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During Ramadan, Muslims worldwide embark on a month-long fast, refraining from eating and drinking during daylight hours similar to intermittent fasting. Fasting during Ramadan is not only significant from a religious perspective, but it also has numerous health benefits for others that go beyond the spiritual realm. Let's take a look at some of the major health benefits that fasting can offer. Reduces hypertension Fasting has been shown to help lower blood pressure levels, reducing the risk of hypertension and cardiovascular diseases. Enhances the Health of Your Liver Increased liver enzyme levels are often signs of liver damage or disease. Multiple studies have shown that intermittent fasting can decrease liver enzymes, suggesting enhanced liver health. Intermittent fasting can also reduce oxidative stress and inflammation. Increases brain function Fasting can improve brain function by promoting the production of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), a protein that supports brain health and cognitive function. Balances the Hunger Hormone Ghrelin Fasting helps to regulate the Hunger Hormone Ghrelin, leading to better appetite control and aiding weight management. Fasting may hold deep significance within the Muslim religion, but its health benefits are relevant to people of all backgrounds to improve their overall well-being. Introducing fasting as a practice within your family may not happen overnight, it is essential to take gradual steps and allow everyone to adapt at their own pace. Here are some steps you can take to introduce fasting to future generations. Steps to introduce Fasting to children Educate Start by explaining the significance of fasting during Ramadan in simple terms that children can understand. Teach them about empathy, gratitude, and self-discipline. Lead by example Children learn best by observing. Demonstrate fasting with patience and positivity by encouraging them to join you in small ways such as skipping snacks between meals. Start with shorter periods: Gradually ease children into fasting by starting with shorter periods, such as half-day fasts or skipping a meal. Monitor their comfort level and adjust accordingly. Fasting has become increasingly popular among people who are striving to lead a healthy lifestyle. We're not just nourishing our bodies; we're also nurturing the generations to come. By instilling values of mindfulness, discipline, and gratitude, we lay the foundation for a healthier and more compassionate future. Selamat Berpuasa to our Muslim friends!

It's that time of the season again! It is great to have the chance to explore new places, savor different cuisines, learn about the cultures, and experience the vibrance of each destination. While traveling is a thrilling adventure, it often comes with challenges. When we travel, our bodies go through big changes like altered sleep patterns, exposure to new cuisines and environments. Whether you're off on a month-long adventure to your dream destination or just planning a fun family getaway, it is important to look out for yourself and your loved ones while enjoying the trip to the fullest. So, what can you and your loved ones do to stay healthy while traveling? Smart food choices It can be challenging to resist those tempting yet greasy meals that could upset your stomach if consume too much. You can manage this by savoring small bites of the delicious food and balance it with healthier options like a nutritious sandwich or a refreshing fruit salad. It is fine to try some unique drinks from different places, but the best way to stay hydrated is by drinking plenty of water to maintain a normal body temperature. Don't forget to keep an eye on your alcohol and sugary drinks intake to stay on the healthy track! Exercise on-the-go Your travel plans extend beyond the cozy hotel bed. Don't limit yourself to just lounging around, go out and explore! Organize walks in the local surroundings or visit tourist spots. Some tourist spots offer taking a hike to nearby forests or hills for a more adventurous experience. Many hotels offer gym facilities where you can do simple lunges or squats too. If you're a morning person who enjoys starting the day with a quick stretch session, consider bringing along your yoga mat. This way, you can enjoy some relaxing stretches and practice simple yet effective yoga exercises wherever your travels takes you. Prioritize sleep When you're out exploring new places or enjoying time with friends, it could occasionally result in late night hangout and could extend into next day early morning. Nevertheless, it is crucial to prioritize your well-being and ensure you get a sufficient 7-9 hours of sleep each night. With this, you will be able to wake up feeling refreshed and ready to make the most of your travel adventures as feeling refreshed is one of the keys to fully savour and enjoy every moment during your travels. Allow yourself the luxury of waking up naturally without setting an alarm, as feeling fresh is one of the keys to fully savoring and enjoying every moment during your travels. Practice proper hygiene Maintaining good hygiene is essential for a comfortable and healthy travel experience. It's more than just tossing a toothbrush or shampoo into your luggage. Consider having a little hand sanitizer in your handbag, especially if you've been visiting crowded historical museums or shopping malls. Let's also not forget the wet tissues, your secret weapons for cleaning tables or chairs just to steer clear of the “unexpected marks". wherever you grab a bite at a restaurant. Mindful travelling Traveling is your golden ticket to escape reality. If you've been pushing yourself too hard with work or school, start your day with some easy breathing exercises or meditation to kick stress to the curb. Take a few minutes each day for yourself to recharge. And hey, if your travel plans get a bit hectic, treat yourself with a spa day to rewind Vitamode wishes you happy travels and a safe journey!

