Leon Lem

Therapeutic Effects on Essential Oils

2008-10-18T08:55:00.004+08:00

Below are the effects on common essential oils :

Angelica Oil : coughs, fevers, flatulence, indigestion

Aniseed Oil : Indigestion, coughs, bronchitis

Basil Oil : Gout, aches & pains, bronchitis, fatigue, colds, migraine headaches, anti-depressant

Bay Oil : Sprains, colds, flu, insomnia, rheumatism

Bergamot Oil : Fevers, acne, tension, wounds, coughs, stress, anti-depressant

Black Pepper Oil : Colds, aches & pains, influenza, flatulence, rheumatism, energizing

Camphor Oil : Coughs, colds, headaches, anti-depressant

Cardamon Oil : Nausea, coughs, headaches, aches, as a digestive and tonic

Carrot seed Oil : Gout, ulcers, flatulence, eczema, psoriasis, as a diuretic

Cedarwood Oil : Bronchitis, acne, arthritis, as a diuretic

Chamomile, German Oil : Nerves, migraines, acne, inflammations, insomnia, menstrual problems

Chamomile, Roman Oil : Nerves, migraines, acne, inflammation, insomnia, menstrual problems, dermatitis, eczema

Cinnamon bark Oil : Flu, rheumatism, warts, coughs, colds, viral infections

Citronella Oil : As an insecticide, deodorant, tonic, stimulant

Clary Sage Oil : Depression, nerves, sore throat, aches & pains, as a sedative

Clove bud Oil : Nausea, flatulence, bronchitis, arthritis, rheumatism, toothache, diarrhea, infections: as an analgesic and antiseptic

Coriander Oil : Indigestion, flu, fatigue, rheumatism, flatulence, nervousness, analgesic

Cypress Oil : Menopausal problems, circulatory conditions, rheumatism, colds, nervous tension, hemorrhoids, wounds, as an astringent

Eucalyptus Oil : Sore throat, cough, bronchitis, sinusitis, skin infections, ulcers, sores, rheumatism, aches & pains, as an antiseptic & anti-inflammatory

Fennel Oil : Digestive problems, menopausal problems, obesity, nausea, constipation, as a diuretic

Frankincense Oil : Sores, wounds, fevers, coughs, colds, stress, bronchitis, tension, laryngitis, nervous conditions, heals the spirit

Geranium Oil : depression, menstrual problems, diarrhea, diabetes, sores, neuralgia, bleeding, circulatory conditions, eczema, rejuvenate skin

Ginger Oil : Rheumatism, muscular aches & pains, sprains, broken bones, colds, nausea, diarrhea,warming, digestive disorders

Grapefruit Oil : Tonic, obesity, kidney and liver problems, migrains, tonic aid in drug withdrawal, depression

Hyssop Oil : Bruises, rheumatism, arthritis, coughs, colds, sore throat, viral infections, blood pressure, circulatory problems, nervous tension, asthma

Lavender Oil : Burns, inflammation, cuts, wounds, eczema, dermatitis, fainting, headaches, infections, bacterial conditions, sores, ulcers, acne, boils, asthma, arthritis

Lemon Oil : Sore throat, nervous conditions, blood pressure, digestive problems, gallstones, debility, fever, anxiety, as a tonic, astringent, antiseptic

Lemongrass Oil : Infections, headaches, sore throat, respiratory problems, fever, as a tonic, antiseptic, insect repellant

Lime Oil : Fevers, rheumatism, sore throat, headaches, anorexia, alcoholism, depression, anxiety, as an astringent, and tonic

Melissa(pure) Oil : Nervousness, bacterial infections, fungal infections, diarrhea, eczema, as a sedative and cardiac tonic

Myrrh Oil : Wounds, mouth ulcers, dermatitis, bacterial infections, bronchitis, diarrhea, fungal infections, candida

Neroil Oil : Depression, anxiety, diarrhea, nervous tension, menopausal problems, dermatitis, as a cardiac tonic

Orange, sweet Oil : Depression, anxiety, constipation, nervous conditions, muscular, spasm, as a tonic, sedative, antiseptic

Palmarosa Oil : Skin infections, antiseptic, anti-viral, prevents cross-infection

Parsley leaf Oil : Nervous conditions, kidney problems, menstrual problems, menopausal problems, as a sedative, diuretic

Patchouli Oil : Skin inflammations, fungal infections, acne, eczema, dandruff, as an antiseptic, anti-depressant, and insecticide

PeppermintOil : Inflammation, nausea, indigestion, fevers, flatulence, migraine headaches, liver problems, arthritis, as a stimulant

