THE STAR, TUESDAY 8 AUGUST 2017

YOUR HEALTH

Being in control
Hectic lifestyles and daily commitments
can distract women from properly monitoring
their health. See inside to learn how you can
take better care of your body.
2 Your Health
The little red flags
By IAN JEROME LEONG
WHAT would be your initial reaction during
your period if you started to experience
pelvic pain, more intense cramps during
bowel movements or some other abnormal
reactions that were previously unnoticeable?
Would you consult your medical
practitioner, family and friends about the
issue, or would you do some online research
on these symptoms? If it is only a mild level
of pain, would you try to ignore the
symptoms and continue with your day?
For many women, it is easy to push the
issue on personal health aside as there are
other urgent matters to attend to. Some of
their immediate responsibilities include
striving for the best results at work,
financing loans and mortgages, completing
household chores as well as spending time
with their families and raising children.
Though some of these symptoms may not
be too serious, it is vital that women seek
medical advice when they notice any
abnormalities with their health as there is a
possibility they are experiencing signs of a
more serious health condition.
Discovery by chance
Athena (not her real name) considers her
work life in data management to be a
stressful one, due to the
expectations that come as part of
her job, which include personal
work achievements and social
requirements.
From month to month, she
would experience symptoms
such as cramps, a loss of
appetite and terrible back pain
during her menstruation.
However, she did not give much
thought to it.
I always brushed it
off as I thought it was normal
to experience pain during
menstruation. My close female
relatives have the same
symptoms so it was not a
surprise and my friends would
give me alternative medicine
advice.
I never purposely went to a
doctor before to seek medical help
for my menstruation problem but
I accidentally found out about my
endometriosis condition from an MRI
(magnetic resonance imaging) test I did
during my backbone check-up, says
Athena.
According to the 23-year-old, the
condition did not come as a total shock as
her sister and cousins also had it.
However, Athena also learnt that she has
polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), a
condition caused by hormonal imbalance
that induces small cysts to form on the
ovaries.
I had surgery to get the cysts
Take note of the signs
IT is easy for women to become
complacent about tracking the routine
biological process of menstruation.
However, the more intimately you know
your body cycles, the easier it is to
recognise something is amiss and consider
the possible health issues affecting your
reproductive organs.
Here are some health issues that affect
womens reproductive organs.
l Endometriosis
Abnormal growth of endometrial tissue
forms outside the uterus and may appear
on organs including the membrane of the
pelvic cavity, ovaries, Fallopian tubes,
surface of the uterus and bowels.
Moderate and severe endometriosis will
result in the formation of cysts and cause
symptoms such as pelvic pain that occur
just before menstruation, painful sexual
intercourse, cramping during intercourse,
cramping or pain during bowel
movements or urination and infertility.
Other symptoms that can be related to
endometriosis include lower abdominal
pain, diarrhoea or constipation, chronic
fatigue, irregular or heavy menstruation,
painful urination or bloody urine during
menstruation.
l Uterine fibroids
Uterine fibroids or fibroid tumours are
non-cancerous or benign growths of the
muscle tissue in the uterus.
However, it is possible to experience
abnormal uterine bleeding and, tumours
that grow near the uterine lining can
cause heavy periods, painful periods,
prolonged periods or spotting between
menses.
Excessive bleeding can lead to iron
deficiency anaemia while large fibroids
can result in pelvic pain and increased
pressure on the bladder and rectum,
causing obstructed urination and painful
or difficult defecation.
Fibroids may impair fertility, such as the
presence of submucosal fibroids that
deform the inner uterine cavity, a scenario
that can cause recurrent miscarriages.
It is wise to monitor the size of fibroids
as rapid growth may be a sign of a
rare cancerous form of fibroid
(leiomyosarcoma) that will require a
possibly difficult and risky surgery.
Studies have indicated that the presence
of fibroids can increase the risk of
pregnancy complications such as first
THE STAR, TUESDAY 8 AUGUST 2017
removed and I was on induced menopause
for a year after my surgery.
Since then, the intensity of her cramps
has decreased gradually.
> TURN TO PAGE 5
trimester bleeding, breech presentation,
placental abruption and problems during
labour, including during caesarean
delivery.
l Endometrial cancer
Also known as cancer of the uterus,
endometrial cancer is the abnormal
growth of malignant cells that comprise
uterine tissue.
Risk factors of endometrial cancer are
being obese, have high blood pressure or
living with diabetes mellitus.
The signs one has to look out for include
bleeding or discharge not related to
menstruation, difficult or painful
urination, pain during sexual intercourse
or pain in the pelvic area.
l Premature ovarian failure
Also known as primary ovarian
insufficiency, this condition affects women
before they reach the age of 40, whereby
the ovaries stop producing eggs and these
women stop menstruating.
Some women will have trouble getting
pregnant and the common symptoms are
missed or infrequent periods.
Other symptoms that may arise are
similar to women reaching menopause,
which include hot flashes, night sweats,
anxiety and mood swings, trouble
sleeping, a lower sex drive and vaginal
dryness.
l Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
PCOS is a hormonal imbalance that can
cause irregular periods, the formation of
cysts and infertility.
PCOS is known to be hereditary and the
symptoms include weight gain, acne or
dark patches on the skin, pelvic pain and
depression.
Researchers believe high levels of
insulin are the root of the illness and that
your chances of getting PCOS are greater if
you are overweight.
The conditions above are only some of
the possible illnesses that are related to
the female reproductive system and a
rough guide to possible symptoms that
you should look out for.
Should you ever experience
irregularities in your menstruation or
experience any abnormal pain as
compared to previous months, it is always
the best to seek medical clarification.
THE STAR, TUESDAY 8 AUGUST 2017
Plant protein for youthful skin
THE typical Malaysian diet these
days is packed with carbohydrates
from starchy rice, animal fats from
red meats, trans fats and sugars
from highly processed fast foods.
Hence, it is difficult for an average
person to get proper nutrition,
especially macronutrient protein
from his or her diet.
Tissue degeneration due to low
protein stores in the body leads to
premature ageing and some of the
early signs are as follows:
l Puffy eyes
l Swollen face, ankles and
fingers
l Wrinkled and dull skin
l Hair and nails are made of a
tough protein called keratin.
Hence, a protein deficiency can be
marked by thinning or brittle nails
and hair
l Loss of physical strength
If we wish to have healthy
youthful skin, hair and nails, it is
very important to make sure our
protein intake is sufficient and
know the best protein sources.
The building blocks of
protein are called amino
acids. Complete protein
contains 22 different amino
acids. However, nine
essential amino acids must
be consumed in the diet
because the body does not
produce them.
When a complete
protein is eaten and
digested, our body can
select the required amino
acids for the construction
of new structural proteins
Biogrow HPF-5 high protein-fibre
powder provides all nine essential
amino acids, which are a good
plant-based source for complete
protein.
such as collagen and elastin, which
are found predominantly in the
skin, bones and muscles.
Amino acids are also used to
form new cells and replace worn
out or dead cells in the skin, which
replenish every 27 days.
