Equipping children to become environment champion

Equipping children to become environment champion

Friday, July 21, 2023

In today's rapidly changing world, it is important to instill a sense of environmental responsibility in the younger generation. Being conscious of the environment plays a pivotal role in shaping a sustainable future for the planet. By nurturing these values in children at an early age, they can be an inspired generation of eco-conscious individuals who will make a positive impact on the world around them.

But how exactly can children be taught to care for the environment? Here are some ways to help in this endeavor:

Lead by example

Children are highly perceptive and often emulate their other peoples' behavior, most especially their parents. By showcasing environmentally responsible actions in their own lives, such as recycling, conserving energy and reducing waste, parents become role models for their children.

Connect with nature

Encourage children to spend time outdoors and to explore the wonders of nature. By fostering a sense of awe and appreciation for the environment, children are more likely to develop a deep-rooted connection and feel motivated to protect it.

Educate through storytelling

Utilize storytelling as a powerful tool to impart knowledge and inspire environmental consciousness. Engage children with books, movies and interactive experiences that highlight the importance of caring for the environment and the impact of human actions.

Emphasize that all living things are connected

Parents should help children understand that every action has a ripple effect on the environment and all living beings. By teaching them about the delicate balance of ecosystems and the importance of preserving biodiversity, children develop a deep appreciation for life, and that no matter how small, every living thing plays a vital role in maintaining a healthy and thriving environment.

Collaborate with schools and communities

Engaging with schools and community organizations that promote environmental education can be another way to help children care for the planet. Let them participate in workshops, join environmental clubs, and support initiatives that raise awareness and encourage sustainable practices. Young as they are, children can be empowered to be change-makers and stewards of the environment.

Homegrown brand Philusa Corporation has long been a key advocate for sustainability, with the primary vision of delivering greener alternatives for many of their iconic brands such as Babyflo, where they have implemented biodegradable, recyclable, and other sustainable options for their products as well as campaigns calling for effective actions for the environment.

Through the launch of its new line of eco-friendly cotton buds, Babyflo strengthens its commitment to giving the best care for daily hygiene needs while caring for the environment. Babyflo Gentle Buds Eco-Friendly, the first Earth-minded cotton buds in the market, are made of 100% pure cotton tips, unbleached paper stems that come from responsibly managed forests, and biodegradable packaging.

Start your budding green lifestyle with Babyflo Gentle Buds Eco-Friendly, available in 400 and 200 tips in any Mercury Drug, Robinsons, Puregold, Metro Gaisano, and other retail stores nationwide and online.

To learn more about Babyflo’s products and initiatives, visit store.philusa.com.ph or follow @BabyfloPH on Facebook and Instagram.

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Experience Creative Play on Another Level with the Jollitown Puzzle House Jollibee Kids Meal!

Experience Creative Play on Another Level with the Jollitown Puzzle House Jollibee Kids Meal!

Kids are surely looking for a lot of different things to make their time at home and on the go way more enjoyable. Give them something fun, unique, creative, educational, and brain-stimulating with the NEW Jollibee Kids Meal – Jollitown Puzzle House. Creative play just got more interesting as you collect, assemble, and learn using the newest limited-edition toys, and help Jollibee and friends solve each puzzle and build the Jollitown Puzzle House.

Kids, and kids at heart, can collect and connect all five individual puzzle pieces together to build and assemble their own Jollitown Puzzle House. Each individual puzzle piece features Jollibee & Friends and offers uniquely fun and excitingly educational challenges.

Get a back-to-back jolly surprise with the Jollibee Puzzle Cube!

Learn letters and numbers with the Hetty Alphabet Puzzle!

Put shapes together with the Popo Block Puzzle!

Form creative images with the Twirlie Tangram Puzzle!

and activate the Yum’s Puzzle Gears to get it running!

Collect all 5 toys to build the Jollitown Puzzle House with your favorite Jollibee Kids Meal and let your kids learn as they play! Each toy is available with every purchase of:

Yumburger Solo (P100)

Yumburger w/ Pineapple Juice (P125)

Jolly Spaghetti Solo (P120)

Jolly Spaghetti w/ Pineapple Juice (P145)

1pc. Burger Steak Solo (P120)

1pc. Burger Steak w/ Pineapple Juice (P145)

1pc. Chickenjoy Solo (P142)

1pc. Chickenjoy w/ Pineapple Juice (P167)

Jollitown Puzzle House is only available from July 16 to September 30, 2023, so don’t miss your chance and collect and connect all five pieces!

Get your Jollibee Kids Meals in your nearest Jollibee branch or have them delivered through the Jollibee App, calling the #87000 hotline, foodpanda, or Grabfood.