Pettigraine Oil : Anxiety, insomnia, depression, as an antiseptic, tonic, and aid to convalescence

Pine Oil : Bladder and kidney problems, rheumatism, respiratory problems, chest infections, colds, catarrh, sore throat, circulation problems, diuretic

Rosemary Oil : Gout, headaches, fatigue, rheumatism, skin infections, muscular aches and pains, dandruff, alopecia, obesity, spinal injuries, as a nerve stimulant

Sandalwood Oil : Acne, cystitis, menstrual problems, depression, wounds, fungal and bacterial infections, as a sedative

Spearmint Oil : Flatulence, Indigestion, Intestinal Cramps, Fevers, Nausea

Tea Tree Oil : Fungal Infections, viral and bacterial infections, colds, influenza, cold sores, warts, inflammation, acne, burns, candida

Thyme, red Oil : Bacterial infections, urinary infections, rheumatism, viral infections, lethargy, sores, wounds, as a stimulant and tonic, raise immunity

Vetiver Oil : Nervousness, insomnia, rheumatism, a muscular relaxant, antiseptic, tonic

Ylang Ylang Oil : Palpitations, anxiety, depression, high blood pressure, sedative

Hoya Kerrii Flowers

2008-07-05T10:36:00.016+08:00

I am proud of my hoya kerrii. It blooms non-stop. Keep it up, Hoya Kerrii!

Hoya Kerrii Blooms 2nd time

2008-06-28T07:30:00.000+08:00

It was 28 June 2008 Saturday early morning around 7am, when I took a look at my hoya kerrii, its flower petals started to open up altogether at once. Without further delay, I took out my camera and started snapping. Immediately after a while the sky was drizzling with rain and not long after the rain started falling heavily.

Upon downloading all my pictures onto my computer, I was surprised to found out that one of the pictures that I took, shows a water droplet as shown in the above picture. Maybe this water droplet is the morning dew where it gathered around the flower petals and upon opening up its petals, the water droplet slip through and drop.

Hoya Kerrii continues Blooming

2008-06-14T14:13:00.005+08:00

My Hoya Kerrii continues blooming after it blooms for the very 1st time which was about 1.5months.

Always Say "NO" to Suicide

2008-05-31T13:59:00.012+08:00

The objective of this article is to help as many people out of the darkness as possible.

Firstly, let me tell you this. If you are feeling suicidal, you are not alone. Countless people out there have the same feelings.

Normally people want to kill themselves for various reasons:

1. Failure in love
2. Betrayal
3. Depression
4. Mental torture from family
5. Bad debts
6. Self-pressure due to failure in life
7. External-pressure from close ones
8. Unable to forgive someone or ownself
9. Suffering from fatal disease
10. Hatred etc…the list is long and never ending

If you are suicidal, it is not because you want to die. In fact your body does not want to die. You just want to get rid of the pain that is torturing your brain. It is because you are not able to cope with a problem in life. If you dare to die, then why not give yourself a challenge which is "dare to live on". If you think that dying can give you relief, that is wrong. It does not, because when you die, there is no more feelings of relief anymore. It cannot take away the pain. The pain will stick to the soul forever after.

Do you know what you will experience after you commit suicide. From a layman's point of view, there seems to be nothing. But for those in the energy world, they will know the consequences. Once a person commit suicide, for example jumping off the building, although the body terminates, the soul does not. The soul will turn to become a spirit that sticks to the location and has to repeat the act of jumping off the building once a day for the rest of their life as a spirit. Can you imagine how torturing it could be for one to face the same experience of committing suicide forever.

There is practically no chance at all for the person to go to heaven or enjoy anymore happiness for the rest of their life as a soul. Even if they can stop the suffering by finding another victim to commit suicide at the same location later, they will not have a good reincarnation. They will experience bad karmic sufferings for many lives and it will be too hard to find a good path.

Therefore, suicide is not an answer to sufferings. Human are born with sufferings. The baby cries first thing when he sees the world. Therefore, everyone will have the same fate of suffering. And it is a matter of whether we are able to cope with the problem or not. Whether we want to amplify the feelings or lighten the feelings. Even though some problems may be big, but if we are able to finetune our heads to think of it as small, it will be small. And remember, if you compare the magnitude of your problem with others, yours will only be a small one relatively.

If one is suicidal, here are some simple yet effective recommendations:

1. Talk about the problem to your family, friends, strangers, psychiatrist and councellors or email to leontobefriend@gmail.com Find time even though your schedule is busy. You must not keep it in the heart. Even if you are guilty and you feel sorry, please say it out.

