Menstruation and Health

 

For all females, your menstrual cycle speaks a lot about your health. Thus, it is important to track your periods and rectify any irregularity.

Any idea how your last menstrual period began or how long it lasted? From here you can understand what is normal and not eg. a missed period or unpredictable menstrual bleeding. Though most irregularities are not serious, certain signs warrant further investigation which may relate to health issues.

 

 

Hormones at work


The menstrual cycle is the monthly series of changes a woman's body undergoes in preparation for the possibility of pregnancies. It involves the main female sex hormone - estrogens to develop egg follicles in the ovaries and the placenta termed 'ovulation'.


Another important sex hormone, progesterone is produced mainly to thicken the lining of the uterus in preparation for a fertilized egg.


-  If an egg is implanted successfully in the uterine wall, progesterone helps to maintain the uterine lining throughout pregnancy and breastfeeding later. However, if the progesterone level is too low, the uterus may not be able to carry the fetus to term and can result in danger of miscarriage or death.


-  If there is no fertilized egg, progesterone levels drop again and the lining of the uterus sheds through the vagina, resulting in a menstrual period. In the case of a woman with low progesterone, problems may arise such as abnormal uterine bleeding, irregular or absent periods.


Without progesterone to complement it, estrogen may become the dominant hormone. This may lead to a variety of symptoms, including:

• weight gain
• decreased sex drive, mood swings, and depression
• PMS, irregular menstrual cycle, heavy bleeding
• breast tenderness, fibrocystic breasts
• fibroids, endometriosis
• gallbladder problems
• thyroid dysfunction

Calcium has been shown to be useful in relieving above symptoms. During the menstrual cycle, estrogen levels increase whilst calcium concentrations drop. Hence, consuming enough calcium helps to balance this relationship and reduce painful symptoms.


Duration of cycle


The menstrual cycle varies from one individual to another but most experience longer cycles in the early years and shorten with increasing age. Menstrual flow may occur every 21 to 35 days and last 2 to 7 days. It can happen regularly or with some hiccups on irregular basis like period light/heavy and painful/painless and yet considered normal.

To find out what is normal for you, start keeping a record of your menstrual cycle. Begin by tracking your start date every month for several months in a row to identify the regularity of your periods. If you are having problems or you are concerned about the timing, flow or discomfort of your periods, then also make note of the following every month:

· End date. How long does your period typically last? Is it longer or shorter than usual?

· Flow. Record the heaviness of your flow. Does it seem lighter or heavier than usual? How often do you need new sanitary protection?

· Pain. Describe any pain associated with your period. Does the pain feel worse than usual?

 Menstrual cycle irregularities can have many different causes, including:

· Pregnancy or breast-feeding. A delayed or missed period can be an early sign of pregnancy. If you have not had your period in six weeks and you have been sexually active, take a pregnancy test. Breast-feeding typically delays the return of menstruation following pregnancy.

· Eating disorders, extreme weight loss or excessive exercising. Eating disorders eg. anorexia nervosa, extreme weight loss and increased physical activity can disrupt menstruation.

· Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). This common hormonal disorder may cause small cysts or fluid-filled sacs or pockets to develop in the ovaries along with irregular periods.

· Premature ovarian failure. It refers to the loss of normal ovarian function before age 40. Women who have this problem may not have periods or may get them irregularly.

· Endometriosis. This disorder causes tissue that normally lines the inside of your uterus to grow outside your uterus. It can cause some or severe pain during your period.

· Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID). This infection of the reproductive organs may cause irregular menstrual bleeding.

· Uterine fibroids. These are noncancerous growths of the uterus and may cause heavy menstrual periods and bleeding between periods.

For some women, use of birth control pills can help regulate menstrual cycles. However, some menstrual irregularities cannot be prevented. Regular pelvic exams can help ensure that problems affecting your reproductive organs are diagnosed as soon as possible.

In addition, consult your health care provider if:

· Your periods suddenly stop for more than 90 days

· Your periods become erratic after having been regular

· You bleed for more than seven days

· You bleed more heavily than usual — soaking through more than one pad or tampon every hour or two

· Your periods are less than 21 days or more than 35 days apart

· You bleed between periods

· You develop severe pain during your period

· You suddenly get a fever and feel sick after using tampons

Source: http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/menstrual-cycle

Recommendations

Up to 80% of women are known to struggle with premenstrual syndrome and its uncomfortable symptoms, report Yale researchers. This is because their nervous systems are sensitive to the ups and downs in estrogen and progesterone that occur naturally every month.

Studies showed snacking on 2 cups of yogurt a day can slash these symptoms by 48%, say researchers at New York's Columbia University. "Yogurt is rich in calcium, a mineral that naturally calms the nervous system, preventing painful symptoms even when hormones are in flux," explains Mary Jane Minkin, M.D., a professor of gynecology at Yale University.

Magnesium is another important mineral which acts as ‘nature’s tranquilliser’ to cope with menopausal symptoms such as anxiety, irritability and other mood changes.

PERIMENOPAUSE

 

This is the stage of a woman’s reproductive life that begins several years before menopause (usually around 35), when the ovaries gradually begin to produce the hormones – estrogen, progesterone and testosterone in an irregular manner, often with wide and unpredictable fluctuations in levels. In most cases, the imbalance is caused by rising estrogen and reducing progesterone which is the root of weight gain even though they are eating and exercising like before.

 

Causes

 

+ Hormonal imbalance is often the result of cumulative effects of poor diet, chronic stress, inadequate sleep, lack of exercise and environmental toxins taxing the body, pushing the sex hormones out-of-sync and reduces its natural ability to detoxify and maintain balance. Once this happens, the problem tends to escalate over time.

 

+ It can be genetic or due to autoimmune diseases producing antibodies that can damage the ovaries. Surgical removal of the ovaries causes artificial menopause, as can chemotherapy or radiation therapy to the pelvis to treat cancer.

 

+ Women who have had hysterectomies with one or both ovaries removed usually experience immediate surgical menopause as the production of the hormones estrogen and progesterone are stopped. Those whose ovaries were left intact tend to experience perimenopause.

Warning signal

 

In today’s fast-paced, disconnected, eat-and-run world, it is not a surprise that younger and younger women are experiencing perimenopausal-type symptoms of hormonal imbalance due to above factors. During this transitional period, fertility diminishes till almost nil on the official date of menopause where the ovaries stop releasing eggs completely. The sharp drop in estrogen in the last one to two years of perimenopause exhibits menopausal symptoms for those affected.

Signs and Symptoms

The average length of perimenopause is 4 years, but for some women this stage may last only a few months or continue for 10 years. Biological changes observed include:

• Menstrual irregularity. As ovulation becomes more erratic, the intervals between periods may be longer or shorter with scanty to profuse flow, and may miss some periods. Early perimenopause is defined as a change in your menstrual cycle length of more than 7 days. Late perimenopause is characterized by two or more missed periods and an interval of 60 days or more between periods.
• Hot flashes and sleep problems. About 65 to 75% of women experience hot flashes, most commonly during late perimenopause. Hot flashes can be so strong as to raise the body temperature by many degrees in a very short period of time causing the sufferer to feel weak and break out in heavy sweating. The intensity, duration and frequency vary and often disturb sleep with night perspiration.
• Crazy mood changes. Some women experience mood swings, irritability or increased risk of depression during perimenopause, mostly likely due to lack of sleep caused by hot flashes.
• Vaginal and bladder problems. With diminishing estrogen levels, the vaginal tissues may lose lubrication and elasticity, making intercourse painful and vulnerable to urinary or vaginal infections. Loss of tissue elasticity may contribute to urinary incontinence.
• Decreasing fertility. As ovulation becomes irregular, the ability to conceive decreases but is still possible.
• Changes in sexual function. During perimenopause, sexual arousal and desire may change.
• Bone loss. With declining estrogen levels, bone loss is hastened and thus increases the risk of osteoporosis.
• Changing cholesterol levels. Declining estrogen levels may lead to unfavorable changes in your blood cholesterol levels, including an increase in low-density lipoprotein (LDL or bad) cholesterol and decrease in high-density lipoprotein (HDL or good) cholesterol, both increase the risk of heart disease.
• Headaches.

