Harnessing Traditional Chinese Medicine in Vegan-Friendly Supplements
According to the Chinese, qi is an energy that is believed to circulate through the body via a network of channels called “meridians”. According to this theory, sickness can develop when there is a blockage or imbalance in the qi flow. Traditional Chinese medicine works on treatments based on the qi concept. Today, Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) remains a practice by Chinese doctors and it is still widely accepted in Singapore.80 percent of Singaporeans use TCM at least occasionally. Many combine TCM and Western treatments while seeking treatments for ailments. Animal items, particularly meat, are vital in TCM because they are said to strengthen the body’s Qi (life force), as well as nourish and warm the body and the blood. As a result, traditional Chinese medicine diets are not often vegan, despite the fact that, as research by Dr. T. Colin Campbell revealed in The China Study, rural China has historically relied almost exclusively on plant-based diets.A return to plant-based traditional Chinese medicineRakuten Insight conducted a poll on plant-based food consumption in Singapore and found that over 70% of Singaporeans between the ages of 16 and 34 have tried vegetarian or vegan alternatives to meat. Among those polled, 33% of those aged between 16 and 24 said they ate plant-based cuisine on a regular basis. The number of vegan events in Singapore has increased by over 100% since 2013, according to an interview with the vegan business publication Vegconomist.QN Wellness, Singapore’s largest full-range plant-based health supplement brand, recognises the rising popularity of both veganism and decided to develop a range of TCM products suited for vegans and vegetarians. Founded 20 years ago, QN Wellness developed locally made plant-based health products that are specially formulated with the highest quality natural ingredients to help with a variety of health concerns, including joint health, prostate health, colon health, metabolism, and quality sleep.The company has produced 10 supplements promoting general health, intestinal health, metabolism and sleep. Here are our top four favourites:Bone EssentialsIf you have needs to strengthen your bones, look to Bone Essentials to add longevity to your bones and joints. This product contains turmeric, aloe vera and plant-based calcium L-aspartate that is derived from yam. The L-aspartate is able to promote calcium absorption as it transports calcium directly to the bone.Turmeric is widely known to contain a lot of health benefits. In promoting bone health, turmeric improves bone and joint blood circulation and pain.Cool ManPhoto © QN WellnessQN Wellness has also come up with products for different genders, one of which is Cool Man. Cool Man seeks to boost masculine vigour and energy, through the use of herbs such as maca, morindae officinalis radix, epimedium, cynomorium, tongkat ali, lycium barbarum, and American ginseng. In particular, American ginseng is known to be good for improving one’s immunity and epimedium gives one that extra boost of energy to help you make it through the day.Two main components – Maca and Tongkat Ali – reduce menopausal symptoms and improve men’s energy levels, athletic performance, endurance, and motivation. They also maintain the health of the prostate and enhances one’s ability to sleep and remember details.Cool BeautyPhoto © QN WellnessAnother gender-specific product is Cool Beauty, targeted at improving health and beauty for females. Among the ingredients in this product are calcium L-aspartate, zinc lactate and radix puerariae isoflavonoid. The isoflavones are derived from arrowroot grown in the wild. The isoflavone content of the extract from wild arrowroot is notably high.Taken regularly, Cool Beauty will help to improve skin tone, stamina and mild menopause symptoms. Other benefits include improved sleep, more skin elasticity and more energy.Vision CarePhoto © QN WellnessSingaporeans have reported one of the highest rate of myopia among its people. Increased screen time in front of the computer and our mobile phones are doing nothing to help the situation either. Well, you might want to look to Vision Care to improve your eye health. This product contains ingredients with nutrients for improving eyesight, reducing eye fatigue and improving visual performance.Lutein is an antioxidant that helps regenerate retinal violets in retinal cells, protects eyes from light damage, protects vision, and relieves visual fatigue. Vision Care also contains β-carotene to remove free radicals, promote the metabolism of cells in the body, with anti-ultraviolet function, beauty, eye protection, anti-aging functions.There are also added vitamins in each capsule, such as Vitamin A for helping with dry eyes and corneal softening, and Vitamin B2 for reducing vision fatigue and improving eye epithelial tissue.Where to BuyThere are around 300 locations in Singapore where you can buy QN Wellness products, including traditional Chinese medicinal halls, Unity, and online marketplaces like Shopee, Lazada, and online at www.qnwellness.com. Enter the promotional code “QNS15” at checkout to enjoy an extra 15% off the total bill.