For more info on Jollibee Kids Meals and other products, follow Jollibee on Facebook, and @jollibee on Twitter and Instagram.

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The Barbieheimer Fever is on!

The Barbieheimer Fever is on!

A big pink party and an epic movie exclusively await you at SM Cinema this July 19, as the much awaited movie Barbie takes you to the glamorous and perfect world of Barbieland, and a journey back in history with the critically acclaimed film Oppenheimer and be stunned by the chronicles of J. Robert Oppenheimer’s journey to end World War II with his creation is a measure of both his patriotism and his tragic intellect.

Oppenheimer was shot with specialized IMAX cameras, so get ready for an amazing SM Cinema IMAX movie experience. From the crystal clear images viewed from the best cinema screen in the country, to the clearest digital surround sound system, surely you can bomb out stress with this epic movie date. So get your pink outfits prepped and your notes ready for a Barbieheimer date.

BUY YOUR TICKETS NOW!

https://bit.ly/BarbieAtSMCinema

https://bit.ly/OppenheimerAtSMCinema

SM Cinema app

SM Cinema ticket booths

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4 easy tips to remember to have an unstoppable year

4 easy tips to remember to have an unstoppable year

These health tips can help Filipinos live their best life this 2023

One in five Filipinos has already booked international trips this 2023. Not only that, but 44% of Filipinos are planning to travel two to four times this year.[1] At the same time, the Department of Tourism (DOT) is targeting to have 4.8 million tourist arrivals in the country this year, twice the number of visitors in 2022.[2]

This means a lot of people will be going in and out of the country. We can expect more crowds and busier streets, especially during summer, which is one of the best times to travel because of the holidays and school vacations. If you are one of those looking to have an unstoppable year full of adventures, consider these four easy health tips:

Drink vitamins

Taking vitamins regularly can supplement a healthy diet and lifestyle.[3] This is especially true for people going on vacation, who need to boost their immunity before and during their trip. Immune-boosting supplements like vitamins C and D, zinc, and probiotics can be taken three to five days before a trip and during[4] to help travelers stay in tip-top shape.

Stay hydrated

Staying hydrated is important all year round. Getting enough water prevents infections, brings nutrients to cells, and ensures that organs are working optimally. Aside from these benefits, drinking the recommended amount of water each day is good for cognition, sleep quality, and mood.[5] The amount of water needed per day varies per individual, but for the healthy ones, the recommended amount of water that men should drink daily is 15.5 cups, and 11.5 cups for women.[6]

Drinking enough water before travel is recommended because flying can be dehydrating.[7] Airplanes are kept at 10 to 20% humidity, a lower rate compared to normal environments that range from 35 to 65%. Lower humidity leads to dehydration.[8]

Sleep well

Good sleep leads to improved health, mood, immune system, and brain performance.[9] Seven to nine hours of continuous sleep is needed to feel refreshed.[10] Maintain good sleep habits days before a flight to have enough energy for the trip.

Flying to countries with the same time zone or with just an hour or two difference is easy. When traveling across the world, it’s important to adjust to the day-night cycle at the destination.[11] Stay up with the locals when the arrival time is during the day and sleep at night.

Get vaccinated

Vacations expose travelers to diseases, so timely immunizations through vaccinations are crucial. The flu is one of the most common infectious diseases and it is contagious. Each infected person can spread the disease to one or two more people.[12]

Preventive healthcare is still the best protection since people can catch the flu at any time of the year. It’s also important to get a shot annually since flu vaccines change each year to match the current viruses.

Most of all, you wouldn’t want to miss all the fun you have planned for your trip if you get sick. Take it from GlaxoSmithKline Philippines' (GSK) latest flu disease awareness jingle, “But I Got the Flu[1] .” It’s a call to everyone to get your flu shots as soon as possible so you can be unstoppable - whether in having your best summer vacation yet, spending quality time with loved ones, or pursuing other passions in life - don’t let the flu stop you. All you need to do is consult your doctor to ensure that you’re in the right condition to do so.

“People are excited to make up for all the things that they missed at the height of the pandemic. Now that travel restrictions are looser and we can enjoy the best holiday destinations, it’s important to not let our guard down. We recommend that travelers take preventive measures so they can be unstoppable and enjoy their trips worry-free,” says Dr. Kevin Bautista, GSK Medical Affairs Manager.

[1] Revenge travel is real: 1 in 5 Filipinos have already booked an international holiday in 2023. (2022, Dec 20). Philstar Life, https://philstarlife.com/living/288666-2022-travel-trends-philippines. Accessed 08 Mar 2023.

