Showing posts with label Nutritional supplements. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Nutritional supplements. Show all posts

Probiotics and Gut Health, Immune Health & Mental Health

Saturday, 21 March 2026


What is a microbiome?


Micro means small and Biome means a community of living beings. Together, the word Microbiome means a community of microorganisms that live in all regions of our body. This post focuses on the community of microbiome that resides in our guts, also known as Probiotics.


These probiotics which inhabit our digestive tract are commonly called the "good" bacteria. They play a significant role in digestion, immune function, brain health and the ageing process.


Health benefits of probiotics


1. Gut health


> Probiotics optimises gut function by restoring the natural balance of gut bacteria. This is especially important because when we fall sick, the bad microorganisms usually outnumber the good bacteria. 

> Prevents and treats diarrhoea eg. from food poisoning or antibiotics.

> Reduces symptoms of certain digestive disorders eg. IBS.


2. Immune system


> Protect against colds and flu (as 70-80% of our immune system are present in the gut).

> Prevent UTIs.

> Reduce severity of certain allergies and eczema.


3. Mind and brain



We usually hear the term Physical Health ~ we should do more exercise and be more physically active. Nowadays, the word Mental Health is the centre of attention. It comprises of 3 aspects: Psychological, Emotional and Social wellbeing. It affects how we think, feel and act. It also determines how we handle stress, relate to others and make healthy choices.


The National Health and Morbidity Survey reported some pretty scary statistics - the number of mental health cases among Malaysians above 16 years old has increased from 10.7% (1996), to 11.2% (2006), and 29.2% (2015). This means approximately 1 in 3 Malaysians had mental health problems in 2015.


Have you heard of the phrase "gut-wrenching experience" or have you ever suffer from the feeling of "butterflies in your stomach"? This is because our gut and brain are connected. The Gut-Brain Axis is a 2-way communication system between our gut (digestive system) and brain (central nervous system). It plays a significant role in our emotions and stress response. The enteric nervous system that regulates our gut is often called the body's Second Brain. It's like a mini-brain that lives in the intestines and helps manage digestion. This Second Brain also sends messages to the big brain; that's why the Gut-Brain Axis is so important. In other words, probiotics play a part in our mental health. 


Studies show that taking probiotics can:


> Improve your mood and reduce stress.

> Help with certain mental disorders like depression or anxiety.


4. Other health benefits


> Helps in weight loss as probiotics can help utilise the energy in our food.

> Keeps your heart healthy by maintaining healthier cholesterol levels.

> Promote oral health (reduction of gum disease and prevent caries).


Probiotics v. Prebiotics


Probiotics are food or supplement that contain live microorganisms.

Prebiotics are non digestible food components that selectively stimulate the growth or activity of probiotics.


In order to reach our intestines alive, the probiotics must be able to endure the harsh conditions in the stomach such as strong acid and digestive enzymes, which kill many microorganisms.  


Manufacturers overcome this problem by using special production processes and formulation to enhance the tolerance of probiotics to acidic conditions. Some bacterial strains have a naturally inbuilt level of tolerance to acidic conditions. In other words, it all depends on the type and manufacturing process of the probiotic you take.


Key traits of Lactoberry probiotics



The probiotics used in Lactoberry is multicoated with Oligosaccharides (food supply of probiotics) thus giving the probiotics more energy and enhanced potency. This coating increases the probiotic's tolerance against gastric acid and bile salt. Further, the probiotics also can stay in the GI tract for a longer time.


6 Ingredients & Benefits of Lactoberry


1. Bifidobacterium lactis


> Improves digestive conditions in the body eg. lactose intolerance and gluten toxicity as well as improves constipation by reducing gut-transit time.

> Assists digestion and utilisation of nutrients eg. sugar, fibre and macronutrients. It's also partially responsible for the absorption and utilisation of certain vitamins and minerals.

> As about 70% of probiotics are present in our gut, they have an immuno-modulating effects, especially for upper respiratory tract infections eg. common flu and cold.


2. Bifidobacterium longum


> Alleviates GI disorders eg. constipation and antibiotic associated diarrhoea.

> Immuno-modulation eg. improves symptoms of allergy and infections.

> Improvement and homeostasis of intestinal microenvironment. Studies have shown that with decreased micro-biodiversity, we are more prone to have diseases especially metabolic disorders like diabetes.


3. Isomalt


> Sugar substitute. Hence, Lactoberry can be ingested by diabetics.

> Prebiotics, therefore it's a food source for probiotics.

> Stimulates peristalsis, softens stools and alleviates constipation.


4. Berries


> Cranberry powder prevents UTIs due to it containing an abundance of phytonutrients A-type proanthocyanidins or condensed tannins. It prevents the E.Coli bacteria from attaching to the lining of the bladder and urinary tract.


> Raspberry powder, which has one of the richest sources of fibre amongst fruits and tannin content. It prevents constipation by increasing the bulk and letting the stools come out more easily, as well as benefits blood sugar control by improving insulin resistance.


> Blueberry powder is high in antioxidant flavonoids such as anthocyanin, which neutralises free radicals and enhances metabolic waste excretion.


Who needs it?


> Children, teenagers, adults and elderlies.

> Pregnant ladies.

> Patients after medical treatments.


Recommended consumption


> 1-2 sachets for daily maintenance before or after meals. To ensure the benefits of probiotics are reaped, it's important to take Lactoberry on a daily and on-going basis.

> Under special condition such as food poisoning or constipation, increase dosage as needed.


(Source: SH seminar, 22/7/2023)


How to Order? 


A box of 30 sachets of Lactoberry probiotics costs RM77 for Malaysian members.


Click on this link to register and then you can proceed with your order.

Email me at askfuiping@gmail.com if you need help. I am an Authorised Distributor.


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What's that Creaking Sound on your Joint?

