Health Articles

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Fruit juice: Is it really good for us?

To answer this, it really is a very tricky one. There are always two sides to a story when it comes to this. One believes that juicing is unhealthy than eating whole fruits due to the loss of fibre throughout the process, which makes fructose (sugar in fruit) absorb even quicker as compared to when it is combined with fibre, thus making it less healthy (1).

 

Another belief is that juicing is better than eating whole fruits and vegetables because the body can absorb them better and let the digestive tract rest from digesting fibre. If one considers blending fruit, that is even better since the edible fibre in it makes us feel full, so it promotes satiety (1).

 

 

 

So should we consider juicing, blending, or just eating raw fruits and vegetables?

 

Three longitudinal prospective cohort studies found that greater consumption of fruits such as blueberries, grapes, apples, bananas, and grapefruit reduced the risk of type 2 diabetes, while greater consumption of fruit juice was associated with an increased risk of type 2 diabetes (2).

 

When fruit is squeezed for its juice, what is left inside is basically sugar, vitamins, and antioxidants such as carotenoids, etc.; thus, it is healthier in this aspect as compared to frizzy drinks (3). However, the amount of sugar inside both of these drinks is about the same, which is about 20–26 g of sugar per cup (3).

 

The reason why fruit juice contains a higher sugar content as compared to fresh fruit even when it is 100% fruit juice without the addition of anything else is because, for example, in order to make 250 ml of orange juice, two medium-sized oranges are needed, and that is only 250 ml. Since when it is in liquid form, people tend to consume it even more, thus more fruits are needed. As the number of fruits increases, so does the sugar in them, but not the fibre inside, which in turn makes them have loads of sugar (1, 3, 4, 7, 8).

 

According to the Singapore Health Promotion Board, many people may think that naturally occurring sugar is healthier than added sugar, but actually there is no chemical difference between the two, and they have the same impact on blood sugar levels when ingested (8).

 

The same case goes to smoothies, not only because they have a lot of sugar from a large number of fruits, but also because various protein-based foods like yoghurt, milk, almond milk, etc. that are mixed together with them will increase their calories as well (4).

 

The high sugar levels in both of these drinks make them high-calorie beverages and thus pose the same effect as high-calorie food, which can lead to weight gain. As we know, Malaysia is the fattest country in Southeast Asia, and one of the contributing factors is a lack of knowledge on what can increase weight and what cannot.

 

 

 

Weight gain is linked to many health problems, such as heart diseases, metabolic syndrome, cancer, bone and joint problems, kidney problems, etc. (3).

 

A study on the composition of grapefruits with different methods of household processing also found out that the composition of antioxidants in blended grapefruit has a higher concentration of the beneficial compound as compared to juicing or hand squeezing (5).

 

However, as for the absorption of beta carotene, a study found that fruit and vegetable juice makes beta carotene absorb better as compared to blending or eating raw fruit. This is due to the fact that fibre hinders the absorption of beta-carotene (6).

 

The takeaway message

 

Eating raw fruit, juicing, and blending all have their pros and cons. What is important is to always take into account the amount of sugar and fibre content. All in all, make sure that you have a balanced, nutritious, and moderate diet as suggested by the Ministry of Health: eat 3 servings of vegetables per day and 2 servings of fruits per day. Vary the way vegetables and fruit are cooked or served and eat them in moderation.

 

References

 

 

  1. Mayo Clinic. https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/nutrition-and-healthy-eating/expert-answers/juicing/faq-20058020

  2. MurakiIsao, ImamuraFumiaki, Manson JoAnn E, Hu Frank B, Willett Walter C, van Dam Rob M et al. Fruit consumption and risk of type 2 diabetes: results from three prospective longitudinal cohort studies BMJ 2013; 347 :f5001. https://www.bmj.com/content/347/bmj.f5001

  3. Healthline (n.d). Is Fruit Juice is as Unhealthy as Sugary Soda? https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/fruit-juice-vs-soda#sugar-content

  4. Healthline (n.d). Juicing vs Blending: Which one is better for me? https://www.healthline.com/health/food-nutrition/juicing-vs-blending

  5. Ram M Uckoo1Guddadarangavvanahally K JayaprakashaV M BalasubramaniamBhimanagouda S Patil. Grapefruit (Citrus Paradisi Macfad) Phytochemicals Composition Is Modulated by Household Processing Techniques.

  6. Julia K Kolodziejczyk1Shirley W FlattLoki NatarajanRuth PattersonJohn P PierceGregory J Norman. Associations of Soluble Fiber, Whole Fruits/Vegetables, and Juice With Plasma Beta-carotene Concentrations in a Free-Living Population of Breast Cancer Survivors. Women Health 52(8). DOI: 10.1080/03630242.2012.728189

  7. How many orange does it take to make a cup of orange juice? (n.d). https://www.eatdifferentrd.com/blog/2016/8/12/how-many-oranges-does-it-take-to-make-a-cup-of-oj

  8. Chanel News Asia (CNA) International (2019). That cup of fresh fruit juice could contain as much sugar as a soft drink. https://www.channelnewsasia.com/news/singapore/fruit-juice-sugar-diabetes-health-risks-soft-drink-11708652

 

Unveiling the truth about salt and your health

We're talking about something that might not seem like a big deal, but it's hiding in our food and affecting our health - salt. You know, the stuff we sprinkle on our fries? It's causing some trouble, and here's how.

Changing Eating Habits: What's Going On?

As our cities grow and change, so does our food. We're eating more and more processed foods that are easy to grab on the go. This change in what we eat is causing problems with our health. We're not getting the good stuff we need, like nutrients, from our food. Instead, we're loading up on things like fats, sugars, and salt. These are the things that make our food taste good but aren't always good for our bodies.

Too Much Salt: A Sneaky Problem

Did you know that too much salt can be bad for us? We're not just talking about the salt we shake onto our food. It's hiding in lots of other foods too, like instant noodles, snacks, sausages, and more. Eating too much salt can mess with our health, especially our blood pressure. And high blood pressure isn't a good thing – it can lead to heart problems and even stroke.
 

Who's Most Affected?

Different groups of people can be affected by too much salt. In some places, like Malaysia, the traditional foods we love can be really salty. This can lead to problems like high blood pressure. For example, Malays are more likely to have high blood pressure than Chinese folks. It's because their traditional foods often have lots of salt.

What Can We Do About It?

Cutting back on salt doesn't mean our food has to be boring. Here are some simple tips:

  • Fresh is Best: Try to eat more fresh fruits and vegetables. These are good for us and have less salt.

  • Check Labels: When you're buying packaged food, look at the labels. They'll tell you how much salt is inside. Choose foods with less salt.

  • Spice it Up: Use herbs and spices to make your food taste great without adding too much salt. Things like garlic, onions, and lemongrass can be awesome flavor boosters.

  • Cook at Home: Try making your own meals at home. This way, you can control how much salt goes into your food.

  • Less Fast Food: Eating out a lot can mean more salt in your diet. Try to eat out less and cook at home more often.

  • Go Slow: Don't cut out all the salt at once. Your taste buds need time to adjust. Gradually use less salt in your cooking and you might not even miss it.

 


 

Salt Myths Busted:

  • Sweating Doesn't Mean More Salt: Hot day? You might think you need more salt. Nope, just drink more water.

  • Sea Salt vs. Regular Salt: It doesn't matter where the salt comes from – it's the sodium in it that can be a problem.

  • Taste Can Be Tricky: Sometimes, salty foods don't even taste salty. Read labels to know for sure.

  • Age Doesn't Matter: Too much salt is bad for everyone, young or old.

The Takeaway:

Salt might make food taste great, but too much isn't so great for our health. Let's be mindful of how much salt we're eating, read labels, cook more at home, and enjoy the flavors of fresh foods. Your body will thank you for it, and your taste buds might even adjust to the new, healthier flavors.



 

References

 

  1. Balkish, M., N., Muhammad, F., M., Y., Sarimah, A., Kamarul Imran, M., Najib Majdi, Y., Maria, S., M., Norhafizah, S. and Tahir, A. 2019. Factors associated with the severity of hypertenstion among Malaysian adults. PLoS ONE 14(1): e0207472. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal. pone.0207472

  2. Mayo Clinic. 2019. Healty Lifestyle: Nutrition and healthy eating [online]. Available from: https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/nutrition-and-healthy-eating/in-depth/sodium/art-20045479 [Accessed on 6 April 2020].

  3. Ministry of Healthy Malaysia. 2018. Guidelines for Healthcare Professionals: Health Education and Communication Tools to Reduce Salt Intake in Malaysia [online]. Available from http://www.moh.gov.my/moh/resources/Penerbitan/Rujukan/NCD/Garam/Guideline_for_healthcare_professionals.pdf [Accessed on 6 April 2020].

  4. Ministry of Health Malaysia. 2018. Manual Penggunaan Bahan Pendidikan Kesihatan: Penjagaan Pemakanan Dalam Pengawalan Pengambilan Garam [online]. Available from http://www.moh.gov.my/moh/resources/Penerbitan/Rujukan/NCD/Garam/Buku_manual.pdf [Accessed on 6 April 2020].

  5. National Coordinating Committee on Food and Nutrition. 2013. Malaysian Dietary Guidelines for Children and Adolescents [online]. Available from http://nutrition.moh.gov.my/wp-content/uploads/penerbitan/buku/MDG_Children_adolescent_2014.pdf [Accessed on 6 April 2020].

  6. National Coordinating Committee on Food and Nutrition. 2017. Recommended Nutrient Intakes for Malaysia [online]. Available from http://nutrition.moh.gov.my/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/FA-Buku-RNI.pdf [Accessed on 6 April 2020].

  7. New Straits Times. 2019. 4 out of 5 Malaysians eat too much salt [online]. Available from https://www.nst.com.my/news/nation/2019/04/479149/4-out-5-malaysians-eat-too-much-salt [Accessed on 6 April 2020].

  8. World Health Organization. 2016. Salt reduction [online]. Available from https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/salt-reduction [Accessed on 6 April 2020].




 

Workout Tips and Tricks!

You’ve been told a hundred times that exercise is good for you, and it’s true, but to maintain or do it every day is a problem, right? Here are five very good tips to rock out during your next workout.

 

 

Tip 1: Make exercise goals that you can achieve.

 

Many people find that having a firm goal in mind motivates them to move ahead. Goals are most useful when they are specific, realistic, and important to you. So maybe you can try to exercise on three weekdays and one weekend day for 30 minutes to start, but if you can only do less but slowly increase the duration, that’s okay too. The point is to get moving and keep moving. You can also start with mini workouts for only 5 minutes. After you get comfortable, challenge yourself by increasing the duration until your exercise lasts 30 minutes (1).

 

Tip 2: Get a partner to work out together so both of you can support each other.

 

There will be someone to help motivate you. Doing it with your exercise partner, however, makes it a lot easier. Men and women have different intensity levels. People put more effort into their workout routine when they’re exercising with someone else. So you must realise your partner cannot always keep up with you if your partner is of a different gender. What feels like a good workout to one of you might be too much or too little for the other. The same goes for healthy eating. The identical meal may not be acceptable to both of you. You may get advice on tips for healthy eating from a nutritionist (2). Fact! Men lose weight faster than women. It is due to the fact that they have more muscle mass and can burn 30 to 40 percent more calories during the same workout. You cannot compare your results with those of your partner. It’s not realistic to expect the same results in the same time period (3).

 

 

 

Tip 3: Don’t stick to only one place or one exercise.

 

Head outside. Do a variety of exercises so you don’t get bored. One of the simplest reasons for working out in a variety of places and doing different exercises is that it will be more fun. Going to the gym day after day can start to feel routine, and the last thing you want is to dread your workouts. Instead, get some fresh air with a walk, run, bike ride, or hike (2).

 

Tip 4: Play Some Music to Keep Your Energy Up.

 

Music could be just what you really need to motivate you to push further. Research has found that playing music while exercising increases the duration of workouts without a perceived increase in effort. This effect occurs because music boosts mood and encourages rhythmic movement. When a song has a strong, steady beat, for example, you can pedal or run to the beat of that music, which tends to feel satisfying and may inspire you to exercise more. While any type of music is beneficial, some research suggests faster music is more effective than slow music.

