The Star Online: Lifestyle: Health
The Star Online: Lifestyle: Health |
| Posted: 04 Jun 2011 08:21 PM PDT IN conjunction with the mid-term school holidays nationwide, The Spine & Joint Specialists, as part of its corporate social responsibility initiative named "Straighten Up Malaysia", or SUMA for short, is offering a free spine check (scoliosis screening) to children aged below 12 years at any of its network of centres around the country (until the end of the month). All spines have curves. Some curvature in the neck, upper trunk, and lower trunk is normal. Humans need these spinal curves to help the upper body maintain proper balance and alignment over the pelvis, said Tonik Asia Group Marketing Director Ronan Lee. "However, when there are abnormal side-to-side (lateral) curves in the spinal column, we refer to this as scoliosis. Scoliosis is an alteration of both structure and function that occurs in the spine. In some cases, there is severe increase of the curve, and this could eventually harm the functioning of internal organs and body structure. "The major concern with scoliosis is that the deformity or curvature of the spine becomes more severe during a child's growth spurt. "The progression of curve during the growth phase can be very fast and the spine can become more deformed or 'bent'. "If the scoliosis develops to such a degree that it changes the shape of the rib cage, the child is then in danger of the scoliosis causing problems with breathing and heart function," he added. Scoliosis also changes a child's posture. With postural changes, it can also influence the child's psychological development, leading to a "self conscious" nature, withdrawal, and in some cases, depression. The postural changes can also affect movement patterns of the spine. The early stages of scoliosis can be difficult to detect, hence a spinal check up with a specialist is best advised as early detection can help to prevent further progression of the curve and increase the chances of successful treatment. To know more, contact 1-300-80-SPINE or drop by at any of their centres to make an appointment today. Full Feed Generated by Get Full RSS, sponsored by USA Best Price. |
| Posted: 04 Jun 2011 08:20 PM PDT MALAYSIA recently celebrated World Digestive Health Day (WDHD) for the third consecutive year, and the key focus this year is on educating and empowering Malaysians with reliable and expert information on good digestive health to help reduce the prevalence of digestive diseases in the country. This year, WDHD was initiated by the Healthy Tummies Advisory Board (HTAB) and supported by VITAGEN Healthy Tummies Programme (VHTP), a long-term community service initiated by Malaysia Milk Sdn Bhd. The event was officiated by Dr Jiloris J. F. Dony, chief of the TB & Leprosy Sector for the Health Ministry. At the launch ceremony, Dr Jiloris stated: "Public awareness on various health issues has increased greatly in recent years, specifically in areas like heart disease, breast, cervical and lung cancers, and even AIDS. Sadly however, when it comes to digestive health, there are many who remain ignorant, or worse, complacent of even basic digestive health. This is an area that needs to be given immediate attention due to the rising prevalence of digestive diseases in Malaysia. "Our digestive system actually affects our overall health, and digestive system diseases are easily preventable and can be cured if detected early. However, too often, there is not enough emphasis on this as many of us do not understand our digestive system and the importance of taking care of our digestive health. Thus, HTAB's efforts to commemorate World Digestive Health Day could not have come at a better time." Dr Jiloris added: "The public really needs to understand the importance of looking after their digestive health. Even simple lifestyle changes such as exercise, healthy eating, and quitting bad habits, for example smoking, can do wonders for your digestive health. I applaud HTAB and VHTP's efforts, and would like to wish them all the best for organising such a successful and significant event!" VITAGEN deputy general manager Michael Ong said: "As a market leader of nutritious fortified dairy products and juice drinks, Malaysia Milk believes that it is our responsibility to contribute towards improving the health status of all Malaysians and to support the Ministry of Health's efforts so that the prevalence of digestive disorders in the country can be reduced. "Hence, VHTP was established in 2009 with the aim of reducing the prevalence of digestive system disorders and improving digestive health. That explains why VHTP has been supporting the celebration of WDHD since the inauguration of WDHD three years ago. This partnership between the expert groups and Malaysia Milk has