Tuesday, 4 March 2025


Crepitus
- that's the word for the noise coming out from your knee joints or when you crack your knuckles. It describes any grinding, creaking, cracking, grating, crunching or popping sounds that occur when moving a joint. Crepitus is caused by tiny gas bubbles that form and then collapse within the joints.


It's a normal occurrence, especially when one ages. But if it's coupled with consistent pain or swelling, then you may have an injury (eg. arthritis, patellofemoral pain syndrome, torn cartilage) that requires treatment.


According to a research paper study done in Malaysia 2019, 30.8% of individuals residing in Kuala Lumpur aged over 55 years are suffering from knee pain. Some causes include:


> Being overweight.

> Repeatedly overusing a muscle.

> Infection in the bone or joint.

> Gout.

> Injury.

> Autoimmune diseases.


Introducing Vitaking


Vitaking contains 3 key ingredients:


1) Hydrolyzed collagen


- Very low molecular weight making it easy to absorb.

- 19 different amino acids which aid in the regeneration of joints.


2) Lemon verbena


- A traditional herb that detoxifies, eliminates heat, promotes diuresis and enhances the function of digestive system.

- Reduces inflammation and oxidative stress due to its antioxidant rich properties and anti-inflammatory compounds.


3) D-ribose


- A source of energy to use and storage at cellular level.

- Rebuild cellular energy pool in your body, rapidly provide energy needed and restore it for reconstructive work in both heart and muscles.


Benefits of Vitaking


  • Joint protection as it promotes repair function and production of joint cartilage.
  • Strengthen bones to preserve healthy joints as 90% of organic compound in bones are made up of collagen.
  • Alleviate inflammatory symptoms and relieve arthritic pains.
  • Rebuild lean muscles and reshape body figure.
  • Improve cardiovascular function because as you age, your muscle loses elasticity and this will affect your heart function. Collagen helps repair and reinforce vascular walls.
  • Maintain skin's radiance, elasticity, firmness and resilience by replenishing the body with collagen that has declined production due to ageing.
  • Retain physical fitness and youthful vitality of your body.
  • Replenish energy for rapid recovery of stamina.

(Source: SH Magazine July 2023)


How to order ?

Click on this link to register and then you can proceed with your order.

Email me at askfuiping@gmail.com if you have questions. Hurry! I am an Authorised Distributor.

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Dietary Fibre for Weight Management, Diabetes and Constipation Problem

Sunday, 6 August 2023


Since young, our mothers always nag us to "Eat more fibre". Do you know why? 


This post shares with you the importance of taking sufficient fibre and the grave consequences of fibre deficiency.


Fibre is found mainly in fruits, vegetables, legumes etc. It is actually the roughage or bulk that stays relatively intact throughout our digestive tract because unlike carbo, proteins or fats, it cannot be digested. 


These are some tell-tale signals which your body gives you when you're not taking enough fibre:


> Constipation. Even though there are many factors that contribute to constipation, fibre deficiency is one of the major contributor.


> Feeling hungry soon after eating, as fibre gives a feeling of satiety.


> Weight gain. Fibre helps to maintain a healthy weight. If you don't consume enough fibre, you may be at risk of gaining extra kgs.


> Bloating symptoms, as fibre contributes to our gut health.


> Elevated cholesterol, if you don't take enough soluble fibre.


> High blood sugar level.


In Malaysia, the recommended intake is 20-30g of dietary fibre per day. BUT do you know that according to the statistics from the National Health & Morbidity Survey, 95% of Malaysians do not consume enough fibre? One of the consequences is increased risk of colorectal cancer. Other factors which increase the risk of developing colorectal cancer include age (over 50), high-fat diet, being overweight and alcohol & tobacco use. Apart from age, all the others are modifiable factors, i.e. they are lifestyle habits which we can change.


According to WHO, colorectal cancer is the 3rd most common cancer type worldwide, with almost 2 million cases diagnosed in 2020. It's the 2nd most common cause of cancer death, with almost 1 million deaths / year. In Malaysia, colorectal cancer is the leading cancer for males and 2nd leading cancer for females (after breast cancer). Unfortunately despite it being one of the most common cancer, it's usually diagnosed late: up to 73.1% are diagnosed at Stages 3 & 4. 


How to prevent colorectal cancer?


> Adequate fibre intake.

> Reduce processed meat.

> Reduce alcohol.

> Maintain weight.

> Be physically active.


Introducing Jia Hor Fibre



Jia Hor Fibre contains water soluble and insoluble dietary fibre, Lingzhi and minerals. Each sachet offers 4g of dietary fibre, enriched with Digestion Resistant Maltodextrin.


(a) Insoluble fibre


This type of fibre doesn't dissolve in water or intestinal fluid and thus helps food to pass through the digestive system and helps bulk up the stools. As such, it's effective to:


> Reduce diverticular disease (small pouches that form in the wall of the colon) risk.


> Reduce colorectal cancer risk.


> Improve satiation as it physically fills up our stomach thereby making us feel full for longer after meals.


> Prevent constipation (defined as having hard and dry stools or less than 3 bowel movements / week). Common causes of constipation are:


- Older adults.

- Pregnant women.

- Low fibre diet.

- Dehydration.

- Certain medication.


(b) Soluble fibre


This type of fibre dissolves in water and intestinal fluid to form a gel-like material and provides these benefits:


> Aids in weight management because the thick and spreadout gel helps to reduce the absorption of fat in our body hence help to maintain a healthy body weight.


> Lowers cholesterol by trapping the bad cholesterol and prevents the body from reabsorbing it. 


> Stabilizes blood sugar because it reduces the absorption of carbo or glucose hence reduces glucose spikes after meals.


> By maintaining healthy weight, reducing cholesterol and stablising blood sugar, it helps to reduce cardiovascular risk.