A quick and easy way to get
high-quality complete protein into
your diet is to use a protein
powder supplement. However,
many protein powder supplements
in the market are lacking in other
essential nutrients such as fibre,
calcium, magnesium and vitamin
D3. These essential nutrients are
important for the maintenance of
good digestive and bone health.
More than just protein
Everybody wants a protein
powder that is not only high-
Your Health 3
quality and easy to digest but one
which is made without antibiotics
from dairy, lactose, added sugar
and artificial sweeteners. Biogrow
HPF-5 high protein-fibre powder
provides all nine essential amino
acids, which are a good plant-based
source for complete protein.
It also contains the digestive
fibre-resistant dextrin, which has
been approved by the Health
Ministry in promoting regular
bowel movement for constipated
individuals.
In addition, Biogrow HPF-5 has
bone health-enhancing calcium,
magnesium and vitamin D3, all of
which are usually not found in
ordinary protein powders.
This article is brought to you by
Legosan (Malaysia) Sdn Bhd.
n For more information,
call 03-7956 2220 or e-mail
info@biogrow.com.my.
Why protein is important
for health?
Protein is the major
building block of muscles,
skin and other body tissues.
It is used to produce
hormones, enzymes and
antibodies. An adequate
intake of protein is
necessary for growth, repair
of body cells, the normal
functioning of muscles,
transmission of nerve
impulses and immunity.
4 Your Health
COENZYME Q10 (CoQ10) is found
naturally in most organisms,
including bacteria, mammals and
humans. CoQ10s primary
functions are to produce energy
and protect the body from the
attack of free radicals.
Our organs can function because
of CoQ10, which generates energy
for our bodys use. Ninety-five per
cent of the human bodys energy
requirement is generated this
way.
In our body, organs with greater
energy requirements such as
the heart, liver, kidneys, muscle
and pancreas have higher
concentrations of CoQ10.
Although CoQ10 is produced
naturally by our body, deficiency
may occur in people with a
medical condition, who lack CoQ10
sources in their diet or have
defects in their biosynthesis
pathway.
CoQ10 is one of the powerful
lipid-soluble antioxidants in our
body.
However, our bodys ability to
produce its own CoQ10 decreases
with age, making us more
susceptible to diseases such as
Vital source of energy
cardiovascular diseases, nerve
damage, metabolic syndrome,
hypercholesterolaemia and
diabetes.
According to a study published
in the Ochsner Journal in 2010,
heart tissue with a lower CoQ10
level is associated with reduced
muscle contraction.
Besides that, people taking statin
drugs (cholesterol-lowering
medications such as lovastatin,
simvastatin and atorvastatin) often
complain of tiredness, muscle
weakness and pain. These are not
uncommon as statin drugs will
deplete the CoQ10 level in the
body.
Since CoQ10 and cholesterol
production in the body share the
same biosynthetic pathway,
cholesterol and CoQ10 production
are both inhibited by statin drugs.
According to The American
Journal of Cardiology, statin drugs
have been shown to cause a drop
in CoQ10 level within as short as
two weeks exposure to statin.
In a study published in the OCL
journal in 2011, supplementation
of CoQ10 among statin drug users
showed reduction in pain severity
and pains interference with daily
activities by 40% and 38%
respectively.
Our daily diet provides an
average of 3mg to 5mg of CoQ10,
which is minimal unless we
An
enduring
solution
AT 70 years old, Mary looks good
for her age but walks like she is
100 years old, no thanks to the
arthritis in her knees. It has
been this way for at least three
years now.
Mary has tried various ways
to deal with her degenerating
joints such as glucosamine and
chondroitin supplements, shark
cartilage, acupuncture,
physiotherapy, massages, knee
guards, various ointments,
hyaluronic injections but
nothing has lasted.
Our joints undergo a natural
degeneration process as we age.
Ones risk of developing joint
problems increases if they are
female, have sustained a
previous joint injury done
contact sports or simply use
their joints heavily over a long
period of time.
When we use our joints over a
long period of time, the joints
will release certain breakdown
enzymes to fix any damage
incurred. These enzymes are
known as matrix
metalloproteinases (MMPs).
With the continual use of our
joints, MMPs are produced
constantly and are unstoppable,
thereby causing joints to break
down faster than they can be
rebuilt.
Biolane, the New Zealand
green-lipped mussel extract, was
found to be an effective MMP
enzyme with ability to inhibit
the primary MMP-1 and MMP-13
which then allows joints to truly
rebuild themselves.
It has additional anti-
inflammatory, antioxidant
and marine mineral healing
actions making it a multitasking
solution to address the various
pathologies indicated in
THE STAR, TUESDAY 8 AUGUST 2017
consume a large amount of
CoQ10-rich foods such as meat and
poultry.
CoQ10 serves as the main
antioxidant in inhibiting lipid
peroxidation by neutralising free
radicals, making it important in
preventing atherosclerosis, which
can lead to stoke or heart diseases.
CoQ10 plays an important role in
our organs functions and provides
various health benefits, especially
to the heart.
If you are taking cholesterol-
lowering medications and
experience frequent muscle pain
or tiredness, CoQ10 may help
reduce these side effects and
improve your quality of life.
This article is brought to you by
BiO-LiFE Marketing Sdn Bhd.
n For more information,
call 03-7882 6412 (Monday to
Friday, 8am to 5pm).
Arthritis
can affect
one's
personal
life and
social
activities if
left
untreated.
joint problems.
Biolane has been clinically
tested in patients to deliver a
70% success rate. However,
patients will need to undergo a
treatment course of at least
three months at the right dose
before effects are felt.
Patients also need to
understand that Biolane is not a
painkiller and they may still
need to take their painkillers
initially before the benefits of
Biolane kicks in.
Biolane has stomach-
protecting properties when
taken together with painkillers
leading to a reduction in gastric
lesions by more than 50%.
In the long run when MMPs
are in balance, patients may find
that they need not rely on their
painkillers any more.
Biolane is probably one of the
most enduring joint health
products in the world today,
testament of its quality, safety
and effectiveness.
Mary decided to try Biolane,
which was recommended by her
pharmacist.
Closer to three months later,
Mary realised that she had
walked downstairs one morning
without the usual tightness that
had hampered her flexibility for
so long.
Four months later, Mary is
still mobile and has returned to
her old routine of joining her
friends for a morning walk.
This article is brought to you
by the Nuvaceuticals Division of
Nuvanta Sdn Bhd.
n For more information,
call 03-5636 3758 or
1300 881 712 or e-mail
pharmacist@nuvanta.com.
THE STAR, TUESDAY 8 AUGUST 2017
Plan for wellness
WITH the new Gintell DeSpace UFO
(Ultimate Features, Futuristic Design and
Optimum Comfort) massage chair, a special
eight-day health plan can help you and your
loved ones regain good health and lead a
more enjoyable life.
l Day 1 Programme: Activation
The massage chair is a remedial measure
that improves your health by stimulating 26
acupressure points on the foot and spine that
corresponds to all major organs in the body,
thereby harmonising all organ functions.
It comes with the worlds first i-Sensing
System Technology, which utilises multiple
robotic sensors (MRS) to automatically
measure your body shape, foot and calf
length. This helps in an accurate and
humanised massage as well as a 360
massage sensation.
l Day 2 Programme: Body
detoxification Toxins are major culprits
of a variety of chronic disorders. The more
toxins are accumulated in the body, the more
difficult it becomes for our detoxifying
organs to expel them. Gintell DeSpace UFO
massage chair uses the innovative Quad 3
Roller Balls to help eliminate toxins from the
body, restore good health and relieve the
burden on the detoxifying organs.
