Our state of mind is shaped by the way we think and that affects our response to situations we face in our lives. Having good mental health or a healthy state of mind is not just about feeling happy. It also means accepting yourself for who you are and being able to cope with changes or challenging situations. Ensuring a healthy state of mind is just as important as having a healthy body.

How Does Having Good Mental Health Help Me?

when you have good mental health, you will feel confident of yourself and will find life more enjoyable. You will also cope better under pressure and recover from a setback more quickly.

You are in good mental health if you:

• Have a strong sense of self-worth.
• Feel that your life is manageable and meaningful.
• Cope well under stressful situations.
• Are strong enough to regain in state of composure after a setback
• Are able to balance the demands at home, at work and in your social life.
• Develop and maintain healthy relationships with family members, friends and colleagues.

However… Having good mental health does not mean your life is now stress-free. We all encounter challenges and setbacks from time to time. The good news is, you are better equipped to handle such situations if you have a healthy state if mind.

There may be times where you may feel overwhelmed. Look out for these warning signs that may indicate tht your mental health may be affected:

• You constantly feel overwhelmed by demands at home and at work.
• You feel that there is no solution or end to your problems.
• You have trouble sleeping at night.
• You lose interest in your usual recreational activities, and this persists over a prolonged period of time.
• You feel exhausted all the time.
• You feel like you could have a mental breakdown at any time.

If you experience any of the above described, I’ve given the 10 tips that you could regain good mental health again.

Posted on April 15th, 2009 by Jacklyn
Filed under: Health Tips, Wellness, Stress Management, Health Information, Healthy Lifestyle | No Comments »

These 10 tips can help you achieve or regain good mental health. Apply them to your life today!

1. Value Yourself ~ Realise that you are unique as an individual. Be confident of your abilities and resist the urge to underestimate yourself. Do your best, but don’t keep blaming yourself if you make some mistakes along the way. Instead, learn from your mistakes and move on.
2. Know Your Strengths and Limitations ~ All of us have our strengths and weaknesses. Recognising and accepting them can help build your confidence and self-esteem. Make a list of your strength and weaknesses. What are your skills and interests? What are the things you have difficulty with or make you feel frustrated when you carry them out? Ask your family and friends for their opinions of you. To get a clearer idea of yourself, include the qualities they mention in the list as well.
3. Stay Connected With Your Loves Ones ~ Develop and maintain strong and supportive relationships with your family and friends. Having people in our lives that we can rely on has an impact on our emotional wellbeing. Staying connected requires you to be open about your feelings with your loves ones. Whether it is to share a piece of good news or simply to tell them about your day, such openess strengthens the relationships you have with them. It also allows other people to become aware of what is bothering us.
4. Manage Your Time ~ Practice good time management to minimise stress and tension. Prioritise the tasks you need to do. Don’t waste time worrying about aspects of the project which cannot be changed or are beyond your control. In the mist of completing your tasks, do set aside time for yourself to do the things you enjoy, such as a carrying our a hobby or catching with friends.
5. Set Realistic Goal ~ Whether it is at work or at play, setting realistic goals can help keep your spirits up and motivate you to move forward. Even the most complicated task seems less ovewhelming when you break it down into smaller, more manageable steps.
6. Take Care Of Your Body ~ It is all to easy to neglect our body when we feel stressed or anxious. Being physically fit benefits your mental and emotional health as well.
7. Eat Healthily ~ A balanced diet is vital in helping us achieve goood mental health. Nutritional Immunology has given me the wisdom to choose eating wholesome foods (fruits, vegetables and grains) for my good health.
8. Get Active ~ regular exercise does not only keep our bodies fit, it also helps regulate our moods and make us feel better. Do any form of exercise or a sport you enjoy for 30 minutes a day, 5 or more days a week to keep yourself physically active and emotionally uplifted!
9. Get Enough Rest ~ Ensure you get enough sleep so you will feel well rested upon waking up. Stessful situations can seem more difficult to slove when you feel tired. In contrast, you will feel more equipped to handle challenging situations if you have had sufficient rest the night before.
10. Take Up A Hobby ~ Taking up a hobby or learning a new skill, such as playing a musical instrument, stimulates your mind. Such activities are also a welcome break from the daily demands you face at home and at work.

I believe practising these 10 simple tips will lead you quickly to good mental health easily and joyfully.