2. No one can provide you with a solution. Even yourself cannot give a solution. Then just leave it with no solution. Just learn to accept it, live as long as you could and naturally forget about the hardship.

3. Do not rush into committing suicide yet. Postpone the date. Say give yourself another few more months, there could be many things that could have changed your opinion. One falls into suicide motive because he or she is not awaken temporary. And the good thing is there is still some conscious part that does not want to die yet.

4. Move away from the place where it could remind you of the sufferings. Just move away and leave everything behind. Go faraway and one day when you are feeling stronger, you can always return to face the truth.

5. Go out and find new friends. Let new people enter your life with new beginnings and new energy. There are always more opportunities out there. Don't give up!

6. When one is feeling down, their energy points in their body (7 chakras) are imbalance. The aura around them is weak which is also the reason why they are suffering from defeat and bad luck. These energy points could be strengthen. Some seek for crystal healing. While, simple exercises could help too. You will be amazed how jogging or hiking can help to energize ones chakras without them knowing. Undoubtedly, one could also seek meditation as an excellent cure to suicide syndrome. Meditation is not related to any religion.

Don't Quit Yourself

2008-05-30T09:58:00.000+08:00

When things go wrong, as they sometimes will, when the road you're trudging seems all uphill, when the funds are low and the debts are high, and you want to smile but you have to sigh, when care is pressing you down a bit - rest if you must, but don't you quit.

Life is queer with its twists and turns. As everyone of us sometimes learns. And many a fellow turns about when he might have won had he stuck it out. Don't give up though the pace seems slow - you may succeed with another blow.

Often the goal is nearer than it seems to a faint and faltering man; often the struggler has given up when he might have captured the victor's cup; and he learned too late when the night came down, how close he was to the golden crown.

Success is failure turned inside out - the silver tint of the clouds of doubt, and when you never can tell how close you are, it may be near when it seems afar; so stick to the fight when you're hardest hit - it's when things seem worst, you must not quit.

Hoya Flower Blooming

2008-05-24T09:08:00.013+08:00

After growing for almost 1 year, my hoya kerrii plant has started to grow flower buds. I was overjoyed when the moment I saw a small stick growing out from the stem.

The flower buds took around 1 month to form into bigger buds before the flowers bloom.

The flowers takes 2 days to full bloom. The flowers smell milky.

It is worth to know that the flower shape is typical of hoya plants. Small, flat, star-shaped individual flowers are joined like ribs of an open umbrella to form a cluster that is attached to a spur (single stem) called the peduncle.

Each small flower is made up of two stars, one on top of the other. The so called bottom star (corolla) is larger in size than the upper centered star which is termed the 'corona'. Hoya kerrii has whitish corolla's and reddish corona's. The flowers are very beautiful, waxy, tough and long lasting. All hoya flowers have wonderful fragrances.

I have grown this original hoya kerrii into 3 pots.

I was not able to find out the actual name of this type of hoya plant that I have bought. This hoya plant also originates from Thailand.

The flowers keep blooming non-stop as there are alot of flower buds on the plant.

This is another hoya plant, Hoya Carnosa. This plant is a climbing or trailing perennial of the milkweed family. Trailing stems will climb counterclockwise around wire or other thin trellis-like structures. Stems will also trail from hanging baskets. Its leaves usually are creamy white margins and sometimes a pink tinge.

Illusion / Perception

2008-05-01T12:16:00.000+08:00

An illusion is a distortion of the senses, revealing how the brain normally organizes and interprets sensory stimulation. While illusions distort reality, they are generally shared by most people. Illusions may occur with more of the human sense than vision, but visual illusions, optical illusions, are the most well known and understood. The emphasis on visual illusions occurs because vision often dominates the other senses.

The above picture, Waterfall lithograph drawn by the Dutch artist M. C. Escher which was first printed in October, 1961. It shows an apparent paradox where water from the base of a waterfall appears to run downhill before reaching the top of the waterfall. This waterfall is impossible if you analyse by looking at the picture carefully a few more times.

The above Adelson's checker shadow illusion, checker shadow illusion and checker shadow is an optical illusion published by Edward H. Adelson, Professor of Vision Science at MIT in 1995.

The squares A and B on the illusion are the same color (or shade), although they seem to be different.

I chanced on the above pictures while I was surfing the internet and this reflected on me about a person's illusion and perception. In life, we need take a second and third thought before we can conclude everything upon the first sight. Sometimes, we see things differently and misinterpret the actual meanings.