l Day 3 Programme: Improving
digestive health Overeating, irregular
meals and consuming too much carbonated
drinks cause digestive stress that will
lead to digestive problems such as
constipation, diarrhoea, bloating and peptic
ulcers.
The Quad 3 Roller Balls and Aero V-track
in the massage chair provide coverage on
the lower lumbar area, which helps in
bowel movement.
l Day 4 Programme: Enhancing the
immune system This programme involves
Zen Shiatsu, a form of holistic massage
therapy to stimulate the natural healing
power of the body. Quad 3 Roller Balls
provide the widest coverage as well as 90%
Gintell group
managing director
Datuk Goh Cheh Yak
and renowned Hong
Kong actor Simon
Yam, who is also the
ambassador for
Gintell.
more humanised acupressure massage.
l Day 5 Programme: Improving the
respiratory system This programme
known as Tai Ji Breath helps in respiratory
function, which improves breathing capacity.
In addition, the massage chair effuses
negative ions to purify the ambient air.
l Day 6 Programme: Releasing mental
stress Nicknamed the VVIP Programme,
this massage stimulates acupuncture points
to relieve shoulder pain, neck stiffness,
headache and migraine. It is done in the
presence of soothing music, an additional
feature built within Gintell DeSpace UFO
massage chair to induce deep relaxation.
l Day 7 Programme: Hormone
balancing Hormonal imbalance is
usually caused by toxins, an unbalanced
lifestyle and stress. In women, hormonal
irregularity often leads to irregular and
painful periods, headache and abnormal
vaginal discharge.
The Waist and Buttock Programme is
about stimulating the acupuncture points
to restore hormonal balance, giving you
radiance, energy and confidence.
l Day 8 Programme: Spinal care
massage Long-term incorrect posture or
sport injury will cause displacement of the
spine, a condition known as scoliosis and
various associated problems such as
headache, tendonitis and backache.
The 180 Space Stretch Programme is
designed to correct poor body posture. It
consists of a longitudinal stretch to extend
the entire body by Titan Airbags and a
downward stretch for complete leg
extension by the Auto Footrest.
As part of the current launch promotion,
buyers of the Gintell De'Space UFO will get a
De'Vano S FUNtastic Sofa for free.
n For more information, call 1800 886 332
or visit www.gintell.com.
Cause for concern
> FROM PAGE 2
Having been around other women who
experience equal or worse degrees of
menstrual pain, Petunia (not her real name)
has also dismissed her severe menstrual
cramps and blamed it on her genes.
As a woman in her early twenties, she
was confused as to what her body was
experiencing and the pain is often
unbearable, once requiring her to be
hospitalised for pain management.
There was an observation at the hospital
about the position of my womb, which
apparently is not normal in women and I
naturally got worried.
The condition is hereditary and there is
not much that can be done about it. It has
been about two years since I recognised the
abnormality but it is not something that can
be medically treated, says Petunia who
works as an investment consultant.
As her condition is not treatable, Petunia
understands why women women may give
up seeking help or do not even seek
medical help in the first place.
However, she believes one should not
downplay their symptoms and be medically
checked.
Are you trying to fool yourself into
believing that your symptoms are not
actually a problem? Lets not create more
issues for ourselves.
Quick to act
If my pain and discomfort recedes after
a couple of days, how could it be dangerous
to my health?
Your Health 5
Such questions are not uncommon
among many women and this is because
they are still largely able to perform daily
tasks, albeit with a little inconvenience and
pain.
The greater danger of not seeking
medical attention and leaving these
symptoms untreated, however, is that an
individuals health may deteriorate much
further in the long run, causing
unnecessary agony and a much heftier
hospital bill.
Athenas case is just one example of a
persisting health condition that can go
unnoticed. If she had not gone through with
that MRI scan, she would not have
discovered that she has PCOS and there is
no telling if she would pick up other health
issues such as gestational diabetes,
increased blood pressure or uterine cancer
conditions that have been linked with
PCOS.
At the other end of the spectrum, though
Petunias condition is untreatable, it helps
to have a better understanding of her body
and is a fact that she has come to accept.
Have you been experiencing unusual
body reactions for prolonged periods or
were not present in previous months? If so,
it is about time you pay a visit to the doctor
to be certain there is nothing to worry
about.
The conditions listed on the next few
pages are not meant to scare or cause
paranoia, but rather to give you a reason to
pause for a moment, be conscious about
your physical reactions and not brush off or
downplay these symptoms as something
normal.
6 Your Health
YOU and your loved ones can start living a
healthy and active lifestyle in the
convenience and comfort of your home with
the Hybrid Trainer Pro by the American
brand ProForm, the worlds No.1 home
fitness brand.
It works as a recumbent bicycle for lower
body toning or crosstrainer for total body
endurance by simply adjusting the pedals
and the console.
This two-in-one machine not only saves
space but also money, making it the
preferred choice for the home.
The Hybrid Trainer Pro is equipped with
20 digital resistance levels that will take you
from beginner to advanced levels as you
progressively get stronger.
While exercising, maximise your workout
and train your heart with the EKG heart
monitor. The front-mounted wheels allow
you to conveniently move the machine out
of the way when not in use.
The ProForm Hybrid Trainer Pro has
double functionality at half the price with
more features.
l Two machines in one
The Hybrid Trainer Pro offers comfort,
variety and a low-impact cardio workout.
Pedals can be easily adjusted to
accommodate a crosstrainer or bicycle
position.
Plus, the specially integrated tablet holder
The right way to fitness
Adjustable pedals allow you to transform
the machine from a recumbent bicycle to
crosstrainer in an instant.
console can be adjusted, so whether you are
sitting or standing, you can easily monitor
your workout on the large LCD screen. The
tablet is not included in the purchase of the
machine.
l 20 smart workout apps
The 20 preset programs are designed by a
certified personal trainer and automatically
adjust the resistance of the crosstrainer/
recumbent bicycle to maximise your time for
faster results. The simple navigation of the
apps makes it quick and easy to select your
workout and get moving.
l Adjustable cushioned seat
With the Hybrid Trainer Pro, you are not
just working out, you are enjoying a
comfortable ride. The oversized seat has
added cushioning and can be easily adjusted
so you find the perfect fit for yourself or
multiple users.
l Soft upper-body grips
Improve muscle tone with the upper-
body crosstrainer resistance arms that
provide a great total-body workout and
increased cardio benefits.
THE STAR, TUESDAY 8 AUGUST 2017
The ProForm Hybrid Trainer Pro is
available exclusively at all Fitness Concept
outlets nationwide.
Fitness Concept is Malaysias largest fitness
specialist chain as certified by The Malaysia
Book of Records, with 45 outlets in leading
shopping malls nationwide.
Fitness Concept is having a nationwide
clearance sale with discounts of up to 50%
on selected showroom units for treadmills,
crosstrainers, exercise bicycles and gym
stations, purchase-with-purchase
offers, gift with purchase and many
other exciting offers. Terms and
conditions apply.
Try out the ProForm Hybrid
Trainer Pro at your nearest
Fitness Concept store today.
n For more
information, call
03-2282 3200
(Mid Valley
Megamall store)
or 03-7726 5323
(IPC Shopping Centre
store), e-mail enquiries@
fitnessconcept.com.my or
visit www.fitnessconcept.com.
my.
The ProForm Hybrid
Trainer Pro helps you
have a healthy and
active lifestyle.
THE STAR, TUESDAY 8 AUGUST 2017 Your Health 7

