If you are 60 and above, read this. The coronavirus can affect anyone but it’s older adults, ages 60 and up, who are more at risk of getting seriously sick from it. Is there a cure for it? None at the moment, but over 80,000 worldwide have already survived it. 

Internist-cardiologist Willie Ong says that a total of 26.4% of the total cases in the Philippines comprise patients belonging to the said population. That’s why mature adults are particularly encouraged to keep calm and follow recommendations from the experts.

So Sure Bladder Leakage Pads, a product that’s designed to manage a mature adult’s leaky bladder, presents these health tips to help you remain level-headed in this season of uncertainty:

1. Practice social distancing. Do everything you can to reduce exposure to the virus. Avoid crowds, mass transit systems, and other non-essential social gatherings. Of course, this does not mean social isolation. You can still opt for family game nights, reading a book, cooking a meal, indoor exercises, and group video calls. Since families have been among the most significant hotspots of transmission, avoid sharing utensils or any means that may acquire another’s saliva. Younger and healthier family members should be encouraged to practice distancing from mature household members as they may be asymptomatic carriers. Separate towels, bags, ballpens and anything that may carry unwelcome viruses.

2. Avoid close contact with people who are sick. You know where to find them. Avoid hospitals except in emergency cases. If possible, call ahead before visiting your doctor. According to St. Luke’s Medical Center’s oncologist Denky Dela Rosa, MD, senior citizens who have the following conditions are at higher risk: asthma, emphysema, bronchitis, tuberculosis, or any lung disease, diabetes, heart and kidney problems especially those undergoing dialysis, cirrhosis, hepatitis, or any liver problems, an autoimmune system like lupus. Those who are taking Prednisone, Dexamethasone, Decilone, or Medrol, and those diagnosed with any cancer at any stage are also most vulnerable and are strictly advised to self-quarantine.

3. Minimize news consumption. It’s good to stay informed but don’t get too obsessed with the news. Research shows that chronic TV watchers and news followers have increased fear because everything they see starts to feel like occurring outside their very door. Filter information. Keep yourselves away not only from the virus but also from negativity and fake news. Maximize the use of technology by connecting with family and friends to minimize anxiety. Find time to clear your mind through prayers and meditation. Do some light exercises and sunlight exposure. Read positive books and articles. Or go for activities that stimulate your cerebellum, the part of the brain that coordinates balance, posture, and movement. This part of the brain works closely with the cerebrum, the thinking center of the brain. When these two work properly, learning and movements are seamless and easier. You can go writing, drawing, catching a ball, or sewing.

4. Be proactive and keep your immune system strong. Get ample sleep, exercise, and eat well. Plan your meals to include immune system boosters such as citrus fruits, garlic, broccoli, spinach, turmeric, green tea, papaya, poultry, and shellfish and zinc sources like beef, oyster, asparagus, and malunggay. Go for a quick sunlight exposure just at your doorsteps between 8:00 a.m. and 11:00 a.m. for your daily dose of Vitamin D. Load up on water. And of course, keep in mind your dietary limitations as advised by your doctor. 

5. Practice good hygiene. Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. Should there be a need to go out, quickly take a shower as the virus can thrive for a few hours on the clothes. Wear a face mask around people and pets. Refrain from handshaking and touching your face. Cough or sneeze into a disposable tissue and discard it immediately. Use a tissue or your elbow to touch switches and elevator buttons. Sanitize phones, doorknobs, and other items that you usually touch. Members of the household should also practice the same. 

6. Avoid public toilets. COVID-19 is transmitted through droplets. In some public toilets, we can smell the stink even before entering. In other toilets, the floors are wet, the toilet bowls are soiled, and the sinks are dirty. Your risk of exposure here is elevated. 

However, for some who experience incontinence, you may have to go to the toilet all the time. Others have overactive bladders and cannot make it to the toilet because of weak bladder control. Needs vary from one individual to another. Good thing, So Sure made its pads available to fit comfortably for urine leaks. Whether it’s a light or moderate incontinence condition, So Sure Bladder Leakage Pad is here to provide comfort and protection. So Sure 340mm Pads are designed for light flow while So Sure 450mm Pads are made to cater to moderate incontinence. 