Some women seek medical attention for the abovementioned symptoms whilst others either tolerate the changes or simply do not experience symptoms severe enough to warrant attention. Irregular periods are common and normal during perimenopause. However, other conditions that cause abnormalities in menstrual bleeding may require investigations. This applies to periods:

• Very heavy, or accompanied by blood clots
• Last several days longer than usual
• Spot between periods and after sex
• Occur closer together

Possible causes include hormonal imbalances, birth control pills, pregnancy, fibroids, blood clotting problems or even cancer.

 

Recommendations

 

+ A diet comprising half raw foods and adequate protein helps to stabilise blood sugar. Stimulants such as alcohol, caffeine, spicy foods and sugar can trigger hot flashes, aggravate urinary incontinence and worsen mood swings. Unhealthy protein like animal meat and dairy products causes blood acidity and thus promotes hot flashes and calcium loss from the bones.
 

+ Japanese women are less prone to perimenopausal problems as reported they consume more plant estrogens derived from foods like soybeans, tofu, miso and flaxseeds. These estrogen-like compounds mimic estrogens in the body.
 

+ Symptoms of perimenopause are often mistaken for those of premenstrual syndrome as both are due to hormonal imbalance. One has to examine her periods if it lasts too long or too short, or irregular when never before.

 

MENOPAUSE

  

Menopause is the time when a woman’s menstrual periods stop and her ovaries stop releasing eggs. A woman is considered menopausal once she has gone a year without having a menstrual period. Therefore, the exact time of a woman’s final menstrual period can only be pinpointed by counting backwards after the fact.

 

Although most women go through menopause around age 50, normal menopause can happen any time between the age of 40 and 50. The last periods are usually more irregular and have less blood flow. However, some women’s periods do not change at all.


It is important to note that starting periods at an early age has been linked with a higher risk of breast cancer. Also, a late menopause is as bad due to reduced oestrogen exposure.

Causes

Menopause is a normal part of the aging process. Follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH) are secreted by the pituitary gland as part of the normal menstrual cycle. They stimulate the ovary to produce estrogen and progesterone and to release an egg. As a woman ages, her ovaries do not respond to FSH or LH as strongly as they used to. Over time, less and less estrogen and progesterone are produced and the woman stops releasing eggs.

Recommendations

For the main symptoms of the menopause, such as hot flushes or vaginal dryness, hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is usually recommended. Beware that it may not be ’hormone’ problem, but a host of other health conditions that throw up symptoms quite similar to those the menopause eg. aging.

A well-balanced diet is essential during the menopause as it enables the body to adjust automatically to the hormone changes. If you are unable to do that, consider supplements to ensure you have adequate nutrients for maintaining healthy bodily functioning and to cope with the symptoms of the menopause.

+ Vitamin C: Helps in strengthening the blood vessels and immunity. It also has specific benefits to cope with menopause such as reducing hot flushes, prevention and treatment of vaginal dryness, retain the elasticity in the urinary tract and so prevent leakage or stress incontinence, promotes joint health as osteoporosis begins to set in during menopause.

+ Vitamin E: A study showed that just 400iu taken daily for between 1-4 months helped 50% of the women in reducing hot flushes and vaginal dryness. Women who are vulnerable to heart disease after the hormone stops to offer protection can also benefit from it.

+ B Vitamins: These ‘stress’ vitamins are very beneficial to menopausal women undergoing tremendous sudden pressure. The vitamins help to fix up the symptoms of deficiency like anxiety, tension, irritability, fatigue and poor concentration to prevent overblowing.

+ Essential Fatty Acids (EFAs): By coincidence, menopausal symptoms are similar to signs of an essential acid deficiency eg, dry skin, lifeless hair, cracked nails, fatigue, depression, dry eyes, lack of motivation, aching joint, difficulty in losing weight, forgetfulness, breast pain.

+ Magnesium: This important mineral for your bones acts as ‘nature’s tranquilliser’ to cope with menopausal symptoms such as anxiety, irritability and other mood changes.

+ Ginkgo Biloba: This herb has been found to generally have a rejuvenating effect on the brain and may slow down the progression of Alzheimer’s disease. A number of clinical trials have shown that it improves learning ability, memory and concentration.

+ Phytoestrogens: A group of plant hormones known as phytoestrogens naturally occurring in certain foods such as soya, is capable of lowering cholesterol and thus offers protective effects against heart disease, crucial around the menopause as the estrogen hormone no longer performs this role. Its two flavonoids, genistein and daidzein are chemically similar to Tamoxifen – the drug used to prevent a recurrence of breast cancer. These very weak plant oestrogens latch on to the oestrogen receptors in the breast and prevent the more powerful carcinogenic oestrogens getting through. So they have a protective effect, as well as helping to balance hormones, which are responsible for menopausal symptoms such as hot flushes.


More comments


Going through menopause is about managing all the important hormones, namely estrogen, androgen and progesterone. Poor sleep is caused by a drop in the progesterone level.  The decline in androgenic hormones, such as testosterone and DHEA cause a drop in metabolism and thus an increase in weight. Doing resistance exercises like weightlifting can increase the production of androgen hormones.


Having understood the symptoms and causes, making lifestyle changes and consuming the right nutrients can help to reduce the severity. This will make the transition to the next phase of life easier.

VIVA corner

 

VIVA Life Science has formulated a product VIVA FEM to help women cope with stress, maintain a normal hormonal balance, relieve premenstrual syndrome, minimise peri-menopause and menopause symptoms and other related women’s health problems. It contains natural ingredients as follows -

 

* Royal Jelly - revives the endocrine system and energises a weakened constitution
* Evening Primrose Oil – contains gamma-linolenic acid (GLA) that easily converts into prostaglandins which is helpful in supporting overall health
* Soy powder – protects cells against free radical damage and boosts levels of the body’s own antioxidants
* Wheat germ powder – alleviates problems like hot flushes, premature aging, breast tenderness
* Black cohosh root extract – helps relax muscles, relieves hot flashes, regulates menstrual flow, reduces fatigue, mood swings and night sweats
* Dong quai extract – relaxes uterine muscles, promotes calmness, strengthens reproductive system
* Vitamin B – increases energy, reduces irritability and calms PMS symptoms
* Raspberry leaf powder – relaxes and strengthens the uterus and normalises hormone levels
* Blueberry powder – strengthens collagen and supports neurological health.

** Caution – As some of the herbs may interfere with fertility pills, medicated drugs, HRT or any other hormonal treatment do check with a registered experienced practitioner before use.


For sustainability, switch to VIVA ROYAL JELLY as it promotes healthy endocrine function, relieves symptoms of menopause, improves skin complexion, reduces fatigue and boosts energy

.
VIVA Calmag & D can help to support the endocrine system as well as the other subsystems in the body.

Vaginal infection & Endometriosis

Two nagging problems for women and how to deal with them.

ENDOMETRIOSIS

Often labeled as the “Missed Disease”, endometriosis is a condition in which cells from the lining of the womb implant and grow outside the womb itself – in the pelvis, fallopian tubes, ovaries, bowel and bladder. In some instances, they can also lodge in the lung, heart, eye, armpit and knee. Actually these are cells that are not expelled from the body during the menstrual process, and end up continuing their cycle elsewhere.

When the lining of the womb bleeds during the natural hormone cycle, these cells also bleed. Usually the blood leaves the body through the vagina but in this situation the blood has no outlet and becomes trapped in the tissue, causing pelvic pain, inflammation, cysts and scar tissue, and irregular periods. Excessive bleeding may appear in the stools or urine during this period, or experience pain in diverse areas of the body. Some women experience nose-bleeding because endometrial patches appear in the nasal passages. Other symptoms include incapacitating pain in the uterus, lower back, pain during sexual intercourse, nausea, vomiting, constipation, anemia and infertility.