Stuffed Toys

2008-05-01T12:00:00.000+08:00

These 2 stuffed toys are the presents given by a same friend of mine. I love the lamb and CJ 7 very much as my only favourites. After watching CJ 7 (长江七号), a Hong Kong science fiction - comedy film written, produced and directed by Stephen Chow, I mentioned to my friend that I took fantasy on the toy CJ 7. Just after 1 week, my friend bought it and gave to me.

Love

2008-04-18T09:20:00.000+08:00

One should not worry about love;

but to honour its coming with all one's heart.

Love doesn't make the world go round.

Love is what make the ride worthwhile.

You will find as you look back upon your life,

that moments when you really lived

are the moments when you have done things in the spirit of love.

No time of life is so beautiful as the early days of love,

when with every meeting, every glance,

one fetches something new home to rejoice over.

Being deeply loved by someone gives you strength;

loving someone deeply gives you courage.

Friendship : friend in need is a friend indeed

2008-04-12T21:58:00.000+08:00

Friendship is the best relation one can have ever in his entire life. Friendship is a lifetime bond, a divine affiliation and a loving emotion which do not seek inheritance. Friendship is a relation which we build after stepping into the mortal world. There is no blood relation in friendship, it is a relation that threads in hearts. Friendship cannot be explained in words. It is an intense feeling that buds in the heart of two friends. Friendship blooms from faith, love and respect built by two hearts that come close to each other with a feeling that they can share their joys and sorrows throughout their life. In the middle of a work day when your friend checks his mailbox or when he receives a SMS and he happens to find one of these: A cute friendship quote, a famous friendship quote, a funny friendship quote or true friendship quote, he is going to feel real good and would be reminded of you with fondness.

You don't need an occasion or reason to honor your friend or thank him or her for their support. You can pay a tribute to them at any point of day and by any means. Reciting to your friend some beautiful friendship quotes is one of the most soothing way to express yourself to your loving friend without saying much. Friendship is not about leading or following, it is simply being with each other to share each and every single moment of our lives. These simple words contain in themselves the entire beauty of friendship. Friendship quotes doesn't imply any scholarly line of statement, it can be woven into simple words with deep thoughts. You can recite friendship quotes of renowned poets to honor your friend but lining up your emotion in your own words is the most natural and loving manner of expression anytime.

Friendship quotes can denote varied emotions. It can be to inspire your friend when he or she is in blue, it can be a heartening note when your friend will head for a fresh challenge in life, it can be a consolatory note when your friend is in a state of despondency and it can also be a note of sweet nothing which can be addressed without any cause or event. Friendship quotes makes you feel loved through and through for being the person you are. Friendship is the most selfless bond one can share in his entire life. Friendship is the greatest gift that is not found in a store nor under a tree, but in the hearts of true friends.

Friendship quotes help you to speak those hearty words about your friend which you may not be able to describe in mere informal speech. A friend loves every bit of yours even if you bear devilish traits more than angelic ones. You can convey these thoughts of yours through friendship quotes. Good friendship quotes strike chords in nearly everyone's soul. Friendship quotes buy an everlasting smile on your friend's face, the moment he gets to hear or read it. Friendship quotes explain you the role of a friend in your life in a rhythmic pattern. It tells you that a friend is like a father who would scold you when you will do a mistake, a friend also acts as a mother who would embrace you when you are in deep sorrow, a friend will tease and play pranks on you like your sister, a friend is one who would shield your integrity and protect you from all odds just like your brother, in short, a friend is an embodiment of all worldly relations. A true friend is a depiction of every relation we are close to in our life with just a little difference that we possess those worldly relations by blood and friends are made by us. We choose our own friends and it's very important to make sure that they stay with us forever.

Friendship is a rare and precious commodity. If you have a friend, who truly understands you and accepts you despite your shortcomings, then you are the luckiest person in the world. Friendship quotes portray this expression in a beautiful rhyme gripped in few lines. Friendship quotes also determine the fact that a true friend walks in while the whole world walks out. True friendship means a single soul that dwells in two bodies. You can always count on true friends. They help you ride out every storm, they cheer you when you are down and they chide you when you are wrong. Sometimes you get so preoccupied with life's mundane troubles that you do not find the time to tell your friends how much they mean to you. It is when you can express you heart with the help of some really meaningful and sweet friendship quotes to your dearest friend. You can write these touching friendship quotes in your own words or might pick them up from any quotation books or internet. Writing it in your own makes the friendship quote all the more sensible and close to heart which your friend will feel as soon as you will read it out or embellish it with a cute gift of love and affection.