Children are exposed to screens more than ever before. While technology can be good for learning and fun, it might not be great for our children's eyes. As parents, it is our responsibility to ensure that our children's eyes are well-protected, ensuring their vision remains optimal. So, what actions can parents take to protect their children's eyes and vision? Managing Screen Exposure As reported by The Malaysian Reserve, 70% of Malaysian parents allow their children additional screen time! [1] Spending too much time on screens can lead to eye strain for our children's eyes. But hey, we know parents don't want that! It's time to set some screen time rules for your kids, and make sure they take screen breaks. There are parental controls on devices to keep everything in check. Let's keep those screens fun and safe! Scheduling Routine Eye Exams Regular eye exams are crucial for early detection of vision problems. Schedule routine eye exams for your children, starting as early as six months old. These exams can help identify issues like nearsightedness, farsightedness, or astigmatism that might otherwise go unnoticed. Remember, early intervention is key to managing and preventing vision problems so your child never miss out on any eye adventures! Promoting Balanced Nutrition A well-balanced diet not only supports overall health but also contributes to good eye health. Ensure your children's diet includes essential eye nutrients such as vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin E, zinc, and omega-3 fatty acids. Encourage the consumption of food like carrots, leafy greens, citrus fruits, nuts, and fish. Proper nutrition can help reduce the risk of eye conditions like macular degeneration and cataracts. Embracing Outdoor Activities Spending time outdoors is not only beneficial for physical fitness, but also for eye health too! Natural light and outdoor activities help to reduce the risk of myopia (nearsightedness) in children. Encourage your children to engage in outdoor activities like playing sports, going for walks, or simply spending time at the park. Keep Chemicals and Sharp Objects Out of Reach We all know that children have wild imaginations to use for everyday items. A kitchen knife becomes a pirate's sword, and scissors transform into magical wands. To ensure their safety, take necessary precautions by securely storing cleaning products, chemicals, and sharp objects in cabinets or areas that are out of reach for children. Implement childproof latches and locks to guarantee that their curious hands can't reach potentially dangerous items. "The eyes are the windows to their imagination", children's eyes are the most precious instrument, conducting their journey of discovery and adventures. Let's nurture them and guide them towards a future where the world unfolds before their eyes in all its adventure! Reference: 1. The Malaysian Reserve. 2023. Some 70% Malaysian parents increased their children’s Screen time. (n.d.). https://themalaysianreserve.com/2023/03/30/some-70-malaysian-parents-increased-their-childrens-screen-time/

In the culinary landscape of Malaysia, rich flavors and indulgent treats are a way of life. It is essential to keep a close watch on our cholesterol levels. According to The 2019 National Health and Morbidity Survey, one in two Malaysians was overweight or obese, and four in ten had high cholesterol levels [1]. These numbers reveal a need for Malaysians to shift towards making healthier lifestyle choices. While medicine may be an alternative to control cholesterol, making smart food swaps is also important for keeping your heart healthy while still enjoying your favorite delicacies. So, what are the delectable choices can Malaysians substitute with? Thosai over Roti Canai For all mamak lovers, resisting the crispy Roti Canai might be tough. Yet, keep in mind that a plain Roti Canai contains about 300 calories, mainly from the flour and ghee. Let's also not forget the curries that are often paired with Roti Canai which can easily push the calorie count higher. Regularly consuming such calorie-rich food can raise cholesterol levels and potentially lead to heart problems over time. A better choice is to opt for Thosai or Chapatti. Thosai, with under 200 calories, brings added nutrition from ingredients like rice, split black lentils, and fenugreek seeds. This switch trims calories and boosts your meal's nutrients. [2] Teh O Kosong over Teh Tarik Malaysians take pride in their love for Teh Tarik – a comforting drink shared with loved ones. However, this beloved drink is prepared with a generous amount of condensed milk, making