[2] DOT raises 2023 target to 4.8 million visitors from abroad. Philippine Daily Inquirer. (2022, Dec 20). https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1707629/dot-targets-4-8-million-international-visitors-for-2023. Accessed 23 Jun 2023.

[3] The Truth About Supplements: 5 Things You Should Know. (2022, Mar 31). Penn Medicine, https://www.pennmedicine.org/updates/blogs/health-and-wellness/2020/february/the-truth-about-supplements. Accessed 08 Mar 2023.

[4] 5 Things You Should Do for Your Health Before Every Trip, According to a Doctor. (2022, Oct 13). Travel + Leisure, https://www.travelandleisure.com/health-tips-before-travel-according-to-a-doctor-6750420. Accessed 08 Mar 2023.

[5] The importance of hydration. (2017, Sep 28). Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health (HSPH), https://www.hsph.harvard.edu/news/hsph-in-the-news/the-importance-of-hydration/. Accessed 07 Mar 2023.

[6] How Much Water Should You Drink? (2023, May 22). Harvard Health Publishing. https://www.health.harvard.edu/staying-healthy/how-much-water-should-you-drink. Accessed 23 Jun 2023.

[7] 5 Things You Should Do for Your Health Before Every Trip, According to a Doctor. (2022, Oct 13). Travel + Leisure, https://www.travelandleisure.com/health-tips-before-travel-according-to-a-doctor-6750420. Accessed 07 Mar 2023.

[8] Why Flying Makes You So Dehydrated. (2018, Dec 14). Center for Family Medicine, https://centerforfamilymedicine.com/general-health/why-flying-makes-you-so-dehydrated. Accessed 08 Mar 2023.

[9] Good Sleep for Good Health. (2021, Apr). National Institutes of Health, https://newsinhealth.nih.gov/2021/04/good-sleep-good-health. Accessed 08 Mar 2023.

[10] What Is Healthy Sleep? (2022, Apr 29). Sleep Foundation, https://www.sleepfoundation.org/sleep-hygiene/what-is-healthy-sleep. Accessed 08 Mar 2023.

[11] Jet Lag and Sleep. (2022, Nov 3). Sleep Foundation, https://www.sleepfoundation.org/travel-and-sleep/jet-lag. Accessed 08 Mar 2023.

[12] Flu (Influenza). (2022, Oct 11). Cleveland Clinic, https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/4335-influenza-flu. Accessed 08 Mar 2023.

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Feeling gassy most of the time? 5 possible reasons why

Feeling gassy most of the time? 5 possible reasons why

MakatiMed shares how to get instant relief and find out when it’s just too much

Pass gas. Cut the cheese. Rip one. Break wind. No matter how many other ways there are to say “flatulence” or “farting,” there is no way you can say it without a blush and a giggle.

“Farting or the release of intestinal gas to the back passage or anus is a normal biological process of our digestive system. Farting occurs between 5 to 15 times a day, as the intestine produces anywhere from 500 to 2,000 ml. of gas daily,” notes Carlo M. Cornejo, MD, a gastroenterologist and Section Chief of Gastroenterology of the top hospital in the Philippines, Makati Medical Center (MakatiMed). “While some farts can be quiet, it’s usually the loud and smelly ones that are a huge cause for embarrassment—especially if you happen to pass gas in public.”

As relieving as it is to expel air down there, farting, particularly when done in excess, can be a cause for concern. MakatiMed enumerates the possible reasons why you break wind more than you should—and what you can do to keep it to a minimum.

You swallowed too much air

“Eating and drinking too fast, talking a lot, laughing heartily, chewing gum, sleeping especially if you suffer from sleep apnea, and even being anxious all make you swallow more air than usual. This accumulates in the digestive system, which leaves you bloated and triggers flatulence,” says Dr. Cornejo. To avoid feeling gassy, it is best to eat and drink slowly, try to consume smaller meals frequently, exercise regularly to help you sleep better and ease your anxiety, and be mindful of seemingly harmless acts like laughing or chewing gum.

It is because of what you eat or drink

High-fiber foods like beans, nuts, and cruciferous vegetables (broccoli, cabbage, Brussels sprouts); starchy foods like wheat, corn, and sweet potatoes; dried fruits like raisins and prunes; carbonated drinks; and if you are lactose-intolerant, cow’s milk and dairy products are all known to leaving you gassy. Dr. Cornejo suggests that you limit your intake of these foods and drinks or find equally nutritious alternatives if you really need to cut the wind.

You were prescribed medication

Antibiotics, laxatives, decongestants, anti-retrovirals, and medications for hypertension, depression, Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), and pain relief may cause you to experience some gassiness with an unpleasant smell, MakatiMed points out. “When you find yourself passing gas more than normal while taking these medicines or experiencing other side effects, let your doctor know soonest,” shares Dr. Cornejo.