 

Choosing music that you enjoy and that fits your exercise routine can help you get more out of your exercise experience. Since everyone has a different ideal workout pace and intensity (4).

 

 

 

 

Tip 5:Work Out in the Morning and Get It out of the Way.

 

Some people find it easy if they do it in the morning, getting it out of the way before an excuse comes up to skip it. By the end of the day, you’re often really tired; random things have come up, and there’s always something else to do instead of exercise.

 

Morning workouts have been shown to lower nighttime blood pressure and improve sleep quality, and physical activity also improves focus and concentration, regardless of when you do it. But if you have trouble focusing during the day, a morning workout might be just the ticket. The most important thing is to find a routine, schedule, and workout routine that you can stick with (5).

 

References

 

  1. WebMD (n.d). Setting Your Goals on Fitness. https://www.webmd.com/fitness-exercise/features/setting-goals-fitness#

  2. Sadie Trombetta. (2016). 12 Reasons To Exercise With A Partner, Because Everyone Should Have A Gym Buddy. https://www.bustle.com/articles/156775-12-reasons-to-exercise-with-a-partner-because-everyone-should-have-a-gym-buddy

  3. Cari Nierenberg. (2018). Yes, Men Lose Weight Faster Than Women, Here’s Why. https://www.livescience.com/63324-men-women-weight-loss-difference.html

  4. National Center for Health Research (n.d). Can Listening to Music Improve Your Workout?. http://www.center4research.org/can-listening-music-improve-workout/

  5. Kirsten Nunez (n.d). 13 Benefits of Working Out in the Morning. https://www.healthline.com/health/exercise-fitness/working-out-in-the-morning

 

 

 

How Much Sugar is Too Much Sugar?!

  You've probably heard the term "sucrose" at some point, but what exactly is it?
Sucrose (table sugar) is the chemical name for glucose and fructose sugar. It is naturally present in foods such as rice, noodles, breads, and pasta, as well as in fruits as fructose and milk as lactose (11). Additional sugar can be obtained from carbohydrate-rich foods; however, additional sugar consumption is unnecessary.

2015 World Health Statistics Report showed that in 2008, Malaysia had the highest obesity prevalence for adults aged ≥20 years among Southeast Asia countries. Increasing availability of sugar or sweeteners coupled with sedentary lifestyles are the contributing factor to Malaysia’s rising problem of obesity and other non-communicable disease problems (11).

 

On the other hand, Malaysian Adult Nutrition Survey (MANS) 2002/2003, average adult in Malaysia consumes 7 teaspoons of sugar a day comprising 4 teaspoons of table sugar and 3 teaspoons of sweetened milk into beverages. This amount exceeds the recommendation of the World Health Organization and Malaysian Dietary Guidelines (11).

 

Type of Sugar

 

Sugar can be found naturally in foods or added to foods during cooking, processing or added at the table (11). Main sources of added sugar are regular soft drinks, sugars, candy, cakes, cookies or sweetened beverages (2).

Track your consumption of added sugar can be tricky, since packaged foods don’t list the number of teaspoons of sugar and some of us are getting our added sugar by spooning it onto our foods or into our beverages.



Here are the important numbers to remember: 

 

There are 4 calories per gram of sugar and 4 grams per teaspoon. So if the label says it has 20 grams of sugar, that’s 5 teaspoons, or about 80 calories from sugar. Scan the labels for all sources of sugar in processed foods and  check the number of grams of added sugars in the nutrition labels (5). 

 

Artificial Sweeteners vs Sugar: Which is better?

 

Sugar substitute are known as a food additive that provides sweet taste like sugar without excess energy which can promote weight loss and deemed safe for consumption by diabetics (7). They can be either naturally produced or synthesized. Those sugar that are not natural are referred to as artificial sweeteners (9).

American Heart Association labels low-calorie sweeteners, artificial sweeteners and non-caloric sweeteners as non-nutritive sweeteners (NNSs), since they offer no nutritional benefits such as vitamins and minerals. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has given the label “Generally Recognized as Safe” (GRAS) to five non-nutritive sweeteners such as aspartame, acesulfame-K, neotame, saccharin, sucralose and stevia. However, stevia doesn’t have a GRAS distinction but that doesn’t mean it’s dangerous, it just means there isn’t enough evidence yet either way (4).



Artificial sweeteners are thought to be beneficial for diabetics or obese as it provides sweetness without calories and a choice of sweets foods to those who cannot partake refined sugars. This artificial sweeteners may indeed restrict calories but their consumption has been shown to cause mild to serious side effects ranging from nuisance headaches to potentially life-threatening cancer.



However, artificial sweeteners are generally safe to consume but should be avoided by individual with phenylketonuria (a metabolic disorder which cannot metabolize amino acid phenylalanine found in aspartame or allergic to sulfonamides as saccharin belongs to this class of compound. In short, the consumption of artificial sweeteners may poses few health concerns  but it is especially beneficial if you use them to decrease the amount of added sugar in diet. The likelihood of negative effects can vary by individual and depend on the type of artificial sweetener consumed (1). If you have bad experience or negative effects after consuming artificial sweeteners try natural sweeteners instead.   


Get started cutting down on sugar with these tips


 1. Consume foods or beverages low in sugar (3)

                                             

 2. Focus on whole foods (8)


No sugar diet should focus on eating whole foods as processed foods are more likely to contain refined ingredients or added sugars. Aim to eat foods such as: Fruits and vegetables Lean meat or poultry whole, unprocessed grains and legumes, nuts and seeds

 

3. Check food labels

a) Reading the food labels and ingredients list on packaged food is a good way to know and limit how much added sugar you eat.


b) Identify the sugar content claims on packaged foods such as (6).
 

  • Sugar Free: one serving contains less than 0.5g of sugars, both natural and added. Also: free of sugar, sugarless, no sugar, zero sugar or trivial source of sugar.
  • Reduced Sugar: Has at least 25% less sugars than the older version of the product. Also less sugar, low in sugar or lower sugar.
  • No Added Sugar: No sugar or ingredients containing sugar was added during processing or packaging. Also without added sugar or no sugar added.

 

References

 

  1. Alina, P. 2019. Artificial Sweeteners: Good or Bad? Healthline. Available from https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/artificial-sweeteners-good-or-bad [Accessed on 15 April 2020]
  2. American Heart Association. 2018. Added Sugars [online]. Available from https://www.heart.org/en/healthy-living/healthy-eating/eat-smart/sugar/added-sugars [Accessed on 15 April 2020].
  3. American Heart Association. 2018. Life is Sweet with These Easy Sugar Swaps-Info graphic [online]. Available from https://www.heart.org/en/healthy-living/healthy-eating/eat-smart/sugar/life-is-sweet-with-these-easy-sugar-swaps-infographic [Accessed on 15 April 2020].
  4. American Heart Association. 2018. Non-Nutritive Sweeteners (Artificial Sweeteners) [online]. Available from https://www.heart.org/en/healthy-living/healthy-eating/eat-smart/sugar/nonnutritive-sweeteners-artificial-sweeteners [Accessed on 15 April 2020].
  5. American Heart Association. 2019. By Any Other Name It’s Still Sweetener [online]. Available from https://www.heart.org/en/healthy-living/healthy-eating/eat-smart/sugar/by-any-other-name-its-still-sweetener [Accessed on 15 April 2020]. 
  6. American Heart Association. 2020. What’s the Difference Between Sugar Free and No Added Sugar [online]. Available from https://www.heart.org/en/healthy-living/healthy-eating/eat-smart/sugar/difference-between-sugar-free-and-no-added-sugar [Accessed on 15 April 2020].
  7. Arun, S., Amarnath, S., Thulasimani, M. and Ramaswamy, S. 2016. Artificial sweeteners as sugar substitute: Are they really safe? Indian Journal of Pharmacology 48(3): 237-240.
  8. Johnson, J. 2019. What to know about no-sugar diets. Medical New Today. Available from https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/319991#why-cut-out-sugar [Accessed on 15 April 2020]Kirtida, R., T. 2011. Sugar substitutes: Health controversy over perceived benefits. Journal of Pharmacology & Pharmacotherapeutics 2(4): 236-243.
  9. Maria, S., V., A., Khor, G., L. and Pauline, C. 2016. Intake of added sugar in Malaysia: a review: Asia Pacific Journal of Clinical Nutrition 25(2): 227-240.
  10. MyHealth Ministry of Health. 2014. Facts About Sugar [online]. Available from http://www.myhealth.gov.my/en/facts-about-sugar/ [Accessed on 15 April 2020].
  11. World Health Organization. 2015. WHO calls on countries to reduce sugars intake among adults and children [press release]. Available from https://www.who.int/mediacentre/news/releases/2015/sugar-guideline/en  [Accessed on 15 April 2020].
 
  

Facts on Fiber

“Eat more vegetables and fruits to get your fiber!” You may have heard these words. But what is fiber, really? How it works to improve our health? Let us take a closer look on it!

 

Fiber is a type of carbohydrate that our body cannot digest undigested. Though most carbohydrates are broken down into sugar molecules but fiber cannot be broken down into sugar and thus it will pass through our body. These carbohydrates often considered beneficial in which mostly come from fruits, vegetables and legumes (1, 3, 6).

 
Fiber comes in two varieties, both beneficial to health (3):
 

Soluble fiber

 

Dissolves in water; absorb water to form a gel like substance that slow the digestion and cause you to feel full. They have been shown to decrease cholesterol and lower blood glucose. Common source of soluble fiber includes beans, oat bran, fruits and vegetables. It is also found in pysllium, a common fiber supplement.

 

Insoluble fiber

 

Does not dissolve in water; Increase fecal bulk and appear to help food pass more quickly through the digestive tract so it can be of benefit to those who struggle with constipation and irregular stools.

 

 Facts About Fiber (3,4)

 

#1 Fiber aids in achieving healthy weight.

 

#2 Fiber fight diseases. It appears to reduce risk of developing various health conditions including heart disease, diabetes, constipation and breast cancer.

 

#3 Fiber helps to lower cholesterol.

 

#4 Fiber helps to regulate blood glucose.

 

#5 Recommended dietary fiber intake per day for all age group is 20-30g/day. However, if a person is not currently eating enough of fiber, he or she should increase his or her fiber intake slowly  to avoid gas and bloating.

#6 More fiber needs more water. When eating a high fiber diet, be sure to drink at least eight or more glasses of water every day.

 

#7 Fiber aids in improving digestion by increasing stool bulk and regularity. A high-fiber diet may help reduce the risk of hemorrhoids and diverticulitis.

 

#8 Too much fiber is a bad thing. You may experience abdominal cramping, bloating, gas, constipation and even diarrhea.

 

#9 Fruit and vegetable peels are rich in several nutrients including fiber. Eating unpeeled fruits and vegetables keep you feel full longer due to its high fiber content. However, certain fruit and vegetable peels may be hard to consume or simply inedible. These peels are best removed and not eaten.

 

#10 Fruits and vegetable juice has less fiber than whole fruits and vegetable. This is because the skin is removed and thus it is more healthful to eat whole fruit and vegetable.

 

#11 Fiber cannot be cooked out.

 

Tips to Increase fiber intake (5,7)

 

Consume products that have whole grain listed as the first ingredients, high fiber content and low fat and sugar content.

 

Replace white rice, bread and pasta with brown rice and whole grain products.

 

Include legumes in your diet (beans, dried peas and lentils).

 

Eat unpeeled whole fruit and vegetables not juice.

 

Snack on fruits and vegetables

 

Take a fiber supplement (e.g psyllium)

 

In conclusion, fiber is an important dietary substance to your diet. This is because high fiber foods are also good sources of vitamins, mineral and antioxidants which offer many health benefits. Therefore, as one of the key ingredients to healthy eating, fiber is something you cannot skip.