it excessively sweet and rich in fat. A single cup of Teh Tarik contains a staggering 180 calories, 6g of fat, and 20g of sugar, nearly hitting the daily sugar limit. Instead of Teh Tarik, why not try Teh O Kosong, which doesn't have condensed milk or sugar. It's a smarter choice with only 64 calories. This simple change helps you cut out extra calories and sugar from your diet while continuing to savor flavorful tea. [2] Economy Rice over Fried Rice Economy Rice is like a food adventure where you get to pick what you want to eat. You can make it your own healthy plate by choosing veggies, lean protein, and just the right amount of rice. Way better than fried rice, which can be loaded with oil, salt and bad fats that aren't good for your heart and health. So, go for economy rice and treat your taste buds and body right! [2] Nuts over Chips When it comes to snacking, making the switch from chips to nuts can have a significant impact on your heart health. While chips are typically high in unhealthy fats and sodium, nuts are rich in heart-healthy fats, fiber, and essential nutrients like Vitamin E, which functions as an antioxidant to protect cells from damage caused by free radicals. Furthermore, nuts also contain potassium, which helps to aid the regulation of blood pressure in the heart. Almonds, walnuts, and pistachios are great options that can satisfy your cravings while providing benefits for your heart. Rojak over Pasembur Choosing Rojak over Pasembur can be a more appealing choice. Pasembur can turn out to be a little heavy with all the fried stuff and high-calorie dressing, but Rojak comes with a mix of fresh fruits and vegetables that give you all those good things your body loves - vitamins, minerals, and that fancy thing called fiber - without piling on the calories and bad fats. [2] As the saying goes, "You are what you eat." Let's make choices that reflect our commitment to a healthier, happier life. References: 1) Institute for Public Health (2020). National Health and Morbidity Survey (NHMS) 2019: Non-communicable diseases, healthcare demand, and health literacy. https://iptk.moh.gov.my/images/technical_report/2020/4_Infographic_Booklet_NHMS_2019_-_English.pdf 2) The ultimate malaysian healthy food swaps. Welcome to Joanna Soh Website. (n.d.). http://www.joannasoh.com/fitness/knowledge/the-ultimate-malaysian-healthy-food-swaps

Everyday hassles associated with money, work and family life contribute to stress and anxiety, slowly leading to fatigue and poor sleep quality. Stress is like a double-edged sword. Short-term stress can fire up our body’s systems and keep us alert. However, prolonged stress significantly diminishes quality of life as it weakens immunity, digestive, excretory, and reproductive systems. Experts worldwide have also come to agree that continuous exposure to stress leads to a number of health issues such as a poor immune response, stomach problems and a weak heart. So if you are not sleeping well you might want to ask yourself, “Am I too stressed at work or over personal matters?” Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) is an Ayurvedic herb and medicinal plant, with a 4,000-year usage history. Also known as Indian ginseng for its adaptive abilities, this natural herb is mostly harvested for its roots that contain active constituents known as withanolides. Withanolides make ashwagandha an excellent adaptogen that promotes balance in the body to address stress and fatigue while also improving muscle strength, energy, sexual vitality and cognitive health. KSM-66® Ashwagandha is the current leading ashwagandha extract brand; the sole product of Ixoreal Biomed, Inc. Often known as the “World’s Best Ashwagandha”, KSM-66® is produced using a first-of-its-kind, unique extraction process based on “Green Chemistry” principle without using alcohol or any synthetic solvents. KSM-66® is the highest concentration (>5% withanolides) full-spectrum extract on the market today, retaining all the natural constituents of the herb in its original balance. Ixoreal Biomed is the only ashwagandha manufacturer in the world with its own farms, production facilities, testing laboratories, research centre and distribution. KSM-66® is GRAS affirmed and safe for long-term consumption proven by its historical footprint in Indian culture. In completion of its qualification reassurance, it is also halal certified, 100% organic, vegetarian-friendly and gluten-free. Ashwagandha root is often called the “Prince of Herbs” in Ayurveda because it has an impressively broad range of therapeutic benefits. KSM-66® has the largest pool of studies including 