> Being a gel-like material that cannot be digested in the small intestines, it's fermented by the healthy gut bacteria in the colon, thereby feeding them.


(c) Digestion Resistant Maltodextrin


Digestion resistant maltodextrin cannot be digested by the small intestine. It's fermented by gut bacteria in the colon and produces beneficial short-chain fatty acids like butyrate. Hence it's health enhancing. 


The benefits of Resistant Maltodextrin include:


> Enhances gut health.

> Increases satiation and reduces food intake.

> Reduces fat absorption.

> Maintains healthy blood sugar level and doesn't cause blood sugar spikes after consumption.


Note: Digestible maltodextrin increases the risk of obesity, diabetes and other health issues as it has high GI value and causes blood sugar spikes after consumption. 


Benefits of Jia Hor Fibre



1. Improves gastrointestinal health

Promotes regular bowel movements & reduces accumulation of toxins in the intestinal tract ~ reduces the risk of colorectal cancer.


2. Aids in blood glucose control

Improves blood glucose metabolism & reduces glucose spike after meals ~ helps control blood sugar and prevents complications of diabetes.


3. Lowers serum cholesterol

Water soluble fibre helps absorb cholesterol deposits in the blood vessels ~ reduces LDL cholesterol and risk of arteries hardening.


4. Maintains healthy gut microbiome

Adequate dietary fibre (20-30g) encourages the proliferation of beneficial bacteria and reduce harmful bacteria ~ preserves the vitality of intestinal tract.


5. Maintains healthy bodyweight

Provides sense of fullness ~ ideal for controlling weight.


How to Consume?


> Recommended usage: 3-4 sachets daily.

> Mix with 300ml of warm water, fruit juices, milk or other drinks.


(Source: SH seminar, 22/7/2023)


How to Order? 


A box of 20 sachets of Jia Hor Fibre costs RM90 for Malaysian members.


Click on this link to register and then you can proceed with your order.

Email me at askfuiping@gmail.com if you need help. I am an Authorised Distributor.


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What Are Antioxidants?

Sunday, 5 February 2023


Antioxidants
are good for us because they help combat free radicals in our body (which are produced during oxidation reactions). 

Some examples of oxidation include:

  • A peeled apple that is exposed to the air turning brown.
  • For humans, factors that increase free radicals in our body include air pollution, contaminants, alcohol, tobacco and high blood sugar levels. Free radicals lead to hardening of the arteries, cancer, ageing and suppression of immune system.
A balance of free radicals and antioxidants in the body is crucial to prevent oxidative stress and maintain our health. It is important to know that antioxidants are not a group of similar substances. Each antioxidant has different mechanisms of action, serves different physiological functions and has unique chemical behaviours and biological properties. Hence, they are not inter-changeable.

Some of the most important antioxidants

1) Vitamin C (ascorbic acid)

It is water-soluble and helps in the absorption of iron.
Essential for formation of collagen and maintenance of capillaries, muscles and teeth.
Sources: guava, mango, papaya, cabbage, mustard leaves and spinach.

2) Vitamin E

It is a fat-soluble vitamin.
Prevents clots from forming in heart arteries and enhances immune function.
Sources: vege oils, seeds, nuts and cereal grains.

3) Selenium

Plays a key role in the function of various proteins.
Sources: walnuts, grains and seeds, tuna, cod, red snapper, organ meat, poultry, eggs, milk and shellfish.

4) Carotenoids (beta carotene)

Reduces risk of cancer and eye diseases, and boosts immune system.
Sources: carrot, sweet potatoes, pumpkin, kailan, spinach, mango, papaya and watermelon.

5) Alpha-lipoic acid (ALA)

A vitamin-like compound which is soluble in both water and fat.
Lowers blood sugar levels and improves insulin sensitivity.
Sources: red meat, liver, spinach and broccoli.

6) Others

Glutathione, coenzyme Q10, lipoic acid, flavonoids, phenols, polyphenols, phytoestrogens etc.

Food or supplements?

Food. Consuming antioxidants derived from whole foods are more beneficial:

- Because a variety of different antioxidants can be obtained.
- Antioxidants tend to work better in combination with other nutrients in foods.

Supplements. If you are unable to have a healthy diet, then supplements is needed.

Some tips to increase your antioxidant intake

a) Consume at least 5 servings of a variety of colourful fruits and veges everyday.

b) Include nuts, seeds and dried fruits as your snack choice.

c) Spice up your recipes with herbs and spices eg turmeric, cumin, oregano, ginger, clove and cinnamon.

d) Choose tea or coffee, instead of sugary drinks.

(Source: What are antioxidants, Starhealth, 5 Sep 2021)

What if you are Unable to adopt these 4 tips everyday?
What is an alternative quality source of antioxidants?


Bee Pollen. Because if you know how to choose a quality source, each grain would contain practically all the above anti-oxidants, which makes it very convenient to take.

Check out this link on Yung Kien Pollen. It is natural, safe, free from artificial chemicals, additives and preservatives. 

Yung Kien Pollen is not available in pharmacies and supermarkets.
Click on this link to register and then you can proceed with your order.

Email me at askfuiping@gmail.com if you need help. 

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Bits & Bites #233 - Health: Having Fever is Good News

Sunday, 5 September 2021

Please email askfuiping@gmail.com for more tips to take care of your health.

Busan
The average healthy body temperature is 37'C. At this ideal temperature, most of the virus / bacteria will be killed when they enter our body. Some pathogens which are more resistant will not be killed at this temperature. As our body is very intelligent, it will raise the temperature to kill the pathogens. It's the same analogy as boiling water - the pathogens can only be killed at higher temperature. In that sense, having a fever is a good sign because it kills the virus / bacteria.