Talk show host Cristy Fermin makes sure her sleep is undisturbed to keep her mood up for her daily grind. She trusts So Sure 450mm pads because they absorb heavy amounts of urine and guide it through the inner layers of the pad while keeping her fresh. “What I like most about it is its ability to eliminate urine’s strong scent. I love waking up every day free from odor and irritation”, she says.

Entertainment journalist Lolit Solis' bladder tends to overreact and sometimes, sneezing, laughing, or coughing result in light drips. She uses So Sure 340mm pads made of high quality, super absorbent cotton that keeps her sensitive area free from moisture and bacteria. According to her, “Incontinence can no longer affect my daily living and busy work schedule because I have discovered So Sure that provides me my much-needed protection against discomfort and embarrassment”.

With So Sure Pads, you can be sure incontinence does not hinder you from doing the things you love while experiencing antibacterial, antifungal, and odor control protection. 

Unisex and available in two sizes, 340 mm is for light drips or spurts while the 450 mm for burst or surges. Buy now at all Watsons, Mercury Drug, Waltermart, selected Robinson Department Store health & beauty section nationwide for only P204 (340 mm) and P294 (450 mm). Each pack contains two pieces or 24 pieces per box. To know more, visit www.sosurepads.ph and like/follow at @sosurepadsph on Facebook and Instagram. For hassle-free shopping with delivery straight to your doorstep, shop now at www.lazada.com.ph. For inquiries, email: info@sosurepads.ph or call (02) 4701294.

A woman’s monthly period is a wonderful thing--it’s a sign of fertility, youth, and health after all. But when it comes to dysmenorrhea, every woman post-puberty and premenopausal will agree that it’s something not taken lightly. In fact, the pain and discomfort could be as bad as having a severe “heart attack”, according to a professor of reproductive health at University College London. This means, no one has the right to call someone who seriously experiences this as being “dramatic”.

According to Faith Suluen, MD “The pain intensity tends to increase when estrogen levels are low and progesterone levels are high. When it gets too bad, it can be disabling. Every woman experiences it differently. Some suffer from extreme pain, while others go through it easily.”

During the period, the uterus squeezes so that blood in the uterine wall detaches and eventually flows out of the vagina. If it contracts too strongly, it can press against nearby blood vessels. This briefly cuts off the oxygen supply in the uterus which causes pain.

No need to pop single ibuprofen as Jeunesse Anion shares these all-natural and pain-relieving tips that anyone can begin this Women’s Month. 

Use a hot pack. This helps relax your uterine muscles and boost blood circulation. Some studies show that these packs are as effective as ibuprofen. Invest in a high-quality hot pack and make it a part of your first aid essential. However, a water bottle or hand towels and a ziplock can be an alternative.

Take a hot bath. If you’re not a fan of hot packs, taking a hot bath can be best for you. Heat is pretty therapeutic as it supports blood circulation especially in the pelvic area and eases cramps. It’s best partnered with a good night's sleep. 

Apply essential oils. Try using these easy to find essential oils for period pains: lavender to relax your muscles, rose to ease cramps, nausea, and fatigue, ylang-ylang to help you cope with stress and depression, and peppermint to relieve you from headaches and inflammation. Among these, lavender is best for heavy flows. 

Avoid caffeine. For some, life begins after coffee. But it’s not always the case, especially when you’re on your period. Caffeine can make dysmenorrhea significantly worse. Its diuretic nature increases urine production and triggers dehydration that is home to dysmenorrhea. Drink lots of water or go for herbal teas and decaffeinated drinks, instead. Load up on water-rich fruits and vegetables as well like watermelon, orange, cucumber, tomatoes, and lettuce.

Use anion sanitary pads. Naturally found in nature such as beach, forest, and mountain, anion possesses remarkable therapeutic benefits. Once they reach our bloodstream, they produce biochemical reactions that cause a multitude of healing benefits. Anions can lower our stress levels, strengthen our immune system, reinforce better sleep, and increase mental energy. When incorporated in sanitary pads, they can eliminate unwanted odors, balance hormones, and lessen pain.

The University of the Philippines Inorganic Nanomaterials Institute of Chemistry reports that each anion strip in Jeunesse Anion Sanitary Napkins, once it touches moisture, releases 6,180 anions. More than enough to be able to reach our bloodstream and eliminate 99.9 percent of bacteria and fungi that causes unwanted odor. More importantly, once the anion was released in the strip, it will bind positively charged ions such as potassium, calcium, and sodium, which restricts their movement through the ion channel. The interaction between two oppositely charged ions is very strong that it will not allow the movement of these positively charged ions. And if ions can’t move, it stops sending pain signals to the body that causes dysmenorrhea!