11 completed human studies and at least 8 ongoing human studies. It has been clinically proven to reduce stress and anxiety, enhance memory and cognition, increase endurance and strength and also improve sexual function and testosterone levels in men. In a 64-subject study, 2 capsules containing 300mg of KSM-66® Ashwagandha each was given to participants that were under stress for a total of 8 weeks. At the end of the study, stress hormone (namely cortisol) levels fell by 27.9% and all participants recorded significant reduction in depression, anxiety and stress in multiple stress surveys. While stress response in the body is biologically accompanied by an increase in stress hormone levels, the ashwagandha herb being an adaptogen is known to promote balance in the body, reduce stress levels and help individuals to relax and calm down. In the area of sports and endurance, KSM-66® has been studied in 50 healthy males taking the same dose of ashwagandha supplements as the above study. After 8 weeks, the male hormone, testosterone, was found to have increased in the participants accompanied by improved muscle strength, muscle size and a decrease of body fat percentage by 19%. Muscle growth was possibly influenced by the increase of testosterone levels with an observation of muscle recovery as well. In another similar study, KSM-66® also showed an improvement in oxygen capacity in healthy athletic adults. These two studies perfectly document the capabilities of ashwagandha to be taken as a supplement for those who are athletic and looking to improve their muscle-building routines. With an adaptive nature, the ashwagandha herb is a supplement that is suitable for all ages. It can be taken as a natural supplement for stress reduction. Ashwagandha is highly recommended for those who are stressed at work (especially executive levels and above), those who are experiencing sleeping difficulties and chronic fatigue, elderly and athletic individuals. If the source of stress can’t be resolved immediately, at least do not let the stress slow you down. References: Chandrasekhar, K., Jyoti Kapoor, and Sridhar Anishetty. "A prospective, randomized double-blind, placebo-controlled study of safety and efficacy of a high-concentration full-spectrum extract of ashwagandha root in reducing stress and anxiety in adults." Indian journal of psychological medicine 34.3 (2012): 255. Choudhary, Dnyanraj, Sauvik Bhattacharyya, and Kedar Joshi. "Body Weight Management in Adults Under Chronic Stress Through Treatment With Ashwagandha Root Extract A Double-Blind, Randomized, Placebo-Controlled Trial." Journal of evidence-based complementary & alternative medicine (2016): 2156587216641830. Wankhede, Sachin, et al. "Examining the effect of Withania somnifera supplementation on muscle strength and recovery: a randomized controlled trial." Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition 12.1 (2015): 1. Choudhary, Bakhtiar, A. Shetty, and Deepak G. Langade. "Efficacy of Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera [L.] Dunal) in improving cardiorespiratory endurance in healthy athletic adults." Ayu 36.1 (2015): 63. Ambiye, Vijay R., et al. "Clinical evaluation of the spermatogenic activity of the root extract of Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) in oligospermic males: a pilot study." Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine (2013). Dongre, Swati, Deepak Langade, and Sauvik Bhattacharyya. "Efficacy and Safety of Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) Root Extract in Improving Sexual Function in Women: A Pilot Study." BioMed Research International (2015). Dnyanraj Choudhary and Deepak Langade “Efficacy and safety of an Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) root extract in improving memory and selected cognitive functions.” Publication pending.

1. Click Checkout button to make payment. 2. Enter your shipping details. 3. Choose the delivery method. 4. Then, you are required to choose payment method. We accepted two ways of payment: 1. Credit/Debit Card (Mastercard, Visa, American Express) 2. Manual Payment Pay using Credit/Debit Enter your card number, expiration date, security code and the cardholder name. The card will be charged automatically after you placed the order. * RM 1.00 processing fee will be charged on every credit/debit card payment. Manual Payment 1. Transfer funds to Medispecs (M) Sdn Bhd account using online banking. Details: Recipient Name: Medispec (M) Sdn Bhd Account number: 3123366612 Bank Name: Public Bank Berhad 2. Send the proof of payment to us via website chat or Facebook Messenger.

