Potency of OPC and VIVA Cellpex

  

Oligomeric proanthocyanidin (OPC) is a class of flavonoids that has high antioxidant properties.  The discovery was made in 1948 by Jacques Masquelier who isolated that substance – OPC from peanut skin, and subsequently developed techniques for its extraction from pine bark and grape seed, both were waste products of the lumber and winemaking industry then.

This naturally occurring plant metabolites are present on the skin, seeds and seed coverings of fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, flowers and bark.  Cocoa beans, grape seed extract and pine bark extract contain the highest concentrations, and also abundantly found in apples, cinnamon, cocoa beans, red wines, bilberry, cranberry, black currant, green tea, black tea and acai berry.


As an antioxidant....

Studies have shown that OPCs are 20 times more potent than Vitamin C and 50 times more potent than Vitamin E, both are also water-soluble antioxidants.  Given this unique quality, they are able to penetrate into stubborn blood-brain barriers found in the brain and nervous system.  Such benefits can be extended to the trillion of cells in our body as well.

Health benefits

Hence, foods rich in proanthocyanidins have high oxygen radical absorbance capacity (ORAC) or rapid absorption, suitable for promoting health benefits relating to weight management, cellular health and cardiovascular health. ORAC values measure the antioxidant activity both chemically and physiologically. Thus it promotes the development of normal cells and inhibits the growth of abnormal cells.


+  Proanthocyanidins are the principal vasoactive polyphenols in red wine associated with a reduced risk of coronary heart disease and to lower overall mortality because they can suppress production of a protein endothelin-1 that constricts blood vessels.  By so doing, they support the heart function by regulating blood pressure and cholesterol level by protecting against lipid perioxidation (rancidity of fat in cell membranes). 


+  Proanthocyanidins have antioxidant activity that protects capillaries by neutralising free radicals that contribute to the breakdown of collagen, elastin and hyaluronic acid (responsible for fibrous breakup) thus aid in strengthening all the blood vessels, reducing inflammation and improving the delivery of oxygen to the cells. This is useful in preventing vascular disorder like varicose veins and fragile capillaries. One large study found some evidence that use of OPCs from pine bark (pycnogenol) might help to prevent the leg blood clots that can develop on a long airplane.

+  As it penetrates the bloodstream fast and supports blood platelet flow, eating a heaping cup of grapes daily can relax tight blood vessels, significantly improving blood flow to damaged back tissues (and often within three hours of enjoying the first bowl). That is because your back’s vertebrae and shock-absorbing discs are completely dependent on nearby blood vessels to bring them healing nutrients and oxygen, so improving blood flow is essential for healing damaged back tissue.


+  Studies have shown their ability to improve micro-circulation, retinal edema and visual acuity in the early stages of diabetic retinopathy by normalizing blood glucose levels and delaying sugar absorption. For normal maintenance, they provide supportive nutrients to promote better vision health.

+  Evidence from one small, double-blind trial suggests that OPCs from bilberry and grape seed may reduce the general fluid retention and swelling that can occur in premenstrual syndrome (PMS).

+  Some studies suggest OPCs from pine bark alone or with arginine, may be helpful for erectile dysfunction (impotence).  In a clinical trial, in a double-blind, placebo-controlled trial, 124 men (aged 30-50) with moderate erectile dysfunction were randomized to take Prelox (a formulation of pine bark extract and arginine) or placebo for 6 months. The men who took Prelox experienced improvement in their condition over placebo.

+  Those suffering from respiratory conditions such as allergies, sinusitis and asthma would benefit as OPCs help to inhibit the production of histamine and reduce the sensitivity of allergens and inflammation in the body.

+  Their oxidative reactions in the body can help to counteract against the effects of internal and environmental stresses as well as supporting normal metabolic processes.  Note as many as 60,000 chemical toxins of different kinds enter our body at different time, including cigarette smoke, car exhaust vapors from cleaning fluids and solvents, chemical agents, a variety of chemical food additives such as preservatives, artificial colors, flavors, emulsifiers, lubricants, bleaching agents, flavor enhancers and synthetic sweeteners.