Jeunesse is like no other. If you’re tired of getting paralyzed every time dysmenorrhea hits you, now is the best time to give Jeunesse Anion a try. It is available in five different variants – ultra‐day pad, day pad non-wing, ultra-night pad, all-night, and panty liner that all guarantee extra care and protection. For a hassle-free period, place your orders now on Lazada in this link where Jeunesse Anion is a bestseller and rated 5/5 by many users: http://bit.ly/2kr0XWt.

Wellgold International Inc. distributes Jeunesse Anion Sanitary Napkin and Liners. Jeunesse is available at Watsons, selected Mercury Drug and South Star Drug outlets, SM department store’s health and beauty section, Robinson’s Supermarket and selected department stores, Shopwise, Rustan’s Supermarket, Waltermart, Landmark Department Store, PCX stores, selected Metro Gaisano outlets, plus other selected stores in Visayas and Mindanao.

For more health tips, visit www.jeunesseanion.com and follow Facebook, YouTube, and Instagram: Jeunesse Anion. For inquiries, email: wellgoldinternational@gmail.com or call (02) 470129.

NEW Pampers Sensitive Wipes is ultra-soft and strong and does not tear easily – for a gentle but effective clean that helps protect baby’s delicate skin from skin rash.

Manila, Philippines – Whether you’re a newbie or an experienced parent, it’s a known fact that with every precious baby also comes a lot of mess to clean! Everything from feeding your baby, playing, and especially diaper changing, comes with its fair share of mess, but it doesn’t mean cleaning up can’t be easy.

To make cleaning a breeze for you and your baby, Pampers, the No.1 diaper brand in the world, is here to help you with the launch of the NEW Pampers Sensitive Wipes that offers gentle but effective clean for your baby.

Pampers Sensitive Wipes comes with soft and thick fluffy sheets that enable gentle, effective cleansing without easily tearing. Every sheet is guaranteed to be PH-balanced, paraben-free, phenoxyethanol-free, and alcohol-free with Pampers’ unique formula that helps protect your baby’s skin from diaper rash. It is dermatologically tested to be suitable for sensitive skin making it safe for your baby’s bum. 

“Pampers continuously aims to deliver the best products for baby's healthy development such as providing quality diapers suitable for baby's delicate skin,” said Akhil Meshram, Pampers Country Leader. “This is why we are launching Pampers Sensitive Wipes, to offer gentle and effective cleaning for baby especially when diaper changing.”

For beginner parents, it’s important that you have these essentials when doing a newborn diaper change: a clean and dry surface, clean diapers, sensitive wipes.

Using baby wipes to add to your diaper-changing routine leaves the baby feeling fresh after every wipe. Use wipes to clean the baby’s diaper region, wiping from front to back without missing out the sides and the outside areas, and then wait for the skin to dry before putting on a fresh diaper. 

With every diaper change, using a trusted sensitive baby wipe like Pampers helps in minimizing the risk of diaper rash. Because not all wipes are created equal, some easily tear apart. A good tip for parents is to choose wipes that are gentle and strong enough to properly wipe baby’s poo without tearing, so you use less wipes as you clean more.  

Pampers Sensitive Wipes offers parents that advantage to clean up poo and wipe’s baby’s bum with its safe ingredients and effective cleaning feature, which are also gentle to use on the hands and body too. 

 “From my eldest hanggang sa bunso, laki sa Pampers ang mga yan. I’ve always believed that Pampers is the best diaper brand for my kids because they understand parents’ sentiments on what babies’ need, like how to avoid baby diaper rash and importance of diaper change. Trying the new Pampers Sensitive Wipes, super satisfied ako kasi ang gentle sa skin ni Marius and super effective! It was love at first wipe,” candidly shared by experienced mom Pehpot Pineda who is a well-known mommy blogger and a Pampers Ambassador. 

“It definitely made cleaning baby poo’s mess easier and faster for me. Thanks to Pampers kasi I don’t have to use more wipes than I should, so I’m sure I’m getting a quality product, no harsh chemicals pa! I definitely recommend this to mommies, especially rookie moms!,” Mommy Pehpot urges new moms to use the new Pampers Sensitive Wipes too. 