 

References

  1. Cleveland Clinic. 2019. Improving Your Health With Fiber. Available from https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/14400-improving-your-health-with-fiber [Accessed on 23 April 2020].
  2. Danielle, D. 2018. How much fiber is too much. Medical New Today. Available from https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/321286#treatment [Accessed on 23 April 2020].
  3. Harvard University School of Public Health. (n.d.). Fiber. Available from https://www.hsph.harvard.edu/nutritionsource/carbohydrates/fiber/ [Accessed on 23 April 2020].
  4. Karin, L. 2016. 45 Interesting Facts about FIber. Fact Retriever. Available from https://www.factretriever.com/fiber-facts [Accessed on 23 April 2020].
  5. Kerri, A., J. 2016. 16 Easy Ways to Eat More Fiber. Healthline. Available from https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/16-ways-to-eat-more-fiber [Accessed on 23 April 2020].
  6. Mayo Clinic. 2018. Dietary fiber: Essential for a healthy diet. Available from https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/nutrition-and-healthy-eating/in-depth/fiber/art-20043983 [Accessed on 23 April 2020].
  7. My Health Ministry of Health. 2012. SERAT DAN KAWALAN DIABETES. Available from http://www.myhealth.gov.my/serat-dan-kawalan-diabetes/ [Accessed on 23 April 2020].

What happen to your stomach when you fast?

Fasting has long been a part of many religious traditions, including the Jewish and Muslim holidays of Yom Kippur and Ramadan, respectively. As you read this, billions of Muslims around the world are participating in this act of faith, which involves fasting from dawn to dusk. While fasting for Ramadan is based on spiritual beliefs, many of us fast because we believe it benefits our health. However, what happens to our bodies when we fast? 
 

The primary source of energy for a person is glucose, which is obtained from carbohydrates such as grains, dairy products, fruits, certain vegetables, beans, and even sweets.
 

The glucose is stored in the liver and muscles and released into the bloodstream when the body requires it. This process, however, changes during fasting. The liver will deplete its glucose reserves after about 8 hours of fasting. At this point, the body enters a state known as glucogenesis, which marks the transition into fasting mode.


Glucogenesis has been shown in studies to increase the number of calories burned by the body. Without carbohydrates, the body burns its own calories. When there is no carbohydrate available, the body produces its own glucose, primarily from fat.
 

The body eventually runs out of these energy sources as well. Fasting mode then transitions into the more serious starvation mode. A person's metabolism slows down at this point, and their body begins to burn muscle tissue for energy. Although it is a well-known term in the dieting world, true starvation mode occurs only after several days or even weeks without food. So, unless other health conditions exist, it is generally safe to go without eating for a day after breaking their fast after 24 hours. (1)

 

“A detoxification process also occurs, because any toxins stored in the body’s fat are dissolved and removed from the body,” he adds, noting that after a few days of fasting, higher levels of endorphins – “feel-good hormones” are produced in the blood, which can have a positive impact on mental well-being. As mentioned previously, the study by Dr.Longo and colleagues suggests prolonged fasting may also be effective for regenerating immune cells. “When you starve, the system tries to save energy, and one of the things it can do to save energy is to recycle a lot of the immune cells that are not needed, especially those that may be damaged,” Dr.Longo explains. In their study, publish in the journal Cell Stem Cell, the team found that repeated cycles of 2 – 4 days without food over a 6-month period destroyed the old and damaged immune cells in mice and generate new ones.

 

Furthermore, the team discovered that cancer patients who fasted for three days prior to chemotherapy were protected against immune system damage caused by the treatment, which they attribute to immune cell regeneration. "The good news is that the body got rid of the parts of the system that might be damaged or old, the inefficient parts, during the fasting," says Dr. Longo. "Now, if you start with a system that has been heavily damaged by chemotherapy or ageing, fasting cycles can literally generate a new immune system." (2)

 

Intermittent fasting, on the other hand, is associated with numerous health risks, according to the UK's National Health Service (NHS).

 

People who fast frequently become dehydrated, owing to their bodies' inability to obtain fluid from food. As a result, it is advised that Muslims consume plenty of water prior to fasting periods during Ramadan. Other people who follow fasting diets should stay hydrated during their fasting periods.

 

On the other hand, according to the UK’s National Health Service (NHS), there are numerous health risks associated with intermittent fasting.
 

Fasting can also cause heartburn; lack of food leads to a reduction in stomach acid, which digests food and destroys bacteria. But smelling food or even thinking about it during fasting periods can trigger the brain into telling the stomach to produce more acid, leading to heartburn.(2)

 

Finally, to sum up, moderation is the key. Know the precaution step to avoid the potential risk. A person must understand his or her current health condition before proceeding to any sort of diet plan.

 

Fasting can also cause heartburn because a lack of food reduces stomach acid, which digests food and destroys bacteria. However, smelling food or even thinking about it during a fast can cause the brain to tell the stomach to produce more acid, resulting in heartburn. (2)

 

To summarize, moderation is essential. Understand the precautionary measure to avoid the potential risk. Before beginning any diet plan, a person must first understand his or her current health situation. 

 


References

 

1. Medical News Today (n.d). What Happens If You Don’t Eat For A Day? Timeline And Effects. [online] Available at: https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/322065#can-fasting-promote-weight-loss [Accessed 29 April 2020].

 

2. Medical News Today (n.d). Fasting: Health Benefits And Risks. [online] Available at: https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/295914  [Accessed 29 April 2020].

 

 

 

 

 

Red meat: Is it Good or Bad?

Meat refers to the muscle or organs of an animal consumed as food. In most parts of the world, it comes from animals raised on large industrial farms. As for red meat, it refers to meat from the source of pork, ham, and cuts from pig, lamb, and beef. Red meat is particularly said to have a link with various kinds of disease, such as heart disease and cancer; the question is, is this true?

Well, this statement is partially true. First, there are various kinds of red meat on the market. There is lean meat (meat without its fat), meat with its fat, and processed meat. Processed meat refers to meat that has undergone processes such as salting, curing, fermenting, smoking, and other processes to enhance flavour or improve preservation. Processed meats include ham, salami, bacon, and sausages such as frankfurters and chorizo. Certain minced meats on the market also undergo this kind of processing, which makes them processed foods as well. 

Meat itself, referring to lean meat, is a healthy food. It is a good protein source and contains micronutrients such as zinc, vitamin B12, and iron. Iron in meat is easier to absorb, or, in other words, has higher bioavailability, as compared to iron from plant-based foods. Lean meat is also part of the food that is recommended to be eaten in the Malaysian Food Pyramid. 

Recommended meat consumption

It is advised to eat 1 to 2 servings of either poultry, meat, or legumes and 1 serving of fish each day, as stated in the food pyramid's section on fish, poultry, meat, and legumes. This is so because the main takeaway from the Malaysian Dietary Guidelines (MDG) is to eat a variety of foods in moderation and with balance. Therefore, it is advised to eat food from a variety of sources, such as foods containing protein, which can come from fish, meat, poultry, and eggs. The protein source for dinner must therefore be meat, poultry, or eggs if you received your protein for lunch that day from a fish source. Another question comes up: how much constitutes one serving?

 

              Example of a serving size of protein.

Serving is loosely translated into ‘sajian’ or ‘hidangan’ in Bahasa Malaysia; thus, the picture above shows how much per serving of protein there is. As for meat, 1 serving of meat is about 2 matchboxes worth of meat. For fish, a medium-sized fish is equivalent to 1 serving, while for chicken, one part of the chicken, such as a drumstick, is considered 1 serving of chicken. As for eggs, 1 egg is considered a serving of protein.

As mentioned earlier, it is not advisable to consume protein from the same source, so it is also not advisable to consume meat every day, since we have protein-based foods from a variety of sources that will give different kinds of nutrients as well, such as ‘tauhu’, ‘tempeh’, eggs, seafood, and many more.

 


The picture below shows an easy way to know how much you should consume for carbohydrates, vegetables, fruits, and protein just by using your hands.
 

 


Good and bad things about meat

The study mostly found out that lean meat has various positive outcomes on individual health, especially for those with strength training exercises like athletes, as compared to if they consumed food from carbohydrates sources like pasta or rice, their muscle growth would be much slower. Another meta- analysis study that focused on the consumption of lean red meat (less than 0.5 servings per day) noted that the consumption of lean red meat does not negatively affect blood lipids or blood pressure. Which means the consumption of lean red meat does not impose a risk of heart problems, provided it is consumed within the recommended intake.

However, there are also studies that indicate that the consumption of red meat can impose health problems, such as that its saturated fat can lead to colon and breast cancer; the higher the cooking temperature for meat, the more carcinogenic it is; and the heme that is found in meat when cooked can produce compounds that can damage the cells, leading to cancer.

Which is why, when it comes to food, there is not just healthy food and unhealthy food; it is more than that. It depends on the health status of the individual consuming it, the cooking method, and various other factors.

In conclusion

Limiting red meat and processed meat to no more than 70g per day, or 2 servings per day, is the best. Consume protein-based foods from other sources of protein as well, not only red meat and processed meat, just as recommended by the Malaysia Dietary Guidelines (MDG).

References

  1. Red Meat (2019). https://www.diabetes.co.uk/food/red-meat.html (Accessed on August 4, 2020).
  2. World Cancer Research Fund. Limit red and processed meat. https://www.wcrf.org/dietandcancer/recommendations/limit-red-processed-meat#:~:text=Dietary%20goal,%2C%20if%20any%2C%20processed%20meat. (Accessed on August 4, 2020).
  3. The truth about red meat. https://www.webmd.com/food-recipes/features/the-truth-about-red-meat#2 (Accessed on August 4, 2020).
  4. Is red meat bad for you, or good? An Objective Look. https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/is-red-meat-bad-for-you-or-good (Accessed on August 4, 2020).

Is Fat Unhealthy?

Many diseases and health complications are believed to be linked to fat consumption, including obesity, diabetes, heart problems, and cancer. However, fats also play crucial roles in our bodies, such as aiding in the transport and absorption of fat-soluble vitamins A, D, E, and K. Fats also act as insulators for vital organs and as shock absorbers. With these functions in mind, it begs the question: Is fat truly the culprit behind various diseases? (1,2,3). 


History of Dietary Fat Recommendations (4)
 

The confusion surrounding dietary fat intake has its roots in the past, as nutrition scientists struggled to effectively communicate their findings from nutrition studies to the public. Previously, the classic diet-heart hypothesis vilified dietary fat due to two key observations from observational studies and randomized controlled trials.

  1. Controlled feeding trials showed that dietary saturated fatty acids and cholesterol elevated levels of serum total cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol (considered "bad" cholesterol).
  2. Dietary fat intake was associated with increased levels of serum total cholesterol and LDL cholesterol, which were predicted factors for cardiovascular disease.


Current Insights on Dietary Fat Intake (4)


Past research focused heavily on singular causal outcomes, but contemporary extensive research has illuminated multiple pathways contributing to the development of cardiovascular diseases. These pathways include factors beyond total cholesterol intake or LDL levels, such as smoking, obesity, diabetes mellitus, hypertension, and more.

As a result, recommendations for dietary fat intake among individuals with cardiovascular disease and those seeking to prevent it need to evolve accordingly.
 


Types of Fats and Cholesterol, Along with Dietary Recommendations (4,5,6)
 

To comprehend dietary recommendations for fat and cholesterol intake, let's first explore the different types. Saturated fat, often labeled as "bad" fat, is solid at room temperature. It can contribute to weight gain and increased levels of LDL cholesterol in the bloodstream. Sources high in saturated fat include meat, chicken skin, margarine, and fatty dairy products.
 

Unsaturated fats, considered "good" fats, are divided into monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats. They can elevate HDL (good cholesterol), lower LDL (bad cholesterol), reduce blood pressure, and decrease the risk of cardiovascular diseases. Examples of monounsaturated fats are palm oil, canola oil, olive oil, and cashew nuts. Polyunsaturated fats include corn oil, sunflower oil, and fish oil. For optimal results, studies suggest a 1:1 ratio blend of these two types of oils in cooking, such as combining palm oil and sunflower oil.
 

Trans fat, the least desirable type, forms during hydrogenation when liquid fats turn solid. Trans fat, or trans-fatty acids, are commonly found in processed and frozen foods to prolong shelf life. Consumption of trans fat should be limited, as it's associated with elevated LDL cholesterol levels, increased cardiovascular disease risk, and certain cancers. Sources of trans fat include margarine, fried foods cooked in unsaturated fats like sunflower oil, as well as ready-to-eat and canned foods.
 