As the menstrual cycle recurs monthly, the implants may get bigger. They may seed new implants and form localised scar tissues and adhesions-scar tissues that attaches to pelvic organs and binds them together. This contributes to the pain of endometriosis, and it can cause extreme pain in a subsequent pregnancy, as the uterus enlarges and the organs within the abdomen are pushed into different positions. A pool of blood formed at times called sac or cyst. “Chocolate cysts” are common on the ovaries, containing moderate amounts of oxidised blood and once ruptured, can cause unbearable pain.

Possible causes

+ Many scientific theories on this disease had been debated. The most credible proposition is exposure to environmental polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) and dioxin, both types of hazardous waste materials that can cause spontaneous endometriosis, accounting for the rising incidence of such cases over the last few decades.

+ A noteworthy point is most women who suffer from this disease have never been pregnant and 30-40% infertile women having this problem. They also report frequent vaginal yeast infection, hay fever, eczema and food sensitivities than others. (lack of friendly bacteria)

+ In TCM, endometriosis is probably due to poor function of the liver which regulates emotions, and the kidneys which govern human reproduction and has much influence on menstruation and fertility. A weak body constitution during menstruation give high chance of developing endometrial lesions as blood stasis do not get cleared off completely.

+ Further studies showed that Endometriosis can be triggered by a combination of factors, including hormone imbalances, stress and nutritional deficiencies. Hence, a multi-factorial approach is the quickest way to eliminate the symptoms.

Foods to watch: caffeine, sugar, dairy products, fried foods, red meats, refined and processed foods, foods that contain addictives. Eat a diet comprises more raw vegetables, fruits, wholegrain products, nuts, fish and soy foods.

Source: Prescription to Natural Healing

VIVA corner

VIVA Omega 3 is anti-inflammatory and contains essential fatty acids to regulate the hormonal and prostaglandin balance.

VIVA B-easy promotes blood cell productivity and proper hormone balance. Also to relieve stress, aid in removing excess fluids and promote proper adrenal function.

VIVA FEM is a natural hormone releaser, and helps to relieve PMS and menstrual syndrome.

VIVA C-Complex helps to strengthen the immune function in order for the body to recognise and destroy endometrial patches as they occur. Bioflavonoids present helps to relieve pain during periods (for smooth muscle and prevent inflammation).

VIVA Dailyguard is good for those who are not taking a balanced diet and suffering from overall nutritional deficiencies

VAGINAL INFECTION

Vaginal infection is an irritating problem causing bad itch, pain, burning sensation and abnormal discharge during a shower or urination. The organ is a crevice, trapping moisture easily and thus offers a fertile breeding ground for microbes. Observe the color of discharge – white (fungal infection), thin yellowish (bacterial infection) and thin, grey frothy.

Causes

+ A weak immune system is most vulnerable and can be due to frequent intake of antibiotics, chemo drugs and diabetic medication. Friendly bacteria like Lactobacillus found here to preserve an acidic environment to keep harmful bacteria away is running at low level. During menstrual periods and pregnancy, the vagina interior can be alkaline and thus more inviting to pathogens. Basically, the body’s natural balance is being disturbed and the hostile guest slips in quietly.

+ Obesity causes the thick skin folds around the thighs to be moist and spread to the vagina. Vitamin B deficiency, irritation from excessive douching or the use of skin irritants like deodorant sprays can also be contributory factors.

+ Infectious vaginities is often caused by trichomonas, gonococci or other sexually transmitted organisms. Oral contraceptives also can produce vaginal inflammation.

+ Women in their menstruating age having endometriosis problem.

+ Post-menopausal women and those whose ovaries are surgically removed are prone to infection, experiencing itching or tingling sensation, painful intercourse and a thin, watery fluid discharge, with or without blood.

Prevention

+ Basic personal hygiene must be closely observed. Good habits like keeping the vaginal area dry and clean, avoid using scented toiletries and douches, tight and thick undies and insists on condoms for sex partner.

+ Yogurts with live cultures can help to fight infection and reduce inflammation. Foods that are fruit-free (no citrus and acidic ones), sugar-free and yeast-free (no aged cheese, fermented ones) are preferred till conditon improves and add back slowly thereafter. Iron is another favorite of infectious bacteria for rapid growth so is advisable to avoid iron supplements.

VIVA corner

VIVA Floraguard contains 5 strains of powerful bacteria to guard the digestive system of which Lactobacillus plays an important role in protecting the vagina from pathogenic infection. Also, it produces or preserves beneficial substances and essential nutrients, including lactic acid, digestives enzymes, essential fatty acids and vitamin B to stabilise the pH.

For better results, add Green barley, Biogarlic, Dailyguard and Vivashield.

Uterine fibroids & Ovarian cysts + cancer

 

Women who suffer heavy or painful periods, anemia, fatigue, bloated stomach and abdominal discomfort, backache, frequent urination, vaginal discharge or in some cases infertility might have to examine for tumors in the uterus, scientifically termed -

UTERINE FIBROIDS

Uterine fibroids are benign growths that can form on the interior muscular wall, the exterior of the uterus as well as the cervix. Hence they are merely abnormal muscle cells measuring less than 5 cm and no treatment is required. These fibroids often occur as multiple tumor masses which are slow growing and show no symptom. Most women develop at least one fibroid in their lifetime and 20-25% develop uterine fibroid tumors during their late 30s and early 40s, and then to shrink after menopause. However, less than 1% develops into uterine cancer during menopause.


Causes

As all women produce estrogen, but only some develop fibroid tumors, suspect is on diets and hormonal levels.

+  Our daily diet has become the contributing factor for fibroid development. Studies found those who take diets higher in red meat and lower in green vegetables and fruits face increasing risk.


+  As we know our environment is heavily dependent on artificial hormones to yield higher food productivity and these hormones have quite similar chemical structure as human hormones. On entering our body, they mimic the function of the human hormones and disrupt their functionality which eventually endanger the health.

The artificial hormones, scientifically known as xenobiotics can be counteracted by natural phytoestrogens to reduce the excess and eventually shrink the fibroid. Soy isoflavones is one commonly used given its easy availability and affordability. Its chemical structure is so similar to estrogen that it can be in direct competition for same receptor sites, either reducing or activating the activity of estrogen, and thus minimise the health risks of excess estrogen hanging around. Also, during menopause when the body’s natural estrogen level drops, isoflavones can compensate this by binding to the same receptor, thereby easing menopause symptoms and other gyneocological problems.

+  Women with fibroids may have higher levels of estrogen content than their counterparts. This occurs when taking oral contraceptives, during pregnancy and being obese.


Treatment

Large fibroids that undergo degeneration can cause pain in the legs, back, pelvis and exert pressure upon the bowels or the bladder, or even block the urethra, producing kidney obstruction. Occasionally, they can lead to infertility, miscarriage and premature labor.  Unless the enlargement gives rise to medical problems, operations are the last resort as it is not malignant and should shrink with the onset of menopause.

An alternative is a procedure known as myomectomy, where only the fibroids are removed, leaving the uterus intact. This is important for child-bearing mums but may lead to complications. It is estimated that a third of those operated have a relapse within ten years, though the size is not as large as the original fibroid tumor. A woman who becomes pregnant after a myomectomy faces the problem of a weakened uterine walls and is advisable to deliver by cesarean section.

VIVA corner

VIVA FEM is a formulation of proprietary blend of soy powder, wheat germ powder, raspberry powder, blueberry powder, raspberry leaf powder and other unique ingredients that are beneficial for women’s health, especially to cope with stress, maintain a normal hormonal balance, relieve pre-menstrual syndrome (PMS) and minimise menopausal symptoms to prevent fibroid growth.