 Whether you’re at home or outdoors, add the new Pampers Sensitive Wipes to your diaper-changing routine so you have peace of mind that you only give total protection to your baby’s delicate skin.  

****************

About Pampers® Sensitive Wipes 

To learn more about the product and information on how to keep your baby’s skin dry and healthy, check out: https://www.pampers.com/en-us/diapers-wipes/pampers-sensitive-wipes. 

  

About Pampers®  

For more than 50 years, parents have trusted Pampers to care for their babies. Pampers is a part of The Procter & Gamble Company and is the #1-selling diaper worldwide. Every day, more than 25 million babies in 100 countries around the world wear Pampers. Pampers offers a complete range of diapers and pants designed to provide protection and comfort for every stage of baby’s development. Visit www.pampers.com to learn more about Pampers products, and find ideas and information to help your baby get the most out of love, sleep and play.  

About Procter & Gamble  

P&G serves consumers around the world with one of the strongest portfolios of trusted, quality, leadership brands, including Always®, Ambi Pur®, Ariel®, Bounty®, Charmin®, Crest®, Dawn®, Downy®, Fairy®, Febreze®, Gain®, Gillette®, Head & Shoulders®, Lenor®, Olay®, Oral-B®, Pampers®, Pantene®, SK-II®, Tide®, Vicks®, and Whisper®. The P&G community includes operations in approximately 70 countries worldwide. Please visit http://www.pg.com for the latest news and information about P&G and its brands.

As a brand that truly believes in holistic wellness, Jeunesse Anion shares its advocacy of body, soul, and spirit health. Being physically well while struggling with emotional aches, low self-esteem, anxiety, and unexplainable feeling of a gap inside all affect a person’s well-being. Humanity is both physical and spiritual and this is what separates humans from non-humans.

In support of World Mental Health Day on October 10, Jeunesse Anion digs deeper into how this invisible illness will encourage a culture of change beginning with the right mindset and knowledge on mental health.

While both genders are prone to a mental condition, a study at Oxford University discovered that women are 40 percent more likely to develop mental illness than men. Physiological and biological factors are contributory to mental health problems among women. Dramatic hormonal changes during puberty, pre-menstruation, pregnancy, post-pregnancy, premenopause, and menopause cause a roller coaster of emotions. Women find themselves angry, sad, irritable and experiencing crying spells during these times. While these are normal and short-lived for some, others have severe symptoms that disturb their personal lives and relationships. 

The Philippine data on mental health shows that there are 3.3 million Filipinos who suffer from a depressive disorder and 3.1 million are afflicted by anxiety disorders. Of high school students 13 to 15 years of age, 17 percent attempted suicide at least once, 12 percent seriously considered taking their lives, and 11 percent have made plans on how they would commit suicide. Given the numbers, the country has only 60 psychiatric health care facilities and only two mental health workers for every 100,000 population.

UNDERSTANDING SOCIAL MEDIA AND THE SPIRIT

Victory Greenhills campus missionary and pastor Dave Estrera said, “In my observation among students, social media primarily affects us in three ways: perception, socialization, and rest. Whether we like it or not, social media has adverse effects on the way we view ourselves because there’s always the temptation to compare. Secondly, it affects the way we socialize, we have the option to project ourselves the way we want to be seen-- being connected yet alone is not helpful in someone going through a hard time.”

As the second country with the largest social media consumption worldwide, it’s not also surprising that restlessness is prevalent and quality sleep is almost unknown. “In my survey among students, 80 percent admitted they have slept less than 5 hours. Now that we have the option to look at something that interests us, our body is restricted to recharge and recover,” Estrera added.

The spiritual aspect is something that we can never neglect either. “It starts with a mindset that God wants peace for us. Through the power of God, we can strengthen our grit and grow in hope. If peace is what God promises, then we can fight and claim it for our lives. When we see that He’s for us, then it gives us the will to keep fighting. We need to see that He providentially uses everything around us (medicine, psychology, medical advancement, support structure, a person’s spirit, and prayers.),” he concludes.

