Free radicals are also known as reactive oxygen species and are produced by the metabolism of oxygen in the body. These free radicals generated after metabolism are unstable oxygen, which is more active than oxygen due to the lack of electrons. Free radicals are continuously circulating in the body, ready to attack and grab electrons from other normal cells to stabilize themselves.   Under normal circumstances, free radicals in the human body are also used to defend against diseases. When bacteria, moulds, and viruses invade the human body, the body’s immune system will be alerted. For example, phagocytes will be catalysed by related enzymes to generate superoxide free radicals to eliminate bacteria or infected cells. Therefore, free radicals must be kept within a certain range in the body, to avoid excessive damage. However, emerging technology at a rapid pace also affects the surrounding environment, causing more external factors to increase free radicals in the body, such as:     Once the free radicals in the body are excessive in large amounts and exceed the range of the body's normal defences, the "radicals chain reaction" occurs. For example, basic substances such as proteins, fats, and DNA are oxidized to become new free radicals, which then oxidize other cells. Such a vicious circle results in the gradual damage and deterioration of various organ functions in the human body. It accelerates aging and causes various diseases, such as: - Nervous system diseases such as memory deterioration, Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, multiple sclerosis Cardiovascular diseases such as ischemia, hypertension, congestive heart failure, atherosclerosis, cardiomyopathy Diabetes Lung failure Rheumatoid Arthritis Kidney failure Eye diseases - Toxaemia of pregnancy, intrauterine growth retardation, etc.   Although there are antioxidant defence mechanisms in the human body, the ability of the body to scavenge free radicals will be weakened with age. Therefore, we should develop good habits in our daily life, and avoid sources of free radicals to combat the harm caused by free radicals. Such as always staying positive mentally and physically and avoiding excessive stress and negative emotions. Eat more foods that are rich in antioxidants including vitamins A, C, E, lycopene, and curcumin to help to remove excess free radicals in the body.  

Oral cancer and pharyngeal cancer are among the top ten malignant tumours in the world, whereas the tumours often occur at the sites of the head and neck. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), its incidence will continue to rise over the next 70 years.   The mouth serves as the starting point for the digestive tract and respiratory tract. Oral cancers are cancers of the upper aerodigestive tract that generally occur in the lips, tongue, nose, throat, vocal cords, and part of the oesophagus and windpipe. Up to 70% of oral cancers are caused by oral lesions, such as persistent red or white patches in the mouth.   Are you at high risk of oral cancer?   1. Heavy-drinker and Smokers Cigarettes are the "root cause" of many cancers. Tobacco smoking is responsible for 90% of oral cancers. Alcohol acts as a solvent for carcinogens, facilitating the admission of carcinogens into the oral mucosa. Those who drank 3-4 alcoholic beverages a day had twice the risk of oral cancer compared to non-drinkers. Therefore, reducing tobacco and alcohol intake contribute significantly to the prevention of oral cancer.   2. People Who Often Chew Betel Nut Betel nut fibre is rough, long-term betel nut chewing will cause damage to the oral cavity, resulting in oral mucosal damage, and in severe cases, it will cause oral mucosal fibrosis and cause oral cancer. Although betel nut chewing is a common habit among South-East Asians, only a small minority of Indians, Malays, and Orang Asli chewed betel nut in Malaysia. However, studies have shown that having the habit of chewing betel could increase the risk of oral cancer by six times compared to someone who did not, while those who indulged in all three high-risk habits including smoking, alcohol consumption and betel nut chewing increase their risk of oral cancer by 22 times.   3. People who like spicy and hot food Consuming food or drink at high temperatures, especially above 70°C can easily get injured and cause a thermal burn of the oral mucosa. This is the reason that leads to a high incidence of oral cancer such as tongue cancer. Frequent exposure to high temperatures may impair oral wound healing. Therefore, let your food cool down before eating especially when you’re eating Malatang (spicy hot pot) or hot pot.   4. People with poor oral care Most oral cancer patients have poor oral care such as refusing to brush their teeth, ignoring their regular dental check-ups, and often suffering from poor oral hygiene and other diseases. They frequently suffer from long-term periodontal discomfort, which will lead to continuous inflammation in the oral cavity, resulting in impaired healing at the base of the tongue. This also leads to the occurrence of tongue cancer.   In short, tobacco, alcohol and betel nut chewing are the main risks for oral cancer. Reduce your risk by quitting smoke, limiting your alcohol intake and betel nut chewing habit. Take good care of your oral hygiene habits. Visit your dentist for regular screening and talk to your dentist immediately if you found any abnormalities.