Word of caution

OPCs may have some anticoagulant properties when taken in high doses, and therefore should be used only under medical supervision by individuals on blood-thinner drugs, such as warfarin (Coumadin), heparin, clopidogrel (Plavix), ticlopidine (Ticlid), pentoxifylline (Trental), or aspirin.

Source:  http://healthlibrary.epnet.com/GetContent.aspx?token=e0498803-7f62-4563-8d47-5fe33da65dd4&chunkiid=21765

VIVA corner

VIVA Cellpex is a powerful antioxidant formulation that contains the two important OPC nutrients, namely grape seed extract and pine bark extract.  The seeds of the white grapes are of high water-soluble nature enabling easy absorption by the body.


A third vital ingredient is milk thistle, known to help to prevent a variety of liver diseases like Hepatitis B, C, cirrhosis and fatty liver. Its components - silymarin and silibinin have two therapeutic mechanisms. First, they alter the structure of the outer cell membrane of the hepatocyte to prevent penetration of liver poison into the interior of the cell. Second, they stimulate the action of nucleolar polymerase A, resulting in an increase in ribosomal protein synthesis, thus stimulating the regenerative ability of the liver and the formation of new hepatocytes. This is vital for liver damage cases in helping to stimulate the growth of liver cells to replenish the outgoing ones. Another benefit is to help in the conversion of LDL (bad) cholesterol into HDL (good) cholesterol.


Other ingredients include decaffeinated green tea extract, L-arginine, rosehips, white willow bark extract, digestive enzymes, boswellia extract and tomato lycopene that carry a host of health benefits.


*  L-Arginine

-  An amino acid which has marked effects on several major endocrine hormones and plays an important role in muscle growth and wound healing.
-  It helps to regulate and support key components of the immune system.  Research indicates it stimulates the thymus gland and promotes the production of lymphocytes (crucial for immunity).  This enables the body to fight infection and boost immunity due to its anti-tumor properties.
-  Its anti-cancer properties has been proven to work on breast cancer patients.
-  Also, clinical studies showed that it improved sperm motility in infertile men and had positive effects in heart failure patients.

Amount Per 2 Tablets		% Daily Value*
Potassium (as potassium citrate)	75 mg	2%
Grape seed extract	50 mg	*
Pine bark extract	25 mg	*
Decaffeinated green tea extract	60 mg	*
Milk thistle extract	50 mg	*
L-arginine	50 mg	*
Rosehips	40 mg	*
White willow bark extract	40 mg	*
Digestive enzymes (Botanical pancreatin)	37.5 mg	*
Protease	4000 USP units	*
Amylase	4000 USP units	*
Lipase	300 USP units	*
Boswellia extract	30 mg	*
Tomato lycopene	20 mg

*  Botanical Pancreatin

-  The vegetarian digestive enzymes present, help with the absorption of nutrients from food -
+  Protease – breaks down the peptide bonds in proteins
+  Amylase – breaks down carbohydrates including major sugars (sucrose, fructose and lactose)
+  Lipase – breaks down fats and lipids, oils, phospholipids and sterols (cholesterol)

*  Lycopene

A natural carotenoid (similar to beta-carotene) from tomatoes contains powerful antioxidant properties and bioactive phytonutrients
-  Reduces oxidative stress and thereby susceptibility to degenerative diseases
-  Protects the prostate, digestive tract and against radiation damage

*  Decaffeinated green tea extract

This extract from green tea contains phenolic bioflavonoids, much essential for stability and absorption of vitamin C.  Rich in phytochemicals and minerals, it also contains vitamins B1, B2, B5 and C.

-  Protects against digestive dysfunction
-  Reduces carcinogenic DNA damage
-  Relaxes the smooth muscles of the respiratory tract for easy breathing and protects against respiratory dysfunction
-  Blocks estrogen receptor sites in cells with its polyphenols compound and protects tissues from estrogenic activity
-  Helps prevent viruses from replicating

*  Rosehips

The fruit of the rose contains bioflavonoids, citric acid, malic acid, tannins, zinc, vitamin A, B3, C, D and E.