 
In Conclusion (4,5)

While there isn't a specific universal standard for each fat type due to various factors, the World Health Organization (WHO) generally recommends fat intake between 20% to 30% of total calories. In Malaysia, this translates to about 45g to 67g of fat, roughly 3 to 5 tablespoons of oil (based on a 2000 kcal/day diet).
 

As consumers, it's vital to distinguish health-promoting fats from detrimental ones and limit the intake of harmful fats to cultivate a healthy eating lifestyle.
 

Practical steps include choosing fresh poultry or seafood over processed foods like tempura or finger foods. Cooking methods matter greatly; opt for steaming, baking, boiling, and grilling. When dining out, consider that many eateries reuse cooking oil, making healthier choices paramount.
 

Limiting trans-fat intake is crucial. Apart from processed and frozen foods, restrict consumption of high-cholesterol items such as mayonnaise, animal organs, and fish heads.
 

Being mindful of what you fuel your body with is as important as feeding your mind with positive thoughts. Nourish both body and mind with beneficial nutrients by selecting healthy fats!

Tips For Buying Healthy Groceries

The demand for healthier food is on the rise, leading to more options in the market. A Forbes report in 2017 noted that over 23 billion people engaged with food-related content, and searches for healthy food topics like vegan or gluten-free food on the internet increased by more than 100% (1).

As people increasingly look for healthier food choices, and with numerous options available, a key question emerges: How do consumers go about making the right decisions when buying healthy food? Is the "healthy" label more about marketing than the actual nutritional value of the food?

Grocery shopping might seem straightforward, but when you factor in your budget, the number of people to feed, and the need for healthier food choices, it can become a bit overwhelming—especially if there are specific food allergies or medical conditions in the household. Don't worry; we're here to simplify things and make your grocery shopping experience smoother!

 

  1. Plan (2, 3, 5): To streamline your grocery shopping, consider planning your meals for the week. This not only helps you stick to your budget but also ensures that you make healthier food choices. Meal planning saves both time and money while guaranteeing that you and your family enjoy nutritious meals. Here's an example of a weekly meal plan for a family of two:

    • Monday:

      • Breakfast: Oatmeal with fruit

      • Lunch: Grilled chicken salad

      • Dinner: Baked fish with vegetables

    • Tuesday:

      • Breakfast: Greek yogurt with granola

      • Lunch: Quinoa and vegetable stir-fry

      • Dinner: Lentil soup and rice

    • Wednesday:

      • Breakfast: Whole grain toast with avocado

      • Lunch: Turkey and vegetable wrap

      • Dinner: Brown rice with roasted chicken

And so on for the rest of the week. Planning not only ensures a variety in your meals but also helps you make healthier choices while staying within your budget.

 

You may get this kind of template for weekly meal planner online since it can be exciting to incorporate your family members favourite dishes or try a new recipe using it. Based on this, you get to know what you need to stock in your kitchen and pantry with.

  1.  Looking for Healthy Food in the Market (3, 4, 5, 6, 7)

Now comes the tricky part! Once you've planned your meals for the week, consider breaking them down into food categories. Supermarkets or your local grocery store usually organize their items by class. These classes typically include carbohydrates, proteins, fats, fruits, and vegetables.


Carbohydrates (3, 4, 5)

 

Maintaining a healthy, balanced diet for you and your family involves consuming food in variation, balance, and moderation. When it comes to carbohydrates, ensure that your sources are diverse. Examples of carbohydrate sources include pasta, rice, bread, noodles, and certain vegetables like potatoes. Throughout the week, vary your food choices from these sources, emphasizing low glycemic index (GI) and whole-grain products over high GI options.
 

Glycemic Index (GI): This is a rating system for foods containing carbohydrates, indicating how quickly each food affects your blood sugar level when consumed on its own. High GI foods, like sugary items, soft drinks, white bread, potatoes, and white rice, lead to a rapid increase in blood sugar. On the other hand, low GI foods are broken down slowly, providing a gradual increase in blood sugar and promoting a longer feeling of fullness (satiety). Examples of low GI foods include green leafy vegetables, whole grains like oats and brown rice, and legumes. Incorporating a variety of these options into your weekly meals contributes to a healthier and more satisfying diet.

Protein (3,4).

Protein can be obtained from various food sources, with the commonly known options being chicken, meat, and fish. Additionally, soy-based foods like 'tauhu' and 'tempeh' are rich in protein. It's worth noting that 'tempeh,' a local soy-based food, not only boasts high protein content but is also abundant in probiotics.

 

When selecting meat, it's advisable to opt for white meat over red meat. This choice is driven by the fact that red meat contains elevated levels of saturated fats, which can adversely affect heart health. While occasional consumption of red meat is acceptable, moderation is key to maintaining a heart-healthy diet. Incorporating dairy products is also crucial for achieving a balanced and nutritious meal. Therefore, consider including dairy products in your diet to support overall health.

Fats (7)

Various types of cooking oils flood the market, often marketed for their low cholesterol content. But is this claim accurate? It turns out, this is largely a marketing strategy. Cooking oils like sunflower oil, canola oil, corn oil, olive oil, and even the widely used palm oil are all plant-derived. Consequently, plant-based foods generally do not contain cholesterol. Cholesterol is exclusively found in animal-based foods.

Below is the classification of cooking oil:

 

It is recommended to blend your cooking oils in a 1:1 ratio, ensuring an equal combination of monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats.


Vegetables & Fruits (3,4,5).

When it comes to vegetables, it is recommended to aim for three servings per day, making them a significant portion of your market purchases to ensure everyone gets enough. However, dealing with vegetables can be a bit challenging due to their short lifespan.

Ensure that 20%-30% of your vegetable intake consists of green leafy vegetables. Although these vegetables, being a source of insoluble fiber, benefit digestion and help regulate blood glucose levels, they are also highly perishable. To diversify, consider incorporating rhizome vegetables like carrots and radishes, along with tuber vegetables such as potatoes.

Tuber vegetables are generally high in carbohydrates and aid in digestion but can cause a spike in glucose levels. Thus, exercise caution when consuming this type of vegetable.


3. Looking for LOW sodium, LOW sugar, LOW fat (6)
 

Always scrutinize food labels, especially for condiments. However, it is also advisable to turn to natural herbs to enhance the flavor of your dishes. Garlic, ginger, celery, spring onion, turmeric, and chili powder are examples of herbs that can elevate the taste of your meals.

Regarding condiments, it's crucial to note that "less sugar," "less salt," and "low fat" don't imply an absence of these components; rather, they signify an improved formulation from previous versions. For instance, if the previous formulation contained 30g of salt, the current one might have only 15g. Therefore, while using these reduced-salt, sugar, and low-fat condiments is a healthier choice, it's still essential to employ them in moderation for optimal health benefits.
 


In conclusion, while purchasing healthy food is crucial for maintaining a nutritious diet, the method of cooking is equally important. Prioritize cooking techniques such as boiling, grilling, and steaming to ensure the nutritional value of your meals is preserved. Remember, taste preferences can be cultivated by training your taste buds to appreciate healthy foods. Over time, you will find yourself adapting to a healthier diet and making mindful choices that contribute to your overall well-being.

References

 

  1. How to make healthy shopping grocery list (n.d). https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/healthy-grocery-list#TOC_TITLE_HDR_5 (Accessed on August 20, 2020).
  2. Marketing Healthy Food: Strategies to make discovery easier (2017). https://www.forbes.com/sites/matzucker/2017/02/22/marketing-healthy-food/#4e329aa462e8 (Accessed on August 20, 2020).
  3. Kathleen M.Z., 10 Tips for Healthy Grocery Shopping (n.d). https://www.webmd.com/food-recipes/features/10-tips-for-healthy-grocery-shopping#1 (Accessed on August 20, 2020).
  4. Make a Grocery List in a Minute (n.d). https://www.webmd.com/food-recipes/guide/grocery-list#1 (Accessed on August 20, 2020).
  5. Food Network. Katie Allen. Smart Shopping Guide for Healthy Meals (n.d). https://www.foodnetwork.com/how-to/articles/a-guide-to-smart-supermarket-shopping-from-the-fn-kitchens (Accessed on August 20, 2020).
  6. Ministry of Health. My Health Portal. NurAidaliana Abas. Lemak dan Kolesterol (2015). http://www.myhealth.gov.my/lemak-dan-kolesterol/ (Accessed on August 20, 2020).
  7. National Health Service (NHS). What is the Glycemic Index (GI) (2018). https://www.nhs.uk/common-health-questions/food-and-diet/what-is-the-glycaemic-index-gi/ (Accessed on August 20, 2020).

 

5 Useful Tips to lose weight healthily!

When you read the title you must be thinking that this is just another tip on how to lose weight, but please do not stop reading yet! This is where we will tell you why this article is different from the other article that you have read. Well, the tips here are from Ministry of Health Malaysia (MOH), National Health Service (NHS) United Kingdom and many most reputable and trusted healthcare bodies with scientific studies. The reason why losing weight tips should be read from all these authoritative bodies is because these bodies are bodies that put your whole health as their main concern, different from those whom only give you tips on losing weight, which can harm other body health aspect. Okay, now that we are clear with that, let’s dive into these tips.

 Tips 1: Plan your meals (1,2,3)

 

Try going for grocery shopping according to a list that you have made and while making that list try to picture the kind of healthy food that you are going to prepare. Do not forget to take into account your snacks. Make sure to stock a lot of fruits and vegetables. Try your best not to buy any junk food. Try to snack on all those fruits and vegetables without dressings, start off with fruits and slowly move to vegetables.

 

Tips 2: Do not banned food, but use smaller portion (1,2,3)

 

When it comes to diet or losing weight people tend to ditch all of their bad habits and try to acquire new habits, but most of the time this is something that will not last long. According to studies, when you suppressed your craving you will be even more craving for it, but rather try to ease your craving with eating in smaller portion. Use small plate all the time when you are trying to lose weight. Smaller plates will trick your mind to think that you have eaten a lot since your plate is full of food, but actually using small plate allow you to eat much lesser than what you usually consume.

 

 


Tips 3: Drink plenty of water at the right time (1,3, 4,5)

 

A study that is published in journal of obesity found out that, drinking water 30 minutes before your main meal is able to reduce about 9.48 pounds if you do this with all three of your main meals. While, if you do this only once per day on average you will be able to lose about 1.76 pounds.

 

Drink water before main meals make you less likely to drink water while eating or shortly after eating. This is good to allow your nutrient to be able to absorb properly in the body. Eating food while drinking water or shortly after your main meals will dilute your enzyme and cause poor nutrient absorption.

 

Also, whenever your mind sending signal that you are hungry and need food, try to drink water first and see if it satisfy you. Study shows that when you frequently eating without waiting for your body cues sometimes your mind is confused whether you are hungry or you simply want something to munch or boring. Thus, it is advisable to drink plain water first and see if it makes you full.

 

Tips 4: Consume high fiber food (1, 3, 4)

 

Although, fat is seen as the culprit to many kinds of diseases but the truth is nowadays, the main culprit is carbohydrate. It is true that carbohydrate is very important in making sure that we have sufficient energy, however consuming extra carbohydrate is what making most of us Malaysians nowadays fat. Furthermore, most of our foods nowadays come in huge sizes as compared to the previous years, which make people even more difficult to control their food portion. 

 

Cutting down on refined sugar such as table sugar, brown sugar, honey and hidden sugar in foods and drinks also help in maintaining your weight, ditch all of the sugary beverages like Starbucks, Boba teas and all those processed and high sugar food which can makes you full for shorter period of time. 

 

Instead, replace sugar intake with high fiber food such as vegetables and fruits. They are not only rich with vitamins and minerals, but also antioxidants, that are require by the body. Choose carbohydrates with high fiber content, this will help to keep your blood sugar is in control and will allow you to feel full longer. 

 

 

 

 

Tips 5: Be active (1, 2, 3)

 

Exercise consistently. Start with a few minutes of walking and slowly extend the time until you can do at least 30 minutes of exercise every day. If you have not exercised in a while, be sure to check with your doctor first. Also, if you are worried to exercise in public spaces due to COVID19, you may try indoor exercise, you will be surprised at how effective this is not only to your physical health but also to your mental health.