Boost Your Overall Health With ON Wellness Plant-based Supplements
People are increasingly turning to plant-based supplements, but what exactly are they? Plant-based supplements contain fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, spices, bark, flowers, leaves, and other botanical ingredients. The exact source will vary depending on which vitamin or mineral is needed.Since these supplements are 100% plant-based, they are gentler on the digestive system and are more likely to be absorbed by the body than synthetic supplements.
17 SCIENCE-BASED BENEFITS OF OMEGA-3 FATTY ACIDS
17 Science-Based Benefits of Omega-3 Fatty AcidsArticle credit to healthline.com. Omega-3 fatty acids are incredibly important.They have many powerful health benefits for your body and brain.In fact, few nutrients have been studied as thoroughly as omega-3 fatty acids.Here are 17 health benefits of omega-3 fatty acids that are supported by science.1. Omega-3s Can Fight Depression and AnxietyDepression is one of the most common mental disorders in the world.Symptoms include sadness, lethargy and a general loss of interest in life.Anxiety, also a common disorder, is characterized by constant worry and nervousness.Interestingly, studies indicate that people who consume omega-3s regularly are less likely to be depressed.What’s more, when people with depression or anxiety start taking omega-3 supplements, their symptoms improve.There are three types of omega-3 fatty acids: ALA, EPA and DHA. Of the three, EPA appears to be the best at fighting depression.One study even found EPA as effective against depression as a common antidepressant drug.SUMMARY: Omega-3 supplements may help prevent and treat depression and anxiety. EPA seems to be the most effective at fighting depression. 2. Omega-3s Can Improve Eye HealthDHA, a type of omega-3, is a major structural component of the retina of your eye.When you don’t get enough DHA, vision problems may arise.Interestingly, getting enough omega-3 is linked to a reduced risk of macular degeneration, one of the world’s leading causes of permanent eye damage and blindness.SUMMARY: An omega-3 fatty acid called DHA is a major structural component of your eyes’ retinas. It may help prevent macular degeneration, which can cause vision impairment and blindness.3. Omega-3s Can Promote Brain Health During Pregnancy and Early LifeOmega-3s are crucial for brain growth and development in infants.DHA accounts for 40% of the polyunsaturated fatty acids in your brain and 60% in the retina of your eye.Therefore, it’s no surprise that infants fed a DHA-fortified formula have better eyesight than infants fed a formula without it.Getting enough omega-3s during pregnancy is associated with numerous benefits for your child, including:Higher intelligenceBetter communication and social skillsFewer behavioural problemsDecreased risk of developmental delayDecreased risk of ADHD, autism and cerebral palsySUMMARY: Getting enough omega-3s during pregnancy and early life is crucial for your child’s development. Supplementing is linked to higher intelligence and a lower risk of several diseases.Article credit to healthline.com. 4. Omega-3s Can Improve Risk Factors for Heart DiseaseHeart attacks and strokes are the world’s leading causes of death.Decades ago, researchers observed that fish-eating communities had very low rates of these diseases. This was later linked to omega-3 consumption.Since then, omega-3 fatty acids have been tied to numerous benefits for heart health.These benefits address:Triglycerides: Omega-3s can cause a major reduction in triglycerides, usually in the range of 15–30%.Blood pressure: Omega-3s can reduce blood pressure levels in people with high blood pressure.“Good” HDL cholesterol: Omega-3s can raise “good” HDL cholesterol levels.Blood clots: Omega-3s can keep blood platelets from clumping together. This helps prevent the formation of harmful blood clots.Plaque: By keeping your arteries smooth and free from damage, omega-3s help prevent the plaque that can restrict and harden your arteries.Inflammation: Omega-3s reduce the production of some substances released during your body’s inflammatory response.For some people, omega-3scan also lower “bad” LDL cholesterol. However, evidence is mixed — some studies find increases in LDL.Despite these beneficial effects on heart disease risk factors, there is no convincing evidence that omega-3 supplements can prevent heart attacks or strokes. Many studies find no benefit.SUMMARY: Omega-3s improve numerous heart disease risk factors. However, omega-3 supplements do not seem to reduce your risk of heart attacks or strokes.5. Omega-3s Can Reduce Symptoms of ADHD in ChildrenAttention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a behavioral disorder characterized by inattention, hyperactivity and impulsivity.Several studies note that children with