-  Protects the bladder against all infections
-  Reduces the effect of diarrhoea
-  Supports immune system functions


*  White willow bark extract

The bark extract contains phytochemicals like quercetin, tannin, beta-carotene, minerals like calcium, iron, magnesium and vitamins B1, B2, B3 and C.  Certain compounds are used to make aspirin, providing quick pain relief.

-  Inhibits the activity of enzymes associated with the production of inflammatory molecules, and thus eases general discomforts
-  Relieve pain such as headache, backache, nerve pain, joint pain, menstrual cramps, toothache and injuries

*  Boswellia extract

A gum resin from the Boswellia serrata tree that acts as an anti-inflammatory, anti-arthritic, antifungal and antibacterial. Used topically as pain relief for arthritis, gout, low back pain and fibromyalgia.  Traditionally used as a remedy for obesity, diarrhoea, dysentery, pulmonary diseases, ringworm and boils.

-  Rejuvenates the skin by inducing new cell development and helps oil production in dry skin
-  Lowers cholesterol and protects the liver
-  Stimulates blood circulation and repairs blood vessels damaged by inflammation


Overall functions

+  Supports the liver’s detoxifying function
+  Increases cellular regeneration by stimulating protein synthesis (best results combine with VIVA Ageguard)
+  Improves circulation and enhances cardiovascular health
+  Participates in enzymatic and hormonal activity
+  Assists in absorption of nutrients from food with its vegetarian digestive enzymes
+  Reduces oxidative stress which causes cancer, degenerative diseases, weakened immune system and aging.

    
Who should use more?


-  Drinkers
-  Smokers
-  Patients on drug medications
-  Liver damage patients

As the active ingredients are plant-based with extracts in high concentration working in harmony, much therapeutic benefits can be derived naturally.  The essence is quick absorption by our trillion of cells for optimal effect, without the accompanying side effect of drugs.

Knowing INSIDE Out (II)

  

           

Why are some people born stronger whilst others get sick easily?  How about those pretty ladies and fine gentlemen?  There are big eaters who do not put on weight easily whilst the rest count every single calorie. When someone says:  “It runs in the family” – means that certain traits are imprinted that cannot be changed and it is irreversible, just like our destiny.  How true is this?

Approximately US$3 billion has been spent in the recent years to research into human genome sequence but has not been yielding much results as yet.  However, already people are spending US$15000 per session to determine their genetic composition in predicting diseases.  For instance, the genetic analysis of a common disease like cardiac disease turns out to be more complex and varied due to multiple gene sites involved.  This is made more unpredictable when gene mutation takes place and can render the test futile.  Why the fuss then?

What is genes all about?

Our body is made up of trillion of cells, and genes act as the ‘brain’ for each cell, governing the activities of the cell, which include cell segregation and replication, protein production and tens and thousands of other biochemical activities, effectively controlling life and death of all lives.

At the most basic level, genes hold the information to build and maintain an organism’s cells and pass genetic traits to offspring.  There are about 30-40 thousands of gene combinations, and 99.9% of the genetic arrangement among humans are of the same biological traits like having same number of eyes and limbs. Other differences in gene arrangement determines one’s physical features such as height, skin color, body weight and susceptibility to specific diseases including thalassemia, hemophilia, color blindness and Down’s syndrome as an apparent result of gene mutation.

Most if not all living organisms encode their thousands of genes in a long strands of DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid) housed in a chromosome located in the nucleus, acting as the command centre in the cell, with a small fraction found in the mitochondria, which are the energy supply powerhouses of the cell.

Both DNA and chromosomes appear in pairs. All of us have two sets of chromosomes with one from each of our parents.  Every cell contains 23 pairs of chromosomes, which equals 46 chromosomes altogether. 22 out of these 23 chromosome pairs are autosomes and the final pair are sex chromosomes.  XX sex chromosomes determines a female whilst XY sex chromosomes, a male.