 

Commonly people will say that they do not have time to exercise, the advise is if you have time to scroll your Facebook feeds or any social media then you have time to exercise. Exercise do not really require you to put on your gym attire, or yoga mat, it just require you to move your body, it can be as simple as walking (e.g: try to take public transport to office), or as simple as doing house chores.

 

Find a good buddy. Friends and family are great buddies to support on losing weight and exercise journey.

 

In conclusion, all these tips will not only make you lose weight, but it also will make you healthier. Losing weight quickly may be intriguing, but it can be detrimental to your health. Thus, try to incorporate habit that will give no harm to your body and try to acquire as many healthy habit as you can.

 

 

References

 

  1. National Health Service (NHS). United Kingdom (UK). 12 Tips to help you lose weight (2019). https://www.nhs.uk/live-well/healthy-weight/12-tips-to-help-you-lose-weight/ (Accessed on December 31, 2020)
  2. Ministry of Health Malaysia (MOH). My Health Portal. Weight Management (2019). http://www.myhealth.gov.my/en/weight-management/ (Accessed on December 31, 2020)
  3. Ministry of Health Malaysia (MOH). My Health Portal. Diet for Overweight and Obese. (2019). http://www.myhealth.gov.my/en/diet-for-overweight/ (Accessed on December 31, 2020).
  4. Singapore Health Promotion Board. HealthXchange Singapore. Drinking water at the right time (n.d). https://www.healthxchange.sg/food-nutrition/food-tips/drinking-water-right-time (Accessed on December 31, 2020).
  5. Parretti, H. M., Aveyard, P., Blannin, A., Clifford, S. J., Coleman, S. J., Roalfe, A., & Daley, A. J. (2015). Efficacy of water preloading before main meals as a strategy for weight loss in primary care patients with obesity: RCT. Obesity, 23(9), 1785-1791.

Diet Suku – Suku Separuh ?

Diet Suku – suku separuh adalah saranan diet oleh Kementerian Kesihatan Malaysia (KKM) untuk cara pemakanan sihat. Pelbagai langkah dan inisiatif telah dilakukan bagi mempromosikan amalan pemakanan sihat kepada rakyat Malaysia.

 

MegaLive menyambut baik saranan ini dengan turut sama mempromosikan amalan pemakanan sihat kepada semua.

 

Suku – suku separuh adalah diet yang merangkumi suku jumlah karbohidrat seperti nasi, mee, bihun, capati, roti dll, suku jumlah protein seperti ayam, ikan, sotong dll dan separuh jumlah sayur – sayuran dan buah – buahan. Pinggan yang dirujuk dalam saranan diet ini adalah pinggan berukuran 10 inci/ 25sm.

 

Contoh hidangan suku – suku separuh:

 

Capati dengan kuah dhal.
Nasi beras perang dengan ayam tanpa kulit dan sayur.
Nasi putih dengan ikan bakar dan sayur.
Nasi lemak
Roti dengan telur dan salad.

 

Terdapat 5 mesej utama dalam amalan diet suku – suku separuh.

 

Mesej Utama 1: Makan 3 Hidangan Utama yang sihat dalam sehari.

 

Ambil sarapan, makan tengah hari, dan makan malam secara sihat dengan mengikuti konsep suku – suku separuh.

Makan pada waktu yang tetap juga membantu pengawalan porsi/ saiz hidangan makanan. Berikut adalah contoh waktu makan harian.

 

Mesej Utama 2: Makan 1-2 Snek yang Sihat di antara Waktu Makan Jika Perlu

 

Bagi menggalakan amalan pemakanan secara sihat secara holistik atau sebagai gaya hidup, anda juga digalakkan untuk mengambil snek sihat 1-2 kali/ hari dari sumber buah – buahan, kekacang, dan sayur – sayuran.

 

Contoh snek sihat yang boleh di ambil 1-2 sajian ialah:

 

 

Mesej Utama 3: Makan Sekurang-kurangnya Separuh Daripada Bijirin Anda Sebagai Bijirin Penuh

 

Malaysia adalah negara di mana, makanan rujinya adalah nasi, oleh itu tidak hairanlah jika kebanyakkan rakyat Malaysia masih berasa tidak kenyang selagi tidak makan nasi. Oleh yang demikian, Kementerian Kesihatan Malaysia (KKM) menggariskan pengambilan karbohidrat hendaklah diambil kebanyakkannya dari sumber bijirin penuh, seperti dari sumber nasi beras perang, roti bijirin mil penuh, jagung, barli dll.

 

Contoh makanan berkarbohidrat yang tinggi serat:

 

 

Mesej Utama 4: Makan Hidangan Tidak Bergoreng dan Tanpa Santan Setiap Hari

 

Seterusnya, lauk -pauk di Malaysia begitu sinonim sekali dengan jenis lauk -pauk yang digoreng menggunakan minyak yang sangat banyak iaitu menggunakan kaedah ‘deep -frying’. Makanan bergoreng dengan minyak banyak yang digunakan secara berulang – ulang dan makanan yang mengandungi jumlah santan yang tinggi  boleh meningkatkan masalah kesihatan seperti masalah jantung, darah tinggi, kolesterol dan kanser.

 

Justeru, pengambilan makanan dengan cara masakan dengan kandungan santan yang tinggi seperti masak lemak, kari, gulai, dan masakkan bergoreng hendaklah dihadkan.

 

Cara mengantikan pengambilan minyak dan santan dalam masakan dan makanan:

 

 

Mesej Utama 5: Makan Makanan yang dimasak di Rumah Lebih Kerap

 

Makanan yang dibeli di luar secara amnya mempunyai kandungan gula, garam, sos, kicap, perasa, dan monosodium glutamate (MSG) yang tinggi, ia juga kebanyakannya menggunakan kaedah memasak yang kurang sihat iaitu dengan cara menggoreng dengan minyak yang banyak dan berulang- ulang.

 

Kandungan makanan yang tinggi garam, gula, sos, kicap, perasa dan MSG boleh menyebabkan tinggi risiko kepada masalah kesihatan seperti diabetes, dan juga darah tinggi.

 

Selain daripada itu, pengambilan makanan dari luar juga seringkali mempunyai saiz hidangan yang tidak mengikut spesifikasi suku – suku separuh, hal ini menyebabkan individu lebih cenderung untuk makan secara berlebihan dan mendapat lebih risiko untuk menjadi obes.

 

Cadangan hidangan harian di rumah:

 

 

Rujukan
 

  1. Kementerian Kesihatan Malaysia (KKM). Bahagian Pemakanan. Panduan Pinggan Sihat Malaysia. https://bit.ly/3HHHdU6

3 Tips that will speed up weight loss

Once  you google about how to loss weight you will find all sorts of ways to loss weight from portion control, exercising, ban fatty foods, do not skip breakfast and many more.

The most important and simple concept about losing weight is, the more you put into your body (calories/foods) the more effort you need to put in order to lose it. For someone with extra weight, it is important to control your portion so that body can use whatever calories it already has to burn. In doing this, exercise really helps to speed up the process.

 

Here are 3 Tips that you can practice apart from portion control and exercise in order to speed up the weight loss:

 

  • Drink plenty of water

 

Drink water helps your body to identify whether you are hungry or you are just wanting something to munch or your stomach is merely ‘boring’. That is why one pro-tips for dieting is to drink water 30 minutes before you eat. This allow your stomach to feel a bit full and avoid you from eating too much. Of course the water that we are referring here is PLAIN WATER not your juice, coffee, tea or milkshakes.

 

  • Eat high fiber food

 

Consumption of 3 servings of vegetables and 2 servings of fruits as per recommended by Ministry of Health Malaysia (MOH) will also help in improving portion control. Often times, dieters find its hard to limit portion as it will at the end makes people even more crave for food as the portioning does not satisfy their appetite.

 

But actually, a good amount of vegetables, fruits and protein should help to curb the cravings. That is the beauty of consuming whole food as compared to processed foods or fast foods. Often times the later will not satisfy your hunger and due to the high sodium content it will make you crave for it even more.

 

Hence, lead to bigger portion size and more calories/weight being load into your body.

 

High fiber content can also be found in your carbohydrates. Consumption of carbohydrates from wholegrain breads, brown rice, or even starchy fruits/ vegetables such as pumpkin and corn also help to improve your daily fiber consumption and at the same time give you sufficient carbohydrates and fullness.

 

  • Eat slowly

Consumption of foods nowadays are often times in rush, or while doing other things like small talk, or while watching screen/video etc. These activities do not allow individual to be engaged with foods but rather with other things. This will also lead to over consumption of food and inability to realize fullness, in the long run can caused weight gain.

 

Thus, among things to do during eating is by using small plate and also by eating slowly. Using small plates allow individual to reduce the portion size while eating slowly allow ones to realize fullness.

 

Often times, people do not realized their body cues which can lead to over consumption, weight gain and obesity.

 

Eat mindfully allow one to fully aware of what is put inside the body, having said this, it does not mean that one has to eat healthy food all the times, since pleasurable is one of the important factor to mind, food is not merely consume for the sake of being healthy, but also a source of happiness. Thus, try to find balance in these two helps with not only being healthy physically but also mentally!

 

Understanding calories

Calories are a unit of measurement for the amount of energy in food and beverages.

 

We put energy into our bodies when we eat and drink. This energy will then be used in our daily activities, such as breathing, sleeping, and running.

 

To maintain a stable weight, we must balance the energy we put into our bodies with the energy we use through normal body functions and daily activities. Simply put, the more calories you put into your body, the more activities you need to do to burn them off, and vice versa.

 

General calories intake

 

Men on average need about 2500 kcal per day, while women need about 2000 kcal per day. However, as mentioned above, the amount of recommended nutrient intake varies from person to person based on their daily activities, occupation, frequency of exercise, lifestyle habits, and also body metabolism.

 

The more vigorously you engage in an activity, the more calories you will expend. Fast walking, for example, burns more calories than moderate walking. If you're gaining weight, it could be because you've been eating and drinking more calories than you've been burning. To lose weight, you must expend more energy than you consume; this can be accomplished by eating less or exercising more vigorously. Doing this consistently over time will get you to your desired weight.

 

When people try to lose weight, they tend to restrict their food intake and often do not enjoy their diet changes. A healthy diet should also be a sustainable diet, which means gradually but consistently reducing unhealthy food consumption, consuming more healthier food options, and being mindful of the amount of food consumed.

 

Calorie counter

 

Nowadays, there are various apps that can be used on a mobile phone to track not only your calorie intake but also your steps, exercise, and the energy that you burn. Using all these apps and gadgets is helpful in making sure that you are on track with your diet and exercise.

 

One of the apps developed by the Ministry of Health Malaysia that is compatible with the Malaysian variety of foods is My Nutri Diary 2.0. The app is helpful in monitoring your calorie intake and your weight progress. Often, when we use calorie tracking apps, it frustrates users that the app does not know how many calories a nasi lemak has (or any local food), but with my nutri diary, it covers a variety of Malaysian food options, which can be helpful for our daily food consumption.

 

Gap between unhealthy diet and body needs

 

While trying to lose, put on, or maintain weight, imbalanced consumption of foods may lead to the loss of some essential nutrients. Hence, to bridge the gap between the lack of nutrients in food and what the body needs, consumption of multivitamins and multiminerals is helpful.

 

Other conditions include denture problems, loss of appetite, a hectic lifestyle, and many more.

 

Do you think slimming pills work?

There are millions of slimming pills product on the market with various marketing strategy, not only in pills, but there are also, drinks or beverages, functional, ointment, lotion, and many other products which claimed that it can be used for weight loss. But is it really works?

 

In this article we are going to focus solely on slimming products that people consume like functional foods, pills, beverages, not for external use like ointment, lotion, or other types of slimming products since different kind of product has different method on how they give effect to the body.

 

 

Slimming pills on the market is either from drug, or drug combination or from herbal supplement. As for drugs at the moment, in Malaysia we only use two types of drugs which is anti-obesity medicine (AOM) that act on gastrointestinal tracts (GIT) or better known as orlistat (brand name Xenical) and drugs which is used to suppress appetite or better known as Sibutramine or phentermine. The consumption of all these drugs must be prescribed and monitored by doctors.