Herbal extract
supplements are
a safer option for
Reliable protection
those wanting EXCESSIVE sweating can affect ones
to relieve professional and social life.
menopausal There are two types of sweat
symptoms. glands:
l Eccrine glands are distributed
throughout the body and responsible
for regulating body temperature
through the release of sweat.
l Apocrine glands, also known as
scent glands, are found in the armpits
and groins. Apocrine glands are
responsible for body odour as the
MAL15060006TC sweat produced is high in protein and
plug in the gland, temporarily
halting sweat production.
However, the keratin plug is not
a permanent fixture as it is
expelled with the shedding of dead
skin cells. It takes two to seven
days for this process to complete a
cycle, which explains the need to
only apply Perspirex two to three Antiperspirants are used to treat
times a week. excessive sweating.
Perspirex enables you to remain
protected even when you shower, For sensitive skin, apply every
swim or bathe, so there is no need second night for two weeks.

Natures
fatty acids, which bacteria can break
down easily.
Using antiperspirants is the most
common and effective form of
treating excessive sweating.
to reapply during the day.
Perspirex is used before going to
bed as the sweat glands are less
active at night. For optimal results,
apply on completely dry and
unbroken skin, and let the skin dry
Thereafter, apply Perspirex two to
three nights a week or as often as
your body needs. Do not use 48
hours after hair removal.
The Perspirex Original roll-on
antiperspirant (25ml) and

menopause
Perspirexs antiperspirants are
clinically proven to provide safe,
unequalled protection for up to five
days. Its patented formulation is
fragrance and stain free as well as
after application and before
putting on clothes.
Wash off in the following
morning with soap and water.
There is no need to reapply. For a
Perspirex Hand and Foot Lotion
(100ml) are each retailed at
RM68.90 (inclusive of GST) at
Guardian Health & Beauty, Caring
Pharmacy and other leading

revolution
kind to sensitive areas of the skin.
The main ingredient aluminium
chloride reacts with water in the
sweat glands to form a deep keratin
start, use Perspirex every night pharmacies.
until you have achieved the
desired effect (usually within a n For more information, visit
week). www.perspirex.com.