The growth, development and reproduction of organisms relies on cell division, or the process by which a single cell divides into two usually identical cells. This requires first making a duplicate copy of every gene in the genome in a process called DNA replication.  The cell must then be physically separated into two copies of the genome and divide into two distinct membrane-bound cells.

Two major steps must be taken to separate a protein-coding gene from its protein:  First, the DNA on which the gene resides must be transcribed from DNA to messenger RNA (mRNA); and, second, it must be translated from mRNA to protein all processed in the protein factory - ribosomes. The specific information from a gene is copied, base by base, from DNA into new strands of messenger RNA.  This process of producing a biologically functional molecule is known as gene expression.

Gene inheritance cannot be changed or modified but is possible to amend changes in gene expression.  It simply means that external influences can cause the DNA gene to be switched on (demethylation – unfavorable) or off/repressed (methylation – favorable).  Reduced methylation is observed in cases of folic acid deficiency, aging, inflammation and chemotherapy, and can result in increased incidence of critical illnesses and deaths.

In recent decades, researchers have learned much about DNA methylation, including how and where it occurs, and how important it is in numerous cellular processes, including embryonic development, genomic imprinting, X-chromosome inactivation, and preservation of chromosome stability. Given its involvement in many processes, any of its error can be linked to a variety of devastating consequences.

These errors are called mutations and usually occur in DNA replication and the aftermath of DNA damage. The cell contains many DNA repair mechanisms for preventing mutations and maintaining the integrity of the genome.  Some disorders like hemophilia (non-clotting) or colour blindness which affects multiple members of your family can pass down few generations through gene mutations.

Way out…

Researches have found that although inherited information carried by the gene cannot be modified, with the help of certain nutrients, lifestyles or toxins, the gene activity button can be ‘turn-on’ or ‘turn-off’.  As an example, the lack of folic acid leads to poor suppression of oncogenes and damage to the p53 gene, rendering it incapable of performing the cancer-suppressing task.  Antioxidant nutrients can be introduced to neutralise free radicals present in our body, reduce the damage of free radical towards the gene, slow down aging and reduce risks for degenerative diseases.

Our genes are not so rigid as they are constantly responding to the cellular environment which we have some control over like feeding the cells with the correct nutrient intake.  Cell nutrition refers to naturally derived ingredients that are highly bioavailable, which have been clinically proven to enhance cell function and turn off abnormal gene expression.  By controlling what we consume, with the help of other healthy lifestyle factors, we are empowered to determine our health and even turn-off our disease risk.

Hence when someone carries the risk factor for stroke, it does not mean that the chance of contracting stroke is confirmed. Adopting corrective measures to improve the flexibility of the gene by reducing the risk factor is the most scientific approach.

Medical applications

By developing aggregate genetic biomarkers together to form a composite test called a genetic signature increases the predictability of a disease. Whether in medications or surgical procedures, such studies are very useful for effective administration and lessen complications.

With more extensive research needed, the current knowledge of the personal genome can be harnessed to motivate patients to change their lifestyle and environment.  Dieticians and fitness experts can tailor dietary and regular exercise programs for individuals who are serious in executing plans for restoring their health status.

The future….

Is not surprising that most of us would be equipped with a genomic report card stating our entire genomic sequence profile with indication of susceptibility for diseases when going for medical consultation, prescription of medications and surgical procedures.  Health conscious individuals can also modify environmental influences to lessen chance of falling sick.

Conclusion

Reaching 100 takes a mix of good genes and a healthful lifestyle, but genetics takes the dominant role in reaching super-centenarian.  However, if you are not blessed with strong genetic component, do not despair.  Leading a healthy lifestyle like handle stress well, keep a positive outlook, exercise regularly and eat more healthy foods can go a long way in suppressing the bad genes from manifesting which can cause disruption to our lives.

Modifying dietary pattern can reduce about 70-80% of diseases’ risk.  Nutrition is the basic ingredient for genetic makeup. With adequate intake of nutrients, genes can function normally.  On the contrary, a lack of certain nutrients can activate abnormal activity that leads to diseases.