made it possible for us to support this community service initiative". Assoc Prof Dr Sheikh Anwar, spokesperson of the HTAB, shared: "We hope that by raising awareness through dissemination of expert information, the public will take the first step to empower themselves with the right knowledge and start to lead a healthier lifestyle. "We believe education on prevention is crucial. It helps one recognise the signs and symptoms of digestive-related diseases. In turn, early measures and precautions can be taken to reduce the prevalence of digestive diseases. Failing to recognise and treat such symptoms may lead to even more serious conditions, such as colon cancer." This year's theme, "Enteric Infections: Prevention and Management", emphasises the importance of hygiene in every day life; and how clean water, food and environment could play a crucial role in maintaining a healthy digestive system. The WDHD celebrations commenced with a roadshow held over a period of five days, from May 25 to May 29, at the Oval Concourse of One Utama Shopping Mall, Petaling Jaya. The roadshow was also supported by leading health experts from Nutrition Month Malaysia (NMM), Malaysia Paediatric Association's Positive Parenting Programme, as well as the National Cancer Council (MAKNA). At the roadshow, nurses, nutritionists and dieticians were also available for free digestive health screening and counselling, while other interactive and family-orientated activities conducted during the five-day event focused on promoting good digestive health. These activities aimed to encourage the public to make healthier choices in their lifestyle and diet. In addition, an educational guidebook, sponsored by VHTP, was distributed for free to members of the public. This publication contains information on digestive diseases, the different types of digestive problems, and tips on preventive measures through simple lifestyle changes. For more information on the World Digestive Health Day road show and its activities, members of the public can contact the Secretariat at (Sue Hui/Fasha) tel: 03-5632 3301/5637 3526. Full Feed Generated by Get Full RSS, sponsored by USA Best Price. |
| Posted: 04 Jun 2011 08:14 PM PDT PLANT sterols have been the subject of much scientific research since the 1950s. In essence, they are naturally occurring plant constituents, and studies have shown that they can inhibit the absorption of dietary cholesterol. This in turn implies that they may be supportive of a healthy cardiovascular system. In fact, a meta-analysis of 41 trials have shown that intake of 2g per day of sterols reduced low-density lipoprotein (LDL) by 10%. The analysis found that the effects of the sterols were additive with diet or drug interventions (ie rendered even more effective with such interventions). In practical terms, such a 10% reduction in LDL levels translates to an expected reduction of coronary heart disease by about 12% to 20% over five years. According to naturopath Monitar Tan, who is a trainer and health consultant at Blackmores, taking plant sterols, along with other measures to reduce cholesterol, such as regular exercise and a healthy diet, can effectively lower LDL levels. "Let's take the analogy of a house with four maids. They cope well, cleaning, dusting, and generally keeping the house quite clean. However, add in another four maids, and the house would be that much cleaner. That's the effect of adding sterols to the diet." She adds: "Some studies have noted positive results three weeks after plant sterol consumption." Geeting to know sterols Plant sterols are fat-like compounds with a chemical structure that is very similar to cholesterol. "Oh, no," you might think. "Doesn't this add to the cholesterol load in my body?" The answer is a definite no. Though they share similar chemical structures, plant sterols are minimally absorbed by the body. However, during digestion, they do compete with cholesterol for absorption. In effect, this leads to less cholesterol being absorbed by the body, and more being secreted OUT of the body. Plant sterols are present naturally in many foods, especially in vegetables, fruits, nuts, and grains. The safety aspects of sterols have been addressed by various agencies worldwide. The US Food and Drug Administration has classified it as Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS). It has also authorised the claim that foods containing plant sterols may reduce the risk of coronary artery disease. Though no adverse effects have been noted in the studies, it has been observed that there's a reduction in beta carotene levels with sterol consumption. Part of this can be explained by the fact that reduced levels of LDL reduces the absorption of carotenes as LDL acts as a carrier for them. Experts have advised that the reduction