MENOPAUSE is a stage of life classifications in the dietary

that all women go through by
the average age of 51 and
characterised by a halt in
menstruation for 12 consecutive
months.
Menopause is associated with
the reduced functioning of
ovaries due to ageing, resulting
in lower levels of oestrogen and
other female hormones.
As the body produces less
oestrogen, women start
experiencing menopausal
symptoms. Common symptoms
include hot flashes, vaginal
dryness, insomnia, night sweats,
rheumatic pain, depression,
dizziness, fatigue, nervousness,
numbness, headache and
palpitation.
Research shows that 75% of
menopausal women experience
hot flashes. Hot flush is a sudden
feeling of heat in the upper part
or the whole body that can last
between 30 seconds and 10
minutes, often accompanied by
profuse sweating.
Besides that, vaginal dryness
is commonly reported as the
most uncomfortable symptom,
significantly reducing sexual
desire in menopausal women.
The bad news is, these changes
and symptoms can last for years
after menopause.
Conventional approaches for
treating menopause symptoms
are either hormone therapy or
supplementation with herbal
extracts. Herbal extracts usually
only relieve a limited amount of
menopause symptoms and are
accompanied by side effects.
Despite that, supplementing
with herbal extracts is always
the safer option for those who
want to relieve menopausal
symptoms.
Vitamode MenoCare Tablet is
a formula traditionally used for
the relief of hot flashes and
vaginal dryness in menopausal
women.
It contains EstroG-100, a
proprietary standardised and
patented blend of three plant
root extracts Cynanchum
wilfordii, Phlomis umbrosa and
Angelica gigas Nakai.
This menopausal formula, all
of which have at least 400 years
of documented usage and
history in South Korea and/or
China, is backed by New Dietary
Ingredient (NDI) status by FDA
(US), one of the highest
supplement industry.
This formula has been shown
to be one of the safest and good
menopause symptom
ingredients on the market versus
other nutritional choices,
according to the study The Effect
of Herbal Extract (EstroG-100) on
Pre-, Peri- and Post-Menopausal
Women.
The same study showed that
the ingredient has proven
success in treating as many as 10
symptoms, such as hot flashes,
vaginal dryness, sleeplessness,
fatigue, dizziness, nervousness,
numbness, rheumatic pain and
menopause-related mood
swings.
Clinical studies also showed
that EstroG-100 is not
oestrogenic, which is critical for
womens health. Therefore, it
does not cause adverse side
effects such as change in weight,
body mass index or liver
enzymes, all of which are
associated with hormone
replacement treatments.
Most herbal menopause
remedies take six to eight weeks
to work and may relieve just one
of the many symptoms
associated with menopause.
After three placebo-controlled,
double-blind and randomised
human clinical studies,
Vitamode MenoCare Tablet has
been proven to work rapidly in
as fast as a week and improve
multiple symptoms for
menopausal women.
For so long, women have
feared menopause and suffered
through it just to feel like they
are never quite the same again
like they have lost their normal
lives.
With Vitamode MenoCare
Tablet, we finally have a solution
from nature that works to
relieve some of the toughest
menopause symptoms.
Vitamode MenoCare Tablet is
available in selected clinics and
pharmacies nationwide.
This article is brought to you
by Medispec (M) Sdn Bhd and
Vitamode Sdn Bhd.
n For more information,
call 1300 800 228 or e-mail
enquiry@medispec.com.my.
This is a traditional supplement
advertisement.
KKLIU No.2687/2016
8 Your Health THE STAR, TUESDAY 8 AUGUST 2017

Overcoming change
EVERY morning, only painful sex but also an increased risk
Michelle, who is turning
48 this year, wakes up
of urinary tract infections (UTIs).
Midlife fat accumulation is probably
During midlife, a
feeling tired. Her skin one of the classic symptoms of womans body undergoes
physical, physiological
feels dry and intimacy perimenopause.
has been difficult. During this time, fat metabolism slows
down dramatically while a fat
and emotional changes.
Midlife changes redistribution exercise takes place.

During midlife,
a womans body
undergoes physical,
physiological and
emotional changes.
The most
significant change
is felt in terms of
hormonal changes
driven by oestrogen.
In your 40s however, fine
lines, weight gain and tiredness all
set in too easily because oestrogen
levels are fluctuating in a phase
called perimenopause.
During perimenopause, skin
becomes thinner and loses its ability
to retain moisture thereby causing
dryness.
As the skin on the face and
hands dries, this reflects the
condition of the skin in the
vaginal area too, causing not
Instead of the hip areas, fat accumulates
preferentially in the belly.
The fat content in breast tissue reduces,
which is why women may also notice a
significant sagging effect in the bustline.
Overall, body weight increases while
weight maintenance becomes difficult for
them.
Studies show that women transitioning
towards menopause are 40% more likely to
report forgetfulness and may be vulnerable
to depression as it is more common in
times of hormonal change.
Stress adversely affects hormone levels
resulting in negative moods as well as risk
of having cardiovascular disease.
Natural therapies
Phytoestrogens are plant oestrogen with
the ability to mimic the actions of oestrogen
in the body. Soy isoflavones comprise the
best researched category of phytoestrogen
used in the management of symptoms
associated with perimenopausal hormonal
changes.
Organic genistein is a certified organic
source of soy isoflavones, which has been
clinically tested to be pure and safe for
your hormonal care.
The most important soy isoflavones to
take are genistein and daidzein. Organic
genistein is a double standardised soy
isoflavones formula with standardised
levels of both genistein and daidzein.
The most significant
change is felt in terms of
hormonal changes driven
by oestrogen. In your
40s however, fine lines,
weight gain and tiredness
all set in too easily
because oestrogen levels
are fluctuating in a phase
called perimenopause.
Daidzein content is important as it helps
prevent hair loss in women and imparts
protective anti-cancer benefits.
Armed with knowledge, Michelle started
on organic genistein and saw a significant
difference into the second month. She
has more energy and regular periods.
Michelle now feels better equipped to face
midlife.
This article is brought to you by Nuvanta
Nuvaceuticals division.
n For more information, call 03-5636 3758
or e-mail pharmacist@nuvanta.com.
THE STAR, TUESDAY 8 AUGUST 2017 Your Health 9