There is a very famous Latin friendship quote which states that's friend in need is a friend indeed? This friendship quote is very simple to sound but it reflects a deep thought which states that a friend who would stand by you all through and through in your worst times, he or she will be your true friend. Friendship doesn't mean sharing joys, having fun and then walking off when you are hurled into the depth of gloom. Friendship may sound to be only a monosyllabic word but it has an intense connotation weaved inside. It is a friend with whom you can share all your grief and joy resting your head on his or her shoulder. You can voice those words to your friend which you can never tell your parents. You tend to trust him or her more than any relation on this planet.

You can bestow your love and affection on your dearest friend by reciting some beautiful friendship quotes either crafted by yourself or you might as well pick some good stuffs from the works of poets. Friendship quotes define every emotion and are also created for every situation. Friendship quotes can be categorized as friendship love quotes, friendship inspirational quotes, friendship thank you quotes, friendship sorry quotes, best friend quotes, classic friendship quotes, true friendship quotes, forever friends quotes, friendship sayings and make friends quotes. True friendship quotes demonstrate the truth that a true friend would laugh at your jokes when they are not so funny and they will as well sympathize with your sorrows when they are not so harsh. There are million friendship quotes on true friends, that might be knitted with an array of words by the poets but all of them depicts only one meaning. You will get countless friendship quotes of all kinds on the internet. There is also a range of quotation book on all kinds of friendship quotes available in book stores from where you can always make your pick. If you prefer a personalized friendship quote, then you can always compose your thoughts and string them in a line or two. Friendship quotes customized by you is the best way to confer you feelings to your friend as they will have words of your heart. Sometimes, friendship quotes are also presented with small gifts to make it look more cute and endearing.

To sum up, friendship quotes are one of the most significant ways to confer one's feeling to his or her friend. Friendship quotes help you express how much you love and care for your friend. Friendship quotes makes it easier to confess your guilt and apologize if you have hurt your friend consciously or unconsciously any day. One friendship quote will speak volumes about your feelings that you want to convey to your friend and you can actually make use of it when words will fall short to define your emotions. http://www.123greetings.com

Always Create Your Own Dreams and Live Life to the Fullest

2008-04-08T21:04:00.000+08:00

Dreams can come true

if you take the time to think about what you want in life

Get to know yourself

Find out who you are

Choose your goals carefully

Be honest with yourself

Always believe in yourself

Find many interests and pursue them

Find out what is important to you

Find out what you are good at

Don't be afraid to make mistakes

Work hard to achieve successes

When things are not going right

Don't give up - just try harder

Give yourself freedom to try out new things

Laugh and have a good time

Open yourself up to love

Take part in the beauty of nature

Be appreciative of all that you have

Help those less fortunate than you

Work towards peace in the world

Live life to the fullest

Create your own dreams and follow them until there are a reality

Believe in Yourself, and Remember That Anything Is Possible

2008-04-06T20:32:00.000+08:00

Believe in what makes you feel good and what makes you happy.

Believe in the dreams you've always wanted to come true, and give them every chance to.

If you are willing to take the opportunities you are given and utilise the abilities you have, you will constantly fill your life with special moments and unforgettable times.

No one knows the mysteries of life or its ultimate meaning, but for those who are willing to believe in their dreams and in themselves, life is a precious gift in which anything is possible.

Success

2008-04-02T19:41:00.000+08:00

If you think you are beaten, you are,
If you think you are not, you don't.
If you like to win, but you think you can't.
It is almost certain you won't.

If you think you'll loss, you're lost.
For out of the world we find,

Success begins with a fellows will
It's all in the state of mind.

If you think you are outclassed, you are.
You've got to think high to rise,
You've got to be sure of yourself before,

You can ever win a prize.

Life battles don't always go
To the stronger or faster man,

But soon or later the man who wins,

is the man who thinks he can!

Enzymes

2008-03-29T13:27:00.000+08:00

“Enzymes are not just for digestion”.

”You are what you eat only” paints part of the nutritional picture. Nutrition occurs when the food you eat is digested efficiently so that the body can use the nutrients to build and maintain health at the cellular level. Efficient digestion can only take place in the presence of plentiful amounts of enzymes.

Conditions such as joint pain and gout can be a result of indigested proteins, fats and minerals that form uric acid crystals and get caught in the joints. Yeast or fungal growth can start with indigestion of food in the blood stream and can be compounded by white flour and sugar. Extreme fatigue may also be caused by the inability to digest proteins and fats, which cause blood to have improper circulation.