Some people think that as they hardly have fever, they must be very healthy.
There are 2 possibilities:

(i) You are very healthy and your immune system is strong, OR
(ii) Your immune system isn't functioning well - hence no heat is generated and the pathogens are not killed. It is dangerous when your body cannot react to the pathogens as it can develop into something more serious.

A common healing reaction for many people when they first start consuming Lingzhi is the feeling of warm body and feverish symptoms. They will blame Lingzhi, saying it is too heaty and not suitable for them. But they don't realise that their actual body temperature is lower than the normal temperature. This is because most of us never measure our body temperature unless we have fever.

In relation to the 7 Stages of Disease theory, the more advanced we are along the stages, the more efforts the body will do to flush out the toxins. Thus when one gets fever, inflammation, itchiness, swelling, gangrene etc. as part of the healing reactions, do not take medication to suppress them because that is how the body pushes out the toxins. What you need to do is change your Lifestyle and Diet, and continue taking Lingzhi. If you stop them from being flushed out, the disease can progress further to tumour / cancer.

------------------------------------

Consider these Questions..
- Do you spring-clean your house regularly?
- Do you agree that the pipes and electrical wires in your house need to be changed after using them for 40 years?
- Are you over 40 years old?
- Do you agree that similarly, if you have been using your blood vessels and intestines for 40 years, they will get blocked / clogged? Can you change them or can you prolong their lifespan?

Solution..
If you want to continue using them for another 40 years, you need to maintain them.
How? Use Lingzhi + Pollen as your Annual Spring-Clean Program. This is an ideal solution for you if you are not disciplined to take supplements every day.

What's more.. It not only serves as a full-body detox, but it can also highlight hidden health problems. In other words, Lingzhi + Pollen work as a Scanner of potential health problems so you can get them handled before it is too late.

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Does this scenario sound familiar?
I think I lack calcium - I go to the pharmacy and buy 1 bottle.
I think I need vitamin C - I go to the pharmacy and buy 1 bottle.
I think I should supplement with some zinc and magnesium - I go to the pharmacy and buy another 2 bottles.
You will end up with a cabinet full of synthetic supplements.  You don't know how safe they are if taken for long term. And if you add up the costs of all the bottles, it is definitely not cheap.

What is a better alternative?
Take Yung Kien Pollen. It is a One single product with All these nutrients that your body needs. In fact, it has much more, as it has around 200 types of nutrients, all in a little grain of Pollen. It is Natural, Wholesome and Complete. It is 100% Safe and replenishes your deficient micro-nutrients.

Busan
This post is part of a series, where I share Bits of mishmash on health, my business and life in general, which I find inspirational, enlightening or enriching. And Bites of delicious food I have enjoyed.

Drop me a mail at askfuiping@gmail.com to buy Shuang Hor products for taking care of your health. I am an Authorised Distributor. Have an awesome day!

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Uniqueness of Jia Hor Soya Protein and Jia Hor Fiber

Sunday, 7 February 2021


Protein and fiber are 2 of the key nutrients our body needs on a daily basis.
On average, for every kilo of our body weight, we need to consume 1 gram of quality protein.
As for fiber, we need to take an average of 25 apples or 1 kilo of leafy veges a day to meet our daily requirement.
If you're like me, it's a tall order. So, for over 10 years, I have relied on these 2 supplements - Jia Hor Soya Protein powder and Jia Hor Fiber.

Jia Hor Soya Protein

What is so unique about Jia Hor Soya Protein is because it is an isolated protein powder.
The skin of soya beans contains purine (which is one of the main culprit for causing gout pain), as well as fats and cholesterol. Jia Hor Soya Protein does not contain purine because it has gone through an isolation process and already been converted to amino acid. Thus the human body cells can easily absorb and utilise.

In fact, Jia Hor Soya Protein has also been added with papaya and pineapple enzyme, which further help with absorption; up to 95% of the protein consumed. This is important because many of the protein products in the market are still in big molecule structure whereby your body must have the ability to breakdown and digest. If your body is not functioning at tip top condition, whatever protein you consume may cause more burden to your kidney.

People who want to go on diet or don't have good appetite can take 4-6 sachets Jia Hor Soya Protein a day as their meal replacement as it contains high quality raw materials for their body to use.

Many people who suffer from kidney problem are prevented by doctors from taking high protein food; for example, people who suffer from gout, diabetes or undergoing dialysis. But protein is a very important ingredient for all our cells. About 30% of our whole body structure is made from protein. Where are they going to take their source of protein?

Jia Hor Soya Protein is also excellent for people with gastric caused by taking a lot of painkillers. Drink the protein shake mixed with warm water. The bubbles from the shake help form a layer of protective membrane to protect the stomach lining and repair the damaged lining. It is advisable to use warm water as it works better to reduce the stomach acids from attacking the lining.

Some soya protein are very cheap, selling at perhaps RM20 for 1 kg. However, these kind of products are likely in the form of whole soya beans that are grounded into powder, perhaps only removing the skin. Thus, they are Not in readily-absorbable amino acid form, unlike Jia Hor Soya Protein. This explains for the price difference. Vegetarians in particular are very concerned about quality as they mainly rely on such form of soya protein to get their essential amino acids.


Jia Hor Fiber

Many fiber products in the market share a similar feature - they are added with an ingredient called senna. It's a kind of laxative, because many people take fiber supplements for constipation problem and want to see quick results. To meet the demands of these people, senna is added.

That explains why after taking these types of fiber products, people experience diarrhoea. Senna is used to stimulate the peristalsis movement of intestines to create purging. One of the disadvantages of this method is the diarrhoea can become uncontrollable and disturb the balance of electrolytes in the body. We also lose a lot of mineral contents in the body and experience dehydration.

In medical reports, the reading of electrolytes appear in the section for kidney. If you have been experiencing diarrhoea often, these readings will not be good.