DIET, NUTRITION, AND EXERCISE

Phil.-US registered dietitian-nutritionist Cheshire Que believes that diet, nutrition, exercise, and mental illness are all connected. “Food fuels the brain for it to function optimally. Poor nutrition causes nutrient deficiencies that affect hormonal imbalance and many other factors that influence mood, thought process, and other functions of the brain,” said Que.

Several studies have been said about the gut and brain connection, so understanding how they’re synergistically connected will change the way we view the gut as the body’s second brain. “When a person is diagnosed with a mental condition, one of the first steps to bring back the balance in the body is by applying these 3 Rs of gut-healing: Remove triggers in the form of gluten, dairy, refined sugar, and soy; Repair with fresh produce, functional foods, and supplementations; Lastly, reinoculate probiotics and feed the gut with prebiotics such as honey.”

Chemical messengers serotonin and dopamine affect similar aspects of your health. Dopamine is the chemical that the body releases when we encounter pleasurable experiences from hobbies, eating a favorite meal, to sex. Meanwhile, serotonin which is the body’s anxiety buster is being produced through sunlight, exercise, and eating foods rich in tryptophan. Both chemicals spur the body’s happy hormones.

Understanding that food not only significantly impacts mood along with exercise while making time for the things that keep a person’s sanity in check, will also impact a person’s energy level and countenance. 

LIVING WITH GRIEF IN HER HEART

The Suntay family is a living proof that it’s a disease that knows no age, gender, social class, religion, or background and perspective. “Our family was far from perfect but I’ve always thought that it was a fairy-tale kind of life,” said mompreneur Sheila.

However, 2018 proved to be the most tragic year for the Suntays when Renzo, the eldest son among the brood of 5, took his own life because of depression. She admitted that it was a disease she knew nothing about and that it was a situation that they didn’t see coming. The experience was the turning point for the family, which gave birth to YOLO by Renzo Suntay, a non-profit organization that aims to be the voice for those who are suffering from depression, anxiety, and other conditions. “My role as a founder is to relentlessly share my story and remind these people that they’re not alone in their struggles and that there’s real, tangible hope and healing.”

Beauty titlist, mental health advocate, and Jeunesse Anion brand ambassador Ivanna Pacis encourages individuals and families to discuss more openly the issue on mental health, “Jeunesse Anion looks out not just the physical being of its users but also the mental health of every woman. Mental health is such a sensitive topic but it’s an important issue to discuss and Jeunesse Anion takes part in putting an end to the stigma of mental illness. If you’re a person who suffers from a mental condition, know that your feelings are valid and your situation is not hopeless. Seek out professional help and surround yourself with positive people who look out for your well-being.”

Available in five variants – ultra‐day pad, day pad non‐wing, ultra-night pad, all-night, and panty liner. All variants are a canvass of comfort and freshness for a hassle-free monthly period. You can find them at Watsons, selected Mercury Drug and South Star Drug outlets, SM department store’s health and beauty section, Robinson’s Supermarket and selected department stores, Shopwise, Rustan’s Supermarket, Waltermart, Landmark Department Store, PCX stores, selected Metro Gaisano outlets, plus other selected stores in Visayas and Mindanao. For more tips, visit www.jeunesseanion.com and follow Facebook, YouTube, and Instagram: Jeunesse Anion. For inquiries, email: wellgoldinternational@gmail.com or call (02) 4701294.

The bloggers behind the mom group BKS Moms were invited to witness the launch of a renowned jewelry brand. Nakae-excite, 'di ba? It was such an honor to be part of this milestone. Unfortunately, due to mom duties, I declined the invite. 

Nevertheless, I would like to share with you what's transpired during the event at happy ako kasi nakarating ang aking friend na si Jhoanna Tacorda of Playful Life with Kids Blog. See was able to try the most expensive ring in the store. Bongga!

The jewelry brand that we are talking about is J’s Diamond. It is a renowned jewelry brand that originated in Hong Kong and has established itself in the Philippines since 2012. J’s Diamond initially started with an exquisite collection of timeless pieces of rings tailored for engagement and wedding occasions. It has been patronized by customers for its specialty in bridal accessories and for the refined and sophisticated craftsmanship of its jewelry pieces.

J’s Diamond’s success has been constant throughout the years and yet again, it has reached a greater height. J’s Diamond opens up a new branch, its fourth boutique in the country. Along with its accompanied success, J’s Diamond has decided to expand its range of products from rings and now to bracelets and necklaces to adapt to the continuously changing consumer behavior.