You are mildly constipated

How often you move your bowel is on a case-to-case basis. For some, it’s once every other day; for others, three times daily. Ideally, it should be daily without pain and strain. “Regular bowel movement helps limit a buildup of gas-producing bacteria. Constipation or the inability to excrete waste can increase stomach gas and cause bloating and frequent flatulence,” states Dr. Cornejo. Add a moderate serving of fiber-rich foods to your diet, drink plenty of water, seek relief from over-the-counter medication, or sip a hot cup of stomach-soothing ginger tea to improve bowel movement.

You may have a health issue

What do diabetes, celiac disease, Crohn’s disease, gastroesophageal reflux disease, irritable bowel syndrome, ovarian cancer, and colon cancer all have in common? Excess gassiness or burping and farting more than 20 times a day is a symptom.

“Of course, it takes more than constant flatulence to confirm if you do have any of these or other conditions, so try not to jump the gun,” assures Dr. Cornejo. “See your health practitioner if your symptom is accompanied by other troubling signs like persistent abdominal pain, recurring diarrhea or constipation, a high fever and vomiting, blood in the stool, and unexplained weight loss.”

For more information, please contact the Gastroenterology & Endoscopy Center or reach out to any of our Gastroenterologists through MakatiMed On-Call at +632.88888 999, email mmc@makatimed.net.ph, or visit www.makatimed.net.ph. Follow @IamMakatiMed on Facebook and Twitter.

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HONOR Magic V2 announced as the world’s thinnest and lightest flagship foldable to date

HONOR Magic V2 announced as the world’s thinnest and lightest flagship foldable to date

HONOR has recently unveiled the world’s thinnest and lightest foldable phone along with HONOR Magic Pad 13, HONOR Watch 4, and HONOR Smart Screen 5.

HONOR, the leading global provider of smart devices, has recently unveiled a new generation of premium folding phones, commencing with the thinnest and lightest foldable HONOR Magic V2. HONOR redefined folding screen mobile phones with innovative technology that breaks boundaries and goes beyond the expectations of the developers. HONOR Magic V2 has achieved a closed thickness of 9.9mm.

In the process of thinning and lightening, the HONOR Magic V2 has kept its requirements high for product sturdiness and durability. The HONOR Magic V2 series is the world's first mobile phone that has passed the Swiss SGS high-reliability folding quality gold standard certification.

It can withstand 400,000 folding durability tests. Even after 200,000 foldings, the screen crease only changes by 36μm, equivalent to a hair, half the wire diameter. In addition, the external screen of the HONOR Magic V2 series is equipped with second-generation nano-ceramic glass, and its drop resistance performance is 30% higher than that of the previous generation of materials.

Multiple “firsts” in the screening industry

In addition to being as thin and light, the recently unveiled foldable phone has also achieved multiple “firsts” in the folding screen industry: it is the world’s first folding screen mobile phone that supports zero-risk dimming and eye protection with both internal and external screens.

The HONOR Magic V2 series attaches equal importance to the specifications and quality of the internal and external dual screens and has also brought a comprehensive evolution to the screen. Both internal and external dual screens support 3840Hz high-frequency PWM dimming, brighter and more eye-friendly. HONOR Magic V2 has also passed the TÜV Rheinland flicker-free certification, reaching Zero risk dimming eye protection level.

Both the internal and external screens of HONOR Magic V2 support the touch operation of the stylus and support quick and intelligent operation functions such as smart lasso, smart literacy, magnifying glass, cross-app color picking, pen shorthand, etc., making the function release of the stylus more convenient. Fully, let the creative inspiration jump at the tip of the pen.

The screen is equipped with the second-generation Snapdragon 8 leading-edge processor, a self-developed radio frequency enhancement chip, and a new generation of HONOR Qinghai Lake dual batteries with longer battery life.

The HONOR Magic V2 measures 9.9mm when folded, and 4.7mm when unfolded, making it jaw-droppingly thin and light

Superb Wide-screen Experience

Through the evolution of system capabilities, HONOR and its partners have jointly built a folding screen ecology, and carried out comprehensive large-screen adaptation and experience optimization, making the control easier, the adaptation more delicate, and the perception more intelligent. At the same time, HONOR Magic V2 supports a comprehensive split-screen mode, which can meet users' various needs for application screen ratio, primary and secondary allocation, and use sequence in various scenarios.

The newly optimized "one-step drag and drop" operation method can realize the free manipulation of the split-screen window, which significantly reduces the difficulty of getting started and operating the split-screen, making the interaction more comfortable and efficient.

