugs like Fenfluramine and human growth hormones.
  • Received "Food Safety Excellence Award" from Singapore AVA for consecutive 14 years since 2004.
  • The E.Excel food manufacturing plants are GMP-regulated. 
The below are the certificates received from AVA:


Therefore, you can rest assure to consume it. Food safety has been the branding of E.Excel. 


For more info, kindly contact me at +65-9090 9942. Thanks =) 




Health is the BEST ASSET you have
Safeguard now before Health becomes your liability


Best Regards, 
Joselyne 
Nutritional Immunology Consultant
+65-90909942
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Friday, May 8, 2015

Be a wise consumer - Read ingredient label

Recently, I saw a post in FB from a friend which shared that after taking a joint (glucosamine) supplement of a particular brand, the joint pain improved a lot, means not as painful as before. 

I was very curious, hence googled to search some information about it! 

The below is the info I obtained about this glucosamine supplements:


I decided to search more info about what boswellic acid which the company claimed to improve joint functions in 7 days! 

That's amazing isn't it? 

To my surprise, this is what I found:

Boswellia, also known as Indian Frankincense, is an herbal extract taken from the Boswellia serrata tree.
Resin made from boswellia extract has been used for centuries in Asian and African folk medicine to treat chronic inflammatory illnesses, as well as a number of other health conditions. It is available as a resin, pill, or cream.
Studies show that boswellia may reduce inflammation and may be useful in treating:
  • osteoarthritis
  • rheumatoid arthritis (RA)
  • asthma
  • inflammatory bowel disease
Besides being an effective anti-inflammatory, boswellia can be an effective painkiller and may prevent the loss of cartilage. Some studies have found that it may even be useful in treating certain cancers, such as leukemia and breast cancer.
Boswellia may interact with and decrease the effects of anti-inflammatories like ibuprofen and other medications. Talk to your doctor before using boswellia products, especially if you’re taking other medications to treat inflammation.
Important: Boswellia may be an emmenagogue and abortificient. This means it can stimulate menstruation and induce miscarriage by increasing blood flow in the uterus. Pregnant women are advised to avoid this herb.
Source:
http://www.healthline.com/health/boswellia
After reading the above, boswellic acid can be chemically extracted from the boswellia herb. No doubt it has good anti-inflammation properties.

HOWEVER, what I also saw is the side effects from using the acid. It acts as a painkiller too. And interact with other medications and can induce miscarriage among pregnant ladies. 

I was thinking that's the reason why my friend has less pain in her joint after taking the supplement as it has pain killer effect. 

So what if she stops taking the supplement, will the pain come back? Probably yes...

What we are more worrying is the long term consumption of this glucosamine supplement will endanger a person's health:

Why? 

1. Boswellic acid a not natural plant, it has become some form of chemical as it's chemically extracted out, no longer wholesome. 

2. What if the person taking medicine for eg ibuprofen that treat her inflammation and at the same time taking this supplement too? chemical interaction which leads to serious side effects.

3. Since it's a chemical form, it causes side effects especially on liver and kidney when consuming on long term. 

4. For Glucosamine and chondroitin supplements which either come from crab shells/ shrimp shells/ made in laboratory - chemically synthesized, it will give side effects such as leading to diabetes problems as these ingredients will cause the pancreatic cells to die off.

Read below for more details:
http://healthywholesomefood.blogspot.sg/2013/08/glucosamine-supplements-safety-concern.html

5. The claim stating the product's effectiveness to be seen within 7 days has not been evaluated by US FDA. 

So, we must be a wise consumer to always learn to read the ingredient labels.

Some unsafe ingredients may be hidden without being marketed out for consumers' information, instead the company will over exaggerate on the effectiveness to catch consumer's attention. 



Best regards,
Joselyne

Thursday, April 9, 2015

Looking for ways to reduce wrinkles? Here's Youth RejunevatorSpecialist!

Thanks for the testimonials shared by the below users of Youth Rejuvenator Specialist! :)  

Can you spot any difference after applying YRS in 90 seconds? 








The magic of YRS in helping in reducing wrinkles instantly without having side effects of harmful chemicals!




Introduction:
Containing perfluorocarbons (PFCs) and Oxyginberry Complex®, Youth Rejuvenator Specialist helps skin to look smoother and softer. Feel confident with a youthful-looking complexion.
 
Texture: Lotion
Suitable for: Adults / All skin types. Especially suitable for skin with fine lines and wrinkles. 

Directions: After makeup removal and facial cleansing, gently pat a suitable amount ofOxyginberry Essence onto entire face and neck. Next, gently massage a suitable amount of Youth Rejuvenator Specialist onto skin until fully absorbed. For optimal results, wait one minute for Youth Rejuvenator Specialist to be fully absorbed into the skin before using other products. 
 


PM me at 90909942 if you have any queries.


Warmest Regards,
Joselyne