The simple act of chewing food in your mouth helps to reduce the food particles into a size of readily swallowed. This could ensure you for smooth digestion and nutrient absorption. Therefore, healthy teeth and gums makes it easy for you to chew your food properly.   According to the National Oral Health Survey of Adults (NOHSA) 2010, 88.9% of adults in Malaysia had dental caries, also known as tooth decay or cavity which included treated and untreated dental caries. Generally, the initial stage of tooth decay occurs in the outermost enamel of the tooth. As enamel contains no nerve cells, it makes cavity initially asymptomatic, there is no apparent pain until very late and lastly resulting large cavities or dental infections.     3 MAIN Causes of Cavities   Eating Habit Food high in carbohydrates include rice, noodles, bread and desserts may have a direct effect on your teeth health as bacteria in the oral cavity rely on carbohydrate to thrive. They will be feed by these carbohydrate residues and makes acids, which wear down the tooth enamel and cause cavities.   Oral Cavity Condition Those teeth that are not aligned properly, impacted wisdom teeth, bacteria in the mouth and tooth decay formation time vary from person to person. Failure to clean teeth immediately after eating and drinking may lead to tooth decay.   Dry Mouth The plaques build up faster when the salivary flow decreases. Then, it turns food debris into acids. These acids will attack the outer surface of your tooth enamel and even damage your gums.       Ways to prevent tooth decay   Brush your teeth frequently Always brush your teeth with soft-bristle brush and toothpaste, must be the easiest way to keep your teeth clean and gum healthy.  It helps to remove food residues on the teeth, lower the risk of plaque growth, and maintain the good oral hygiene.   Limit sugary intake Sugars in food and drink often play a major role in the development of tooth decay. Limit sugary food and carbonated drinks and remember to brush your teeth after a time gap of 30 minutes to remove the acid produced by the bacteria in your oral cavity, to reduce tooth decay and sensitive teeth.   Reduce snacking frequency Saliva can help to neutralize acids and restore minerals loss from your teeth. If eating too often, acids will be produced constantly, and saliva may do not have enough time to neutralise your oral cavity, which causes the growth of bacteria and continuous mineral loss in the teeth. Thus, snack less and make sure to have your main meals on time with enough portions.       Keep Your Teeth Healthy and Strong with STOLLE WPC Toothpaste   STOLLE WPC Toothpaste contains unique patented STOLLE milk protein concentrate (MPC), which aids to fight plaque, protects teeth and gum health, and strengthen mucosal immunity. It helps to clean your teeth and freshen your oral breath, giving you and your family strong and healthy teeth all day long. Patented ingredient STOLLE MPC and awarded with worldwide patents in [Prevention of Tooth Decay] and [Anti-inflammatory] Contains immunoglobulins which aids to remove plaque and prevent cavities to keep your teeth healthy Contains anti-inflammatory factors which reduce gum inflammations to protect your gum health.   You deserve the best and healthiest smile! Click HERE for more information on WPC Toothpaste

  Unhealthy lifestyle is often the root of many chronic diseases and cancer. To prevent diseases and live a long, healthy life, here are some healthy habits and practices we can incorporated into our daily lifestyle.     1. Know your preferences   First, get to know yourself, your lifestyle choice and what works for you is important. While some may prefer a huge breakfast, some on the go would prefer a sandwich. Physical activities wise some may prefer outdoor activities, while some are gym buddies. Everyone have different lifestyle and choices. Identify what works for you the best, so that you are more likely to stick to it.     2. Keep healthy foods at home   The simplest step to eat healthily is to keep healthy food at home. Choose fresh fruits, vegetables and whole foods, such as whole grains, fish, chicken and legumes. While for snacks, nuts, baby carrots, strawberries and blueberries are great, healthy choice.     