VIVA Calmag & D is shown to be effective for muscle spasm, pain and discomfort.


VIVA Hemoberry helps women with large fibroids to cope with heavy bleeding or those who are already anemic before surgery.

VIVA Omega 3 helps to reduce inflammation and pain, and control bleeding during periods.



OVARIAN CYST

The ovaries are a pair of organs (measuring 3x2x1cm) in the pelvis that secretes hormones (eg. oestrogen, progesterone and testosterone) and eggs (termed ovulation). From puberty onwards, the ovaries begin their function of hormones and eggs production in a regular 21-35 days cycle. Nearing the age of 50, the function of the ovaries begin to decline. When they finally stop producing hormones and eggs, a woman has reached her menopause. Types of ovarian cysts:

* Functional ovarian cysts are the most common cyst in the reproductive age. An ovarian cyst is a collection of fluid or body tissues within the ovary, varying in size from less than 5 cm to 8 cm, and can be as large as 20cm in diameter.

* Dermoid cysts are infrequent abnormal ovarian cysts formed that may contain clear fluid or blood, or even oil, hair, skin, cartilage and bone because the ovary has cells with the potential to develop into any type of tissue. This cyst can happen in both ovaries in 10% of the time.

* Chocolate cysts are formed where the womb lining is found outside the uterus leading to monthly bleeding in the pelvis. At times, it forms blood cysts within the ovary and leads to painful menstruation or pelvic pain.

* Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a condition where constant abnormal ovulation results in a collection of small cysts (of 2-3mm) on the surface of the ovary. It is caused by hormone imbalance and is associated with reduced menstruation and fertility.

Symptoms, problems and possible complications

Most ovarian cysts have no symptom because they are small and non-cancerous but some may cause:

- Pain or discomfort in the lower abdomen.
- Irregular menstruation if the cyst affects ovarian hormonal production.
- Twisting of the ovary resulting in severe pain and loss of blood supply to the ovary.
- Large cysts can cause your abdomen to swell, or press on the bladder and rectum resulting in urinary symptoms or constipation.

Rarely ovarian cyst may leak and cause severe pain and bowel disturbances.

Diagnose/Treatment

Most ovarian cysts are diagnosed on routine ultrasound. Occasionally large ovarian cysts can be detected on clinical examination.

Most ovarian cysts that are 3cm of less, with no solid component and not causing disturbing symptoms can be left alone with regular ultrasound to ensure they are not enlarging. Surgery is needed if they are more than 6cm or cause pain.

Dermoid and chocolate cysts have a tendency to enlarge and cause pain, requiring surgery. To confirm that the dermoid cyst is not cancerous, surgery is needed.

Polycystic ovary syndrome is usually treated medically. Surgery is needed when medical treatment fails to cause ovulation.


OVARIAN CANCER


When the cells in the ovaries turn cancerous, there are usually no obvious signs and symptoms like lumps or pain to give off signal for early screening. On further progress symptoms manifesting include bloating, pelvic pain, abdominal swelling and a change in bowel habits which can be confused with those of colon cancer. At an advanced stage, more revealing symptoms are breathlessness and loss of appetite. By then, it may spread faraway to the lining of the abdomen, bowel, bladder, lungs and liver.
Causes
+  Pregnancy is suppressed by ovulation and thus a childless woman faces this risk factor
+  Obesity
+  Hormone replacement therapy
+  Hereditary of ovarian and breast cancer
Mitigating factors
+  Breastfeeding
+  Oral contraceptive pills
+  Multiple pregnancies
+  Pregnancy at early age
Treatment
+  Surgery to remove ovaries, fallopian tubes and uterus
+  Chemotherapy to follow after surgery to reduce the risk of recurrence or apply before surgery to shrink the size of the tumor

Source: http://www.anthonysiow.com/doc/pdf/Ovarian_Cysts.pdf

VIVA corner

VIVA Selguard contains selenium, a mineral ingredient that can reduce abnormal growth cells by apoptosis.

VIVA Green Barley promotes alkalinity to help in improving the pH environment. It also contains trace of selenium.

VIVA Omega3 to help in reducing inflammation.

VIVA Floraguard replenishes intestinal flora that can strengthen the immune system and improve endocrine function to reduce the incidence of infection.

Testimony

On the way to work one morning I had a severe stomach clamp and could barely stand upright.  I immediately arranged for a checkup and was told that a fibroid needed to be removed urgently. An appointment was fixed a month later.

Prior to the surgery, I took many products VIVA Omega3, VIVA Selguard, VIVA Germanium,

VIVA Guard, VIVA green barley hoping that nothing would go wrong.  On the actual day, the operation scheduled for 3 hours proceeded smoothly at half the time.  It was a breeze without any pain.  I was able to walk around upon returning from the operating table.  Painkiller was offered but as there was no pain, it was passed.

Follow-up checkups were a routine as everything went well. HRT (hormone replacement therapy) was recommended but I chose to take VIVA Royal Jelly to help to balance the hormonal level. 

10 common myths about Breast cancer

Breast cancer is the most common cancer amongst women. Around one in ten has a lifetime risk of getting it with majority diagnosed above 50. The rise of incidence in an advanced society can be attributed to lifestyle changes including reproductive behavior, weight gain, alcohol consumption and widely use of hormone replacement therapy.


Differentiating the myths from the facts about breast cancer may help to save your life. Below are some common myths about breast cancer.

1. Breast cancer only affects older women.

No. While it is true that the risk of breast cancer increases as women grow older, breast cancer can occur at any age.

-  From birth to age 39, 1 woman in 231 will get breast cancer (<0.5% risk);

-  From age 40–59, the risk is 1 in 25 (4% risk);

-  From age 60–79, the risk is 1 in 15 (about 7%).

-  Assuming you live to age 90, the risk of getting breast cancer over the course of an entire lifetime is 1 in 7, with an overall lifetime risk of 14.3%.

2. If you have an inherited risk factor for breast cancer, you are likely to get the disease.

No. Not a certainty, even if you have one of the stronger risk factors, such as a breast cancer gene abnormality. Amongst women with a BRCA1 or BRCA2 inherited genetic abnormality

-  40–80% will develop breast cancer over their lifetime;

-  20–60% do not.

A history of breast cancer in either one of your parents' family assigns equal risk given the fact that half of your genes come from your mother and half from your father. However, a man with a breast cancer gene abnormality is less likely to develop breast cancer than a woman with a similar gene. So, to track your father's family history, you have to look mainly at the women on your father's side, more than the men.

All other risk factors are associated with a much lower probability of being diagnosed with breast cancer.

3. If breast cancer does not run in your family, you would not get it.

No. Some risk of breast cancer is present in all women.

About 80% of women who get breast cancer have no known family history of the disease, mainly attributed to aging with varying risks and lifestyle. 

4. Breast cancer risk is directly related to the size of the breast.

Breast size is unrelated to breast cancer risk. Even men can get breast cancer, although it is very rare. So size does not matter!

5. Using anti-perspirants causes breast cancer.

No. There is no evidence that the active ingredient in anti-perspirants, or reducing perspiration from the underarm area, influences breast cancer risk. The supposed link between breast cancer and anti-perspirants is based on misinformation about anatomy and a misunderstanding of breast cancer.

6. Birth control pills cause breast cancer.

No. Modern day birth control pills contain a low dose of the hormones estrogen and progesterone. Many research studies show no association between birth control pills and an increased risk of breast cancer. However, one study that combined the results of many different studies did show an association between birth control pills and a very small increase in risk. The study also showed that this slight increase in risk decreased over time. So after 10 years, birth control pills were not associated with an increase in risk.

Besides birth control pills are reported to have benefits like:

• decreasing ovarian and endometrial cancer risk
• relieving menstrual disorders, pelvic inflammatory disease, and ovarian and cysts
• improving bone mineral density

Weigh the risks and benefits to decide if you should take this pill.