Restoring your vitality

TIREDNESS or the tendency to gain
weight might not just be the result of
sleep deprivation or greed. If you
are a man, your problem could be
caused by low testosterone levels.
Testosterone is a hormone found
in humans. Men have much higher
levels of testosterone than women.
Production increases during
puberty and starts to decrease after
age 30 at the rate of 1% each year.
The decline becomes more drastic
after the age of 40.
Marigold HL Low Fat Milk is specially formulated to provide you with A man needs to have a healthy
more nutritional goodness than regular milk.
A man with a low testosterone
level may experience lack of energy,
concentration, muscle strength,
agility, stamina, interests, vigour and
confidence.
In the body, most of the
testosterone is inactivated by protein
Lack of
molecules called globulin (SHBG),
which increases in production as interest and
one ages. stamina are
This leads to the decrease of active effects of low
testosterone in the blood, causing testosterone.
functional symptoms of low
testosterone.

Formulated
level of testosterone to maintain the
balance of his androgenic and
anabolic effects.
Androgenic effects are responsible
for male traits such as sexual
characteristics, libido, sexual
Testofen is an extract of the herb
fenugreek, which is natural and
commonly used in East Asian
cuisines and for medical purposes.
It is standardised to saponin
glycoside called Fenuside, a
About 85.2% of men aged 25 to 52
who received 600mg of Testofen per
day for six weeks showed an overall
positive effect in the increase of
libido in as early as three weeks,
with improvements in muscle

for
satisfaction and performance.
Anabolic effects promote muscle
and bone building.
If the level of testosterone is no
longer able to maintain the male
compound that displaces
testosterone from the SHBG, hence
releasing more active testosterone
into the blood to be circulated
throughout the body.
strength, energy levels and well-
being.
Living a youthful and interesting
life after your forties is possible with
the reactivation of the testosterone

well-being
MARIGOLD HL Low Fat Milk is
more than just ordinary milk as
it is specially formulated to
complement our lifestyle with
the right highs and lows. High in
calcium and protein while low in
fat and lactose, it is also fortified
with nine essential vitamins,
which are A, B1, B3, B6,
B12,C,D,E and folic acid.
It won the Gold Award in the
2017 Readers Digest Trusted
Brands Awards and has been
awarded the Peoples Choice
award at the Putra Brand
Awards in 2015 and last year.
Recently, it also received the
Healthier Choice logo by the
Health Ministry, which facilitates
consumers in identifying
healthier products compared to
other products in the same
category.
Healthy bones and teeth
Women of all ages need to
take steps to help keep their
bones strong and healthy.
Millions of women already have
or are at risk of osteoporosis,
which is a disease that makes
bones weak and brittle.
Marigold HL Low Fat Milk
contains 25% more calcium and
is fortified with vitamin D, which
help prevent osteoporosis, and
ensure overall health and keeps
our teeth, nails and hair strong
and healthy.
Healthy muscles
Marigold HL Low Fat Milk
contains 56% more protein than
ordinary milk, which is essential
to help build and repair body
tissue. Hence, it serves as a good
post-workout drink for muscle
recovery and rehydration.
The milk contains 74% less fat
compared to ordinary milk to
help you manage a low-fat diet
to keep you trim, fit and healthy.
Easier on your tummy
Compared to ordinary milk,
Marigold HL Low Fat Milk
contains 75% less lactose so it is
easier on your tummy and
suitable for people who are
lactose intolerant.
characteristics effectively, it may be A research by Gencor Nutrientes, levels.
presented in a medical condition Inc has shown that men taking
known as andropause. Testofen combined with exercise This article is brought to you by
The male equivalent of demonstrated improvement in the in-house pharmacist at
menopause, andropause afflicts men testosterone-related properties. This Cambert (M) Sdn Bhd.
in their forties and beyond. Factors includes an increase of male
such as diabetes, hypertension, functions (androgenic function) as n For more information,
stress, smoking and a sedentary well as muscle tone and strength call 1300 881 712 or e-mail
lifestyle can speed up the process. (anabolic function). ask-prime@cambert.com.my.
Include two
glasses of milk
as part of your
balanced diet in
addition to regular
consumption
of fruits and
vegetables, and
exercise to help
you maintain
your cholesterol
levels at a healthy
range.
about high cholesterol levels,
plant sterols in Marigold HL Milk
with Plant Sterols helps lower
blood cholesterol by blocking
cholesterol absorption in the
body.
Include two glasses of
Marigold HL Milk as a part of
your balanced diet in addition to
regular consumption of fruits
and vegetables, and exercise to
help you maintain your
cholesterol levels at a healthy
range.
With all this goodness,
Marigold HL Low Fat Milk is
indeed a supermilk. This highly
nutritious and delicious milk
helps you achieve a perfect
balanced diet. It is not only
great for you but for your
family too.
Marigold HL Low Fat Milk is
available in plain, chocolate and
strawberry flavours as well as
plant sterols that help lower
cholesterol levels. Just two
glasses of Marigold HL Low Fat
Milk every day can provide you
and your family with daily
nutritional needs.
Now, you can get a free cup
with every purchase of two litres
of Marigold HL Low Fat Milk.
It is available in white, blue,
red and green at participating
outlets, while stocks last.