This is not how Jia Hor Fiber works. You won't experience watery stools like diarrhoea. Instead, it provides you with sufficient amount of fiber (whose original function is to act like a broom) in your colon, and your bowels will move naturally as the fiber sweeps the wastes out.

On average, we need about 25-30g of fiber a day. A sachet of Jia Hor Fiber contains a net weight of 4g fiber. Thus for a person who hardly consumes fiber products, it is advisable to supplement with 3-6 sachets a day.

Some doctors advise patients not to consume too much fiber because it will affect the absorption of minerals especially calcium. However, Jia Hor Fiber is different. It is added with a soluble dietary fiber called Digestion Resistant Maltodextrin.  Apart from regulating bowel movement, it is able to maintain healthy blood glucose level, and reduce cholesterol and triglycerides level. It also does not affect the absorption of calcium.

For people with a 3-Highs condition, it is best that they can add Jia Hor Fiber into their diet. For diabetics who cannot control their diet, their blood sugar reading can be maintained much better if they also consume Jia Hor Fiber. They do not have to take so much medication.

A little tip: using hairdryer to blow at the sole of the feet is found to be helpful for people with weak kidneys and weak limbs.

(Source: Shuang Hor seminar 14 Jan 2019)

Please email me at askfuiping@gmail.com to purchase Jia Hor Soya Protein and Jia Hor Fiber. I am an Authorised Distributor.

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Exclusive: Dangers of Multi-Vitamins - 5 Isolated Supplements to Avoid

Sunday, 10 November 2019


Nowadays, many of us take multi-vitamins and supplements. It means we are concerned about our health and we are willing to spend money to take care of it. Unfortunately, as we don't know much about vitamins/minerals, we think "Eat Something is Better Than Nothing". This is a dangerous attitude because we don't know what our body lacks. So we may overdose. Or we may take the wrong products which cause us more harm. So in fact, "Eat Nothing is Better Than Eating the Wrong Thing". It is safer.

In the market, there are 5 types of supplements that are very commonly purchased by people - folic acid, vitamin D, calcium, vitamin A and iron.

This post shares some key points that we must know to help us select the right supplements to take.

1. Folic Acid (Vitamin B9)

Natural sources of folate (vitamin B12) include dark green leafy veggies such as spinach and broccoli, chickpeas, beans, avocado, eggs and beef liver. The synthetic form of folate is folic acid (which come in the form of vitamin supplements).

It is commonly taken by pregnant ladies, people who are anaemic and people who lack iron (as it is important for blood production). Folic acid is a very common supplement, either in isolated form or combined with other multi-vitamins.

Risks

(i) MTHFR gene mutation

Before folic acid can be utilised by the body, it must be converted into methyl-folate by a gene called MTHFR. If one has MTHFR gene mutation, he will have difficulty converting folic acid into usable form and may cause his symptoms to worsen. Symptoms of MTHFR mutation include cardio thrombosis, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, colon cancer, acute leukaemia, migraine etc. However, MTHFR mutation would only be known from blood tests. Thus, it is dangerous for one to take folic acid supplements as it may lead to a build-up of folic acid in the body.

People with MTHFR mutation can have elevated levels of homocysteine (a type of amino acid), because they don't get enough folate. High homocysteine level is a risk factor for blood clots and heart disease.

(ii) Overdose of folic acid

It may cause abdominal cramps, diarrhoea, rashes, sleep disorder, irritability, confusion, nausea, skin reaction etc. People usually don't link these risks to folic acid, because it appears to be so safe. But actually, if taken at large doses over a long-term basis, these symptoms may start to develop.

If you take 800-1,200 mcg/day, it may increase the risk of heart attack and lung/prostate cancer.

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Dear Readers,
Do you want to find out what are the dangers arising from overdose / deficiency of these supplements?
You can only get the full text of this post in my Private blog.
If you want a copy, please email me at askfuiping@gmail.com.
This info is reserved exclusively for my Consumers and Business Partners only.

If you are already authorised, please click on this link..
https://pingofhealthexclusive.blogspot.com/2019/11/dangers-of-multi-vitamins-5-isolated.html


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4 Criteria on How to Select Quality Health Products

Sunday, 25 August 2019


Nowadays many people know about the importance of health products. We include supplements as part of their daily habit. Unfortunately, we do not know how to choose good quality supplements and end up burdening our liver and kidney from long-term consumption of the wrong stuff.

In this article, I will share with you 4 criteria on how to identify the characteristics of Quality supplements. These are the yardsticks you must always have in mind when you shop for health products. Having this knowledge will help you differentiate quality products from run-of-the-mill ones in the market.

The selection criteria for good health products are as follows:

1. Natural v. Synthetic

The food that enters our mouth will be digested, absorbed and utilised by the body, and then the wastes are eliminated. If the food is natural, whatever unwanted residues can be fully and easily eliminated. On the other hand, if the food, drugs or supplements is synthetic in nature, which means they have chemicals and colouring, our body does not have the ability to eliminate it. It becomes toxins inside the body. An easy way to identify is by looking at a person's complexion - a dull complexion can mean there's a lot of toxins in the body.

There are 2 categories of food:

(a) Food that "caters to the Tongue" (meaning it's eaten mainly for the delicious taste) is usually unhealthy for the body in the long-term.

According to TCM theory, the flavour of the food we crave for is influenced by the health of the 5 key body organs. The more unhealthy is the organ, the more we crave food of that particular flavour:
Heart = Bitter
Lungs = Spicy
Spleen = Sweet
Liver = Sour
Kidney = Salty

(b) Food that nourishes the body cells

People may be obese but their cells can still be hungry, because the cells don't get the nutrients they need. For instance, diabetic patients. The food they eat cannot be converted and thus cannot reach the body cells, resulting in the feeling of lethargy.