7. Eating high-fat foods causes breast cancer.

No. Several large studies have not been able to demonstrate a clear connection between eating high-fat foods and a higher risk of breast cancer. A distinct correlation is extra fat increases the production of estrogen outside the ovaries and adds to the overall level of estrogen in the body and thus risk of breast cancer. If you are already overweight, or have a tendency to gain weight easily, avoiding high-fat foods is a good idea.

For instance, whole milk dairy products contain high saturated fats. Studies have observed a 19% increased risk of breast cancer with greater intake of saturated fats. Thus, choosing low fat dairy products with lower saturated fat would be a better option.

8. A monthly breast self-exam is the best way to diagnose breast cancer.

No. Digital mammography or high quality film-screen mammography is the most reliable way to detect lesions as small as 0.5 cm (0.2 inches) as compared to lumps that can only be felt at least 1 cm (0.4 inches) in size yourself.

However, mammography may not work if the normal breast tissue is denser and hide small breast cancer. Certain types of cancer are also not readily seen on mammogram. In certain cases, an ultrasound or MRI scan may be required.

As majority of cancerous breast lumps are painless, especially in the early stages, frequent self-examination is necessary and never ignore any breast lump, no matter how small or painless because early diagnosis and treatment results in the best outcome.

The best time to self-examine is at the end of each menstrual period. Most breast lumps are not cancerous but cysts only. This is a minor inflammation involving the milk ducts, which become obstructed and produce fluid-filled cysts of various sizes.  The cysts can be removed and never return.

Having said that, this test should not be performed regularly. A new study by researchers from the Nordic Cochrane Centre in Denmark found that mammograms may harm ten women as they help one. Did you know that radiation treatment for one breast actually causes cancer in the OTHER breast?

Statistics showed about 25% of breast cancers are found only on breast examination (not on the mammogram), about 35% are found on mammography alone, and 40% are found by both physical exam and mammography.

9. I'm at high risk for breast cancer and there is nothing I can do about it.

No. There are several effective ways to reduce (not eliminate) the risk of breast cancer in women at high risk. Options include lifestyle changes (eg. minimize alcohol consumption, stop smoking, exercise regularly), medication (tamoxifen, also called Nolvadex); and in cases of very high risk, surgery may be offered (prophylactic mastectomies, and for some women, prophylactic ovary removal). Be sure that you have consulted with a physician or genetic counselor before you make assumptions about your level of risk.

10. A breast cancer diagnosis is an automatic death sentence.

No. Fully 80% of women diagnosed with breast cancer have no signs of metastases (no cancer has spread beyond the breast and nearby lymph nodes) and are able to live for at least five years, and much longer.

However, in most late discovery cases, the survival rate is less than 50%.

With advancement in medical technology, promising treatment breakthroughs should be available in the near future. 


Other pointers -
+  Women who have children have a slightly lower risk of breast cancer than women who have not, due to reduced oestrogen exposure.
+  Starting periods at an early age has been linked with a higher risk of breast cancer.
+  A late menopause also raises one's breast cancer risk due to increased period of oestrogen exposure.
+  Women found drinking more than 14 units of alcohol per week had increased risk of breast cancer.

What to eat?

+  Seaweed

We should learn from the Japanese who have a low incidence of breast cancer, largely due to their diet of seaweed. Evidence of the health benefits of seaweed was proven by the Harvard School of Public Health which did a study on rats. They found that rats that had been fed kelp (a type of seaweed) had a lower incidence of breast cancer than rats that were not fed kelp. So try eating seaweeds like kelp or nori often, or take blue-green algae such as spirulina (1 heaping teaspoon) and chlorella (about 3 grams) in a glass of juice daily.

+  Reduce Your fat intake

A diet high in animal fat is known to increase the risk of breast cancer. According to experts, a high-fat diet produces chemicals in the intestines that when it comes into contact with bacteria will convert to carcinogenic estrogens. These estrogens will then be stored in the fatty tissue of the breast, making cells in this area more susceptible to cancer growth. By limiting your daily fat intake to about 20% of your overall caloric intake, you're greatly reducing your chances of getting breast cancer.

+  More fiber
 
The fiber contained in food like beans, whole grains, fruits and vegetables, interrupts the body's metabolism of estrogen and decreases the blood levels of estrogen.
 
A good example is cruciferous vegetables like broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cabbage, turnips, bok choy, kale and cauliflower which contain sulfurous compounds called indoles. Indoles actually help to eliminate estrogen from the body to prevent it from triggering the growth of breast cancer. Only cruciferous vegetables are known to convert estrogen in the body from cancer-promoting forms to forms that actually protect against breast cancer. One such indole, indole-3-carbinol (13C), inhibits the development of potentially cancerous cells in the breast. It is best to eat these vegetables steamed or raw so that you can preserve their cancer fighting nutrients.

+  Omega3 in fish

Research shows that eating at least three servings a week of cold-water fish such as tuna, salmon, halibut, mackerel, haddock, cod, and sardines all helped to prevent breast-cancer. Omega-3 oils that are commonly found in these fish help to strengthen the immune system, and inhibit the effect of tumour-causing products. It is observed that North American Eskimo women who eat a diet extremely rich in omega-3 oils do not develop breast cancer at all. Even breast cancer patients can benefit to experience a reduction of the risk of tumor size.

+  Selenium-rich foods

Most seafood and nuts are loaded with this mineral. Researchers at the American Health Foundation gave the synthetic organo-selenium compounds to rats with high fat diets and found inhibition of tumor incidence. The effects were more pronounced with a low fat diet. There were no toxic effects with either compound.



More info...


Estrogen receptor-positive (ER-positive) breast cancer is the most common type of breast cancer diagnosed today. According to the American Cancer Society, about 2 out of every 3 cases of breast cancer are hormone receptor-positive. Most of these cases are ER-positive, meaning that there are estrogen receptors on the surface of the cell that bind to estrogen.


By having ER-positive breast cancer, cancer cells grow in the presence of the hormone estrogen which occurs naturally in the body. Thus, drugs that interfere with estrogen’s ability to promote cancer cell growth can be used to treat ER-positive breast cancers.



In conclusion...

Up to 98% of breast cancer cases can be prevented through diet, nutritional supplements, sunshine, exercise and avoiding exposure to toxic chemicals in consumer products such as cigarette smoke, chemical solvents, perfume chemicals, household cleaners, pesticides, skin care products and conventional cosmetics.

 

What to Expect for an EXPECTING Mum

 

A pregnancy starts when one of the million of sperms deposited inside the woman during sexual intercourse meets and fertilises an egg she has produced. The fertilised egg then grows and develops over 9 months to form a fetus.

Frequent slight to severe nausea is expected in the morning or later in the day 6 weeks after menstruation stops. However, with proper ante-natal care and medical advice, supplemented with a nutritional diet, many of the unpleasant conditions can be avoided and instead experience an enjoyable and pleasant ride till the arrival of the baby.

Note the 3 possible causes: hormonal change, nutritional deficiencies, profound anatomical changes.

Pregnancy lasts for about 40 weeks. It can be broken into 3 periods or trimesters: Day 1 to week 12 , from week 12 to 28th, from 28th till delivery.


We are what we eat and the newborn is what a pregnant woman eats during pregnancy. As the fetus takes nutrients direct from the mother, she must eat well or properly. Otherwise, both will suffer the consequences later. By ‘eating well’ no special diet is required, just a diet to incorporate certain important nutrients crucial at this stage of fetal development and maternal well-being. The quality and type of food and nutritional requirements is more important than the quantity. So eating for two is not necessary.

What is good?

* Fruits and vegetables

Eating plenty of fruits and vegetables provide all the vitamins, minerals and fibers. Wash thoroughly before consumption to remove traces of soil and pesticides. All foods taken raw should preferably peel off the skin.