To celebrate another milestone reached, we are invited to discover its new flagship store that will present a sensational showcase of its latest captivating designs. Its new boutique possesses the unintimidating yet modish atmosphere, emanating the millennial vibe. It is designed to mirror the magnificence of our modern jewelry collection and to shine a light on our flawless creations that are well-crafted by professional artisans. Its stylish and classy jewelry pieces are always fashioned to celebrate the gift of love. Each piece is purposely created to symbolize the different values – a love that lasts for a lifetime, a joy that is profound, an undying devotion, and steadfast loyalty and fidelity.

Find a treasure trove of bedazzling pieces of jewelry that you will forever adore only in J’s Diamond. Visit Js Diamond branches at Lucky Chinatown, SM Dasmarinas, LSM Southmall, and Ayala Malls, Manila Bay. 

I will definitely visit the branch near us soon!

Manila International Book Fair (MIBF)’s co-located comics and pop culture event: Pop Hub: Comics Splash X Fandom Fest is back for a sophomore run this September.

The episode continues as Primetrade Asia, Inc., MIBF and Best of Anime organizer is set to gather once again the comics and pop culture community on September 14 to 15 from 10:00AM to 8:00PM at the SMX Convention Center, Pasay City. 

This year, comic fans and Fandoms will definitely geek out as your MIBF ticket also entitles you to a free POP HUB entrance! 

Following the success of last year’s POP HUB: Vol. 1 which featured distinguished guest artists and exciting activities such as workshops, cosplay competitions, training sessions, photo ops and fandom activities, Volume 2 is back yet again to showcase local and foreign comics, fandom groups and wide-ranging arts and entertainment. 

Coming back again this year are the country’s notable comics personalities: Pol Medina, creator of popular comic strip, Pugad Baboy, comics superstar, Harvey Tolibao and award-winning comic book and artist, Randy Valiente. Prince of PH Cosplay, Prince De Guzman will also be showcasing anew more of his transformations on POP HUB’s stage. 

Pop Hub rookies to watch out for in this year’s Volume 2 include: Don Suratos, Paramount’s Pet-Sematary illustrator, First Academy of Computer Art’s very own, Nick Trinidad and Ian Velasquez, writer of the new DI-13 komiks and grandson of Komiks pioneer, Damy Velasquez, brother of Kenkoy creator and founding Father of Philippine Komiks, Tony Velasquez. 

Of course, a pop culture event isn’t complete without the participation of fandom groups. Largest Fandoms around the country will be present in the event as well– The 501st Legion and the Rebel Legion, the only Lucasfilm and Disney-recognized worldwide Star Wars costuming groups; FightSaber, Hogwarts Philippines, USS Kalayaan (Star Trek Philippines), Ineffable MNL, Hamilton Philippines, Greasy Snitches, Supernatural PH, Justice PH, Westeros Cosplay PH and more!

 

Brace yourselves as POP HUB unveils more action-packed activities in the weeks to come. Stay tuned for more updates by following their official social media pages on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram @pophubMNL.

Premenstrual Syndrome or PMS is a bunch of symptoms that even the strongest women would usually face several days before that time of the month. Feeling totally frazzled and waking up with a different kind of fatigue is a reality, a zit on the nose that wasn’t there a night before. And oh, those tender breasts plus the soreness and heaviness. Worst, you can’t stop thinking about that fudgy chocolate cake you saw on Instagram!

According to Anne Price, a Certified Holistic Health Coach, an average woman experiences PMS 450 times in her lifetime. While hormones play a part in these biological changes, there’s a way how to manage it by avoiding these foods that are likely to alleviate the symptoms.

1. Trans fats and hydrogenated fats 

These are the nutritional bad words everyone should be aware of. Trans fats and hydrogenated fats are unhealthy by-products of a chemical process called hydrogenation. Manufacturers alter the fats to solidify liquid oils and lengthen shelf life and flavor of oils and foods that contain them. So, the next time you’re going to pick up margarine, crackers, cookies, and snack foods from the grocery shelves, read the labels and drop everything that says hydrogenated or partially hydrogenated even if the nutritional profile says 0% trans-fat. Go for saturated fats found in coconut or the healthier monounsaturated fats like olive and avocado oil. 