Lower blood cholesterols n For more information,

call 1800 885 587 or visit
For those who are concerned www.marigold.com.my.
10 Your Health
Complete skin
protection
TAKE a good look at your skin.
Does it show signs of ageing, feels
dry to the touch and lacks the
radiance you desire? In short, is it
unattractive to look at? If the
answer is yes, then here is whats
happening to your skin.
As we constantly expose our skin
to environmental aggressors such
as the sun and pollution, our skin
deteriorates in health, making it
dry, irritable and lacklustre. Free
radicals start to exist within our
skin, putting the brakes on its
regular cell renewal cycle.
Along with poor nutrition and
stress factors, our skin begins to
show signs of damage dry,
uneven tone, lines and dullness.
Left untreated, our skin can suffer
from premature ageing by this
stage, the skin becomes more
difficult to care for and repair.
What is the solution to prevent
all of the above? Vitamin E. An
antioxidant, vitamin E is a natural
ingredient that has the ability to
protect cells against free radical
damage caused by the sun and
pollution.
It protects right down to the cell
membrane functions so that your
Dehydrated skin is
instantly nourished
upon application,
giving your skin
the hydration it
needs to repair and
rejuvenate.
skin cells can continue producing
new cells to help protect existing
ones.
SkinLabs Concentrated Vitamin
E Cream is formulated with 10,000
international units of concentrated
vitamin E to give you the optimum
protection you need for your skin.
Both nourishing and soothing, its
unique formula helps relieve dry
and damaged skin as well as
prevent moisture loss.
Dehydrated skin is instantly
nourished upon application, giving
your skin the hydration it needs to
repair and rejuvenate.
SkinLabs
Concentrated
Vitamin E
Cream
contains
vitamin E to
nourish and
protect your
skin.
SkinLabs Concentrated Vitamin E
Cream also helps promote cell
regeneration, minimise scarring and
prevent against cell damages.
Using the product can help:
l Reduce scar visibility
l Diminish stretch marks
l Prevent dry, cracked and
damaged skin
l Lighten acne and other blemishes
l Reduce sunburn
l Reduce the occurrence of new
wrinkles
Give your skin the protection it
deserves with SkinLabs Concentrated
Vitamin E Cream. It is safe to use on
both face and body.
n For more information, call
Asia Healthcare at 03-6156 2836.
Beauty
&Wellness
A fresh start
HAVE you ever met a woman
who is always looking fresh and
ready to take on the day? Have
you always wondered how she
remains cheerful, energetic and
always looking her best?
You would be surprised that
your moods and energy levels all
depends on how you start the
day. You too can be equally
lively, chirpy and active just by
tweaking your morning routine.
l Get good sleep
The first step is to have
roughly eight hours of sleep
every night.
Your body needs this time to
heal itself and there are
countless reports linking the lack
of sleep with an increased risk of
various health conditions.
Many people will claim they
can stay awake throughout the
day with minimal hours of sleep.
However, the amount of sleep
you get will affect your level of
concentration and attentiveness
to the events and happenings of
the day.
l Shower, deodorise and
powder
In Malaysias hot and humid
climate, it is easy to start
perspiring even with very
minimal physical activity.
Perspiration flushes out the
impurities from the body but
these toxins will remain on your
skin.
Deciding not to shower allows
the skin to reabsorb some of
these impurities and can cause
mild skin irritation and rashes.
When the bacteria on the skin
breaks down the acids in your
sweat, body odour is expelled
and it can affect the people
around us.
If you tend to sweat a lot, use a
deodorant and antiperspirant to
keep you dry. Putting a little
powder also helps to absorb
extra moisture, ensuring your
skin does not feel oily or sweaty
as the day progresses.
THE STAR, TUESDAY 8 AUGUST 2017
l Cleanse, tone and
moisturise
This three-step beauty regime
can help prevent breakouts and
keep premature ageing at bay
but it is first important to find
skincare products that suit your
skin.
Depending on your skin needs,
take the time to find the right
cleansers, toners and
moisturisers that are formulated
to treat sensitive skin, non-
allergenic, provide adequate
moisturisation or even sun
protection.
l Treating hands and feet
right
Major problems associated
with hands and feet are dryness
and roughness, often due to
them being overworked and
overexposed to harmful UV rays
from the sun. Lotions and
moisturisers are important to
avoid discoloration, peeling skin
and dark spots.
Malaysias heat and humidity
can also cause further problems
such as fungal infections,
blisters, psoriasis and smelly
feet. Be sure to also put scented
powder on your feet to absorb
excess moisture and manage
odour.
l Wear the right clothes
Synthetic fabrics have the
tendency to cause itching and
discomfort on the skin as it
restricts fresh air from
circulating near your skin and
thus making your skin sweat
and feeling sticky.
Always choose fabrics such as
cotton to allow your skin to
breathe. If you work in an air-
conditioned office and constantly
feel cold, another way to stay
fresh is to layer your clothes.
You can wear a thinner blouse
when you head out for lunch
and have a cardigan or blazer in
the office to keep you warm
while at work.
THE STAR, TUESDAY 8 AUGUST 2017
Carpal tunnel syndrome
LETS suppose you are in bed
one night going to sleep.
Suddenly, the numb or tingling
sensation you have been having
in your hand turns into a pain
that shoots through your arm.
Or lets say instead that these
symptoms suddenly show up
while you are typing, driving,
using your mobile phone or
holding a cup of coffee. Sound
familiar? Then it is possible that
you have what is called carpal
tunnel syndrome.
The carpal tunnel is a tiny
bony passageway in the wrist
through which the median
nerve a major nerve to the
hand and several tendons
pass.
Carpal tunnel syndrome
occurs when this nerve becomes
pinched or squeezed for one
reason or another. This causes
numbness, tingling, pain and
weakness in the hand that
characterise carpal tunnel
syndrome.
Causes of carpal tunnel
syndrome
Many factors can contribute
to carpal tunnel syndrome.
Some people are congenitally
predisposed to get the problem.
Women are more likely to
get it than men because they
have smaller carpal tunnels and
the condition is also often
triggered by pregnancy and
menopause.
Carpal tunnel syndrome can
also occur due to wrist injuries
or inflammation and swelling
in the carpal tunnel due to
health problems such as
rheumatoid arthritis. Some
diseases such as diabetes
increase the risk of damage to
the median nerve.
The chances of getting carpal
tunnel syndrome also rise with
activities such as using power
tools and working in jobs which
involve repeated and prolonged
flexing of the wrist, as happens
in assembly lines.
Finding relief
If you have developed carpal
tunnel syndrome and want to
relieve the tingling, numbness
or pain, there are several ways
to go about it to restore your
hand and wrist function.
People who only have a mild
case of carpal tunnel syndrome
can ease their discomfort by
taking breaks to give their
hands a rest, avoiding activities
that increase the symptoms and
possibly applying a cold pack on
the affected wrist to bring down
any swelling.
Often, the treatment of carpal
tunnel syndrome consists of
putting a splint or brace on the
wrist.
This holds the wrist still to
help relieve the symptoms
and may also be worn at night.
Pain can also be relieved
by anti-inflammatory or
steroid medications, which
reduce the inflammation and
swelling of the tissue that is
putting pressure on the median
nerve.
Other non-surgical therapies
that can help provide relief
include massage as well as
stretching and strengthening
exercises of the lower arm.
Your Health 11
Many factors
can contribute
to carpal tunnel
syndrome.
Some people
are congenitally
predisposed to
get the problem.
Women are
more likely to
get it than men
because they have MAL19910915XZ
smaller carpal
Neurobion is a combination of vitamin Bs which helps improve nerve condition and relieve nerve pain due to
tunnels and the carpal tunnel syndrome.
condition is also
often triggered
by pregnancy and
menopause.
These can help to rehabilitate
hands and wrists that have
become weak due to carpal
tunnel syndrome.
If the symptoms still do not
stop, carpal tunnel surgery may
be necessary whereby the
pressure on the median nerve is
relieved by cutting the tissue
that is pressing on it.
Keeping nerves healthy
Vitamin B is highly important
for healthy nerves, with vitamin
B1 (thiamine), B6 (pyridoxine)
and B12 (cobalamin) being
essential for them to function
normally. All three of these B
vitamins come in the health
supplement Neurobion.
Vitamin B1 strengthens
nerves and helps to provide
energy for nerves. Vitamin B6 is
necessary for the proper
transmission of impulses along
the nerves. Vitamin B12
regenerates nerves, protects
nerve cells from damage and is
important for overall nerve
health.
Known as neurotropic
vitamins, these vitamins work
synergistically with each other
in treating or slowing down the
progression of nerve damage.
Neurobion with a
combination of vitamin B1, B6
and B12 is clinically known to
nourish the nerve cells.
Neurobion helps to improve
nerve function and relieve
nerve pain as well as keep the
feelings of tingling and
numbness at bay. Take
Neurobion today to help keep
your nerves healthy.
This article is brought to you
by Merck Consumer Health.
Merck is one of the leading
companies for innovative and
top-quality hi-tech products in
the pharmaceutical and
chemical sectors.
n For more information, e-mail
ch.my@merckgroup.com or visit
your doctors or pharmacists to
find out more about Neurobion.
KKLIU No.0967/2015
12 Your Health THE STAR, TUESDAY 8 AUGUST 2017