Enzymes like amylase, protease and lipase will digest carbohydrate, protein and fats respectively. Enzymes like bromelain, betaine hydrochloride, papain and pancreatin help to maintain healthy joints and circulation, besides the digestion of food and absorption of nutrients.
When food is not completely broken down in the intestines, it stays in the intestines to the colon where it feeds the bacteria. Bacteria digestion of food particles then causes gas, abdominal pain, and rumbling of the stomach and the production of haarmful toxins in the colon.

Eating raw fruits and vegetables are encouraged to help digestion. A descrease in intake of processed foods is recommended. Alternatively, enzyme supplements like a multi-enzyme formula or a bromelain, papain, betaine hydrochloride supplement should be used to prevent depletion of the body’s own enzymes.

Everyone can consume the best foods and take the most well balanced nutritional supplement, but if do not digest and absorb well, a less than optimal health will be enjoyed. More and more experts now agree that it’s not what you eat that counts, it is what you absorb!

Friendly Bacteria - Probiotics

2008-03-24T13:23:00.000+08:00

Can bacteria possibly be friendly when all lives that have been told they cause disease? Well, bad bacteria do cause problems, but there are many good strains that are essential to health. Of the numerous friendly bacteria that live in intestine, the most mentioned and discussed about are the Lactobacillus acidophilus, Lactobacillus bulgaricus, Bifidobacterium bifidum and Bifidobacterium infantis bacteria.

The beneficial actions of these friendly bacteria, also known as Probiotics (the opposite of “antibiotics”) include
- manufacturing B vitamins
- providing the enzyme lactase which allow digestion of milk or milk products
- enhancing digestion and nutrient absorption
- acting as an anti-carcinogenic factor with anti-tumor potential
- controlling and deactivating growth and activity if bad bacteria and viruses
- maintaining bowel function and elimination
- reducing ill effects of antibiotic and radiation therapies
- maintaining immune function
- helping in the development of young children’s gastrointestinal health

Increasing the population of friendly bacteria deters the growth and colonisation of potentially dangerous bacteria by blocking them attaching themselves in gut, effectively thwarting their existence.

There are many probiotics on the market, can choose between powdered and capsule forms. Check the label though to see that the product contain prominent bacteria, namely Lactobacillus acidophilus, Bifidobacterium bifidum and Lactobacillus bulgaricus.

Health professionals normally suggest taking one to two billin colony-forming units per dose. And it is better to take probiotic supplement before meal since stomach acid is usually lowest at that time. This aids the friendly bacteria in passing through the stomach and implanting in the intenstine.

Eating commerically-made yoghurt may not be an effective mean of obtaining friendly bacteria, due to the difficulty of ensuring bacterial stability and count.

Liver Aid

2008-03-21T13:19:00.000+08:00

Human liver is the most complex and important organ that metabolises and detoxifies everything that is consumed, breathed and absorbed through skin. It is often the “brain” of the physical body and oversees many of the other organs and glands.

Besides emtional stress, many scientists now consider modern stress hamrful to the nerves and immune systems, and especially the liver. This stress comes from an avalanche of toxins - pollutants, X-rays and all other forms of radiation, medications, alcohol, tobacco smoke, toxins in water or vapour absorbed during showering or bathing, excessive intake or poor quality fats, sweets and protein and many more. Most of these toxins produce cumulative side effects to the liver and liver functions.

Studies show that living in an industrial/technological society severely stresses the liver, and almost everyone has liver damage to some extent. As the symptoms of impaired liver function are very general, e.g. fatigue, digestive problems, constipation and allergies, liver damage is often quite severe before it is discovered. This is why it is best to regularly regenerate and strengthen the liver.

Some important nutrients for liver health include the essential amino acids, blood forming elements like vitamin B-12 and liver hydrolysate yielding important nucleosides and nucleotides which act directly on cell metabolism and act together with the essential amino acids to protect liver. Choline and inositol reduce fatty buildup in the liver. Cysteine has detoxifying properties and is useful for liver protection against alcohol abuse.

Arthritis & Rheumatism

2008-03-19T13:09:00.000+08:00

There is a difference between arthritis and rheumatism. Inflammatory pain from joint(s) is arthritis; and from tissues around the joints such as tendon, liagament, muscle or bone is rheumatism. These conditions have long been considered to be chronic, degenerative and incurable. Standard medical treatment consists of aspirin, corticosteroidsand other non-steroidal anti-flammatory drugs which alleviate pain. Unfortunately, long term use of these drugs cause side effects like risk of liver and kidney damage, and they exacerbate cartilage breakdown and inhibit the body’s natural repair mechanisms.