Carbo is converted to glucose, which enters RBC (with the help of insulin), and the RBC circulates and transports the nutrients to the cells of all the body organs for their use.
Unutilised glucose are stored in the liver in the form of glycogen. In times of depletion of energy, glycogen will be released and converted back to glucose to supply the body with energy. Excess glycogen (which are unutilised in the long-term or if the liver is unable to convert back) are turned into fats and fatty acid. Thus these people become fatter and fatter.

The GI (Glycemic Index) is a relative ranking of carbohydrate in food according to how quickly these food cause an increase in blood glucose level. Good quality fiber can delay / slow down conversion of carbo to glucose (not merely prevent constipation). That's how it can help people control blood sugar level. Fiber also help reduce weight as it controls the absorption of excess glucose into the body system.

Click on this link to see how Jia Hor Fiber helps with weight management:
http://www.pingofhealth.com/2016/05/testimonies-in-bite-sizes-part-5-weight.html

2. Safety

Many products may be effective, but they are not safe.
By Safety, it means the food can be taken for Long-term and in Large Quantity. It does not burden the body.

There are 4 categories of food when we analyse their safety level:

(a) Inferior
These are drugs which can be taken only if one is sick. If one is healthy, they should never be taken. They are used for symptomatic treatment e.g. if you don't have cancer, you cannot go for chemo; if you don't have headache, you won't take aspirin. Therefore, it is very specific and taken to address specific diseases.

(b) Medium
This includes supplements, which one takes for certain purpose to complement the missing nutrients and maintain one's health. But they are not functional food and cannot be used to treat diseases.
E.g. if you have cancer or lupus, the vitamins and minerals do not have the ability to cure you. If you want to fly, you have to take the plane; because even the fastest car does not have the ability to fly. A car cannot replace a plane.

E.g. high dose of vitamin C may have anti-cancer ability. But it may not be safe or one cannot physically eat so many oranges a day. Many oranges are needed to produce each tablet of vitamin C. Hence if the product is cheap, it cannot be 100% natural. In fact, most of these vitamins are synthetically manufactured, hence taking at high dose would harm the kidney and liver in the long-term.

(c) Superior
(i) It has an overall normalising effect and can be taken to regulate the body as a whole.
(ii) Non-specific - not for a particular problem / body organ. It can be taken even if you don't have any health problem. It can be taken by children and the elderly.
(iii) Functional - can boost up the immune system, enhance the endocrine system etc.

In this world, there are about 7-8 types of Chinese herbs in this category including ho sau wu, ginseng, tong chong sia chau and phu ling. But they are not safe to be taken in large quantity e.g. overdose of ginseng may cause blood pressure to shoot up.

(d) Supreme
Supreme herbs have all the characteristics of the superior herbs but can be taken in large quantity over long-term. Lingzhi is the only herb that falls into this category.

Shuang Hor Lingzhi is extremely safe, so much so that you can take up to 8 bottles of Yung Kien Ganoderma a day. In fact, practically all the Shuang Hor products sold in Malaysia can be safely consumed at high dosage.


3. Easily Absorbed

If whatever you eat cannot be easily absorbed, your body cannot utilise it. It doesn't benefit your body. A simple test to see how good is your body's absorption ability is by looking at the condition of your stools. If the absorption ability is bad, your stools would look loose and watery, not in banana shape. They would also be sticky. There may be indigested food amongst the stools.

For instance, one of the reasons some people are very skinny is that the small intestines are not able to absorb the food they eat. According to TCM theory, people with weak small intestines will find the area at the side of their palms painful when massaged. As the small intestines is also linked to the heart and shoulder meridian points, such people will usually have shoulder ache and weaker heart too.

All Shuang Hor products are easily absorbed by the body, including Jia Hor Soya Protein.

4. Effective

(a) Direct effect e.g. people with high blood pressure or diabetes can see direct effect on their readings when they take Shuang Hor Lingzhi.

(b) Multi-function e.g. you may decide to take Lingzhi to address your cholesterol problem, but you will find that your blood pressure and blood sugar are also regulated eventually.

Conclusion

These are the 4 criteria of good health products.

Do they make sense to you?
If Yes, then you must seriously analyse if what you are taking now fulfil these 4 criteria. Only consume them if you can satisfy yourself that they do. If they don't, you have to be careful, as these are things you put into your mouth everyday for long-term.

In other words, if you believe in health products, and you want your family to take them for long-term, please take a look at these criteria to equip yourself with the knowledge to choose good quality ones.

I have done my research and find that Shuang Hor products satisfy all the 4 criteria. That's why I have peace of mind to take them over the last 10 years.

Please email me at askfuiping@gmail.com if you want to try. I am an Authorised Distributor.

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Absorbing Nutrients is More Important Than Eating Nutrients

Sunday, 10 September 2017

Source: nutrient-absorption.jpg
Having a "clean" diet over the long-term gives us increased energy, improved physical appearance and fewer symptoms of illness. We love to have that so we can enjoy a busy life full of meaningful activities, right?

But consuming a balanced diet is not enough. Even if you are eating the right food in the right amounts, you may not benefit from the nutrients, because nutrients aren't technically in our body until they have been Absorbed. That's why it's so important to understand how absorption works.

Food that we eat gets broken down by the hydrochloric acid and enzymes (protease, lipase and amylase) in our stomach into smaller molecules that then make their way into our upper intestine before entering the bloodstream, which delivers nutrients to the body organs.

The 2 types of nutrients absorbed are:

a) Macronutrients which are derived from carbohydrates, proteins and fats. They are foods that power your body directly.

b) Micronutrients are derived from vitamins and minerals. They are vital to the process of enabling the release of fuel from macronutrients.

Nutrients pass into the bloodstream through:

a) Passive diffusion, like pouring liquid over a piece of cloth. Most vitamins are absorbed in this way.

b) Active transport absorption, where nutrients need an assistant / molecule to help carry them pass the intestinal wall and into the bloodstream. Calcium and magnesium are delivered in this manner.