3. Eat plenty of vegetables daily   Vegetables is rich in fibre, vitamins and minerals, and is an important source of phytonutrients and antioxidants, which supports health and helps to lower the risk of chronic diseases. However, about 95% of Malaysian adults do not consume enough vegetables (and fruits) as recommended. Hence, one is recommended to consume more than three servings of vegetables daily, as recommended by Malaysian Dietary Guideline, and choose a wide variety of vegetables to obtain a wide array of nutrients.     4. Get active   Find physical activities you enjoy, whether it is yoga, pilates, dancing, to outdoor activities like jogging, swimming or hiking. Make time for exercise and engage in physical activity at least thrice a week, 30 minutes every session for great heath. This weekend, get moving with your family!     5. Cook meals at home   You are more likely to make healthier food choices and keep portions in check cooking your own meals at home, in contrary to eating outside meals, which are generally high in calorie, high fat and salt, and serve in large portion. When cooking meals at home, choose fresh ingredients, use healthier cooking methods and reduce the use of oil, salt and sugar.     6. Portion sizes matters   Eating an uncontrolled portion can cause overeating, thus overconsumption of calories, which can lead to obesity and raising the risk of diseases. The Malaysian Healthy Plate, introduced by the Ministry of Health Malaysia recommends filling a quarter of your plate with grains or starchy foods: rice, pasta and bread, another ¼ with protein foods: meat, dairy and legumes and the other ½ of the plate with fruits and vegetables.     7. Stay positive   Practice gratitude and enjoy your life, whether it is enjoying good food or a great workout session. Enjoy every moment and every step of the way and focus on how this healthy lifestyle positively impacts you.

  Stress has detrimental effects on your health, both physically and mentally. This includes weakening your body's defence system, making you more vulnerable to illnesses. Stressing out, when in the long term rises cortisol level in your body.   Cortisol is a primary stress hormone which functions to increase your blood pressure, blood sugar level and inhibit immune function when your body perceive stress.  While short term stress (such as intense strength training) can cause the release of some level of cortisol, it has minimal effect on the immune system. But stress, in the long term, can cause high level of cortisol in the body, which suppresses the immune system and slow down immune responses.   Hence, you tend to catch a cold or get sick easily after stressful events, such as studying for finals or working on huge projects. The imbalances of the immune system causes your body to be more easily attacked by bacteria and viruses, which lead to infections and illnesses. Moreover, studies have also found that high cortisol level in your body can also trigger allergy responses and even worsen symptoms.     Exercise for stress relief   Exercise is beneficial for both your physical and mental health. Studies have shown that regular exercise helps to relieve stress, increases endorphins hormone in your body and boost the immune system. However, not to exercise too much as it can stress your body and immune system. Hence, get the right amount of exercise with recommendation of at least three times per week and at least 30 minutes per session to boost immunity and mood.     