There are now several natural substances that may just change all these. While these natural substance sometimes takes lone to show results, but in the long run, they may be just as effective as conventional treatments without the side effects.

Glucosamine & Chondroitin : Both glucosamine sulfate and chondroitin sulfate belong to a class of compounds called glycosaminoglycans. Glucosamine furnishes the basic building block of mucopolysaccharides which is the integral components of synovial fluid that form the framework of bones, cartilage, nails, hair and skin. Increased amounts of glucosamine stimulates the activity of specialised cells called chondrocytes. These cells then build the framework of bone cartilage with mucopolysaccharides.

Chondroitin sulfate acts as bait, attracting fluid into the weblike cartilage that covers the bones of the joint. The fluid attracted into the cartilage provides shock absorption for surrounding bones and supplies nutrients to the cartilage, thus supporting its regeneration and growth. Joint cartilage does not possess a blood supply, so its nutritional needs must be met by the fluid surrounding the joint.

Supplemental sources of glucosamine is available in 3 forms : sulfate, hydrochloride and n-acetyl, but glucosamine sulfate has been studied the most. Chondroitin is available in animal tissues such as gristles around joints. Chondroitin works synergistically with glucosamine to prevent premature breakdown of cartilage and stimulate production of new cartilage.

MSM (mehylsulfonylmethane) : This has become popular as a pain reliever for those suffering from arthritis.

MSM is a highly bioavailable source of sulfur, which is one of the prevalent minerals in the body’s physical structure, including protein, collagen, glucosamine, hair, skin and nails. MSM is also the basis of many essential biochemicals and important enzymatic functions. MSM helps to ease inflammation and pain associated with arthritis. Sulfur makes cells more permeable which allows fluid and nutrients to flow more freely through the cell wall, removing toxins in the cell, reducing pain and inflammation and promoting tissue healing.

Besides relief of joint and muscle pain, allegy, parasitic and other inflammatory conditions also respond well to the addition of MSM.

CM (cetyl myristoleate) : It has 3 function capacities. It lubricates joints and muscles, making them soft and pliable. It also acts as an immune system modulator. This may be the reason it has been found to be effective in managing autoimmune diseases such as rheumatiod arthritis, systemic lupus and multiple sclerosis. It mediates inflammatory processes.

Bromelain : This enzyme is a mainstay for treating muscle injuries, but its anti-inflammatory actions also ease arthritic pain. Bromelain breaks down scar tissue, reduces water retention and blocks inflammation.

Bamboosil : This is well known for its high content in silica which helps support and remineralises the bones.

Antioxidants : These are nutrients that stabilise free radials. Free radicals are highly unstable molecules that attack tissues, including joint tissues. Antioxidants prevent free-radical induced tissue damage and resulting inflammation.

Antioxiadnts include OPCs (oligomeric proanthocyanidins), vitamins A, C, E, Zinc, Selemium, etc.
Essential Fatty Acids : The joint inflammation is regulated in large part by essential fatty acids omega-3 and omega-6. While omega-3 fatty acids prevent the production of pro-inflammatory prostaglandin E2 (PGE2), omega-6 fatty acids help produce the beneficial prostaglandin E1 (PGE1). A balance intake of both omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids is necessary.

While many of the supplements mentioned above are beneficial in easing the pain and inflammation often associated with arthritis or rheumatism, their most important role lies in preventing these conditions. Neither arthritis nor rheumatism is inevitable. Daily supplementation of essential nutrients, as well as regular exercise and a healthy diet are integral to overall bone, joint and ligaments health.

Information on Sport Supplements

2008-03-09T12:15:00.000+08:00

With the increasing number of scientific breakthroughs and findings in the sports supplement industry, there are more and more products available in the market that seemed to cater to every different type of fitness-related needs. Today's consumers are faced with an extremely wide array and range of sports supplements to choose from. Being so spoilt for choice, it is no wonder that many people are confused over which kind of product to take to suit their own goals.

The following sections will give a clearer idea of which sport supplement is best suited for each individual fitness goal.

Creatine

2008-03-06T12:14:00.000+08:00

Benefits : Strength Gain; Endurance; Muscle Growth; Increased Muscle Recovery

When a body takes part in exercise, a compound in our cells called Adenosine Triphosphate (or ATP) is used to create energy for our working muscles. It releases one of its phosphate molecules to form Adenosine Diphosphate (ADP), and in the process, energy is released for use. Since a human body has a relatively low amount of ATP, it has to convert ADP back to ATP in order to repeat the energy-producing process.