HONOR Magic V2 has also added a multi-angle hovering function, which can be used in various application scenarios, including watching movies, conferences, music, shooting, office, etc., especially the hovering camera function, whether it is folded horizontally or vertically, you can enjoy the exclusive folding screen experience.

HONOR Magic V2

For the actual usage scenarios of folding screen mobile commerce, HONOR Magic V2 has also newly upgraded the HONOR document function, providing functions including smart collection, smart creation, global handwriting, and format conversion; the newly upgraded HONOR Notes can realize more powerful and intelligent Audio and video note recording; HONOR Magic V2 also supports the HONOR Parallel Space function for the first time, which not only allows work and life materials to be stored separately, data can be safely isolated, taking into account the convenience and privacy of work and life, but also enables independent parallel use of dual-space applications, as if putting a second mobile phone into the folding screen.

While pursuing a thin and light body, the HONOR Magic V2 series uses a new generation of Qinghai Lake dual batteries, with an average thickness of only 2.72mm. In the body space of a thin and light folding flagship, it has achieved a large capacity of up to 5000mAh.

More powerful HONOR devices

In addition to HONOR Magic V2, the tech brand launched HONOR Tablet MagicPad 13, HONOR Watch 4, HONOR Smart Screen 5, and other innovative full-scene new products at this new product launch conference.

HONOR Magic V2 is now officially released in China. It comes in two versions: 16GB+256GB and 16GB+512GB, priced at 8,999 yuan and 9,999 yuan, respectively. HONOR Magic V2 Ultimate Edition provides 16GB+1TB storage capacity, priced at 11,999 yuan.

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How Samsung is pushing the boundaries in the premium tablet market

How Samsung is pushing the boundaries in the premium tablet market

After Samsung Electronics introduced the Galaxy Tab in 2010, it revolutionized the way we work and play, especially in a world that is increasingly on the go. Thirteen years since the launch of the first Android tablet, Samsung is continuously taking productivity, creativity, and entertainment to new heights as the premium standard for tablets with each new Galaxy Tab S series.

Here's how the Galaxy Tab has evolved in eight generations

It all started when Samsung introduced the world’s first true Android tablet— the Galaxy Tab (7.0), in 2010. It has a compact and excellent build, first available in 7-inch, followed by 8.9-inch and 10.1-inch versions.

Coming off the success of its first tablet, Samsung slimmed down its Galaxy Note 10.1 in 2012. The S Pen was introduced as every Galaxy Tab’s partner in bringing forward multitasking and entertainment features. When removed from its slot, the tablet activates a taskbar with quick access to optimized S Pen apps – a precursor to Air Command, which has features such as setting icons, adding shortcuts, and screen writing.

It was in 2013 when Samsung unlocked another innovation: the easy-to-hold Galaxy Note 8-inch tablet with Smart Remote features, which allows users to control TVs and Blu-ray/DVD players. The following year, the Galaxy Tab Active came with a fresh design built for tough work, including a waterproof feature and the C Pen, the more durable version of the S Pen which can withstand a 1.2-meter drop with just its protective shell.

It was also in 2014 when Samsung unveiled its first premium line— Galaxy Tab S, available in 10.5-inch and 8.4-inch. It includes a high-end tablet with a Super AMOLED display and Galaxy Gifts, a partnership with 30 top mobile content service providers. Its successor, the Galaxy Tab S2, was released in 2015 to offer people premium and all-new displays with a 4:3 aspect ratio designed for reading articles, e-books, and surfing online content. Plus, it was pre-loaded with Microsoft Office to enhance users' productivity further.

2017 was likewise a worth-noting year with the Galaxy Tab S3 which has a 9.7-inch Super AMOLED display. Samsung included its renowned S Pen in its top-of-the-line tablet range, enabling special functions like PDF Annotation and professional-level drawing. It delivered superior video and gaming experiences, alongside its use as a productivity tool. Meanwhile, the Galaxy Book with its 10.6-inch TFT LCD version and 12-inch Super AMOLED version, delivered professionals enhanced computing power for work and play.

Come 2018, Samsung further powered its premium line with the availability of Samsung DeX on its Galaxy Tab S4, where users could have PC-like productivity and mobility of a tablet at once. It was also equipped with the 07mm S Pen which provided ease of writing. For an immersive entertainment experience, the tablet boasted a 10.5 Super AMOLED Display and four 1.2W speakers powered by AKG and Dolby Atmos sound technology.

Forwarding its ultra-light specs, Samsung launched its Tab S5e with the thinnest frame in 2019, weighing less than a pound with added features that could control connected devices with SmartThings, from lights and door locks to thermostats. The Galaxy Tab S6 was also released the same year, which sported another huge upgrade with 5G connectivity in early 2020, making it the world’s first 5G tablet.