Find hobbies you love   Do you know that hobbies help to relieve stress? Studies have found that people with hobbies tend to have lesser stress and are less likely to have low mood and depression. Hence, find hobbies you enjoy doing and make time for the activities you love, such as reading a good book, listening to music and drawing.     Stabilize your immune system   ImmNuPro, formulated with patented Immune Milk Protein Concentrate and β-Glucan, helps to stabilize and balance your immune system, reducing the harmful effects of stress.       ImmNuPro and been clinically proven to stabilize and balance immune system, regulate allergies, provide high-quality protein and maintain gut health, helping you maintain your best state of health at work and throughout your daily life.   Click here to read more about the product  

  Are you getting enough dietary fibre daily? According to Malaysia's Recommended Nutrient Intake, women and men are recommended to consume 25g and 38g of dietary fibre respectively per day. However, Malaysian adults don't meet the recommended needs, with an average of 19.2g dietary fibre intake per day. Fibre is a type of carbohydrate which the body cannot digest and is an essential nutrient needed by the body.   There are two types of dietary fibre, soluble fibre dissolves and forms a gel, which gives stool bulk. Soluble fibre can help reduce blood cholesterol level, reduce blood sugar and makes you feel full. Food sources of soluble fibre include apple, citrus fruits, beans and oats.   While insoluble fibre softens stool and helps to promote bowel movement and improve constipation. Food sources of insoluble fibre include whole-wheat grains, nuts, potatoes, cauliflower and green beans.   The benefits of eating the right amount of dietary fibre:   Weight management Improve constipation Feel fuller Reduce blood cholesterol level Stabilize blood sugar level Reduce risk of diabetes Reduce risk of colon cancer Reduce risk of breast cancer   Your ideal everyday high fibre curcumin drink   VigorPlus energy drink is formulated with high-purity curcumin and is packed with 7.4g fibre per serving. Simple and convenient to drink, VigorPlus helps to fight free radicals,  eliminate toxic waste in the body and reinvigorate your body's energy.     Encourages better absorption of nutrients Vigor Plus contains unique bioavailability enhancers added for better absorption   No sugar added Vigor Plus is made with a sugar-free formula to allow you to enjoy its great taste without adding sugar to your diet.   Paired with strong antioxidants to provide effective liver protection The combination of curcumin and antioxidants compounds effectively protects liver function, effectively reduce GOT and GPT, reducing inflammation and accelerating toxic elimination of live   Eliminates toxic waste and free radicals Improve the elimination of toxic waste and free radicals, boosting your overall vigor

  Have you been actively lately? Exercise regularly is proven to keep you healthy, improve your mood and is great for your brain health. It helps to keep your mind sharp, improve memory and thinking and delay brain aging.      Exercise increases your heart rate and pumps more blood to your brain. This promotes the growth of new brain cells, which helps to improve cognitive function involved in learning, memory and thinking and reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression.  For elderly, regular exercise benefits brain health and lowers risk of developing Alzheimer's disease.     A recent study shown that doing moderate aerobic exercises (walking, cycling etc.) regularly slows brain aging by 10 years. According to the researcher, regular aerobic exercises every week increases grey matter volume in the brain and improve brain function. From aerobic to anaerobic exercise (strength training, weightlifting etc.), physical activities in general improve your blood circulation, which benefits your brain health.     What's good for your heart is good for your head. This new year, start moving and get active with your family!