2. Food allergens

Food allergies cause digestive issues and skin breakouts that are obvious signs of a possible hormonal imbalance. But what if you have no idea which food you are allergic to? Either you have yourself checked by a doctor or try an elimination diet. This diet is a three-to-six-week eating plan that eliminates potential food allergens and then reintroduces them one at a time to identify which ones your body does not tolerate well. Top eight foods that belong to the food allergen camp are milk, eggs, peanuts, nuts, wheat, soy, fish, and shellfish. 

3. High fructose corn syrup and refined sugar

High fructose corn syrup is a chemically produced sugar found in sodas and fruit-flavored drinks, while refined sugar is the ones usually stored in your pantry. It comes from sugar cane, processed to extract sugar used to sweeten cakes, desserts, cookies, coffee, and cereals. The difference between these and the natural sugars found in fruits is that the former have empty calories with no nutritional value while the latter are loaded with fiber and other nutrients that your body needs especially right before the shark week. The absence of fibers makes you digest these artificial sugars rapidly resulting in insulin and blood sugar skyrocket. The result? It fuels mood swings and worsens headaches and difficulty concentrating. That’s the reason as well why you don’t feel full even after giving in to your sweet tooth. But of course, you don’t have to deprive yourself especially when you’re PMSing to the max. Just stick to dark chocolates, dates, raw honey, and reach for stevia or coconut sugar as healthier alternatives!

4. Salt

Ever wonder why you’re bloated or your hands and feet swell during PMS? These symptoms are caused by none other than hormonal changes that cause water retention. And loading up on sodium will just make it worse. Swapping salty food with nuts and loading up on fruits and veggies are good choices to reduce the accumulation of water weight because of a diet that’s high in sodium!

5. Caffeine

PMS is usually associated with fatigue, mental exhaustion, and depression. A lot of women try to counter these by increasing caffeine intake. But because caffeine is a stimulant chemical, it causes increased heart rate and blood pressure. This consequently leads to tension, anxiety, difficulty sleeping, and greater exhaustion. Its diuretic nature also increases urine production and triggers dehydration that is home to dysmenorrhea. Try herbal teas and decaffeinated liquids instead while going through PMS. 

6. Alcohol

When alcohol enters the bloodstream, it alters the brain function that produces serotonin. Serotonin is called the “happy hormone” because it contributes to a person’s stability and well-being. It regulates mood, social behavior, appetite, sleep, memory, and sexual desire functions. It is also responsible in mood alterations and disorders. Now imagine, that PMS is at its peak and you decide to wreck them further by drinking your favorite bar drink. Not very helpful, right? And like the previous item, it is also diuretic. It will rob you of your much-needed bodily fluids that will lead to prolonged dysmenorrhea. That said, abstaining from drinking alcohol during this time is strongly encouraged. 

Remember that diet plays a key role in balancing the fluctuating hormones in a woman’s body. But aside from choosing the right food, picking the right sanitary pads will keep you centered. 

Wellgold International Inc. distributes Jeunesse Anion Sanitary Napkin and Liners and currently available at Watsons, selected Mercury Drug and South Star Drug outlets, SM department store’s health and beauty section, Robinson’s Supermarket and selected department stores, Shopwise, Rustan’s Supermarket, Waltermart, Landmark Department Store, PCX stores, selected Metro Gaisano outlets, plus other selected stores in Visayas and Mindanao. For more health tips, visit www.jeunesseanion.com and follow Facebook, YouTube and Instagram: Jeunesse Anion. For inquiries, email: wellgoldinternational@gmail.com or call (02) 4701294.

‘YOLO’ – you have certainly heard it several times or even came across this acronym as a hashtag on a friend’s post on social media. A tickle in your curiosity, have you ever asked yourself what YOLO really means? YOLO is the acronym of ‘You Only Live Once’ which was popularized by a renowned rapper in one of his songs. But there is certainly a more profound meaning in ‘YOLO’.

Given the frailty and brevity of human life, anything can happen to you at any point in your life. Set your mind that every day is a miracle and that you only live once so why not make the most out of it? It is always yes to do the things you most loved and savor each moment like it is the last. Regardless of your age, social status, condition, and circumstances, it is never too late to prepare yourself to live your life only once. To start, you can create your own Bucket List.