Sufficient intake of above ensure that natural antioxidants like Vitamin A, C, E are present to keep the body systems well cleansed and free from damages by free radicals. Those foods containing Vitamin B (particularly B6, B12 and folic acid) may relieve heartburn, digestive tracts, morning sickness, prevent anemia and involved in red blood cell formation. Also reduce the occurrence of neural tube defects, such as spinal bifida and growth retardation.

Vitamin C is believed to assist in absorption of iron. This is highly important for a pregnant woman in her 2nd and 3rd trimesters where additional supplement of iron is called for as the fetus depletes the mother’s iron resources. At the same time, blood volume increases naturally by about 40% and if this mineral is not adequately provided can cause fatigue, a rapid heartbeat and paleness of the skin, gums, and around the interior eye.

* Protein-based foods

Animal protein (lean meat), fish, milk, poultry, eggs, beans, nuts are all good sources of nutrients. All meats and fish should be cooked thoroughly so there is no trace of blood. Fish commercially harvested tend to contain high level of toxicity like mercury. Liver or liver products (eg. cod liver oil) should be left out as they contain excessive amount of Vitamin A that can harm the fetus, closely linked are cleft palate, heart defects, and other congenital defects. Foods containing natural beta-carotene like carrot and pumpkin are not harmful because it is converted into Vitamin A only as needed. Eggs should be well-cooked to prevent the risk of salmonella food poisoning.

Fish with edible bones (eg. sardines), dairy products (eg. milk). nuts and green vegetables all rich in calcium which is vital for bones and teeth formation. The depletion of calcium, magnesium and Vitamin D at the later stage of pregnancy may cause backache, dental caries and bone loss to the mother.

DHA derived from fish is known to help in brain and vision development. DHA consumed by pregnant mother can pass through the placenta to the fetus, aids in preventing epilepsy and pre-term delivery. In the event your baby does not get enough Omega 3 from your derived food, the fatty acids stored in the expected mum’s brain are extracted. This can result in a loss of up to 3% of your brain cells. Omega 3 deficiency during pregnancy is linked with:

· increased rates of postpartum depression
· increased chances of having a low birth weight baby
· increased chances of pre-term labor

Amino acids, the building block of proteins, is essential for cellular growth and development. Amino acid imbalances like lack of zinc, manganese and folic acid, has been linked to fetal deformities and mental retardation.

** Carbohydrates

Starchy foods like bread, potatoes, pasta, rice and breakfast cereal form an essential part of any diet to be taken jointly with other foods. They do not contain many calories but a good source of vitamins and fibres. A better choice for bread is whole-meal bread or wholegrain cereal.

Breastfeeding is most practical for at least the first 3 months as the mother’s milk is the most nutritious food for a baby and provides crucial disease fighting agents. Human milk is analysed to contain 10 times as much essential fatty acids, 3 times as much selenium and half the calcium. In fact, once breastfeeding has stopped, milk of any kind is no longer required. Though cow’s milk contains 3 times more protein and 7 times more mineral content, the practice of injecting bovine growth hormone and antibiotics is a big turn-off. Soy milk can be a close substitute.

Hence, a mother should continue to eat well to load up nutrients having depleted during pregnancy and to further provide for the baby.

VIVA corner

+ VIVA Basic Essential Pack comprising Green barley, Floraguard, Dailyguard and vivashield takes care of the daily needs like general cleansing, systems detoxification, healthy colon function and health maintenance so vital at this stage as enumerated above.

+ VIVA Omega 3 provides high level of DHA/EPA so that newborn babies can benefit with higher intelligence, memory power and learning ability.

+ VIVA B-easy provides the full range of Vitamin B especially folic acid to prevent having a neural tube defect baby, involved in blood formation and help prevent anemia.

+ VIVA Calmag & D contains important minerals to provide for both mother and baby, especially in forming strong bones.

+ VIVA Hemoberry contains a balanced formula of blood-building nutrition great for mothers who are running on dangerously low blood count. There is a crucial need to replenish the low iron content in the 2nd-3rd trimester depleted by the fetus.

Pricking the BUBBLE of Bubble Tea

 

Bubble tea shops are popping up in all Asian communities round the world like wildfire in recent years. Teens like to gather at these small parlours to relish their favorite choices, awaiting the sweet excitement to titillate their taste buds.

Bubble tea (pearl milk tea or boba tea), originated from Taiwan is presented in a cup with concoction of gelatinous pearls of tapioca, brewed black or green tea, milk, sugar, flavouring and ice.

 

This is not a healthy drink as what most people thought.

 

Why?

 

Milk?

Milk is usually substituted by milk essence as many East Asians are lactose intolerant and it is cheaper and easier to store and use than perishable milk. However, note that ten cups of fresh milk is of no match to the fragrant taste of a teaspoon of milk essence.

Milk essence is essentially hygrogenated vegetable oil – a type of transfat. Experts believed that a glass of 500ml of bubble tea daily far exceeds the allowable limit of transfat for any person (2 gms a day) known to be the leading factor of heart and blood vessel diseases. Also found is a chemical addictive that contains trace of arsenic, lead, copper and many harmful minerals. Prolonged periods of consumption can lead to cancer, asthma and other health complications.

 

Black pearl bubbles?

Traditionally, the bubbles were made from casava (tapioca) powder which contains linamarin, a chemical that can convert into the deadly chemical toxin, cyanide if not properly handled. (commercialized processing involving peeling of skin and high-heat drying should contain little to no linamarin). Tapioca that has not undergone the correct processing can induce cyanide poisoning, which can make you feel dizzy, confused, agitated and cause an aching head and in more serious cases coma, convulsions, leg paralysis, and decreased vision and hearing acuity. In addition, chronic exposure to small doses of cyanide poisoning can cause the thyroid gland to expand, hormonal imbalance and damage the nerves that control body’s coordination and balance. Expect more damage if your regular diet contains little to no protein, as you need proper amino acids to detoxify the poison.

 

Nice flavoring?

If you recalled in May 2011, a food scandal broke out in Taiwan where DEHP (a chemical plasticizer and potential carcinogen used to make plastic) was found as a stabilizer in drinks and juice syrups. Some of these products may have been exported and used in bubble tea shops around the world.

In June 2011, the Health Minister of Malaysia followed with a ban on companies selling “Strawberry Syrup,” a material used in some bubble teas, after chemical tests showed they were tainted with DEHP.

 

Chewiness?

The rubbery texture comes about when millet protein is added. In some instances, artificial plastic powder is used to enhance the chewiness further. As this toxic material cannot be digested and absorbed into the body, it wrecks havoc to our health.

 

Calories?

The analysis revealed that one 500cc glass of “bubble tea” with normal sugar and ice has 250-550 calories, which means that drinking one glass a day can result in weight gain of at least one kilogram over 14 days, if the consumer does not expend the extra calories.

Prolonged consumption of saturated fats, transfat, artificial flavors, additives, high carbohydrates and plastic would definitely weaken the immune system. There is little or no nutritional value to talk about here. Hence, for health reasons, avoid this tasty and dangerous food at all cost!

 

Latest news (May 2013)

Since mid-May, Taiwanese health authorities have confiscated more than 312 tons of food starch – a key ingredient in bubble tea – that was found to have been tainted with maleic acid, a cheap food additive that can cause kidney failure when consumed in large doses.

The toxic starch has also poisoned Taiwan’s food exports. On Wednesday, Malaysia announced an immediate ban on 11 food items imported from Taiwan. Singapore imposed similar ban over the weekend.


This is the second island-wide food scare in two years after the discovery of the pervasive use of plasticizer – a chemical additive to use to make food more pliable in May 2011.

Chinese TEA for THOUGHT

  

In most traditional Chinese restaurants, tea is usually served with food unless you choose not to have it. The three common ones, namely Teh kuan yin tastes clearer with fragrance, Oolong stronger and more solvent, and Daffodil being the purest of them all. However, they are usually mixed and the original flavor is missing.

The differences between types of Chinese tea are caused by variations in processing methods as well as the geographic location of the tea plantations where the soil and weather conditions play an important role.