Article Source: Singapore Health Promotion Board

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Posted on April 15th, 2009 by Jacklyn
Filed under: Stress Management, Health Tips, Health Information, Nutrition, Healthy Lifestyle, Nutritional Immunology | 1 Comment »

At your next meal, you might want to eat more wholesome, calcium-rich foods. These plant foods are some of the best sources of calcium, which does more than just build bones and prevent osteoporosis.

Researchers think that calcium from wholesome foods may protect the body from cancer, by helping to prevent abnormal cell growth. For example, calcium can help to protect against colon cancer by preventing the growth of colon polyps, growths in the large intestine that are precursors to colon cancer.

In February 2009, a groundbreaking study about cancer prevention and calcium was published in the Archives of Internal Medicine. Scientists observed 492,810 people over 7 years, and found that those who consumed more calcium had less risk of colorectal cancer and other cancers of the digestive system.

Those who consumed the most calcium from their diets were the healthiest. The men who consumed the most calcium (1,530 milligrams daily) had a 16 percent lower risk of colon cancer than men who consumed the least calcium, while the women who consumed the most calcium (1,881 milligrams daily) benefitted by having 28 percent lower risk of colon cancer than women who consumed the least. This clearly shows that women have a lot more to benefit from calcium-rich foods!

The study stated that in order for calcium to have its protective effects, it should be
consumed from foods, not supplements. This is because the body needs other nutrients to aid absorption of calcium and to work with calcium to prevent diseases. The best nutrients come untouched in wholesome, natural forms—a principle of Nutritional Immunology. Such nutrients are packaged by Mother Nature so that they are safely and easily absorbed into the body.

With such benefits from calcium, it makes perfect sense to take stock of calcium-rich foods in your diet. For your daily calcium intake, try plant foods and herbs such as soy, pearl, broccoli, kale, walnuts and wakame. They are not only good sources of calcium, but also many other nutrients that the body needs for good health. Bon appétit!

References:
1. Linsey Tanner. Calcium Cuts Risk of Some Cancers. AOL News. 23 Feb 2009.
http://news.aol.com/health/article/calcium-cuts-risk-of-some-cancers/355261

2. Grau MV et al. Prolonged effect of calcium supplementation on risk of colorectal
adenomas in a randomized trial. J Natl Cancer Inst 2007 Jan 17; 99:129-36.

Article source from E.Excel website.

Posted on March 18th, 2009 by Jacklyn
Filed under: Wellness, Health Tips, Immune System, Health Information, Healthy Lifestyle, Nutrition, Nutritional Immunology | 2 Comments »

Fact: Genetic disorders are not always inherited. A child may have a genetic disorder that his parents do not have! How is this possible? Thanks to scientists, we now have answers.

What are genes?

A gene is a DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid) sequence that instructs a cell to make proteins, the building blocks of life. Genes are like computer commands: different genes tell cells to produce different proteins. There are 25,000 to 35,000 genes in the nucleus of every cell in the body, and they contain even more information than a dictionary!

All humans have the same basic set of genes. Half of a person’s genes are inherited from his father and the other half from his mother. They are attached to X and Y chromosomes. Females have two X chromosomes, while males have one X chromosome and one Y chromosome.

However, the story of our genes does not end there.   Read more…

Posted on March 17th, 2009 by Jacklyn
Filed under: Health Tips, Wellness, Immune System, Health Information, Nutritional Immunology | No Comments »

Imagine living in a world of darkness. Simply household chores may seem like a Herculean task. Losing one’s sight can indeed be a debilitating condition that affects a person physically, emotionally, mentally and even economically.

Our Windows to the World

The eyes capture light from their surroundings before transforming it into impulses that the brain interprets as images. They are extremely sensitive, and will not hesitate to swell, turn red, tear or itch to warn the body of the presence of foreign bodies or possible allergies. Containing potent lysozymes, tears secreted from the eyes disable invading pathogens to curb their entry into the body.

Turning A Blind Eye

For many of us, our job requires us to sit for many hours in front of the computer. This, plus poor television and reading habits can overtax the eyes, gradually leading to eye fatigue and worsening vision. Age is another factor contributing to a declining immune system that could lead to deteriorating vision.

Keep an Eye for these Common Eye Maladies:

Diabetic Retinopathy - An insidious disease that has little or no early warning signs. Exacerbated by diabetes, the accumulation of blood vessels in the retina.

Retinal Vein Occlusion - Due to blockage of the central or branch retinal vein, retinal vein occlusion causes swelling and leakage of blood fluids. In addition, abnormal blood vessel growth in the retina may lead to blindness from bleeding, scarring or retinal detachment.