ADHD have lower blood levels of omega-3 fatty acids than their healthy peers.What’s more, numerous studies observe that omega-3 supplements can reduce the symptoms of ADHD.Omega-3s help improves inattention and task completion. They also decrease hyperactivity, impulsiveness, restlessness and aggression.Recently, researchers observed that fish oil supplements were one of the most promising treatments for ADHD.SUMMARY: Omega-3 supplements can reduce the symptoms of ADHD in children. They improve attention and reduce hyperactivity, impulsiveness and aggression.6. Omega-3s Can Reduce Symptoms of Metabolic SyndromeMetabolic syndrome is a collection of conditions.It includes central obesity — also known as belly fat — as well as high blood pressure, insulin resistance, high triglycerides and low “good” HDL cholesterol levels. It is a major public health concern because it increases your risk of many other illnesses, including heart disease and diabetes. Omega-3 fatty acids can improve insulin resistance, inflammation and heart disease risk factors in people with metabolic syndrome.SUMMARY: Omega-3s can have numerous benefits for people with metabolic syndrome. They can reduce insulin resistance, fight inflammation and improve several heart disease risk factors.Article credit to healthline.com. 7. Omega-3s CanFight InflammationInflammation is a natural response to infections and damage in your body. Therefore, it is vital for your health. However, inflammation sometimes persists for a long time, even without an infection or injury. This is called chronic — or long-term — inflammation. Long-term inflammation can contribute to almost every chronic Western illness, including heart disease and cancer.Notably, omega-3 fatty acids can reduce the production of molecules and substances linked to inflammation, such as inflammatory eicosanoids and cytokines.Studies have consistently observed a connection between higher omega-3 intake and reduced inflammation.SUMMARY: Omega-3s can reduce chronic inflammation, which can contribute to heart disease, cancer and various other diseases.8. Omega-3s Can Fight Autoimmune DiseasesIn autoimmune diseases, your immune system mistakes healthy cells for foreign cells and starts attacking them.Type 1 diabetes is one prime example, in which your immune system attacks the insulin-producing cells in your pancreas.Omega-3s can combat some of these diseases and may be especially important during early life.Studies show that getting enough omega-3sduring your first year of life is linked to a reduced risk of many autoimmune diseases, including type 1 diabetes, autoimmune diabetes and multiple sclerosis.Omega-3s also help treat lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, ulcerative colitis, Crohn’s disease and psoriasis.SUMMARY: Omega-3 fatty acids can help fight several autoimmune diseases, including type 1 diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, ulcerative colitis, Crohn’s disease and psoriasis.9. Omega-3s Can ImproveMental DisordersLow omega-3 levels have been reported in people with psychiatric disorders.Studies suggest that omega-3 supplements can reduce the frequency of mood swings and relapses in people with both schizophrenia and bipolar disorder.Supplementing with omega-3 fatty acids may also decrease violent behaviour.SUMMARY: People with mental disorders often have low blood levels of omega-3 fats. Improving omega-3 status seems to improve symptoms.10. Omega-3s Can Fight Age-Related Mental Decline and Alzeimer’s DiseaseA decline in brain function is one of the unavoidable consequences of aging.Several studies link higher omega-3intake to decreased age-related mental decline and a reduced risk of Alzheimer’s disease.One review of controlled studies suggests that omega-3 supplements may be beneficial at disease onset, when the symptoms of AD are very mild.Keep in mind that more research is needed on omega-3s and brain health.SUMMARY: Omega-3 fats may help prevent age-related mental decline and Alzheimer’s disease, but more research is needed.Article credit to healthline.com. 11. Omega-3s May Help Prevent CancerCancer is one of the leading causes of death in the Western world, and omega-3 fatty acids have long been claimed to reduce the risk of certain cancers.Interestingly, studies show that people who consume the most omega-3s have up to a 55% lower risk of colon cancer.Additionally, omega-3 consumption is linked to a reduced risk of prostate cancer in men and breast cancer in women. However, not all studies give the same results.SUMMARY: Omega-3 intake may decrease the risk of some types of cancer, including colon, prostate and breast cancer.12. Omega-3s Can Reduce Asthma in ChildrenAsthma is a chronic lung disease with symptoms like coughing, shortness of breath and wheezing.Severe asthma attacks can be very dangerous. They are caused by