Types of tea available:

(1)  WHITE tea is made from immature tea leaves that are picked shortly before the buds have fully opened. The tea takes its name from the silver fuzz that still covers the buds, which turns white when steamed. As such, it undergoes even less processing than green tea leaves. A pale white tea like peony tea has a sweet, silky flavor. As it can be costly, black tea is usually mixed to derive darker colour and richer flavour.

Leaving tea leaves so close to their natural state means that white tea contains more polyphenols, the powerful antioxidant that helps to boost body’s immune system in warding off viruses and dangerous infection-causing bacteria. This includes clearing heat and phlegm in respiratory system and thus beneficial for those with coughs and smoke. Order it with any fried or deep fried food.

(2)  As the highest grade, genuine screw shaped GREEN tea is only offered in fine dining restaurants. Produced only in Jiangsu Province’s DongTing Mountain, it is the rarest green tea in China, with harvest of 1,000 kilograms annually. Fresh leaves handpicked must be consumed within 6-12 months, depending on the quality. Thereafter it turns bad if is tasteless, solvent or extremely bitter. Note even when it is fresh, it tastes more bitter than other types. Another well known name is Longjing from the West Lake. Its poorer cousin is Loong Cheng.

Green tea leaves are light to dark green in color and brew into a light green infusion. It undergoes minimal oxidation during processing. Raw tea leaves are heated, rolled and dried without fermentation. This enables the leaves to keep their original color and retain their naturally occurring antioxidants, which according to recent research can help reduce the risk of cancer and slow down the aging process.

Sugary food pairs well with tea of bitter form by moderating the sweetness. Also it aids in lowering cholesterol levels and breaking fats down. To maintain its fragrance on subsequent brews, such teas need to be heated up to about 75-85 degrees only.

(3)  BLACK tea is the sort fully fermented and renowned by its red liquid. Basic making procedures of black tea include withering, rolling, fermentation and drying. In comparison to other tea categories, black tea generally produces a more full-bodied flavor.


+  Pu-erh tea originates from Yunnan. Like wine. the longer is stored, the richer its flavor. Storage for at least three to six years is optimal. However, regular Pu-erh teas served at restaurants have generally been modified during the fermentation process to reduce storage time. By so doing, the original fragrance and flavour is lost. To check out, good Pu-erh tea should look very smooth and deep red in colour, not blackish.

It goes well with any dim sum containing lard added to enhance flavour and fragrance for ability to remove grease and thus improve blood circulation.
 

+  High quality Oolong tea should be fragrant with a fruity flavor and a pleasant aroma. Hence, tea lovers relish by featuring a whole set of tea wares from a small oven to a pot and tiny cups known as Kongful tea. Several sub-varieties of oolong, including those produced in the Wuyi Mountains of northern Fujian, such as Da Hong Pao, are among the most famous Chinese teas.

Health benefits of oolong tea include the reduction of chronic health conditions such as heart disease, inflammatory disorders and high cholesterol levels, while providing vital antioxidants, promoting superior bone structure, robust skin and good dental health.

+  Cultivated in the Shantou and Fujian province, Teh Kuan Yin tea is a premium variety, harvested by hand from high altitude tea orchards and is the oolong tea of choice among the Chinese. Natural plant nutrients, such as antioxidants are preserved in this semi-oxidized tea providing several health and lifestyle benefits.

As it has a bitter sweet effect, Teochew restaurants like to serve with their spicy dishes.

More tips

+  Aside from Pu-erh tea which is almost odourless, quality tea should always give off a fragrant smell. If the smell emitted is weak or exhibited solvent texture, likely already expired or near expiry date.

+  Never drink tea on an empty stomach. Always drink tea during or after a meal. Given the high acidity of our stomach and alkalinity of tea, the combination can create a bloating effect.

+  Drinking tea is a personal preference matter on type of tea and the water temperature to apply.  Whilst some prefer their tea to be brewing hot, others may like theirs lukewarm.


Learning more about the texture makes a perfect cup of tea. On the contrary, not doing it right can result in a cup that produces a bad aftertaste.

Proper ways to use WATER and FOOD holders

(1) Bottled water in the fridge

Online circulation has been going on that do not freeze your plastic bottles with water in them as many harmful chemicals can be released from the plastic. An example is dioxin, a highly poisonous chemical which can be very damaging to the cells of our bodies and is carcinogenic, especially breast cancer.

The most commonly used plastic in water and soda bottles and food containers is PET (or polyethylene terephthalate) containing the chemical bisphenol-a (BPA) which leaches compounds that mimic the hormone estrogen. This type of substance, known as an "endocrine disruptor," has the potential to interfere with estrogen and other reproductive hormones in the human body.

(2) Bottled water in your car

Studies done on water bottled in FDA-approved PET did find trace amounts of potentially hazardous substances believed to have migrated from the plastic but were minute and well within the human safety limits set by FDA and EPA regulators. However, consumers face a much greater risk from potential exposure to microbial contaminants in bottled water such as germs than from chemical ones.

Recommendation:

According to the definition of National Geographic Society, the recycling symbol indicates the material a container is made and whether it can be recycled or reused for storage purpose. You can find this symbol on the bottom of each labeled plastic container.

* PET represented by number 1 as indicated in most water bottles should not be reused to prevent bacterial contamination and carcinogenic effect;

* HDPE or high-density polyethylenes symbolised by number 2;

The opaque plastic bottles used for milk, juice and oil are usually made from HDPE. They are safe to reused but only for containing cool fluids.

* Number 4 stands for LDPE or low-density polyethylenes;

Plastic wraps for food eg.bread, grocery bags and trash bags and kids' toys are often made from LDPE. As this plastic is soft, flexible and thinner, it can melt or emit toxic chemicals when exposed to high temperatures eg. in a microwave oven.

* Number 5 refers to PP or polypropylene.

Commonly found in takeaway containers, plastic kitchenware and baby bottles, it is generally safe to use but fear of harmful chemicals in plastic may not be a good idea to reuse on long-term basis.

Hence, the higher the number, the “safer” it is to use for food storage or to heat up in the microwave. Ensure that the number is higher than or equal to 5 to be save to use. Whatever number under 5 will release the plastic chemical.

If you are worry about the safety aspect, why not use a stainless steel container or glass bottle instead?

(3) Heating of food in the microwave using plastic containers

When food is wrapped in plastic or placed in a plastic container and microwaved, substances used in manufacturing the plastic may leak into the food and ultimately into the cells of the body similar to above. In particular, fatty foods such as meats and cheeses cause a chemical called diethylhexyl adipate to leach out of the plastic.

Guidelines for safe use

• Most takeout containers, water bottles and plastic tubs or jars made to hold margarine, yogurt, whipped topping and foods such as cream cheese, mayonnaise, and mustard are not microwave-safe.
• Microwavable takeout dinner trays are formulated for one-time use only as indicated on the package.
• Do not microwave plastic storage bags or plastic bags from the grocery store.
• Before microwaving food, be sure to vent the container - leave the lid ajar, or lift the edge of the cover.
• Do not allow plastic wrap to touch food during microwaving because it may melt. Wax paper, kitchen parchment paper or white paper towels are alternatives.

Recommendations

Only containers that pass this test can display a microwave-safe icon, the words “microwave safe,” or words to the effect that they are approved for use in microwave ovens.

Switch to using glass, such as Corning Ware, Pyrex or ceramic containers for heating food to get the same results, minus the dioxin. This should apply to heating of packed foods like instant ramen and canned soups as well.

(4) Aluminum foil to wrap food when microwaving/barbecuing

A recent study showed that when heat is applied to a foil, aluminum leaches from it into foods at dangerously high levels. It does not matter whether the shiny or dull side is in contact with the food or used for the purpose of cooking, reheating or cooling. Hence, the higher the temperature, the more leaching occurs. However, it is considered safe to wrap cold foods, since no leaching was observed without heating.