 

There are certain criteria for doctors to consider in order to prescribed slimming pills such as when individual has BMI more than 30, but most importantly is when the individual have tried to loss weight like eat healthily and exercise. Once individual have achieved certain weight loss then the doctor can no longer prescribed the medication, which is why, the consumption of such drugs needs to be monitored by doctors only. Also, to note that there have been cases previously where the prescription of slimming drugs which harm individual health, the drug is called Fen-Phen, it was phenomenal back then, it was a combination from Phentermine and Fenfluramine, but Foods and Drugs Administration (FDA) already take it back from the market as it can harm human health specifically heart valve. When prescribing slimming drugs doctors will usually conduct full body examination and blood test from time to time thus whatever things that is not suitable for body may be detected early, unlike consuming slimming pills without prescription.

 

 

As for herbal supplement slimming pills, the ingredients can be from various ingredients, either plant-based ingredients or animal-based ingredient. Since it does not consider as drugs thus it is not put under the strict and effectiveness requirement that drugs are in.

 

In Malaysia, all these supplement products need to be notified to Ministry of Health (MOH) under the National Pharmaceutical Regulatory Agency (NPRA) for its safety. Once it is being notified, NPRA will provide the supplement products with notification number. Many product founders use this as their marketing strategy as to promote that their product is approved by MOH. However, products with notification number does not means that they are safe. It means that they are confident that their product is safe so that MOH can come and spot check anytime to make sure that their products is safe. Of course, before NPRA provide the product with the notification number they already go through the product ingredients and all that, but different batches of supplement are produce over the time, which can be different from the one sent for checking initially.

 

Among common ingredients that are in slimming pills supplement are chitosan (from shrimp shell), caffeine, bitter orange, green tea, beta gluten, carnitine, raspberry ketone, white kidney bean, yohimbe, guar gum, garcinia cambogia, fucoxanthin and many more. All these ingredients usually do not have conclusive study findings but rather mixing or promising study findings.

 

 

 

Which is why when it comes to supplement consumption it is very much suggested to go through below guideline from MOH:

 

  1. Check the products that you are going to buy whether it is registered with the regulatory authority.
  2. Some of the products (including herbal) may also cause adverse effects. Make sure your medical condition is not affected by it if you would like to try these products. Seek advice from healthcare practitioner before consuming it.
  3. Read label carefully and do not take more than the listed dose.
  4. These products are licensed as either over the counter (OTC), traditional, or functional food, therefore it is not ethical for the founder to make claim such as ‘stops from being fat’ or ‘speeds up metabolism’.
  5. Avoid slimming products which promote rapid weight loss, promise quick result, suggest that you do not need to exercise or diet, fail to recommend dietary advice or worse encourage that you can still consume anything you want.

 

In conclusion, whether slimming pills work or not it is still depending on type of slimming pills itself whether it is considered as drugs (need doctor prescription) or herbal one which is over the counter pills. All in all, health experts agree that making lifestyle changes including following a healthy eating pattern, reducing calorie intake, and engage in physical activity is the basis for achieving long term weight loss. But since making lifestyle changes can be difficult to some people, even more nowadays that there are many temptations for unhealthy food around us, not to mention the processed food which is marketed as ready to eat or ready to cook food (microwaved) but contain high trans-fat. Thus, it is really suggested that if you are to consume any slimming pills, get advice from healthcare professionals and accompanied it with healthy eating habit and exercise.

 

References

 

  1. Ministry of Health (MOH). MyHealth Portal. Slimming Pills. http://www.myhealth.gov.my/en/slimming-pills-2/
  2. National Institute of Health (NIH). Dietary Supplements for Weight Loss. Fact Sheet for Health Professionals. https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/WeightLoss-HealthProfessional/
  3. Lasting damage from Fen Phen. https://www.webmd.com/heart-disease/news/20081105/lasting-heart-damage-from-fen-phen#1

 

 

Facts on fiber

“Eat more vegetables and fruits to get your fiber!” You may have heard these words. But what is fiber ? How it works to improve health? Let us take a closer look on it!
Fiber is a type of carbohydrate that our body cannot digest undigested. Though most carbohydrates are broken down into sugar molecules but fiber cannot be broken down into sugar and thus it will pass through our body. These carbohydrates often considered beneficial in which mostly come from fruits, vegetables and legumes (1, 3, 6).
Fiber comes in two varieties, both beneficial to health (3):
 

Soluble fiber

 

Dissolves in water; absorb water to form a gel like substance that slow the digestion and cause you to feel full. They have been shown to decrease cholesterol and lower blood glucose. Common source of soluble fiber includes beans, oat bran, fruits and vegetables. It is also found in pysllium, a common fiber supplement.

 

Insoluble fiber

 

Does not dissolve in water; Increase fecal bulk and appear to help food pass more quickly through the digestive tract so it can be of benefit to those who struggle with constipation and irregular stools.

 

 Facts About Fiber (3,4)


 

1. Fiber aids in achieving healthy weight.

 

2. Fiber fight diseases. It appears to reduce risk of developing various health conditions including heart disease, diabetes, constipation and breast cancer.

 

3. Fiber helps to lower cholesterol.

 

4. Fiber helps to regulate blood glucose.

 

5.  Recommended dietary fiber intake per day for all age group is 20-30g/day. However, if a person is not currently eating enough of fiber, he or she should increase his or her fiber intake slowly  to avoid gas and bloating.

 

 

6. More fiber needs more water. When eating a high fiber diet, be sure to drink at least eight or more glasses of water every day.

 

7.  Fiber aids in improving digestion by increasing stool bulk and regularity. A high-fiber diet may help reduce the risk of hemorrhoids and diverticulitis.

 

8.  Too much fiber is a bad thing. You may experience abdominal cramping, bloating, gas, constipation and even diarrhea.

 

9. Fruit and vegetable peels are rich in several nutrients including fiber. Eating unpeeled fruits and vegetables keep you feel full longer due to its high fiber content. However, certain fruit and vegetable peels may be hard to consume or simply inedible. These peels are best removed and not eaten.

 

10. Fruits and vegetable juice has less fiber than whole fruits and vegetable. This is because the skin is removed and thus it is more healthful to eat whole fruit and vegetable.

 

11. Fiber cannot be cooked out.

 

Tips to Increase fiber intake (5,7)

 

1. Consume products that have whole grain listed as the first ingredients, high fiber content and low fat and sugar content.

 

2. Replace white rice, bread and pasta with brown rice and whole grain products.

 

 

3. Include legumes in your diet (beans, dried peas and lentils)

 

 

4. Eat unpeeled whole fruit and vegetables not juice.

 

5. Snack on fruits and vegetables

 

6. Take a fiber supplement (e.g psyllium)

 

In conclusion,

 

Fiber is an important dietary substance to your diet. This is because high fiber foods are also good sources of vitamins, mineral and antioxidants which offer many health benefits. Therefore, as one of the key ingredients to healthy eating, fiber is something you cannot skip.

 

References

  1. Cleveland Clinic. 2019. Improving Your Health With Fiber. Available from https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/14400-improving-your-health-with-fiber [Accessed on 23 April 2020].
  2. Danielle, D. 2018. How much fiber is too much. Medical New Today. Available from https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/321286#treatment [Accessed on 23 April 2020].
  3. Harvard University School of Public Health. (n.d.). Fiber. Available from https://www.hsph.harvard.edu/nutritionsource/carbohydrates/fiber/ [Accessed on 23 April 2020].
  4. Karin, L. 2016. 45 Interesting Facts about FIber. Fact Retriever. Available from https://www.factretriever.com/fiber-facts [Accessed on 23 April 2020].
  5. Kerri, A., J. 2016. 16 Easy Ways to Eat More Fiber. Healthline. Available from https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/16-ways-to-eat-more-fiber [Accessed on 23 April 2020].
  6. Mayo Clinic. 2018. Dietary fiber: Essential for a healthy diet. Available from https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/nutrition-and-healthy-eating/in-depth/fiber/art-20043983 [Accessed on 23 April 2020].
  7. My Health Ministry of Health. 2012. SERAT DAN KAWALAN DIABETES. Available from http://www.myhealth.gov.my/serat-dan-kawalan-diabetes/ [Accessed on 23 April 2020].

What happen to your stomach when you fast?

Fasting has long been a part of many religious traditions, including the Jewish and Muslim holidays of Yom Kippur and Ramadan, respectively. As you read this, billions of Muslims around the world are participating in this act of faith, which involves fasting from dawn to dusk. While fasting for Ramadan is based on spiritual beliefs, many of us fast because we believe it benefits our health. However, what happens to our bodies when we fast? 


The primary source of energy for a person is glucose, which is obtained from carbohydrates such as grains, dairy products, fruits, certain vegetables, beans, and even sweets.

The glucose is stored in the liver and muscles and released into the bloodstream when the body requires it. This process, however, changes during fasting. The liver will deplete its glucose reserves after about 8 hours of fasting. At this point, the body enters a state known as glucogenesis, which marks the transition into fasting mode.


Glucogenesis has been shown in studies to increase the number of calories burned by the body. Without carbohydrates, the body burns its own calories. When there is no carbohydrate available, the body produces its own glucose, primarily from fat.

The body eventually runs out of these energy sources as well. Fasting mode then transitions into the more serious starvation mode. A person's metabolism slows down at this point, and their body begins to burn muscle tissue for energy. Although it is a well-known term in the dieting world, true starvation mode occurs only after several days or even weeks without food. So, unless other health conditions exist, it is generally safe to go without eating for a day after breaking their fast after 24 hours. (1)

“A detoxification process also occurs, because any toxins stored in the body’s fat are dissolved and removed from the body,” he adds, noting that after a few days of fasting, higher levels of endorphins – “feel-good hormones” are produced in the blood, which can have a positive impact on mental well-being. As mentioned previously, the study by Dr.Longo and colleagues suggests prolonged fasting may also be effective for regenerating immune cells. “When you starve, the system tries to save energy, and one of the things it can do to save energy is to recycle a lot of the immune cells that are not needed, especially those that may be damaged,” Dr.Longo explains. In their study, publish in the journal Cell Stem Cell, the team found that repeated cycles of 2 – 4 days without food over a 6-month period destroyed the old and damaged immune cells in mice and generate new ones.

Furthermore, the team discovered that cancer patients who fasted for three days prior to chemotherapy were protected against immune system damage caused by the treatment, which they attribute to immune cell regeneration. "The good news is that the body got rid of the parts of the system that might be damaged or old, the inefficient parts, during the fasting," says Dr. Longo. "Now, if you start with a system that has been heavily damaged by chemotherapy or ageing, fasting cycles can literally generate a new immune system." (2)

Intermittent fasting, on the other hand, is associated with numerous health risks, according to the UK's National Health Service (NHS).

People who fast frequently become dehydrated, owing to their bodies' inability to obtain fluid from food. As a result, it is advised that Muslims consume plenty of water prior to fasting periods during Ramadan. Other people who follow fasting diets should stay hydrated during their fasting periods.

On the other hand, according to the UK’s National Health Service (NHS), there are numerous health risks associated with intermittent fasting.

Fasting can also cause heartburn; lack of food leads to a reduction in stomach acid, which digests food and destroys bacteria. But smelling food or even thinking about it during fasting periods can trigger the brain into telling the stomach to produce more acid, leading to 
heartburn.(2)

Finally, to sum up, moderation is the key. Know the precaution step to avoid the potential risk. A person must understand his or her current health condition before proceeding to any sort of diet plan.

Fasting can also cause heartburn because a lack of food reduces stomach acid, which digests food and destroys bacteria. However, smelling food or even thinking about it during a fast can cause the brain to tell the stomach to produce more acid, resulting in heartburn. (2)

To summarize, moderation is essential. Understand the precautionary measure to avoid the potential risk. Before beginning any diet plan, a person must first understand his or her current health situation. 

 

 

 

 

 

References

 

1. Medical News Today (n.d). What Happens If You Don’t Eat For A Day? Timeline And Effects. [online] Available at: https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/322065#can-fasting-promote-weight-loss [Accessed 29 April 2020].


2. Medical News Today (n.d). Fasting: Health Benefits And Risks. [online] Available at: https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/295914  [Accessed 29 April 2020].