Samsung redesigned as well the S Pen for more power and control, including a gesture function called S Pen Air actions to take selfies and videos quicker and command multimedia content. Meanwhile, the slim and lightweight modern-style Galaxy Tab S6 Lite launched in May 2020 has a crystal-clear screen that can turn into an expanded desktop workstation and send multiple windows to a Galaxy device of choice.

And in 2021, the Galaxy Tab S7, S7+, and the Galaxy Tab S7 FE entered the lineup with more extensive upgrades. Users can easily sync across Galaxy devices with Samsung Notes for seamless productivity, helping users master multitasking with wireless connectivity on the go. It also has a new “center stage” placement of its camera on a landscape view.

For its latest and most versatile innovation yet, Samsung created the biggest and boldest Galaxy tablets with a whopping 14.6-inch for its Galaxy Tab S8 Ultra, 12.4-inch for S8+ and 11-inch for the Galaxy S8 atop the fastest 4nm processor, and Armor Aluminum built for a more elegant and lightweight device experiences. And that’s not all! The newest S Pen has the most precise and lowest latency of 2.8ms, down from 5.6ms on the S7+, working seamlessly with the Galaxy device ecosystem and partners.

What’s next for the Galaxy Tab Series? You won’t be waiting long for the next Galaxy innovation

Come along on our journey to discover an all-new Galaxy as we showcase our latest technologies designed to open possibilities and transform lives.

Find out more by joining Samsung Electronics on July 26 as we host the very first Unpacked in Seoul, Korea. In this place, traditional culture and futuristic visions intersect to inspire global trends and game-changing innovation. The event will be streamed live on Samsung.com, Samsung Newsroom, and Samsung’s YouTube channel beginning at 7:00 p.m. Philippine Time, 8:00 p.m. KST, 7:00 a.m. ET, 4:00 a.m. PT, and 12:00 p.m. BST.

Be the first to know about what’s in store for the next Galaxy, plus get an exclusive voucher. Sign up now at Samsung Galaxy Unpacked 2023 https://www.samsung.com/ph/unpacked/ until July 26.

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Dengue Health Reminders

Dengue Health Reminders

Thursday, July 6, 2023

The dengue virus, also known as DENV, is a viral infection transmitted to humans through the bite of infected mosquitoes. Due to the frequent rainy seasons, the virus is commonly present in tropical and subtropical countries[1] like ours. To protect our communities from dengue, Watsons wants to raise the alarm on the severity of this infection and educate the public on the preventive measures against it.

The Philippines has an average of 185,008 cases of dengue over a five year period of 2012-2016, and an average death count of 732.[2] As of April 29, a total of 39,947 dengue cases were recorded in 2023. Compared to the same period in 2022, this number is 43% higher.[3] Children between ages 5 and 9 years old made up almost half of the fatalities in the 2019 Philippine dengue virus outbreak.[4]

Although there is no cure for dengue, the disease can be managed early[5] and there are many ways to prevent getting infected by it. Watsons recommends using products that will keep you and your family safe from mosquito bites. Since the virus originates from the bite of a dengue-carrying mosquito, it is also advisable to take preventive measures to keep mosquitoes away from your home. To keep you protected against dengue, here are some easy tips from Watsons that you can follow:

Remove standing water around your house where mosquitoes could lay eggs.[6] Cover and change the water in any storage containers. Make sure to repair any cracks or gaps in pipes or septic tanks.

Use an insect spray made to kill mosquitoes in areas where they rest. Mosquitoes rest in dark, humid areas like under patio furniture, carports, or garages.[7]

Prevent mosquitoes from entering your home by installing or repairing window and door screens. Do not leave doors propped open.[8]

The first line of defense against the dengue virus is boosting our immune system. Multivitamins such as Watsons Vitamin C + Zinc can help strengthen our body’s defense and heal wounds faster by protecting and keeping your cells healthy, and also maintaining healthy skin, blood vessels, and bones and cartilage.[9] Zinc also helps grow cells, build proteins, and heal damaged tissues.[10]

To also protect yourself from other potential disease-carrying insects, insect repellent lotions and patches provide a safe and skin-friendly repellant that you can have on your person. These work great for traveling or when you’re outside frequently.

Putting small drops of citronella essential oil around your home is a stylish and a more organic way to keep your home safe from disease-carrying insects. It’s also safe to apply on your skin!

After being exposed to harsh weather changes or when we work ourselves beyond what our body can handle, getting sick can’t be avoided. If you start getting headaches or body pains, or you’re starting to feel a fever setting in, Watsons Paracetamol is your friend.