Our immune system does a remarkable job on a day-to-day basis in protecting us from getting sick. However, the immune system might occasionally fail us and allow disease-causing microorganisms to invade our body, making us feeble and weak. It is often through repetitive exposures to invaders that we build our immune system to be stronger. Even the strongest wall might shake but it should not collapse. While relying on our innate immunity to defend us, we should also continuously help it stay strong by learning about ways to boost immunity. What can you do to boost your immune system? The immune system involves a group of immune warriors that play their part integrating with each other to detect invaders. These warriors are just like normal cells needing nourishment as well. Some tips include : Maintain a healthy and balanced diet Researchers have found that people facing poverty and malnourishment are more vulnerable to infectious diseases. Diet plays a vital role in nourishing our body cells especially immune cells which has to be fit all the time. According to rules from the food pyramid, more fruits and vegetables are recommended compared to foods rich in fat such as meat, poultry, cheese, butter and etc. Why so? Fruits and vegetables are richest in vitamins and minerals that help to boost your immunity. An intake of about 3-5 servings of fruits and vegetables a day is usually good enough. If you’re missing out on getting the recommended nutrition levels, you can add immune-boosting vitamins as a daily supplement to help build a strong immune system Quit smoking and limit alcohol intake People who smoke have been shown to have a reduced immune response. We might not see that as a problem but both smoking and excess consumption of alcohol increase free radicals in the body, leading to a condition known as oxidative stress which could cause harm to the immune cells. After a while, we have a suppressed immune system much like a weakened barrier which leads to ineffective self-defence. For that, we recommend a moderate intake of alcohol and cut down smoking as much as possible. After all, even taking the best vitamins for immune system won’t help if we don’t give our bodies a chance. Regular physical activity Virtually, those who are sedentary fall sick faster than those who are active. Regular physical exercise is encouraged to improve blood circulation and thus provide better nutrition and oxygen supply for a stronger immune system. Have sufficient rest and stay stress-free An overworked body or insufficient rest is often accompanied by elevated stress hormones where it is part of the body’s survival mechanism to compensate for the imbalance, often at the expense of your immune health. A good night’s rest on top of managing expectations and time is the key to a better-controlled life and a strong immune system. Remember to take things easy and stay stress-free! Supplementing for an extra boost Natural food would always be the preferred option for most people. However, not everyone has the luxury of time to shop and prepare meals with all the right recommendations. A variety of health supplements such as Vitamin C or herbal extract supplements can be added to your daily routine as an immunity booster. A compromised immune system exposes us to unwelcomed infections. Keeping yourself fit and strong acts like vitamins for immune system for adults. On top of food and lifestyle changes, supplements to boost immune system are helpful.

Gestures, postures and movements! These actions are all supported by our bones. It may not sound like a big deal, but bones give us mobility. Our bones are made up of living cells and like all other cells that we have, they need to be constantly repaired. Our body works hard to replace old and broken bones with new and healthy ones. This process is called bone remodeling. It has been estimated that every 7 to 10 years, we get a new set of bones. Bone remodeling is a metabolic process that involves growth factors, hormones and enzymes for bone development that replaces older bones with stronger bones in order to maintain the strength of the bone and mineral balance. Of course, there are ‘diligent workers’ involved in the process that we should know about. Our bodies synthesize osteoclasts and osteoblasts. Osteoblasts are cells responsible for bone formation while osteoclasts are cells responsible for the removal or reabsorption of damaged bones. The bone structure is separated into two components. The dense and solid part surrounding the marrow space is known as the cortical bone while the honeycomb-like network part in the bone marrow compartment is known as the trabecular bone. These osteoblasts and osteoclasts are located in our cortical bone’s outer surface. Other than osteoblasts and osteoclasts, there are bone cells called osteocytes (the differentiated osteoblasts) that produce Type 1 collagen and other bone extracellular matrix components. Totaling up to 6 different phases, bone remodeling is a metabolic active progression. In short, the journey of bone remodeling is initiated when there are factors such as a demand of calcium and mechanical stresses (trauma injuries) on your tissues. Such factors kick start the process of bone remodeling whereby bone cells are ‘alerted’ to produce osteoclasts and thereafter promote the removal of old and damaged bones. Next, bone formation takes place followed by the incorporation of minerals such as calcium into our bones. The bone remodeling process is an ongoing and actively regulated process. Calcium is important in forming most of our bone mass but it also needs support from Vitamin D3 for absorption into the bloodstream. Once in the blood, calcium floats freely until Vitamin K2 activates certain proteins that direct calcium into our skeleton. Without Vitamin K2, said proteins are inactive and do not work, causing calcium deposits that harden blood vessels. This leads to blood flow impairment and various heart complications. It takes years to build strong bones and vice versa, it also takes years for the skeleton to weaken if there is insufficient bone-building material or an inefficient bone regulation process. Start taking calcium today for bone health and make sure that you are getting the most out of your calcium intake. References: 1. Raisz, L. G. (1999). Physiology and pathophysiology of bone remodeling. Clinical chemistry, 45(8), 1353-1358. 