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Diarrhea in children and what need to be worried about?

Diarrhea is characterized by frequent soft or loose bowel movements (poop). Most children experience diarrhea from time to time. It usually does not last long and usually resolves on its own, but in children, the period when they have diarrhea is critical because they may be losing too much water, which can lead to other health problems.

 

Among the dehydration symptoms that parents and/or caregivers should look for in children who have diarrhea are:  

  • Seems drowsy
  • Breathes quickly
  • Has few or no tears when they cry
  • Has a soft spot on their head that sinks inwards (sunken fontanelle)
  • Has a dry mouth
  • Has dark yellow pee or has not had a pee in the last 6 hours (for baby) and 12 hours (for child)
  • Hands and feet that appear cold and blotchy 

 

Diarrhea is usually caused by an infection, such as rotavirus, bacteria like salmonella, or a parasite like giardia. Aside from dehydration symptoms, it also includes vomiting, stomachache, headache, and fever.

 

 

It is also critical to seek medical attention right away if your child or baby exhibits any of the following symptoms:

 

  •         A fever of 38°C or higher.
  •         Diarrhea lasting more than 24 hours.
  •         Has more than four diarrhea stools in eight hours and isn't drinking enough.
  •         Bloody or pustular stools

 It is best to prevent fluid loss when treating diarrhea in children or adults, whether in a clinical setting or at home.

 

 

Here are some tips that parents and/or caregivers can use to prevent fluid loss at home:

 

  • Provide more fluids and encourage your child to drink more. Infants and children should be given extra breast milk or oral rehydration solution (ORS). Plain water lacks minerals like sodium and potassium, both of which can help with diarrhea. Fruit juice and carbonated drinks are not recommended because they cause stomach ache/ cramps and increase fluid loss (the later). Children with severe diarrhea, vomiting, and dehydration may require intravenous fluids (via a vein in the arm) in the hospital.

 

  • It is also critical to begin providing a consistent diet for the children. Encourage them to eat small amounts of food frequently, even if they don't have an appetite. Breastfed babies can continue to nurse normally, and formula-fed babies can eat normally as well. Smaller, more frequent meals are once again encouraged. Water-rich foods, such as watermelon, are also encouraged.

 

In conclusion, diarrhea in children can be very serious and is quite common; some of the practices that parents may employ when dealing with children who frequently experience diarrhea include ensuring that their children's and caregiver's hygiene is always maintained. Ensure that food is stored at the proper temperature, particularly dairy and raw food products; that food is fully cooked; and that the home environment is clean, especially if there is a pet in the same household. Aside from these, taking probiotic supplements is beneficial to their gut health.

 

References.


  1. American College of Gastroenterology. Diarrhea in children. https://gi.org/topics/diarrhea-in-children/ (Accessed on April 1, 2021).
  2. National Collaborating Centre for Women’s and Children’s Health (UK). Diarrhoea and Vomiting Caused by Gastroenteritis: Diagnosis, Assessment and Management in Children Younger than 5 Years. London: RCOG Press; 2009 Apr. (NICE Clinical Guidelines, No. 84.) 5, Fluid management.Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK63837/
  3. National Institute of Health (NIH). National Institute of Diabetes, Digestive, and Kidney Disease (NIDDK). Symptoms and causes of chronic diarrhea in children. https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/digestive-diseases/chronic-diarrhea-children/symptoms-causes (Accessed on April 1, 2021).
  4. National Health Service (NHS) U. Dehydration. https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/dehydration/ (Accessed on April 1, 2021).
  5. Diarrhea in Children. https://www.webmd.com/children/guide/diarrhea-treatment (Accessed on April 1, 2021).

 

 

Understanding acid reflux in children

Acid reflux, also known as gastroesophageal reflux (GER), is a condition that affects both adults and children. While the fundamental mechanism remains the same, there are notable distinctions between acid reflux in adults and its manifestation in children.
 

In adults, reflux occurs when stomach contents, including stomach acid, flow back into the esophagus, leading to symptoms such as heartburn, regurgitation, and a bitter taste in the mouth.
 

This uncomfortable condition is not limited to adults; it can also affect children and even infants. However, due to the differences in the maturity of their digestive systems, the symptoms of GER can vary significantly depending on the child's age.
 

In infants, a certain amount of spit-up after feeding is common and referred to as GER. Nevertheless, if your baby experiences frequent vomiting accompanied by discomfort, feeding difficulties, or weight loss, it may signify a more serious issue than typical GER. Nevertheless, the underlying mechanism of GER in babies, children, and adults remains quite similar.
 

For babies, GER often results from their underdeveloped gastrointestinal tract, which is not as coordinated as an adult's. In contrast, children may experience GER due to factors like obesity, overeating, consumption of spicy or oily foods, intake of caffeinated or carbonated beverages, or the use of specific medications. Nonetheless, the root cause of GER in children is akin to that in adults: it occurs when factors induce relaxation of the muscular valve between the stomach and esophagus (known as the Lower Esophageal Sphincter or LES) or elevate pressure below the LES.
 

Symptoms in Children:

The most common GER symptoms in infants and children include:

  • Frequent or recurrent vomiting
  • Persistent cough or wheezing
  • Feeding difficulties, such as choking or gagging during meals
  • Heartburn, gas, abdominal pain, and colic
  • Regurgitation and re-swallowing
  • Complaining of a sour taste in the mouth, especially in the morning


Tips for Identifying and Assisting Children with GER:

When it comes to children, paying close attention to their complaints or observations is crucial. Children often struggle to articulate their discomfort or pain accurately. In addition to this, there are several strategies that can help manage GER in children:

  • Encourage children to sit upright for at least two hours after meals, particularly if they have consumed trigger foods like oily or spicy dishes, carbonated beverages, or caffeine.
  • Opt for several small meals throughout the day instead of three large ones.
  • Ensure that children do not overeat.
  • Promote regular exercise among children.


For infants, elevating the crib or bassinet and holding the baby upright for 30 minutes after feeding can be beneficial, along with assisting them in burping.


In conclusion, acid reflux, a condition commonly associated with adults, can also affect children. However, children may struggle to describe their symptoms and understand what is happening to their bodies. The key lies in attentive observation and implementing the helpful tips mentioned above to provide relief and comfort to children experiencing GER.

Do you know why fiber is important?

Fiber is a type of carbohydrate that our body is unable to digest. Though most carbohydrates are broken down into sugar molecules, fiber cannot be broken down into sugar molecules, and instead it passes through the body undigested. Fiber helps regulate sugars in the body and helps keep hunger and blood sugar in check.

Children and adults need at least 20 to 30 grammes of fiber per day for good health. It can be obtained by consuming a diet rich in whole grains, vegetables, legumes, nuts, and fruits.

 

There are two types of fiber: soluble fiber and insoluble fibre.

  • Soluble fiber is a type of fiber that dissolves in water and can help lower glucose levels and blood cholesterol levels. Foods with soluble fiber include oatmeal, nuts, beans, lentils, apples, and blueberries.

  • Insoluble fiber is a type of fiber that does not dissolve in water. It can help food move through the digestive system, promoting regularity and helping to prevent constipation. Foods with insoluble fibers are wheat, whole wheat bread, whole grain couscous, brown rice, legumes, carrots, cucumbers, and tomatoes.

There are various studies confirming that consumption of a diet high in fiber helps to make the overall body function healthier.

 

Heart Health

 

In a Harvard study with over 40, 000 male health professionals, researchers found that consumption of a high-fiber diet reduced the risk of getting coronary heart disease by 40%. Another study conducted by Harvard among female nurses also found similar findings: a high-fiber diet lowers the risk of metabolic syndrome (a combination factor of heart disease and diabetes). These factors are high blood pressure, high insulin levels, excess weight, a high triglyceride level, and a low HDL level (good cholesterol level).

 

 

Diabetes Mellitus Type 2.

 

A diet low in fiber and high in carbohydrates and fat can cause a sudden spike in blood sugar, which can increase the risk of developing type 2 diabetes. Both Harvard studies with female nurses and male health professionals found that this type of diet increased more than double the risk of type 2 diabetes.

 

Other studies, such as the Black Women’s Health Study and the European Prospective Investigation into Cancer and Nutrition, have shown similar results.

  

Constipation.

 

It is believed that the fibre in wheat bran and oat bran is more potent than the fibre found in fruits and vegetables. In addition, because fibre absorbs water, experts advise increasing beverage intake along with fibre intake rather than doing so abruptly.

 

Cancer.

 

Fiber is shown to decrease the risk of breast cancer through a large-scale study in 2016, where the findings indicate that higher fiber intake reduces breast cancer risk, suggesting that fiber intake during adolescence and early adulthood may be particularly important.

 

In other words, women who consume higher fiber foods during adolescence and young adulthood, including vegetables and fruits, may have a significantly lower breast cancer risk than those who eat less dietary fiber when young.

 

In conclusion, consumption of sufficient fiber can give various benefits to the human body. According to the Malaysia Food Pyramid 2020, it is recommended to consume 3 servings of vegetables and fruits daily. However, according to the National Health Morbidity Survey (NHMS), about 95% of Malaysians do not consume enough vegetables and fruits daily, which is why sometimes consumption of fiber supplements can help to bridge the gap of poor dietary intake.

 

Reference

 

1. Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health. Fiber. https://www.hsph.harvard.edu/nutritionsource/carbohydrates/fiber/

2. National Health and Morbidity Survey (NHMS) (2019). Chapter 09, Of fruits, veggies, and plain water.  http://iptk.moh.gov.my/images/technical_report/2020/4_Infographic_Booklet_NHMS_2019_-_English.pdf 

3. Malaysia Food Pyramid 2020. Ministry of Health Malaysia. Nutrition Division. 

http://nutrition.moh.gov.my/piramid-makanan-malaysia-2020-mendidik-rakyat-mengambil-makanan-dengan-betul/ 

 

 

 

 

Probiotics 101

The World Health Organisation (WHO) defines probiotics as live microorganisms that, when administered in adequate amounts, confer health benefits on the host. It can be found in fermented foods (e.g., yoghurt, kefir, sauerkraut, tempeh, and kimchi), dietary supplements, and cosmetics.

Probiotics may contain a variety of microorganisms. The most common are Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium. There are also other bacteria being used as probiotics such as Saccharomyces boulardii.

 

According to studies, different types of bacteria exert different effects on the human body. Therefore, choosing the right strains and types of probiotics is essential to address the said health concern.

 

 

 

Probiotics, Prebiotics, and Synbiotics.

 

Prebiotics are nondigestible food components that promote the growth of beneficial microorganisms. Probiotics are not the same thing. Prebiotics are commonly consumed by probiotics, which can stimulate their growth and activity. While synbiotics are typically products that combine probiotics and prebiotics. All in one supplement product, this combination allows bacteria (probiotics) to feed on prebiotics.

 

 Why probiotics are important?

 

Many studies on the benefits of consuming probiotics have recently emerged. Probiotics, according to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), may help your body maintain a healthy community of microorganisms or help your body's community of microorganisms return to a healthy state after being disturbed. It can also influence your body's immune response.

 

 

 Take away message

 

There is currently no recommendation for how much probiotics we should consume in our daily lives, but because it has so many benefits, many people have begun to consume probiotics on a daily basis. If you rarely consume probiotic-rich foods like the ones mentioned above, probiotic supplements can be used as an alternative.

 

References

 

  1. National Institute of Health (NIH). National Centre for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH). Probiotics: What You Need to Know? https://www.nccih.nih.gov/health/probiotics-what-you-need-to-know
  2. National Health Service (NHS). UK. Probiotics. https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/probiotics

How do probiotics aid in health maintenance?

Probiotics can help to maintain health in a variety of ways. The first is by maintaining a healthy microorganism community. Second, by assisting the body's community microorganisms in returning to a healthy state after being disturbed.


Other than bacteria, the body contains fungi, parasites, and viruses. All of these "bugs" coexist peacefully and naturally in a healthy person, with the greatest number found in the intestines. Scientists refer to all these coexisting "bugs" in our bodies as the microbiome. 