VIVA corner:

All the essential nutrients play significant role in stabilising gene activity. VIVA Essential Pack comprising award-winning products, Dailyguard, Green Barley, Floraguard and Vivashield can help to lay a strong health foundation.

Cell energiser - COENZYME q10

Coenzyme Q10 or ubiquinone, is a vitamin-like nutrient identified by scientists in 1957, reported to be vital for good health, high-energy levels, longevity and general quality of life. This substance is found naturally in the body with the higher concentration in vital organs like the heart, liver, brain, kidneys and pancreas.

Importance

In our trillion of cells lie the powerhouse known as mitochondria which contains coenzyme10 needed to create adenosine triphosphate (ATP) that is involved in the break down of food molecules to produce the fuel energy required for cell functioning.


Antioxidants fight damaging particles in the body known as free radicals, which damage cell membranes, tamper with DNA and even cause cell death. Scientists believe free radicals contribute to the aging process, as well as a number of health problems, including heart disease and cancer. CoQ10 is a potent antioxidant that can neutralize free radicals by donating its own electrons.

Who needs?

The synthesis of Coenzyme10 decreases gradually at the peak of about 20 years old. Other causes include genetic makeup, stress and environment. Hence, constant replenishment is required.


Its intake helps to increase the generation of energy and enhance the efficiency of the body to utilize oxygen. People who can benefit much out of it:

-- All above 40 years old, especially the elderly to retard aging. Free radicals are destroyed, energy and vitality increased and cells are brought back to a stable, healthy condition that might have been lost during mid-life. 

--  According to a published scientific study CoQ10 prevents skeletal decline by improving communication between genes and cells in the body. Hence, those above 50 years old can derive great benefits taking this vital element constantly.

--  Athletics who engage in competitive sports can improve in their performance and endurance

--  Anyone on physically and mentally demanding tasks on long working hours, driving long hours or flights (relieve jet lag), travelling to high altitudes, preparing for exams or keeping late nights

--  Patients with all kinds of health disorders like heart condition, asthma, muscular dystrophies, cancer, diabetes, HIV Aids, Parkinson's disease and prolonged uses of certain medicated drugs.

+  Heart Disease

For millions on prescription drugs designed to lower high cholesterol, note their depleting effect of CoQ10 in the heart and the various lipids in the blood to lose antioxidant protection. Thus by taking CoQ10, it prevents the oxidation of bad cholesterol which contributes to the formation of blood clots. In this way, heart patients suffer less of shortness of breath and fatigue. Other side effects include:

• muscle pain, weakness and loss
• nausea and diarrhea
• liver and kidney damage
• increased blood sugar levels and type 2 diabetes

In the medical world it is widely used in arresting cardiac failure and stroke recovery. One clinical study found that people who took daily CoQ10 supplements within 3 days of a heart attack were less likely to have subsequent heart attacks and chest pain. They were also less likely to die of heart disease than those who did not take the supplements.


Patients with congestive heart failure can benefit from it when combined with conventional medications. Several clinical studies suggests that this supplement helps to reduce swelling and fluids locked in the legs and lungs and thus eases breathing.

+  Parkinson's Disease

According to a study published by the American Medical Association, it slowed the progression of Parkinson's disease and thus allowed patients to better handle daily affairs like eating and walking.


+  Down Syndrome

Down Syndrome usually occurs in a highly oxidative state. CoQ10 can reverse this deficiency and bring back to normal oxidative levels quickly.

+  Immune System

CoQ10 has been proven to be a powerful cold, flu and virus preventative on account of its ability to clear bacteria from the blood, boost white cell count and prevent against cellular damage.

Research has also indicated that those suffering from more serious autoimmune conditions report decreased levels of pain and inflammation and increased levels of energy. It is believed that the ability of CoQ10 to fight free radicals, convert nutrients into energy, promote tissue repair and improve oxygen absorption all work together to help the body heal itself naturally.

