Month: August 2014

Poor digestion 消化不良

The digestive system processes foods taken into the body and breaks it down to its useable components – carbohydrates, proteins, fats, vitamins and minerals. It also expels waste from the body. A diet with plenty of dietary fibre and water is essential to keep the digestive system functioning well. Running a poor digestive system for extended periods of time reduces overall nutritional intake leading to a multitude of other problems and can also cause cancers of the digestive system.

Fibre is found in whole grains, vegetables and fruit – essential to healthy gastrointestinal function. Leading health organisations recommend adults to consume 30-40 grams of dietary fibre per day, which is about 5-9 portions of fruits and vegetables. For urban populations, this is often not feasible and this is where supplements can assist.

Applied nutrition

It is often necessary to explore whether it is the intake of food or lack thereof that is the source of the problem. If the diet and lifestyle is changed for a particular condition but problems persist, then it may be useful to direct attention to the digestive system.

Chew food properly. Eat slower if you are a fast eater. Turn off all distractions when eating – this includes the TV, the phone and speaking too much. Avoid cold liquids and excess liquids when eating meals. Heat improves digestion generally.

Like a pipeline, you’ll need water. 8 glasses (250ml) is a good guideline, to be sipped throughout the day from morning to 7pm and not in large gulps.

Supplement Benefit Suggested Dosage
Vitamin B Helps metabolise sugars, fats and proteins to prevent the “food coma” 5x twice daily
Insoluble fiber Helps cleanse the colon by building bulk there and purging waste 1 tablet half an hour before each meal
Water-soluble fiber Helps maintain a probiotic-friendly environment and absorb excess sugars and oils Mix 1-2 sticks into some of your 8 glasses of water
Calcium + magnesium Regulates stomach and intestinal muscle activity 2x twice daily

Pneumonia 肺炎

Pneumonia is an inflammation of the lungs caused by an infection by bacteria, viruses or fungi. It can range from mild to severe depending on the type of organism causing it as well as age and underlying health.

Possible causes

Bacterial pneumonias tend to be the most common yet most serious cause of pneumonia in adults. Respiratory viruses are the most common cause of pneumonia in young children, peaking between the ages of 2 and 3. In some people, particularly the elderly and weak, bacterial pneumonia may follow influenza or even a common cold.

Many people contract pneumonia while staying in a hospital for other conditions. This tends to be more serious because the patient’s immune system is often impaired. In addition, there is a greater possibility of infection with antibiotic-resistant bacteria.

Applied nutrition

Generally to reduce inflammation, kill micro-organisms and repair the lungs.

Supplement Benefit Suggested Dosage
Garlic Protects against respiratory infections and destroys harmful bacteria 3x twice daily
Multi-carotene Enhances immunity and promotes repair of soft (lung) tissue 4x twice daily
Vitamin C Improve immune response and reduce inflammation FLUSH + 5x three times daily
Protein powder Tissue repair At least 2 scoops twice daily
Vitamin B Essential for production of antibodies, formation of red blood cells and healthy mucus membranes 3x twice daily
Fish oil or primrose oil Needed to build new lung tissue and reduce inflammation. Speeds recovery and boosts immunity As directed on label
Multivitamin, mineral and phytonutrients To supply essentials such as zinc, vitamin E, etc. to balance nutritional support As directed on label

Osteoporosis 骨質酥鬆

Osteoporosis is the loss of bone tissue resulting in thin, brittle bones that are prone to fracture. Peak bone mass is reached about age 35 for men and early 30s for women. Bone density decreases with age.

Maintaining adequate calcium intake along with physical activity will slow the process. For women, the menopausal years also pose a risk for developing osteoporosis and require increased calcium intake.

Applied nutrition

A diet that is low in calcium with a high intake of tea, coffee, soft drinks and alcohol with a lack of weight-bearing exercises will increase the risk of severe osteoporosis. Act to increase calcium intake and absorption and to also prevent arthritis risk.

High animal protein intake has been shown to reduce bone mass – as compared with people on vegetarian diets. Always strive to maximise plant protein intake to satisfy daily needs.

Supplement Benefit Suggested Dosage
Calcium + magnesium Necessary for maintaining strong bones Women under 50, men under 65: 2x twice daily. Else 4x twice daily
Glucosamine For bone and soft tissue development As directed on label
Double X Provides essential vitamin D, boron, copper, zinc and nutritional balance As directed on label
Protein powder protein and soy isoflavones promote bone mass At least two scoops, twice daily (40g total)
Vitamin B Provides strength to protein in bone tissue and promotes progesterone production 3x twice daily
Multi-carotene Strong antioxidant retards ageing process 2x twice daily
Vitamin C Important for collagen and connective tissue formation 4-6x twice daily

Migraines 頭疼

Migraines are a neurological disease and is the most common type of vascular headache. During an attack, the blood vessels in the brain dilate and then stimulate nerve endings nearby, causing (usually severe) pain.

Possible signs and symptoms

These attacks can last from 4 to 72 hours and are commonly accompanied by nausea. Migraines are an intense and disabling headache and can come with an upset stomach, hypersensitivity to light or sound.

Triggers

  • Different foods such as cheese, chocolate, wines or citrus fruits can cause the attacks.
  • Exercise, anxiety, stress, bright lights, loud noises, contraceptive pills and travel.
  • Some women experience attacks more frequently around the time of their menstrual periods.

Applied nutrition

Generally to reduce inflammation, stress and pain.

Supplement Benefit Suggested Dosage
Calcium + magnesium Minerals help to reduce pain and regulate muscular tone and transmit nerve impulses. Take liberally (up to 10) upon attack. Then 3x 3 times daily
Q10 Increases blood flow to the brain and improves circulation 2x twice daily
Fish oil or primrose oil Anti-inflammatory agents needed for brain, cells and for fat metabolism 2x twice daily
Vitamin B Needed for a healthy nervous system 3x twice daily
(Garlic) A potent detoxifier 3x twice daily
(Vitamin C) Helps produce anti-stress hormones and improve immunity. Helps calcium absorption 5x twice daily