inflammation and swelling in the airways of your lungs.What’s more, asthma rates in the US have been rising over the past few decades.Several studies associate omega-3 consumption with a lower risk of asthma in children and young adults.SUMMARY: Omega-3 intake has been associated with a lower risk of asthma in both children and young adults.13. Omega-3s Can Reduce Fatin Your LiverNon-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is more common than you think.It has increased with the obesity epidemic to become the most common cause of chronic liver disease in the Western world.However, supplementing with omega-3 fatty acids effectively reduces liver fat and inflammation in people with NAFLD.SUMMARY: Omega-3 fatty acids reduce liver fat in people with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease.14. Omega-3s May Improve Bone and Joint HealthOsteoporosis and arthritis are two common disorders that affect your skeletal system.Studies indicate that omega-3s can improve bone strength by boosting the amount of calcium in your bones, which should lead to a reduced risk of osteoporosis.Omega-3s may also treat arthritis. Patients taking omega-3 supplements have reported reduced joint pain and increased grip strength.SUMMARY: Omega-3s may improve bone strength and joint health, potentially reducing your risk of osteoporosis and arthritis.Article credit to healthline.com. 15. Omega-3s Can Alleviate Menstrual PainMenstrual pain occurs in your lower abdomen and pelvis and often radiates to your lower back and thighs.It can significantly affect your quality of life.However, studies repeatedly prove that women who consume the most omega-3s have milder menstrual pain.One study even determined that an omega-3 supplement was more effective than ibuprofen in treating severe pain during menstruation.SUMMARY: Omega-3 fatty acids can reduce menstrual pain and may even be more effective than ibuprofen, an anti-inflammatory drug.16. Omega-3 Fatty Acids May Improve SleepGood sleep is one of the foundations of optimal health.Studies tie sleep deprivation to many diseases, including obesity, diabetes and depression.Low levels of omega-3 fatty acids are associated with sleep problems in children and obstructive sleep apnea in adults.Low levels of DHA are also linked to lower levels of the hormone melatonin, which helps you fall asleep.Studies in both children and adults reveal that supplementing with omega-3 increases the length and quality of sleep.SUMMARY: Omega-3 fatty acids — especially DHA — may improve the length and quality of your sleep.17. Omega-3 Fats Are Good For Your SkinDHA is a structural component of your skin. It is responsible for the health of cell membranes, which make up a large part of your skin.A healthy cell membrane results in soft, moist, supple and wrinkle-free skin.EPA also benefits your skin in several ways, including:Managing oil production and hydration of your skin.Preventing hyperkeratinization of hair follicles, which appears as the little red bumps often seen on upper arms.Reducing premature aging of your skin.Reducing the risk of acne.Omega-3s can also protect your skin from sun damage. EPA helps block the release of substances that eat away at the collagen in your skin after sun exposure.SUMMARY: Omega-3s can help keep your skin healthy, preventing premature aging and safeguarding against sun damage.The Bottom LineOmega-3 fatty acids are vital for optimal health.Getting them from whole foods — such as fatty fish two times per week — is the best way to ensure robust omega-3 intake.However, if you don’t eat a lot of fatty fish, then you may want to consider taking an omega-3 supplement.Article credit to healthline.com
THE IMPORTANCE OF PROSTATE HEALTH
THE IMPORTANCE OF PROSTATE HEALTHWhen men reach a certain age — between 40 and 50 years, depending on the individual’s risk factors — the importance of prostate health becomes a looming concern. At the same time, prostate screening is a dreaded test most men try to delay for as long as possible. Taking care of your prostate is the best way to minimize prostate problems at any age, and the earlier you do so, the less worried you’ll be when the time comes for you to have your prostate checked.The Function of the ProstateThe prostate is a walnut-shaped gland that is part of the male reproductive system, located below the bladder and partly surrounding the urethra (which carries urine from the bladder). The primary job of the prostate is to produce some of the fluid contained in semen.The prostate gland normally grows as men age. It can grow to the size of an apricot by age 40, and the size of a lemon by age 60. As it grows, it may put more pressure on the urethra, which can make it increasingly difficult to pee. In fact, most men dread this well-known symptom of an enlarged prostate, because it may also lead to a more serious diagnosis — like prostate cancer.Prostate ProblemsAn enlarged prostate, or benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), is a common occurrence as men age — about 8 out of 10 men develop BPH and 90% of men over the age of 80 will have it. It is not cancerous, but it is also not preventable. A family history of BPH increases the risk of developing the condition.Symptoms of an enlarged prostate include:• Difficulty starting to urinate• Having to pee more frequently, especially at night• Incomplete emptying of the bladder• Having the need to pee without the normal sensation of build-up in the bladder• Stopping and starting several times while urinating• Straining to get the pee flowingBPH rarely leads to serious problems, but it’s still important to go and see a doctor if you experience any of the above symptoms, as these could also indicate something else other than an enlarged prostate. A yearly prostate checkup may be required by your doctor if you are diagnosed with BPH. Some lifestyle changes may also be necessary; you may be prescribed medications if the symptoms bother you.Other prostate problems to watch out for:Prostate CancerProstate cancer is among the most common types of cancer. It typically affects men over the age of 50, and has a higher incidence among African-American and African men. Obesity or a history of prostate cancer or breast cancer in the family also increases the risk for this cancer.For some men, prostate cancer grows slowly and does not spread to other organs or cause serious harm. For others, especially African-American and African men, cancer can be more aggressive.Early detection is critical to successful treatment. Unfortunately, the early stages of prostate cancer normally do not present with any symptoms. When symptoms finally show up, cancer may already be at an advanced stage.Symptoms include:• Difficulty urinating• Weaker than normal urine flow• Blood in the urine• Blood in the semen• Erectile dysfunction• Unexplained weight loss• Bone painProstatitisThis is an infection or inflammation of the prostate. Developing prostatitis is a risk when a catheter or other medical instrument is inserted into the urethra. Sexually transmitted diseases may also cause it. Symptoms include:• Difficulty passing urine• Chills and fever• Sexual problemsTreatment for prostatitis typically involves antibiotics.It’s important to see a doctor as soon as possible if you experience any of the symptoms above.Because it is a common type of cancer and early detection is usually only possible through regular prostate checkups, most doctors recommend that men with a moderate or high risk for prostate cancer undergo prostate cancer screening every one or two years — depending on individual risk factors.How to Maintain a Healthy ProstateThere is no sure way to prevent BPH or prostate cancer; prostatitis, on the other hand, can be prevented by practising proper hygiene and safe sex.Doctors generally recommend that men with at least an average risk for prostate cancer take better care of their overall health through healthy lifestyle choices. There are also natural supplements that may be able to support prostate health, such as Prost-Aid, a plant-based supplement manufactured by QN Wellness.Adopting the following lifestyle habits may not only reduce your risk for prostate cancer but for other diseases as well.Maintain a healthy weight through a well-balanced dietBecause obesity is a risk factor for prostate cancer, controlling your weight by eating a healthy diet is important.Though there is little evidence that shows a high-fat diet may increase the risk for cancer, high-fat foods are known to contribute to obesity and other diseases. Aside from providing nutrients to keep you in tip-top shape, eating a lot of fruits and vegetables every day will also keep you fuller longer — and this will help you limit your intake of fatty foods and other unhealthy foods.Exercise regularlyMen with a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or higher have a higher risk for prostate cancer. Especially if you’re already overweight or obese, exercising for at least 30 minutes, at least three times a week can help get you back into shape or help you maintain a healthy weight. Keep in mind that it’s harder to lose excess weight than to keep it off, so it’s better to start exercising even if you’re still within your healthy weight range.Consider taking health supplementsLook for health supplements formulated with all-natural ingredients that are known to be beneficial for prostate health. If you are taking other medications, make sure to consult your doctor before starting any supplement to prevent any possible adverse reactions.Take charge of your health, stay healthy and maintain your prostate function with Prost-Aid today!Click here to buy now!
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