The microbiome plays a key role in promoting the smooth daily operation of the human body. It consists of both helpful and potentially harmful microbes. The disturbance in the balance between the helpful and harmful microbes may arise due to infectious illnesses, certain diets, prolonged use of antibiotics or other bacteria-destroying medications, which can lead to the body becoming more susceptible to diseases. 


Scientists believe that probiotics are most effective at both ends of the age spectrum, that is, children and the elderly, during stress, after antibiotic consumption, and so on. Probiotics influence the bacteria colonization process, which can lead to a faster restoration of a healthy microbiome and a lower risk of illness. 

Probiotics also help to maintain health by influencing the body's immune response. Microbiota aid in the stimulation of the immune system in the body; for example, a healthy microbiota will protect the body from pathogenic organisms that enter the body, such as through the consumption of contaminated food and beverages.

A variety of bacteria families are found in the human gut, including Prevotella, Ruminoccoides, Bacteroides, Lactobacillus, Clostridium, and Firmicutes. These microbes in the gut prevent the overgrowth of harmful bacteria by competing for nutrients and attachment sites on the mucous membrane of the gut, which in turn provides immune activity to the body. 
 In a nutshell, while there are numerous additional benefits to consuming probiotics, such as improved skin health, scientists are still trying to figure out how probiotics can help with other health conditions. However, large-scale studies, such as the Human Genome Project, show promising results on the health benefits of probiotics.

 

References

1.    Harvard T.H. Chan. School of Public Health. The Nutrition Source. https://www.hsph.harvard.edu/nutritionsource/microbiome/

2.    Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health. Bugs in the system. https://www.hsph.harvard.edu/magazine/magazine_article/bugs-in-the-system/?utm_source=Facebook&utm_medium=Social&utm_campaign=Chan-Facebook-General

 

 

Probiotics & COVID-19

World Health Organization (WHO) defines probiotics as live microorganisms that when administered in adequate amounts confer health benefits on the host. It can be found in fermented food (E.g.: yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut, tempeh, and kimchi), dietary supplements, and cosmetics.

Probiotics may contain variety of microorganisms. The most common are Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium. There are also other bacteria being used as probiotics (e.g.: Saccharomyces boulardii.)
 

According to studies, different types of bacteria exert different effect to human body. Therefore, choosing the right strains and types of probiotics is essential for it to works on the said health concern.

 

How does probiotics help to maintain health? 

There are variety of ‘bugs’ that coexist naturally in the body such as bacteria, fungi, parasite and viruses, these are what scientists refer to as microbiome. In the body of a healthy person, all these bugs coexist peacefully. The role of the microbiome is to promote smooth daily operation of human body. However, conditions such as infectious illness, certain diet, prolonged use of antibiotics and/or other bacteria-destroying medications, can lead to body becoming more susceptible to diseases.
 

Due to this, scientists believe that consumption of probiotics influence bacteria colonization process, which can lead to speedy restoration of healthy microbiome and lower risk of being sick.

 

Probiotics and COVID-19?

Probiotic is link with COVID19 due to its ability to boost the immune system. Currently, most extensive researched on probiotics include Lactobacillus, Bifidobacterium, Escherichia Coli, Enterococcus, etc. Although probiotics mechanism profoundly focuses on the gastrointestinal tract, the effect of probiotics is not confined to the digestive system only. Probiotics can act on the entire body via immune modulation. Not only that, it also facilitate the immune system development and maturation and regulate the interaction between host and pathogen by killing the pathogen and regulate the immune responses towards it.

 

One might argue that, but COVID-19 is a viral infection unlike others. A systematic review described probiotics’ efficacy against viral diseases where more than 20 strains of probiotics showed the anti-inflammatory effects on the body and antibody production against viruses.

 

Moreover, study found out that viral loads were lowered upon probiotics supplementation, it is postulated due to immune modulation by microbiota that fights against COVID-19 directly and decrease the risk of secondary infections due to prolonged antibiotics exposure from multiple experimental COVID19 treatment.

 

China’s National Health Commission recommended probiotics for severe COVID-19 patients to restore the intestinal balance and protect from secondary infections. Moreover, gut microbiota’s role in modulating lung diseases has been demonstrated.

 

In conclusion, scientists in this study suggest that many more studies should be established on the effectiveness of using probiotics as prevention and especially treatment of COVID-19. As of now, apart from practicing social distancing, wearing mask, adhere to the standard operating procedure (SOP), individuals may also benefits from probiotics rich foods and supplementation for its boosting immunity properties and fight against COVID-19.

 

Reference

  1. Kurian, S. J., Unnikrishnan, M. K., Miraj, S. S., Bagchi, D., Banerjee, M., Reddy, B. S., Rodrigues, G. S., Manu, M. K., Saravu, K., Mukhopadhyay, C., & Rao, M. (2021). Probiotics in Prevention and Treatment of COVID-19: Current Perspective and Future Prospects. Archives of medical research52(6), 582–594. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.arcmed.2021.03.002

Diet Suku – Suku Separuh ?

Suku – suku separuh diet adalah saranan diet oleh Kementerian Kesihatan Malaysia (KKM) untuk cara pemakanan sihat. Pelbagai langkah dan inisiatif telah dilakukan bagi mempromosikan amalan pemakanan sihat kepada rakyat Malaysia. MegaLive menyambut baik saranan ini dengan turut sama mempromosikan amalan pemakanan sihat ini kepada semua.
Suku – suku separuh adalah diet yang merangkumi suku jumlah karbohidrat seperti nasi, mee, bihun, capati, roti dll, suku jumlah protein seperti ayam, ikan, sotong dll dan separuh jumlah sayur – sayuran dan buah – buahan. Pinggan yang dirujuk dalam saranan diet ini adalah pinggan berukuran 10 inci/ 25sm.

Contoh hidangan suku – suku separuh:

 

Capati dengan kuah dhal.
Nasi beras perang dengan ayam tanpa kulit dan sayur.
Nasi putih dengan ikan bakar dan sayur.
Nasi lemak
Roti dengan telur dan salad.

 

Terdapat 5 mesej utama dalam amalan diet suku – suku separuh.

 

Mesej Utama 1: Makan 3 Hidangan Utama yang sihat dalam sehari.

 

Makan sarapan, makan tengah hari, dan makan malam dengan sihat dengan mengikut konsep suku – suku separuh.

Makan pada waktu yang tetap juga membantu pengawalan porsi/ saiz hidangan makanan. Berikut adalah contoh waktu makan seharian.

 

Mesej Utama 2: Makan 1-2 Snek yang Sihat di antara Waktu Makan Jika Perlu

 

Bagi menggalakan pemakanan secara sihat secara holistik atau sebagai gaya hidup, anda juga digalakkan untuk mengambil snek sihat 1-2 kali dari sumber buah – buahan, kekacang, dan sayur – sayuran.

 

Contoh snek sihat yang boleh di ambil 1-2 sajian ialah:

 

 

Mesej Utama 3: Makan Sekurang-kurangnya Separuh Daripada Bijirin Anda Sebagai Bijirin Penuh

 

Malaysia adalah negara di mana, makanan rujinya adalah nasi, oleh itu tidak hairanlah jika kebanyakkan rakyat Malaysia masih berasa tidak kenyang selagi tidak makan nasi. Oleh yang demikian, Kementerian Kesihatan Malaysia (KKM) menggariskan pengambilan karbohidrat hendaklah diambil kebanyakkannya dari sumber bijirin penuh, seperti dari sumber nasi beras perang, roti bijirin mil penuh, jagung, barli dll.

 

Contoh makanan berkarbohidrat yang tinggi serat:

 

 

Mesej Utama 4: Makan Hidangan Tidak Bergoreng dan Tanpa Santan Setiap Hari

 

Seterusnya, lauk -pauk di Malaysia begitu sinonim sekali dengan jenis lauk -pauk yang bergoreng menggunakan minyak yang sangat banyak iaitu menggunakan kaedah ‘deep -frying’. Makanan bergoreng dengan minyak banyak yang digunakan secara berulang – ulang dan makanan yang mengandungi jumlah santan yang tinggi  boleh meningkatkan masalah kesihatan seperti masalah jantung, darah tinggi, kolesterol dan kanser.

 

Justeru, pengambilan makanan dengan cara masakan dan kandungan santan yang tinggi seperti masak lemak, kari, gulai, dan masakkan bergoreng hendaklah dihadkan.

 

Cara mengantikan pengambilan minyak dan santan dalam masakan dan makanan:

 

 

Mesej Utama 5: Makan Makanan yang dimasak di Rumah Lebih Kerap

 

Makanan yang dibeli di luar secara amnya mempunyai kandungan gula, garam, sos, kicap, perasa, dan monosodium glutamate (MSG) yang tinggi, ia juga kebanyakannya menggunakan kaedah memasak yang kurang sihat iaitu dengan cara menggoreng dengan minyak yang banyak dan berulang- ulang.

 

Kandungan makanan yang tinggi garam, gula, sos, kicap, perasa dan MSG boleh menyebabkan tinggi risiko kepada masalah kesihatan seperti diabetes, dan juga darah tinggi.

 

Selain daripada itu, pengambilan makanan dari luar juga seringkali mempunyai jumlah porsi yang tidak mengikut spesifikasi suku – suku separuh, hal ini menyebabkan individu lebih cenderung untuk makaan secara berlebihan dan mendapat lebih risiko untuk menjadi obes.

 

Cadangan hidangan harian di rumah:

 

 

Rujukan

  1. Kementerian Kesihatan Malaysia (KKM). Bahagian Pemakanan. Panduan Pinggan Sihat Malaysia. https://bit.ly/3HHHdU6

Liver Health 101

The liver is the organ located in the upper right side of the abdomen, just below the diaphragm. It is the largest internal organ of the human body. The main roles of liver include removing toxins from the body, processing food nutrients, and helping to regulate body metabolism.

 

However, there are certain conditions that prevent liver from performing its vital functions including, accumulation of fat in the liver, misuse of alcohol, viral infection, iron or copper accumulation, toxic damage, and cancer.

 

Signs and symptoms of liver diseases


Certain types of liver disease such as non- alcohol fatty liver disease have no symptoms at all. For other liver conditions, the most common symptom is jaundice. Jaundice develops when the liver cannot clear a substance called bilirubin in the body hence making skin and the white eyes area appear yellowish.

 

Other symptoms include abdominal (belly) pain, bruising easily, changes in the color of the urine and stool, fatigue, nausea, or vomiting, swelling in the arms or legs (edema).

 

Once notice any of these symptoms it is best to seek immediate medical attention.

 

Causes of liver diseases


There are many causes of liver disease such as hepatitis virus infections, alcohol related liver disease, toxic effect from medication or/ and herbal medications, autoimmune disease, and congenital abnormalities such as accumulation of iron and copper in the body, or some rare enzyme disorders.

 

Diagnosis of liver diseases


Liver disease is diagnosed using several tests, including physical examination, medical history such as diet, consumption of alcohol, exposure to hepatitis infection, previous blood transfusions, tattoos, and family history of liver disease.

 

Other than these, blood test will also be conducted to test the levels of liver enzymes, jaundice, and the protein production capability of the liver.

 

Ultrasound scan of the abdomen (belly) will be conducted to check liver for abnormal lumps and assess fluid accumulation. Other scan including CT scan, MRI, and biopsy, a small piece of liver tissue is removed and examined under microscope in a laboratory to confirm the diagnosis will all be conducted in giving the precise diagnosis.

 

Treatment of liver diseases


Treatment depends on the cause of liver diseases, but among usual would be to avoid alcohol and any drugs that might damage the liver, consumption of well balance diet, consumption of prescribed medication to manage the disease and periodic removal of blood to bring iron levels down to normal in patient with haemochromatosis.


As for liver cancer, surgery, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy, or liver transplantation are the usual treatment given. In the case where liver is failing, liver transplantation are the usual treatments for liver cancer.

 

References

 

  1. Victoria. Better Health Channel. Liver. https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/conditionsandtreatments/liver (Retrieved on November 9, 2022).
  2. Cleveland Clinic. Liver Disease.  https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/17179-liver-disease (Retrieved on Novemeber 9, 2022).
  3. Mayo Clinic. Liver Disease. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/liver-problems/symptoms-causes/syc-20374502 (Retrieved on November 9, 2022). 

 

 

 

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