+  Cancer treatment

A study done in 1961 found that patients with cancer had decreased levels of CoQ10 in their bodies. Research indicates the use of CoQ10 is an effective secondary therapy in cancer treatment as it has been known to shrink tumors, reduce pain and cause a partial or full remission of cancer.


+  Others


Preliminary clinical studies also suggest that CoQ10 may:

• Improve immune function in people with HIV or AIDS
• Increase sperm motility, improving male fertility
• Reduce severity of gum disease that causes swelling, bleeding, pain and redness
• Improve exercise ability in people with angina
• Help prevent migraines

Dietary Sources

Obtaining this element from our diets alone may not be sufficient as it is present in minute quantities mostly. Moreover, it is easily destroyed by heat during cooking.

The primary dietary sources of CoQ10 are:

+ Organ Meats

+ Oily Fish eg. trout

+ Spinach

+ Nuts

+ Poultry

To derive sufficient amount of CoQ10 in our diet, we have to take 5-10 kg of beefsteaks daily. It is important to note that most dietary sources of CoQ10 may not provide enough of the enzyme for those suffering with chronic and/or degenerative conditions and higher-dose supplement is recommended. In order for CoQ10 to synthesize properly in the body, vitamin B6 must be present.

Dietary sources include:

+ Garbanzo Beans (Chickpeas)

+ Chicken Breast

+ Avocado

+ Roast Beef

+ Fish

+ Tomato

+ Sunflower Seeds

As it is fat soluble, combining with fat intake improves the uptake in the body.

Dosing/Contraindications

The average daily dosing for adults 19 years old or older is between 30mg to 150mg per day. It is important to take with food that has some fat in it, such as peanut or almond butter, for maximum absorption. If you have an active lifestyle, exercise a lot, or are under a lot of stress due to your job or "life" in general, you may want to double the dosage. Note that even at very large doses, no adverse effects or drug interactions have ever been found or reported.

Those on blood thinners, chemo drugs and prescription heart medications should talk to their healthcare provider before taking CoQ10. Pregnant and nursing women should not take CoQ10 except under the advice of a physician.

VIVA corner


It is quite difficult to have adequate amount of the coenzyme10 derived from diet alone. Coupled with the fact that it is easily destroyed by heat, you may need to choose a suitable supplement that provides this element of the finest quality. 

VIVA Oxypower is manufactured using a combination of high-technology equipment and production techniques to maintain the bioactivity of the coenzyme contained in it. The main contents are: vegetable seed concentrate powder, sesame seed concentrate powder and Siberian ginseng powder. It also contains vitamin A, C and E to further boost its antioxidant ability to minimise damage at cellular levels.

In its pure form, the pills should be in natural dark bright yellow to orange color with minimal taste.

HELP please! DENGUE!!

 

Dengue fever is a virus-based disease spread by several species of mosquito within the Aedes genus. The female mosquito lays 30-150 eggs every 2-3 days. Human blood is needed to nourish these eggs with the ankle area as a favored feeding site.

Transmission

An infection can be acquired via a single bite. A female mosquito that takes a blood meal from a person infected with dengue fever becomes itself infected with the virus in the cells lining its gut. About 8-10 days later, the virus spreads to other tissues including the mosquito’s salivary glands and is subsequently released into its saliva. The virus seems to have no detrimental effect on the mosquito, which remains infected for life.

Aedes mosquito prefers to lay its eggs in artificial water containers, near to humans. The eggs of Aedes aegypti can resist desiccation for up to 1 year and hatch easily when flooded by water that is deoxygenated. Larvae die at temperatures below 10 degrees and above 44 degrees Celsius.

The virus has four different types; infection with one type usually gives lifelong immunity to that type, but only short-term immunity to the others. Subsequent infection with a different type increases the risk of severe complications.


Signs and Symptoms

+ Majority of the people infected with dengue virus have mild symptoms such as an uncomplicated fever, hitting a high of 40 deg C or more. Others have more severe illness (5%), and in a small proportion it is fatal. Children often experience symptoms similar to those of the common cold and gastroenteritis (vomiting and diarrhea), but are more susceptible to the severe complications. Patient may have coffee ground vomiting or black stools, indicates bleeding in gastro intestinal tracts and it is serious.