Have you ever watched the movie ‘The Bucket List’? Played by Morgan Freeman and Jack Nicholson, it is about two strangers, one a billionaire and one a mechanic, who were brought with the news that they already reached the terminal stage of their life. Realizing that they had little time left to complete the things they had to do and to be reconciled to the ones they love, they decided to make a Bucket List – it is a list of things that they wanted to do before they die. They eventually set out into the world against their doctor’s medical advice and took on their adventure of a lifetime. This movie provided an accurate mental picture of how short human life could be regardless of your social standing and how you could never be able to turn back the time to change the past.

Since the release of this movie, the term 'Bucket List' is now being generally used by people from all around the world to mean that you only live once so do everything you can possibly do given a limited amount of time. Many people have seriously considered YOLO as a way of living and they even created their own Bucket List. Some have set out for the thrill of an adventure, some have traveled to their dream destination, some have still started school at a later age, some have preferred doing things right the first time every time, some have always chosen to do what they always wanted to regardless of the social stigma and taboos.

Isn't it fulfilling to create a Bucket List and see how each item on your list is progressively being achieved? Have you ever considered creating your own Bucket List because ‘YOLO’? Join the Bucket List Summit, a platform that brings together leaders, speakers, thinkers, and experts who can help you be prepared emotionally, physically, mentally, spiritually, and financially towards a life well-lived. The summit will be held on October 19 to 20, 2019 at the SMX Aura where renowned speakers will talk about the value and appreciation of life, financial wellness, spiritual enlightenment, physical challenges and its related solutions, psychological interventions, death and life, and more. Everybody deserves a quality life. Participate in this event now and know more about how you can live your life only once but to the fullest. 

For more information, please call Happy Events at (02) 637-9084 or send an email at happyeventsbydeegee@gmail.com.

The rumors are true! Finally, matinee idol John Lloyd Cruz is going back to the limelight after two years of being in hiatus from show business since 2017.

His fans, including yours truly, are excited about his return. A great actor and a very effective endorser like him is definitely an asset in the Philippine cinema and advertising industry. Would you believe that when a teaser video which showed his back shot was posted in the Facebook page of the number one selling shawarma, Turks, a few weeks ago has been viewed 3.2 million times, shared almost 800 times, and gained a huge number of comments? Amazing, isn't it?

Then yesterday morning, Turks finally revealed in the 1 minute and 17-second video of John Lloyd Cruz showing him walking through different destinations, which somehow depicted his stopovers. The video was very simple yet dramatic and in a very subtle shot, he stopped and took a bite of a Turks Pita Doner.

The rugged look of Cruz in the Turks video titled "Ang Nagbabalik" is way too far from his guy-next-door image and a lot of people in the industry are asking if this signals his return to the limelight. His fans are still curious about the life he’s been living since his hiatus.

According to Turks president Gem L. Zenarosa that during the course of his talks with Cruz, they never talked anything about his showbiz career or plans. He added that he got him as the latest ambassador of Turks because of his great confidence working with him. He was grateful that Cruz, a brilliant, talented, and very creative young man trusts Turks.

"Ang Nagbabalik" according to Zenarosa is actually about Turks Small Pita Doner, which will be available again in all its branches.

Zenarosa stressed that Cruz would be the best endorser for this because like him, despite his absence in the show business for a couple of years, the warmth and love of his fans for him never diminishes. With Turks' Small Pita Doner he believes that customers will be happy to know that it is back in its menu.

Just like John Lloyd Cruz who is seen to have a different image since he last appeared in the big screen, a clear indication that the actor is recreating himself and exploring different grounds, Turks is also doing the same thing to keep its customers excited whenever they visit a branch.

In time for the release of Cruz's endorsement video, Turks also released to the market its newest offering --- Turks Rice Bowl, which is a complete meal. You can choose beef or chicken for your rice topping, and it is priced at Php50. The Small Pita Doner, on the other hand, is priced at Php35.

Turks continues to improve its menu and offerings to satisfy the discriminating taste of its loyal patrons according to Zenarosa.

Indeed, John Lloyd Cruz is the right fit for this endorsement. He now joins the roster of endorsers of Turks such as Piolo and Inigo Pascual. 

I invite you to watch the full video of "Ang Nagbabalik".
For more updates and information, you may like Turks Facebook page.