2. E., McCarthy, T., & Centrella, M. (1988). Growth factors and the regulation of bone remodeling. Journal of Clinical Investigation, 81(2), 277. 3. Kini, U., & Nandeesh, B. N. (2012). Physiology of bone formation, remodeling, and metabolism. Radionuclide and hybrid bone imaging, 29.

The Lowdown: - Mental health issues have made a lot of headlines recently, and you may be starting to ask questions about your own mental health. - Mental health is unlike your body’s health, there are no pills to cure your mind’s problems. And there’s a lot of damage poor mental health can inflict on you. - Fear not, there is much you can do to take care of your mental health. It isn’t rocket science but it does mean you must take action! Mental health concerns are making headline news these days. You read about cases of extreme bullying, suicides and violent behaviour in the newspapers and you wonder what’s going on. You might be asking what’s making these people act the way they do. You may even ask yourself, “Am I vulnerable too?” Mental Health Calling What actually happens in your head remains shrouded in mystery, but we know our sub-conscious works hard piecing together events occurring around you. Think about it, you’re constantly being bombarded by bad news. Your work life could also be a headache and you’re not able to switch off after work. Your family life feels chaotic with your spouse’s and children’s needs. Over time, all these troubles conspire to make your life a living hell, and you feel powerless. You can’t go to your doctor and ask for a prescription to cure ‘powerlessness’, there’s no pill for that. So we pretend it’s not a problem and march on. Until one day, you crack under all that pressure. Why should you be concerned? Poor physical health – Your mind and body are intertwined. If you’re feeling physical pain, it ruins everything, your family relationships and work. This causes stress and depression. Similarly, mental health disorders can impair physical health. Mental disorders affect your sleep quality, which make you more easily ill. You also risk living a shorter and less pleasant life. Poor productivity and decision-making – When your mind’s out of sync, you’re less productive. You can’t complete tasks or make logical decisions. You miss work often and may find it difficult to control your finances. Family relationships. Mental illness affects your family as well as yourself. Children of those with mental illness run a risk of neglect and a wide range of psychological issues. These children too, become psychologically damaged. If you love your loved ones, you owe it to them to stay mentally well. Turning to crime. People who are mentally unwell are more likely to act out in anger and frustration. This is particularly true if they abuse drugs/alcohol too. They tend to act on impulse and may turn to petty crime. But there’s also a risk of violence, particularly if the person has been mentally ill and untreated for a long time. What to do? Now you know the consequences of poor mental health, you need to take action! Here are some things you should start doing today Get professional help if you need it. Nobody likes to ask for help but there are times when you need to admit you have a problem. Remember, you’re not doing this just for yourself; you have your loved ones to think about too. At the very least, talk to someone you trust. Talking it through may help you understand what’s going on in your head. Get physically active. Simply taking a walk could turn your mood for the better. There’s just something about strolling outside that helps clear the clutter from your mind. You could also consider yoga or meditation. Aim to stay active for at least 30 minutes/day. Get enough sleep. Sleep is worth more than gold; just 2 consecutive nights of poor sleep can deteriorate your mental abilities significantly. The side effects of sleep deprivation are more serious than you think. Stay well-nourished. Nutrition and mental health? Yes, it counts. If you have poor eating habits, you’re doing yourself a disservice. Stop consuming junk food and energy drinks; they mess with your head, really! Good nutrition which includes proteins, fats and certain carbohydrates help you maintain a healthy body and mind. The right nutrients trigger feel-good hormones that make you feel better. Now you’re thinking, “But I don’t have time!” There is a shortcut that can help make up for times when you can’t eat healthy. The brain plays a central role in mental health. Therefore, feeding the brain with the right nutrients can help you stay sharp and calm. If staying sharp is what you’re looking for, then boy do we have something for you! Our CogniPro Tablet contains citicoline, a nutrient that improves brain function and memory. So here you have it, the power over your mental health is in your hands. You may not be able to control the things life throws at you, but you do have control over your mind. Take the reins and don’t let your mental health slip away today!