The gut-brain connection

OVER the years, scientists
worldwide have established a gut-
brain connection through various
studies.
Backed by evidence, these
findings confirm the bidirectional
relationship between the gut and
the brain via bacteria in our
gastrointestinal tract. Diet plays an
Here is how gut health can lead
to better well-being for all of us.
important role in
maintaining gut
Linked before birth health.
It all begins in the womb. In
the embryonic stage of the
A healthy dose
development of our nervous of fruits and
system, a ridge called the neural
crest splits into two organs, which vegetables in a
will later form our brain and gut.
The gut and brain have been
variety of colours
unmistakably linked ever since by can be a good
source of dietary
the vagus nerve, where most of the
information travels from the gut to
the brain and back. Therefore, the
gut is also known as the second
fibre, vitamins,
brain. minerals and
Your second brain
antioxidants to
Our gut has the ability to cultivate good gut
produce most of the chemicals
needed by the body. Serotonin, the
bacteria.
chemical that triggers our feel
good feelings, is produced by the
gut.
Most of the neurotransmitters enjoy a bottle of Vitagen.
are biochemically identical to Containing live cultures that are beneficial to gut health, Vitagen can help strengthen your digestive and immune Containing billions of live, active
those found in the brain. These systems. cultures of Lactobacillus
chemicals do not enter the brain acidophilus and Lactobacillus
but send signals back to the central Researchers are exploring how gut vegetables in a variety of colours Avoid processed, refined foods casei, Vitagen is known to
nervous system via probiotics. flora can influence our stress levels can be a good source of dietary and increase your intake of encourage better digestion and
If the gut contains insufficient as well. fibre, vitamins, minerals and beneficial bacteria such as those promote a stronger immune
good bacteria, less antioxidants to cultivate good gut found in Vitagen to ensure that system.
neurotransmitters communicate
with the brain, thus directly
The diet for your gut bacteria.
Probiotics The modern diet
your gut flora is balanced. It is truly the most convenient
way to keep your gut happy and
affecting your mood and feelings.
Our gut is also responsible for
Fruits and vegetables Diet
plays an important role in
can sometimes wreak havoc on
your gut flora. Therefore, it is vital
A better gut balanced.

our immune system, food digestion maintaining gut health. to replenish your gut with live, A simple way to ensure your gut n For more information, visit
and regulating hormones. A healthy dose of fruits and active cultures. is always in optimal condition is to www.vitagen.com.my.