The rainy season brings various illnesses so make sure you stock up on Watsons Ambroxol and some lozenges as well to combat colds and coughs. Ambroxol clears congestion in respiratory diseases because it thins down and breaks up phlegm.[11] Meanwhile, lozenges relieve sore throat, throat irritation, and also help with cough relief.[12]

Watsons offers more medicines, vitamins, and supplements that can help build immunity and maintain your health. You just need to listen to what your body needs and take a trip to your nearest Watsons branch. They have a wide selection of options and prices that suit your preferences. In the Watsons app, more discounts and exclusive offers are waiting for you! Download it on iOS and Android and have your items delivered to you, or you can pick them up from your desired branch. Don’t let the rainy season slow you down. With Watsons as your health partner, it’s easy to stay safe and protected from any illnesses, even if it’s as serious as dengue.

[1] Dengue and severe dengue. World Health Organization. https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/dengue-and-severe-dengue. Accessed June 8, 2023.

[2] Dengue. Republic of the Philippines Department of Health. https://doh.gov.ph/Health-Advisory/Dengue. Accessed June 8, 2023.

[3] Update on the Dengue situation in the Western Pacific Region. World Health Organization. https://cdn.who.int/media/docs/default-source/wpro---documents/emergency/surveillance/dengue/dengue_20230525.pdf?sfvrsn=b4a28654_62#:~:text=The%20cumulative%20number%20of%20dengue,9%20death%20cases%20in%202022. Accessed June 8, 2023.

[4] Why are children highly vulnerable to dengue infection? https://pjhrd.upm.edu.ph/index.php/main/article/view/697 Accessed June 8, 2023.

[5] Dengue. Republic of the Philippines Department of Health. https://doh.gov.ph/Health-Advisory/Dengue. Accessed June 8, 2023.

[6] Controlling Mosquitoes at Home. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/zika/prevention/controlling-mosquitoes-at-home.html. Accessed June 8, 2023.

[7] Controlling Mosquitoes at Home. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/zika/prevention/controlling-mosquitoes-at-home.html. Accessed June 8, 2023.

[8] Controlling Mosquitoes at Home. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/zika/prevention/controlling-mosquitoes-at-home.html. Accessed June 8, 2023.

[9] Vitamin C. National Health Service UK. https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/vitamins-and-minerals/vitamin-c/. Accessed on June 8, 2023

[10] Zinc. Harvard T.H. Chan. https://www.hsph.harvard.edu/nutritionsource/zinc/. Accessed on June 8, 2023.

[11] Ambroxol Hydrochloride. Drugs.com. https://www.drugs.com/ambroxol.html. Accessed on June 8, 2023.

[12] Throat Lozenges 32.5 Mg - Uses, Side Effects, and More. WebMD. https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-3867/throat-lozenges-mucous-membrane/details. Accessed on June 8, 2023.

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4 nutrients lacking in most Filipinos’ diets

4 nutrients lacking in most Filipinos’ diets

These And the easy ways to get them, according to MakatiMed

For a country hailed as the center of biodiversity and blessed with an abundance of fresh tropical fruits and vegetables, it is ironic that the Philippines has been grappling with the issue of undernutrition as far as we can remember. And we’re not just talking about the millions of children whose limited food choices at home have left them emaciated and small for their age. Even adults suffer from nutrient deficiencies too.

“While poverty is often thought to be the cause of micronutrient deficiencies, it’s also due to Filipinos’ overdependence on rice and lack of diversity in their diets,” says Maricar M. Esculto, RND, MD, Head of Nutrition & Dietetics Department of the top hospital in the Philippines, Makati Medical Center (MakatiMed). “Adults who think they can get by with a cup of instant noodle soup for lunch and a fast-food burger, fries, and soda for dinner every day are not getting the adequate vitamins and minerals needed for the human body to function optimally.”

At least 30 vitamins and minerals allow our body to do what it is supposed to do on the regular: digest food, repair injuries, flush out toxins, convert what we eat and drink into energy, and the like. “Without these vitamins and minerals, you disrupt your body’s metabolism, experience weakness, and increase your risk of disease,” Dr. Esculto points out. “A blood test can confirm if you are indeed lacking in specific nutrients. But also, be aware of symptoms you can see and feel. As soon as you can identify your particular nutrient deficiency, you can address it with a simple tweak in your diet.”