Vitamins are a group of organic substances that are required for normal growth and development, maintenance of life as well as normal reproduction. There are two categories of vitamins – water soluble vitamins and fat-soluble vitamins. Vitamin K is a fat soluble vitamin that is absorbed into the body with the aid of bile acid, a kind of fluid used to absorb fat. There are two types of Vitamin K – K1 and K2. Vitamin K1, which is also known as phylloquinone, helps to maintain healthy blood clotting and is normally found in green leafy plants. Vitamin K2, or menaquinone, is made by bacteria that lines the gastrointestinal tract. It goes into blood vessel walls as well as bones and helps to optimise bone health. The primary source of Vitamin K2 is from natto, a traditional Japanese dish made from fermented soybeans. Natto is a traditional Japanese food made from soybeans fermented with Bacillus subtilis var. natto. Some eat it for breakfast, which is served with soy sauce, karashi mustard and Japanese bunching onion. Vitamin K2 is a newly discovered essential vitamin that has been proven to optimally bind calcium to bones. This keeps them dense and strong, which lessens the risk of fracture due to ageing. Vitamin K2, particularly in its menaquinone-7 (MK-7) form, is derived from the fermentation process of natto and it prevents excessive calcium accumulation in the arteries. In the absence of Vitamin K2, calcium is not able to adhere properly to bones, which may cause a build-up of calcium in the blood vessels that could eventually lead to cardiovascular diseases. Vitamin K2 is also vital for growing children who are still developing their primary and adult teeth, proper facial form and strong bones. It is also important for women who are at risk of bone fracture. Population-based studies have shown that women in Japan who consume larger amounts of natto have generally shown lower rates of bone fractures. Vitamin D is also known as the “sunshine” vitamin. It helps to keep bones and muscles strong and healthy. The best source of Vitamin D would be from exposure to sunlight, especially in tropical countries like Malaysia. However, it’s not surprising that Malaysians might have insufficient Vitamin D as most white-collar workers spend all day in the office and not under the sun. The natural form of Vitamin D is Vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol), which is also the form that our bodies produce. Supplementation of Vitamin D3 helps to enhance calcium absorption from the intestine in order to build and maintain strong bones. Undeniably, calcium is the essential dietary supplement for improving bone health. However, recent studies have shown that supplementing with calcium alone is not enough as our bodies require other elements like Vitamin K2 and Vitamin D to optimise the use of calcium to ensure it is directed to and utilised by the bones. Therefore, the combination of Vitamin K2, Vitamin D3 and calcium is a winning combo to keep your bones healthy and prevent bone fractures during old age. Besides taking calcium, Vitamin D3 and Vitamin K2 to improve bone health, a healthy lifestyle is also important for treating and preventing osteoporosis. The best exercise for bones is a weight-bearing exercise that forces you to work against gravity. Some examples of weight-bearing exercises include weight training, walking, hiking and climbing staircases. In addition, quit smoking and avoid excessive consumption of alcohol to significantly reduce the risk of bone fractures. If you would like to check on the health of your bones, be sure to come to our roadshow. Click the banner below for more details.