Glaucoma - Glaucoma is a result of damage to the optic nerve, mostly caused by abnormally high pressure within the eye. There is some evidence showing that glaucoma may also be due to inappropriate destruction of healthy eye cells by a malfunctioning immune system.

Keratitis - Keratitis is the result of cornea inflammation due to bacterial or viral infection. Herpes simplex keratitis, a viral infection, is triggered by stress, excessive exposure to sunlight or a compromised immune system.

Cataracts - Affecting almost half of the people between the ages of 65 and 74, and about 70% of those over 75, cataracts are the clouding of the eye lens that can lead to impaired vision.

All is Not Lost

Poorer eye health may be inevitable with age but we need not throw in the towel just yet. To boost eye health, Nutritional Immunology encourages erecting an immune fortress through a nutritious diet rich in nutrients and antioxidants. A moderately active lifestyle can also help stave off other diseases that may aggravate eye ailments.

If you are in Singapore, there is a free talk on “Caring for your Eyes” this month:
13th February 2009, 1pm-2pm (Singapore time)
National University Hospital
5 Lower Kent Bridge Road
Health Education Hub
Main Building 1, Level 1
Registration: Free
Enquiry: (65) 67722184

Posted on February 10th, 2009 by Jacklyn
Filed under: Wellness, Health Tips, Immune System, Health Information, Healthy Lifestyle, Nutritional Immunology | No Comments »

www.Nutritional-Immunology.com Wishing all readers a wonderful prosperous new year!!!

Posted on December 30th, 2008 by Jacklyn
Filed under: Greetings, Wellness | 1 Comment »

Almost everyone I know could benefit from a better memory. From remembering shopping lists and not forgetting birthdays to national championships, everyone can be helped. There are several ways I have learned how to improve my memory.

1. Eat foods rich in Omega 3 - studies have shown that Omega 3 improves cognitive functioning. Once the brain has been drained of water, most of what is left is Omega 3.

2. Drink lots of water - Our brains are made up of 70% water, drink the recommended 2 litres a day.

3. Exercise regularly - Getting a good oxygen flow to the brain is essential. Pick an exercise plan based on your current level of fitness and start small. Please consult with your doctor before taking up any rigorous form of exercise.

4. Stimulate your brain - Give it a good workout. Sudoku/Kakuro or Brain Training for the Nintendo Wii are great for this.

5. Sleep well - studies show that sleeping helps trigger areas in the brain that lead to a better memory. Set a definite time to wake and only go to sleep when you are tired.

6. Learn the storyline memory system - say you have to pick eggs, milk and bread at the shop after work. Create a story in your mind linking all 3 and run through it a few times. Eg. you are cutting a freshly baked loaf of bread and the floor begins to shake, a huge egg comes in through the door, you defend yourself with a supersoaker watergun filled with milk. The crazier the better!

Tired of bad memory? Feel like you’ve tried everything else? Click Here! to learn how to think like Einstein and make money like Bill Gates.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Richard_Shelmerdine

Posted on October 21st, 2008 by Jacklyn
Filed under: Wellness, Health Tips, Nutrition, Sleep, Healthy Lifestyle, Nutritional Immunology | 3 Comments »

Dear friends,

I am sending this invitation out to all my friends who are keen to find out more about the science that have saved me from chronic medical threats and eventually, changed my life ~ Nutritional Immunology.

World renowned scientist and founder of Nutritional Immunology, Dr. Jau-Fei Chen, will be in Singapore to share personally her new research and teaching of Nutritional Immunology this coming Sunday 17th August 2008 in Singapore.

E.Excel International, which was founded by Dr. Chen in 1987 will be hosting this event to encourage more Singaporeans to come into contact with this powerful preventive and life-saving knowledge. Nutritional Immunology is a way of life where it teaches us how to prevent diseases & ageing through proper lifestyle, and through nourishing our immune system with the correct nutrients. It studies into the relationship between nutrition and the functioning of our immune system.

What is immune system? It is the Best Doctor in the world!

??? be there to see and hear from the horse’s mouth this very first hand knowledge tips on how to live young with good health, wealth and happiness from Nutritional Immunologist, Dr. Jau-Fei Chen!

When? — 17th August 2008 (Sunday)

Time? — 2.30pm – 4.30pm

Where? — Singapore Expo Hall 2 (Free shuttle bus from Singapore Expo MRT to Hall 2)

Cost? — FREE! My treat for the first 30 “YES! I’m coming”. (tickets are selling at $15 each)

Bonuses? —(1) Free tasting of E.Excel International Award Winning Signature product ~ Millennium (Cactus Juice)!
(2) Free testing of E.Excel International Award Winning skin care & cosmetic products ~ Elemente! (Exhibition from 11.30am to 6pm)

(Note: view both the Millennium & Elemente link in internet explorer broswer)

It’s too good to be missed, isn’t it? I am sposoring 10 pairs of tickets to friends who are keen to join me this Sunday. Do drop me a note in the comments box or email me and I will reserve tickets for you and your partner!