Without sufficient absorption, nutrients can't be utilised maximally. So even if you diligently follow food serving sizes, it is not an accurate measurement of how much nutrients you are actually getting.

Your body naturally aims to achieve homeostasis - a balance. You body will only take in nutrients that are insufficient until homeostasis is achieved.
Source: How-To-Improve-Nutrient-Absorption-By-The-Body.jpg
The good news is there are things you can do to optimise the benefits of your food.
Here are 6 tips on how to boost your nutrients absorption:

1) To counter the stress that wreaks havoc on our wellbeing, consume a balanced and high-fibre diet. Supplement with Jia Hor Fiber if you are unable to consume up to 1 kg of vege a day.

2) Exercise at least 3 times a week, as it is the perfect way to get your blood circulating, de-stress and feel better mentally.

3) Substantially reduce smoking and consumption of alcohol.

4) Educate yourself on what food combination to consume which can increase the efficiency of nutrient absorption. For example, mixing raw or semi-cooked vege with olive oil or avocado can help our body absorb vitamins A, D, E and K more effectively. Or combining vitamin C with iron-rich foods will enhance the mineral's absorption. To ensure you have sufficient quality micro-nutrients, take 2 sachets of Yung Kien Pollen everyday, as each grain contains up to 200 types of vitamins, minerals and enzymes.

5) Strengthen your gut health. A normal gut contains about 1.5 kg of bacteria, including lactobacillus and bifidobacterium. They play an important role in breaking down food molecules and harnessing that energy for storage and usage. Supplement with a high grade probiotics called Lactoberry which gives you up to 40 billion good bacteria per sachet.

6) Manage your stress level, as stress creates a lot of toxins which damage your body organs and interfere with smooth absorption of nutrients. Restore your body's natural healing ability by taking Shuang Hor Lingzhi.

It is up to you to figure out how you can improve your health in order to encourage better nutrient absorption.

(Source: Absorbing nutrients, Dr Nor Ashikin Mokhtar, FitforLife 27 November 2016)

Email me at askfuiping@gmail.com to purchase high quality supplements to help you along the way. I am an Authorised Distributor.

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3 Ways to Prevent Childhood Stunting

Sunday, 7 May 2017


Some children don't grow as tall or as fast as others. Their growth is stunted. Stunting not only causes a lack of height, but more importantly, it can cause major short and long term effects on children. This include poor performance in school, reduced lean body mass and diminished intellectual functioning.

3 Main Factors that Lead a Child to Stunting

1) Reduced intake of nutrients

Our body needs many different types of nutrients taken from different foods in order to grow optimally and function properly. Children who are picky eaters run the risk of consuming insufficient nutrients.

Children's ability to eat normally is also affected by certain chronic conditions they suffer from. For example, a child with heart disease may experience rapid breathing, which causes them to use up a lot more calories. Therefore they need to consume more calories than normal healthy children to keep up with their body's demands.

Deprivation of nutrients can also be due to:
  • poverty 
  • parents who are not properly educated about what constitute healthy diet
  • poor preparation and cooking practices which destroy the nutrients.
The lack of nutrients weakens the child's immune system and can lead to recurrent infections (e.g. pneumonia, hepatitis, influenza), which expose them to the risk of cognitive impairment and stunting.

2) Increased losses / failure to absorb nutrients

Diseases like scleroderma and celiac disease slow bowel movement, which causes bacterial concentration in the gut. GERD (gastro-oesophageal reflux disease) can cause frequent vomiting and indigestion. Diarrhoea can be caused by bacterial/viral infections or inflammation of the gut (e.g. ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease).

All these can lead to nutrient loss when the child goes to the toilet too often or their intestines are unable to fully absorb the nutrients, which in turn cause weight loss, poor weight gain, poor growth and abdominal pain.

3) Unable to utilise nutrients

Children who suffer from a hormone deficiency may be unable to efficiently use all the nutrients they consume.

Children with hypothyroidism may experience poor growth, delayed development of permanent teeth, delayed puberty and poor mental development.

3 Ways to Prevent Childhood Stunting

a) Healthy diet

Feed the child with a healthy diet, which is moderately portioned with different varieties of food types, texture and colours.
Supplement with Yung Kien Pollen, as it contains more than 200 types of nutrients, including more than 16 types of vitamins, 16 types of minerals and 94 types of enzymes and coenzymes. Bee Pollen is 100% natural and wholesome and is nature's most complete food after mother's milk.

Click here to find out more:
Endless Benefits of Yung Kien Pollen

b) Consume fiber

Include fiber in the child's diet everyday as fiber helps improve digestive health and promotes gut flora balance.
Supplement with Jia Hor Fiber, as it not only contains non soluble and soluble fiber, it also contains Lingzhi, which does an excellent job to regulate the body's overall wellbeing.

Click here to find out more:
What's So Special About Jia Hor Fiber

c) Avoid antibiotics

Avoid giving the child antibiotics as it kills both bad and good bacteria. Good bacteria is needed for gut and overall health as the gut houses about 80% of our body's immune cells.
Supplement with Lactoberry probiotics, as it not only encourages the growth of good bacteria, it also helps prevent allergy problem and improve their immune system.

Click here to find out more:
Uniqueness of Lactoberry Probiotics

(Source: Not growing well by Dr Nazrul Neelam Nordin, Fit for Life, 3 July 2016)

Please email me at askfuiping@gmail.com to purchase. I am an Authorised Distributor. All our products are very safe for children consumption.

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Balanced Diet for Better Nutrient Absorption

Wednesday, 9 September 2015

It is always important to eat a well-balanced diet to avoid nutrient deficiencies and imbalances.