+ A flat, red rash may appear over most of the body 2 – 5 days after the fever starts that lasts for 5-7 days. In some patients, fever comes down on 3^rd or 4^th day but returns with a second rash, which looks like the measles. Those infected people may become more skin-sensitive and uncomfortable.

+ Dengue hemorrhagic fever is a more severe form of the viral illness.

The characteristics of dengue that make it different from other causes of fever are:

+ Headache (especially behind the eyes)

+ Fatigue

+ Joint and muscle aches

+ Nausea/vomiting

+ Swollen lymph nodes

Manifestations include headache, fever, rash and evidence of hemorrhage in the body. Small red or purple blisters under the skin, bleeding in the nose or gums, black stools, or easy bruising are all possible signs of hemorrhage. This form of dengue fever can be life-threatening and can progress to the most severe form of the illness, dengue shock syndrome.

There are many people who are infected with the virus and do not suffer from any signs or symptoms of the disease. For every patient with symptoms and signs there may be 4-5 persons with no symptoms or with very mild symptoms.

 

Mechanism

When a mosquito pokes into the skin, its saliva introduces the virus into the bloodstream and multiplies in the lymph glands. It attempts to reproduce inside the white blood cells which counteract-attack by producing a number of signaling proteins, such as interferon, resulting in many of the symptoms like fever, flu-like symptoms and severe pains.

In severe infection, the virus production inside the body is greatly enhanced, and many other parts like liver and the bone marrow can be affected. Fluid from the bloodstream leaks through the wall of small blood vessels into body cavities. As less blood is available for circulation in the blood vessels, blood pressure becomes so low that it cannot supply sufficient blood to the vital organs. At this time, dysfunction of the bone marrow leads to reduced numbers of platelets, much required for effective blood clotting, putting a risk of poor bleeding, the other major complication of dengue. The infection can become dangerous and fatal when it completely breaks blood vessels causing internal bleeding.

Signs and tests

Tests that may be done to diagnose this condition include:

+ Antibody titer for dengue virus types

+ Complete blood count

+ Serology studies to look for antibodies to dengue viruses


Treatment

The condition generally lasts a week or more. Although uncomfortable, dengue fever is not deadly. People with the condition should fully recover.  Most patients can be treated at home by taking adequate rest, drink plenty of fluids and eat nutritious diet. Sufficient fluid intake is very important especially in severe cases where loss of body fluid/blood is the most salient feature.

There is no vaccine to treat dengue fever as yet. Acetaminophen (Tylenol) is used to bring down a high fever. Avoid taking aspirin and brufen as they increase the risk of bleeding. Also to avoid are any medicine that decrease platelets. When necessary, to arrange intravenous rehydration for mild or moderate disease, and intravenous fluids and blood transfusion for more severe cases. Note that people with chronic diseases such as diabetes and asthma, and low immunity may face life danger.

Precautions

Given that mosquitoes can be carriers of some very nasty diseases – in addition to being extremely annoying – it is a good idea to take precautions if you suspect they are around:

• wear long, loose, light-coloured clothing
• use a repellent containing DEET or picaridin (avoid your face and wash your hands after applying, make sure kids use one that’s suitable for them)
• sleep under a mosquito net and close any unscreened windows
• keep your home and garden free of mosquito breeding sites.

Prospective victims?

1.  Genetics - It is skin deep! 85% of our susceptibility to mosquito bites can be attributed to the amount of chemicals on skin layer.
2.  Overweight or obese - Heavier people emit more carbon dioxide, and mosquitoes can detect it from 50 metres away.
3.  Profuse sweating - When we perspire heat is generated on our skin surface. During an exercise, lactic acid produced is a bigger attraction to the mosquitoes craving for higher temperature.
4.  Type O blood - A study done showed that mosquitoes prefer Type O twice than people with Type A. Type B is somewhere around the middle of Type O and Type A.
5.  Dark clothing - Mosquitoes prefer darker clothes. So wear light-coloured clothes and they may think that you are merely a passing wind.
6.  Alcoholic - The theory goes that it increases blood flow to the skin, and therefore altering the skin to an extent that makes it more attractive.