What can go wrong?

The average person ingests between 3-10 mg of aluminum daily mainly through the digestive tract, and a small fraction through the lungs and skin. As this metal is most abundantly found in our air, water and soil, varying amounts are present in nearly all food and water.

+ When aluminum accumulates in the body, it can lead to osteoporosis. Aluminum toxicity reduces bone formation activity and impedes calcium deposition in bone leading to elevated calcium levels in the blood. As a result, the hormone secreted by the parathyroid hormone (gland that control calcium levels), is greatly depressed.

+ Researchers have found an aluminum build-up in autopsies performed on Alzheimer’s sufferers found much deposits in brain tissue. To reach the brain, aluminum must pass the blood-brain barrier, a structure that filters the blood before it reaches the vital organ. Elemental aluminum cannot get through this pass but certain aluminum compounds, like aluminum fluoride do. This is often used by municipal water supplies to treat water and is stubborn to excrete from the body. Central nervous system toxicities include convulsions, behavior, speech disturbances and reduced mental faculties.

+ Toxic levels are found in patients with chronic kidney failure who have received hemodialysis over long periods of time as the dialysis solutions and medications contain aluminum. Also at risk are patients who ingest large quantities of antacids containing this element.

Before you place your food on the aluminum foil to send to the microwave, think about the damaging effects. Aluminum items should be correctly used as follows:

• Never cook, heat up or place hot food on aluminum foil. It should be used only to store cold food in the fridge or to wrap cold sandwiches.
• Avoid storing acid-forming foods such as coffee, cheese, meat, tea, cabbage, cucumbers, tomatoes, turnips, spinachs, radishes, citrus fruits or spices in foil as aluminum is more readily leached. Replace foil with wax paper if you wish to store food while still hot or use glass food storage containers.
• Never use aluminum pots or cooking utensils. The longer you cook food in aluminum pots, the more they corrode, and the more aluminum compounds migrate into food and are absorbed into the body. Instead, invest in stainless steel pots and tempered glass pans.

Just for information, other sources of aluminum to note are painkillers, anti-inflammatories, baking powders, antiperspirants, toothpaste, dental amalgams and beer packaged in aluminum cans.

Source: http://www.health.harvard.edu/fhg/updates/update0706a.shtml

VIVA corner

+ VIVA Chloroguard has a balanced mineral content and acts as a detoxifier of excess metals like aluminum and mercury.

There is POISON in the tap water!

  

Water fluoridation is the controlled addition of a fluoride compound to a public water supply effective enough to reduce tooth decay.  It operates on tooth surfaces – in the mouth it creates low levels of fluoride in saliva, which reduces the rate at which tooth enamel demineralizes and increases the rate at which it re-mineralizes in the early stages of cavities.

Dental caries remain a major public health concern in most industrialized countries, affecting 60–90% of kids and the vast majority of adults.  Thus, water fluoridation mitigates this problem with studies estimating an 18–40% reduction in cavities when it is combined with toothpaste and other sources of fluoride used by kids.  However, most European countries have experienced substantial declines in tooth decay without its use, primarily due to the introduction of fluoride toothpaste in the 1970s.  For instance, in Finland and Germany, tooth decay rates remained stable or continued to decline even after water fluoridation stopped.

Fluoridation may be useful in the U.S. because unlike most European countries, school-based dental care is largely inadequately provided and most children do not go for dental treatment regularly.  To-date, only eight countries in the world have more than 50% of their populations drinking artificially fluoridated water, namely Australia, Colombia, Ireland, Israel, Malaysia, New Zealand, Singapore and the U.S.  On the contrary, some countries such as India, China and parts of Africa have areas with high natural fluoride found in the water and steps are taken to remove this potential health hazard.

Harmful effects

+  There is extensive evidence that fluoride can interfere with many important biological processes. For example it interferes with numerous enzymes. In combination with aluminum, fluoride interferes with G-proteins, giving the potential to interfere with signals from growth factors, hormones and neurotransmitters.

+  Animal experiments show that fluoride accumulates in the brain and alters mental behavior in a manner consistent with a neurotoxic agent.  This is due to an increased uptake of aluminum in the brain and the formation of beta-amyloid deposits which are associated with Alzheimer’s disease.

+  There have now been 24 studies from China, Iran, India and Mexico that have reported an association between fluoride exposure and reduced IQ.  At least three human studies have reported an association between fluoride exposure and impaired visual-spatial organization while three other studies have found an association between prenatal fluoride exposure and foetal brain damage.  This is possibly due to an increased uptake of lead into children’s blood by 3 folds as compared to lead alone, cause gradual damage to the developing brain. (note fluoridating agents in combination with chlorinating agents such as chloroamine increase the leaching of lead from brass fittings used in plumbing).

+  In the mid-20 century, fluoride was prescribed by a number of European doctors to reduce the activity of the thyroid gland for those suffering from hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid).  Effective result was seen with application of 2.3 – 4.5 mg/day of fluoride ion.  This may explain the rampant and increasing problem of hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid) in the United States and other fluoridated countries.

+  A bottle-fed baby consuming fluoridated water (0.6 – 1.2 ppm) can get up to 300 times more fluoride than a breast-fed baby. This poses a big risk for infants ingesting this heightened level of fluoride at such an early age.  As for healthy adult kidneys excrete 50-60% of the fluoride they ingest each day with the remainder largely in calcifying tissues such as the bones and pineal gland. Infants and children are worst off with 80% of ingested fluoride accumulate in their bones.

+  Some of the early symptoms of skeletal fluorosis (a fluoride-induced bone and joint disease) are impacting millions of people in India, China and Africa, that mimic the symptoms of arthritis, initiating thought to be due to drinking large amount of tea.  This is especially so for kidney patients who are unable to effectively excrete fluoride, resulting in accumulation of high levels of fluoride in their bone and blood.

+  When high doses of fluoride (average 26 mg per day) were used in trials to treat patients with osteoporosis in an effort to harden their bones and reduce fracture rates, it actually led to a higher number of fractures, particularly hip fractures.  Further study in male rats showed a dose-dependent increase in bone cancer using fluoride-treatment.  It can interfere with the genetic apparatus of bone cells in several ways –  mutagenic, cause chromosome damage, and interfere with the enzymes involved with DNA repair in both cell and tissue studies.

+  Fluoride administered to animals at high doses wreaks havoc on the male reproductive system – it damages sperm and increases the rate of infertility in a number of different species.

Public concerns

+  As of July 2011, over 3700 professionals have signed a statement calling for an end to water fluoridation worldwide. This statement and a list of signatories can be found on the website of the Fluoride Action Network (see: www.FluorideAlert.org)

+  When it comes to controversies surrounding toxic chemicals, vested interests traditionally do their very best to discount animal studies and quibble with epidemiological findings. In the past, political pressures have led government agencies to drag their feet on regulating asbestos, benzene, DDT, PCBs, tetraethyl lead, tobacco and dioxins.

Social concerns

+  Those most likely to suffer from poor nutrition, and thus more likely to be more vulnerable to fluoride’s toxic effects, are the poor, who unfortunately, are the very people being targeted by new fluoridation programs.

+  As for majority of populations, fluoridation may have make sense in the 1950-60s when oral hygiene was generally worse with dental caries widespread.  Today, this problem is no longer a major health issue in most societies.

+  While fluoridation may not be the greatest environmental health threat, it is one of the easiest to end. No turning off the tap is required, just remove this chemical from our water supply.  In this way, other indirect sources of fluoride include food and beverages, mechanically deboned meat, tea, and pesticide residues on food are eliminated too.

+  Since there is no need to swallow fluoride to protect teeth, it makes more sense to deliver the fluoride directly to the tooth in the form of toothpaste.  Also use mouth rinses and salt whilst dentist still applies fluoride topically.  Parents may want to consider installing water filter to remove fluorides for their young ones.

Source:  http://www.fluoridealert.org/50-reasons.htm