Posted on August 14th, 2008 by Jacklyn
Filed under: Health Tips, Immune System, Healthy Lifestyle, Nutritional Immunology | No Comments »

Agri-Food and Veterinary Authority (AVA) of Singapore published this year’s Food Safety Excellence Award recipient list last Friday 18th July 2008 on Singapore’s The Straits Times. For E.Excel International, this is definitely worth our celebration because our Singapore Manufacturing Plant, Extra Excellence Manufacturing (S) Pte Ltd, is awarded the Bronze Award! AVA Food Safety Excellence Bronze Award is awarded to “Food factories with “A” grading for consecutive 5 years.

The Food Safety Excellence Award recognizes excellence in food hygiene, sanitation and processing under the Food Factory Grading Scheme by Agri-Food and Veterinary Authority (AVA) of Singapore. This annual award presentation honors companies that have consistently maintained high standards of food safety.

Being conferred this honor spurs E.Excel International to continuously employ highly qualified researchers and cutting-edge technology to assure consumers of nutritious products of the highest safety standards. E.Excel International thanks all E.Excellers around the world for our untiring devotion in championing the company’s noble mission to see more people gain good health through the teaching of Nutritional Immunology.

Posted on July 27th, 2008 by Jacklyn
Filed under: News, Awards, Health Information, Nutritional Immunology | 1 Comment »

In the education of Nutritional Immunology, turning these 4 key habits into your daily lifestyle will lead you to a happy and healthy life.

1. Stable Emotion ~ “Don’t worry, be happy!” Do you know that everytime when we are very angry or stressed, our body will secret a hormone call corticosteroid which will suppress our immune system? Long term anxiety and restlessness will cause our immunity to fall rapidly and unable to work optimally. As we’ve discussed how our immune system can protect us and keep us healthy, now I think getting angry or stressed is too high a price to pay, don’t you agree?

2. Exercise ~ The benefits of exercise has been emphasized over and over again. Do not overlook how light and moderate exercise can help us too. Regular deep breathing and after-dinner walks not only keep our fitness, it keeps us in calm and joyous mood as well.

3. Quality Sleep and Rest ~ Everyone needs sleep. It is during sleep that our body cells can repair and rejuvenate themselves. Quality sleep does not mean sleeping for long hours. Have you experience feeling even more tired and zombie after sleeping for too long? Quality sleep is going into deep sleep without disturbance. Adult that sleep about 7-8 hours is more than good enough.

4. Healthy Diet ~ Many people has their own definitions when comes to healthy diet. To some, healthy diet means taking a lot of vitamin and mineral pills. To some, healthy diet means boiling some soups with animal parts or some expensive parts of rare species.. According to Nutritional-Immunology, healthy diet means nutrients deriving from the plant sources. In fact, we use the below 6 criteria to determine if the food is a safe source of nutrition:

(1) Plant source - Plants are high in antioxidants and phytonutrients which are very beneficial to our immune system. On the other hand, animal sources contain fats, hormones, cholesterol, animal protein and viruses which can be very harmful to us.

(2) Healthy Plants - Not all natural plants are healthy. Some plants have medicinal properties, some are very toxic and some are additive which we cannot use them in big quantities and long term.

(3) Wholesome Plants - Wholesome means not going through chemical processing.

(4) Varieties & Quantity - Choosing a variety of plant foods is also crucial for there is no particular plant that can accommodate all of our nutritional needs. Scientists say that we must consume at least 10 different types of plant foods daily for an adequate supply of nutrients.

(5) Power Nutrients - Power nutrients like phytochemicals, antioxidants and polysaccharides are essential in our diet to boost, strengthen and balance our immune system.

(6) Functional Foods that can help our immune system to repair any damage cells in our body.

Related Posts:

How Our Immune System Work?

Implementing Change in Unhealthy Eating Habits

10 Tips To Take Back Control Of Your Health And Get On The Path To Wellness

Nutritional Immunology in a few short videos

Ten Tips To Age Happily

Posted on July 6th, 2008 by Jacklyn
Filed under: Health Tips, Wellness, Nutrition, Nutritional Immunology | 4 Comments »