What happens after you swallow the food you eat?
Your digestive system goes to work to release the nutrients contained in the food. The nutrients are then absorbed into your bloodstream to be transported to their respective target tissues. But not all nutrients can be utilised to the same extent, because of something called Bioavailability - which is the degree to which the amount of an ingested nutrient is absorbed from the food and used for normal body functions.

Factors that influence how much a nutrient is used, stored or excreted
  • Nutrient components of food, chemical form of the nutrient.
  • Gender, age, nutrient status and life stage (e.g. pregnancy).
  • Macronutrients - carbohydrates, proteins, fats.
  • Micronutrients - vitamins and minerals (varies widely in how much is absorbed and utilised).
  • Excess intake of one mineral can influence the absorption and metabolism of other minerals.
How Nutrients Complement One Another

Nutrients can interact with each other in different ways, such as keeping another nutrient soluble or protecting it from interaction with nutrient inhibitors.

Examples:

a) When foods that are rich in vitamin C are consumed together iron-rich foods, the iron absorption is increased by 2 to 3 times. So having a glass of freshly squeezed orange juice together with a bowl of breakfast cereal will help your body absorb more of the iron in the cereal.

b) Meat, fish and poultry contain highly bioavailable iron that is known to enhance the absorption iron from all foods.

c) Vitamin D aids in the absorption of calcium, phosphorous and magnesium.

d) Fat-soluble vitamins A, D, E and K require fats in order for them to be absorbed.

Inhibitors of Nutrient Absorption

Nutrients can also interact with one another in the opposite manner by "cancelling" each other out.

For example, Phytic Acid (in legume, whole-grain cereals, seeds or nuts) interfere with the absorption of calcium, iron and zinc.

Balanced Diet is Important

Nowadays, it's common to add vitamins and minerals into foods to increase their nutritional value. For instance, B vitamins (folic acid) are often added to breakfast cereals, flour and certain spreads, and are more bioavailable than what is naturally present in our food (fruits and vege).

However, this doesn't mean you can take less vege, as these natural dietary sources contain a lot of other beneficial nutrients such as unique vitamins/minerals, phytochemical and fibre.

(Source: Variety, the spice of health by Prof Norimah A Karim, Fit For Life, 15 March 2015)

Bee Pollen

For a source of micronutrients that is Natural, Complete and Wholesome, look no further than bee pollen. A high quality bee pollen gives you more than 200 types of nutrients, including more than 16 types of vitamins, more than 16 types of minerals and over 94 types of enzymes and coenzymes and is high in bioavailability. All these nutrients have the amazing ability to work synergistically together and our body is able to pick and choose what is required, as well as mix and match what is lacking. Because the pollen is natural, whatever that's not required by our body can be naturally passed out without causing harmful buildup in our digestive system and doesn't cause any burden to our body.

Give Yung Kien Pollen a try - it has a lovely fragrant smell, the fine grains are a beautiful golden colour, and it tastes like delicious powdered sweets.

What are the benefits of Yung Kien Pollen?
Click on this link - "Bee Pollen - Complete Food to Nourish Your Body".

Do you want to enjoy all these benefits that Yung Kien Pollen can give? Please email me at askfuiping@gmail.com to buy Yung Kien Pollen. I am an Authorised Distributor. Click here to refer to Shuang Hor company website for Product Description and Price.

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The Stories That Your Hair Tell

Wednesday, 8 April 2015

Your hair is actually a barometer to your state of health. If you don't address the root cause of your health problem, you will continue to battle hair problems despite using expensive hair-care products.

Here is a quick look at some common hair problems and what are the possible causes.


1. Dandruff

Dry scalp can be caused by
  • genetic conditions
  • lack of vitamin B and zinc
  • diet with excessive sugar and fat
  • scalp condition called seborrheic dermatitis, similar to psoriasis and eczema.
But for most people, the real cause of dandruff is actually skin that is too oilynot too dry.

Other causes of dandruff include
  • Parkinson's disease
  • not washing your hair for a long time.
2. Hair Loss

Balding in men is usually genetic.
Balding for women is usually caused by hormonal imbalance e.g. after giving birth and menopause.

Other causes of hair loss include
  • excessive weight loss
  • eating disorders
  • thyroid problems
  • stress
  • certain medications
  • insufficient protein.

3. Dry and Brittle Hair

Some of the causes are
  • diet deficient in iron and vitamin E
  • excessive fat-rich foods, fast foods, processed snacks laden with sugar, salt, additive and flavourings.
  • excessive styling, washing, blow-drying or colouring.
  • under-active thyroid.
4. Gray Hair

The main cause is linked to genetics.
There's new evidence that suggests gray hair can be caused by stress.

5. White Hair

Physical and emotional trauma such as illness, death, or prolonged stress, do have effects on your hair, resulting in them dropping off more quickly.

6. Others

Other causes of hair loss include
  • drinking too much coffee or alcohol and smoking, as they can affect how well your body absorbs vitamins and minerals from the foods you eat.
  • sensitivity to certain food allergens such as dairy, wheat, soy, corn and food additives.

(Source: If hair could talk by Datuk Dr Nor Ashikin Mokhtar, StarFit4Life, 9 February 2014)

Solution?

To address Vitamin and Minerals Deficiency, take Yung Kien Pollen. Click here to discover the Multiple Benefits of Bee Pollen. This source of pollen is fully natural, as well as wholesome and complete, with 200 types of nutrients, including over 16 types of vitamins and 16 types of minerals.


To address Hormonal Imbalance Problem, take Yung Kien Ganoderma. Click here to discover a Natural Method to Correct Unbalanced Hormones. Hormonal imbalance can be caused by poor nutrition or stress, and can show up as weight gain or mood swings. Making sure your hormones are regulated can help you have more beautiful hair.

Please email me at askfuiping@gmail.com to buy Ganoderma / Lingzhi and Pollen for your hair problem.

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