This Nutrition Month, MakatiMed cites Filipinos’ most common nutrition deficiencies and the simple ways to correct them:

Iron

Iron helps make hemoglobin that transports oxygen from the lungs to the rest of the body. Dr. Esculto says it also makes myoglobin, which supplies our muscles with oxygen. The recommended nutrient intake (RNI) per day of iron for the average adult male is 12mg. It can be as high as 28mg for adult women who have their period. Luckily, accessible foods like beef, liver, beans, legumes, fortified cereals, and whole and fortified grain products are rich sources of iron.

“A lack of iron could lead to anemia, a condition wherein the body doesn’t produce enough red blood cells. Note the fatigue, pale skin and lips, shortness of breath, heart palpitations, lightheadedness, and cold hands and feet. Women with anemia may experience premature delivery or maternal mortality,” shares Dr. Esculto.

Vitamin C

Vitamin C in many fruits and vegetables strengthens our immune system. A potent antioxidant, it may also aid in slowing the aging process. “A severe deficiency in Vitamin C makes us vulnerable to a host of diseases. Expect your skin to be dry and bruise easily, your gums to bleed, your joints to ache, your wounds to heal slowly, and your energy levels to nosedive,” notes Dr. Esculto.

Since the body does not produce or store Vitamin C, consuming it daily is a must. The RNI per day for adult males is 70mg and 60mg for adult females. Local favorites papaya, guava, calamansi, pineapple, and the nutrient-dense malunggay or moringa are all packed with Vitamin C.

Calcium

Often associated with bone and teeth health, calcium is also responsible for muscle contraction, transporting blood throughout the body, and helping nerves send messages to the brain and other body parts. “Nails that are brittle and bones that fracture easily are not the only symptoms of hypocalcemia or severe deficiency in calcium. Muscle cramps and spasm, numbness in the hands, feet, and face, and even depression, hallucinations, and confusion or memory loss have been observed among those with low levels of calcium,” explains Dr. Esculto.

Don’t like milk? Turn to cheese, yogurt, sardines, beans, lentils, nuts, and leafy green vegetables like kale and spinach to get your daily dose of calcium. The average adult, male or female, needs 750-800mg of calcium a day.

Iodine

Iodine helps produce thyroid hormones responsible for our growth and development, the optimum function of our brain and nervous system, modulation of the female reproductive system, and keeping our body temperature normal. “Goiter, or the swelling of the neck, results from a lack of iodine in the diet. So do maternal-related conditions like prenatal death and infant mortality. Pregnant women who lack adequate iodine in their system put their babies at risk for hearing impairment, cleft palate, and mental retardation,” says Dr. Esculto.

Seafood is an excellent source of iodine. So are dried fish and fresh seaweeds. Since 1995, the government has taken steps to address iodine deficiency and its effects. Republic Act No. 8172 or the ASIN Law, aims to put an end to disorders caused by iodine deficiency by mandating all salt producers and manufacturers to iodize their products.

For more information, please contact the Nutrition & Dietetics Department through MakatiMed On-Call at +632.88888 999, email mmc@makatimed.net.ph, or visit www.makatimed.net.ph. Follow @IamMakatiMed on Facebook and Twitter.

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Makati Medical Center Achieves Investors in People Gold Accreditation

Makati Medical Center Achieves Investors in People Gold Accreditation

Wednesday, June 28, 2023

Makati Medical Center (MakatiMed) has been recognized for its commitment to exceptional people management practices by achieving the Sixth Generation Investors in People (IiP) Gold Accreditation. MakatiMed is the first in the healthcare industry in the Philippines and the second only to be awarded Gold Status on its first assessment.

From the evaluation, MakatiMed proved that they are establishing connections with their people, providing abundant learning opportunities, comprehensive infrastructure that clarifies career paths, and recognition to appreciate their contributions. This determined MakatiMed as “Advanced” or “Established” in their practices, rating above the IiP average.

MakatiMed President and CEO Atty. Nenuca P. Almira expressed her gratitude and pride to all the employees for the received accreditation. She also stated her plans and aspirations for the hospital, “Because we strive to improve and continue to raise the bar higher, we strive for Platinum! We will keep working on areas that will further progress our leadership and people practices,” she said.

Being a hospital with a heart, MakatiMed’s attainment of the Investors in People Gold Accreditation reflects its dedication to nurturing its workforce and establishing a culture of excellence. The hospital's commitment to continuous improvement will undoubtedly contribute to elevating people management standards within the healthcare industry and across various sectors.

Based in the United Kingdom, Investors in People is awarded to organizations from all over the world that prioritize staff development to improve their business performance. There are four levels of accreditation: Accredited, Silver, Gold, and Platinum.

For more information, please contact MakatiMed On-Call at +632.88888 999, email mmc@makatimed.net.ph, or visit www.makatimed.net.ph. Follow @IamMakatiMed on Facebook and Twitter.

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