can be offset by adding sufficient fruits and vegetables into the diet. Tan notes: "Studies have noted this decrease in carotene levels. That's why certain manufacturers have added beta carotene into plant sterol supplements to make up for the decrease." She adds: "Interestingly, studies have shown that sterols do not effect fat-soluble vitamin absorption." A question of diet The studies that have been conducted on plant sterols show that its effects appear to be independent of the diet of the participants. This has prompted some to make the observation that plant sterols work, even in those who do not observe a healthy diet. However, it must be emphasised that a healthy diet provides so much more benefits. It gives dietary fibre, essential fatty acids, vitamins, minerals and the many nutrients that are packed in fruits, vegetables and wholegrains. And, a low-fat diet adds to the cholesterol-lowering effects – some studies show that eating foods low in saturated fat and cholesterol, and high in sterols, can reduce LDL by 20%. Hence, it would make sense that plant sterols would be the smart addition to such a healthy diet in order to lower cholesterol levels. What about the question of amount of intake? Would more sterols lead to even more reduction in LDL levels? The studies that have been conducted with plant sterols have observed that the 2g daily intake of sterols effectively lowers LDL levels, with no serious side effects or health risks. They have also found that additional intake beyond the 2g has no additional LDL-lowering effects. This is reflected by the Australian Heart Foundation's recommendation of a daily intake of 2-3 grams of plant sterols per day for certain individuals. Other medications What about those taking prescribed cholesterol-lowering medications? Will plant sterols affect such drugs? Some studies have addressed this question. In a trial of 167 adults on statins, it showed LDL reduction of 10% more than with placebo. Several more trials have shown an additional benefit of plant sterols to those taking statins. So yes, it does appear to have a benefit even for those who're on statins to lower cholesterol levels. Tan has this advice for those who're on statins or other drugs: "If you're taking any medications, and you want to add plant sterols supplements, it's best that you space them two hours apart. This is to avoid competitive absorption, as well as other interactions. She emphasises that plant sterols are largely used as a treatment measure, especially for those with elevated cholesterol levels. Besides lowering cholesterol levels, Tan notes, plant sterols have also been observed to increase HDL levels, albeit slightly. "The rise is not statistically significant," she explains. When all is said and done, cholesterol control requires a lifestyle change that incorporates exercise and dietary interventions. Just popping pills or supplements is just not good enough. References: 1. Plat J, van Onselen EN, van Heugten MM, Mensink RP. Effects on serum lipids, lipoproteins and fat soluble antioxidant concentrations of consumption frequency of margarines and shortenings enriched with plant stanol esters. Eur J Clin Nutr. 2000;54:671-677. 2. Blair SN, Capuzzi DM, Gottlieb SO, Nguyen T, Morgan JM, Cater NB. Incremental reduction of serum total cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol with the addition of plant stanol ester-containing spread to statin therapy. Am J Cardiol. 2001;88:1157-1162. 3. Maki KC, Davidson MH, Umporowicz DM, et al. Lipid responses to plant-sterol-enriched reduced-fat spreads incorporated into a National Cholesterol Education Program Step I diet. Am J Clin Nutr. 2001;74:33-43. 4. Sheperd J, Cobbe SM, Ford I, et al, West of Scotland Coronary Prevention Study Group. Prevention of coronary heart disease with pravastatin in men with hypercholesterolaemia. N Eng J Med. 1995;333:1301-1307. n This article is courtesy of Blackmores. For more information about this article and last week's "I am cholesteril", visit www.blackmores.com.my. The information provided is for educational and communication purposes only and it should not be construed as personal medical advice. The Star does not give any warranty on accuracy, completeness, functionality, usefulness or other assurances as to the content appearing in this column. The Star disclaims all responsibility for any losses, damage to property or personal injury suffered directly or indirectly from reliance on such information. Full Feed Generated by Get Full RSS, sponsored by USA Best Price. |
| You are subscribed to email updates from The Star Online: Lifestyle: Health To stop receiving these emails, you may unsubscribe now. | Email delivery powered by Google |
| Google Inc., 20 West Kinzie, Chicago IL USA 60610 | |
0 ulasan:
Catat Ulasan