VIVA corner

+ From a molecular point of view, cholorophyll found in VIVA Chloroguard is identical to hemoglobin, the primary substance in human blood that carries oxygen from the lungs to the other tissues and organs in the body. The only difference between the two molecules is that hemoglobin has iron as the centre of its atom, whilst chlorophyll has magnesium. It’s high iron content contributes to the increase of hemoglobin for healthy blood cells much needed for dengue patients.

+ An important ingredient in VIVA HEMOBERRY is ferrous lactate (a form of iron) essential for hemoglobin production, much needed for those who are anemic.


3 MOST COMMONLY ASKED QUESTIONS:

Can papaya seeds cure dengue?

The seeds are believed to have the miraculous effects in curing dengue but the leaves and fruit of green papaya must be used carefully as papain or vegetable pepsin is found in them. Researchers have noted that unripe papaya latex acts like prostaglandin and oxytocin. Synthetic prostaglandin and oxytocin are commonly used to start or strengthen labor contractions. Hence, unripe papayas may cause severe complications in early pregnancy or may even cause miscarriage. In fact, green papaya and its seeds are popular folk remedy for contraception and abortion.”

Will taking vitamin B stop mosquitoes biting you?

“No solid scientific evidence to back it up”, said medical entomologist Dr Cameron Webb.

He says while some people are more attractive to mosquitoes others simply have a stronger reaction to mosquito bites. It’s a reaction to the mosquito’s saliva – injected during the bite – that gives you an itchy lump the next day, like all allergic reactions, the severity varies from person to person.

There are a number of other variables that can affect our reaction to bites including how repellent each mosquito finds us, the species of mosquito that is biting us and where we are bitten.

However, Vitamins B1, B6, B12 and Sorbitol, are ideal for dengue patients, as they promote appetite, improve blood count and do not hinder the activity of the antimalarial drug.

Can Vitamin C help to cure malaria/dengue?

Using vitamin C in large dose on hourly basis may do the trick. A lower dose with high frequency is more effective than a single dose or few doses in large quantity as it is water-soluble. Patients are vulnerable with protective antioxidants like vitamin C and E running at significantly low level. Taking them do not affect the effects of medicated drugs involved.


3 natural ways to rid mosquitoes


Chemical repellants are often used to rid mosquitoes. Though they are effective, but can be toxic, smelly and irritating.

Mosquitoes love to lay eggs in any stagnant water in the drains/ponds or water collected in waste pails, tanks, tins, used tyres etc. Keep fish inside the tanks/containers then there should be no problem. Other possible ways: (1)  Copper coin According to Japanese Research Scientists, putting in few one cent copper coins into the tanks/containers can destroy mosquito eggs before hatching into larvae due to a kind of mineral discharge from the copper. Even small snails do not like such environment. This is one way to keep the water collected in the containers clean and clear. Try similar method with your flower vase to prevent mosquitoes from potential breeding. This is effective even if you do not change the water for couple of days.

(2) Mouthwash

At a party someone tried spraying the lawn with Listerine and mosquitoes started disappearing.

Mouthwashes with an alcohol content of 25% or more have been implicated in oral cancers. Poisoning symptoms include flushing, dizziness, depression, nausea, headaches and coma.  No conclusive evidence as yet but seems mosquitoes know better.

If you are scared to use any more, why not use it to drive the little monster away?


3)  Blowing fan

Circular motion prevents mosquitoes from landing on you. Basically, a fan can dilute and disperse the carbon dioxide you exhale that attracts mosquito in the first place. By staying cool, your body can avoid producing sweat, lactic acid and heat that that is turn-on to the insect .A study carried out by entomologists at Michigan State University in 2003 by using traps set up in a wetland caught more pests when carbon dioxide was being released into those traps.