  Gum diseases are often overlooked. According to Malaysia's National Oral Healthy Survey of Adults, NOHSA (2010), about nine in every ten adults have some form of gum disease. It has surpassed cavities to become the main cause of tooth loss in adults.   More than just the appearance, losing your teeth can affect quality of life and lead to many consequences such as ineffective mastication, altered speech and loss of self confidence.     What causes gum disease?   Gum disease is often caused by poor brushing habits, this can cause long-term accumulation of dental plaques between teeth and around periodontal pockets and gum line. Other factors which can cause gum disease include:   Poor oral hygiene Smoking habit Diabetes Hormonal changes caused by pregnancy Uneven teeth Use of inappropriate dental appliances Weak immunity (caused by serious illnesses)   A study conducted on 450 Malaysian adults showed that 80% of the participants had at least one obvious symptom of gum disease, which include gum bleeding and swelling. However, only 1% of the participants are aware that they have gum problem.     Increases risk of chronic diseases   About 98.3% of Malaysians are lack of oral health knowledge. Besides affecting quality of life, gum disease is often linked to other health problems including heart attack, stroke and diabetes.   People often see gum bleeding after brushing teeth as normal situation. However, this is not to be neglected as it can be sign of gum disease. A check up is always advised to ensure early and proper treatment, preventing gum disease and tooth loss.     Get to know gum disease     Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is a serious infection of the soft tissues that supports your teeth, mainly caused by dental plaques. Plaque is a layer of bacteria which feed on the food residues, mainly carbohydrate in your mouth.   Poor oral hygiene can cause plaque to build up between teeth and around periodontal pockets and gum line. These plaques can produce acids in your mouth and cause tissue damage.   Early stage of gum disease can cause gum inflammations (gingivitis), characterized with bleeding and swelling. If not properly diagnosed or treated, it can eventually worsen and cause gum disease, which can damage tissues that hold your teeth in place and cause teeth to loosen or lead to tooth loss.   Keep Your Teeth Healthy and Strong with STOLLE WPC Toothpaste     STOLLE WPC Toothpaste contains unique patented STOLLE milk protein concentrate (MPC), which fights plaque, protects teeth and gum health, and strengthen mucosal immunity, while gently cleanses teeth and freshens breath, giving you and your family strong and healthy teeth all day long.   Patented ingredient STOLLE MPC awarded with worldwide patents in [Prevention of Tooth Decay] and [Anti-inflammatory] Contains immunoglobulins which remove plaque and prevent cavities, keeping your teeth healthy Contains anti-inflammatory factors which reduce gum inflammations, protecting your gum health   You deserve the best and healthiest smile!

  Protein is an essential nutrient that plays important role in the body. It is known as the basis of life and building blocks of the body, needed in all phases of life.     The Roles of Protein     Protein plays several important functions in the body, including the repair, growth and maintenance of skin, hair, nails, muscles tissues and bones. It is also involved in the synthesis of enzymes, hormones and antibodies.     Are You Getting Enough Protein?     However, modern people nowadays tend to not be getting enough protein due to imbalance diet. This can cause protein deficiency, which can lead to various health problems, including stunted growth in children, skin problems, muscle loss, increased risk of bone fracture, obesity and even increased risk of infections.   Watch out for these signs and symptoms of protein deficiency:     1. Gets tired easily   Not getting enough protein can lead to muscle loss and as a result, slow down your metabolism, making you feel tired and lack of energy.     2. Hair loss or brittle nails   Insufficient protein intake can cause hair thinning, hair loss and brittle nails as your body is not getting enough protein needed to maintain hair and nails.     3. Muscle weakness   Our muscles are the biggest reservoir of protein. Protein deficiency can cause our bodies to break down protein to meet other body needs. This can cause muscle weakness and overtime, increase the risk of sarcopenia.     4. Dry skin   Getting enough protein is essential to maintain skin health. Protein deficiency can cause dry and flaky skin, redness and depigmentation of the skin.     5. Weak immunity   Our bodies need protein to make antibodies. Not getting enough protein in the diet can affect antibodies synthesis, which can weaken our immune system and cause us to get sick easily and have higher risk of infection.     6. Slow wound healing   Protein deficiency contributes to slower wound healing as the body is unable to make enough protein responsible for wound healing, as well as reduced formation of collagen.     How Much Protein Should We Eat Per Day?     Protein intake varies from person to person, the amount you need depends on factors including age, body weight, muscle mass and activity levels. According to Malaysia Dietary Guidelines, protein is recommended to contribute to 10-20% of total caloric intake per day.   Healthy adults are recommended to consume 0.8g of protein per kg per day. For instance, a 50kg adult is recommended to consume 40g of protein per day.   While for athletes or those who are physically active, a daily protein intake of 1.2-1.5g of protein per kg is recommended. A higher protein intake is important to help build and repair muscles, as well as recovery from intense physical activity.   Getting enough protein from your diet is important for optimal health, so be sure to always get your daily dose of protein. Food that are great sources of protein include eggs, fish, meat, milk and dairy products and legumes.