Creatine speeds up this process by giving up its own phosphate molecule to ADP, thus increasing the rate of which ATP is reformed. This ATP is now ready to create energy again. More creatine in our muscles allows us to work out longer and harder, ultimately contributing to gain in strength and muscle size.

Creatine is a natural compound made in our bodies, and can also be found in dietary sources such as meat and fish. However, one has to eat a vast amount of such food in order to absorb a sufficient amount of creatine to make a difference in sports performance. Supplementation is a much easier and more convenient way to take in dietary creatine. Among its different types, Creatine Monohydrate is used extensively in university researches and sports applications.

Creatine Monohydrate is available in tablet, capsule, powder and liquid forms. It can also be bought in the form of a drink mix.

Protein Powders

2008-03-06T12:13:00.000+08:00

Benefits : Strength Gain; Muscle Growth; Better Definition & Cut; Increased Metabolic Rate

Protein, derived from the Greek word meaning "Of Prime Importance", is one of the three essential macronutrients needed by our body. Protein is seen as the building block of the human body, as it is used in the formation of contractile tissue or muscle. It also makes up a large part of our cell structure. In short, it is everywhere in our body. We need protein to rebuild our cells and to grow.

Exercise can deplete our protein stores, since our bodies are able to strip our muscle proteins as energy sources. Therefore, those seeking to put on lean bodyweight need to consume an adequate amount of protein to support their lifestyles and build up muscle mass.

Furthermore, ingesting protein can lead to an increased metabolic rate in individuals. Since protein is more metabolically active than carbohydrates or fats, the process of digesting it requires 30% more calories than either both macronutrients.

However, in today's fast-paced and hectic world, it can be quite hard for many to consume enough quality proteins during the course of a day. This is where protein supplementation comes to the rescue. Simply by mixing protein powder with water, milk, juice or any beverage of choice, one can easily increase the total daily amount of protein taken per day. This results in what is known as a 'positive nitrogen balance1, which facilitates in the building up of lean mass.

Protein powders, in general, are low in carbohydrates, and are derived from various sources. However, those that are derived from whey protein, which has shown to have a higher bioavailability then other protein sources such as milk, soy, or egg.

Meal Replacement Powders

2008-03-06T12:11:00.000+08:00

Benefits : Proper Nutrition Assurance; Muscle Growth; Strength Gain; Increased Metabolic Rate

Our body needs nutrients in order to grow. In general, the more calories we consume, the higher the growth rate. However, it can be quite hard and uncomfortable to consume so much food in just our regular three meals a day. Furthermore, studies have shown that nutrient absorption by the human body is greater if we were to split up our total daily calories over 4 to 6 smaller meals, rather than eating 3 big ones. Thus, our body is put in an anabolic (building) state due to constant influx of nutrients.

Unfortunately, with the busy lifestyle led by many of us, it is very inconvenient to actually prepare and eat 4 - 6 well-balanced meals throughout the day. There has got to be an easier way of getting meals that are nutrient-dense and high in protein without the inconvenience of cooking and preparation of food. Meal Replacement Powders, or MRPs for short, easily tackles this problem.

MRPs are just as their names imply. Mixed with any liquid of choice, they can be taken in replacement of one or two regular meals. This is a quick and hassle-free way of consuming small, frequent meals throughout the day.

MRPs, in general, contain an optimum macronutrient mix that puts the body in an anabolic state. They are high in protein (30 - 50 grams per serving depending on the brand), provide a medium amount of carbohydrates, and are low in fat. In addition, they provide high amounts of vitamins and essential minerals as well. Without the time & expense of counting calories and cooking food, MRPs are insurance towards proper nutrient intake, and are an invaluable aid for the fitness-seeking individuals.

Weight-Gain Powders

2008-03-06T12:09:00.000+08:00

Benefits : Muscle Growth; Weight Gain; Strength Gain; Proper Nutrition Assurance.

Individuals who are seeking to put on lean bodyweight quickly need to consume more calories than what is expanded by their bodies. This surplus of calories consumed usually would require a person to eat a lot more than usual in order to put on weight. However, it can be quite an arduous task to force so much food down the stomach, not to mention the gastronomical discomfort that would usually follow such feedings.

As a result, many people turn to weight-gain powders as a solution to providing their bodies with ample amounts of calories to facilitate muscle growth. Weight-gain powders, depending on product brand, can provide anywhere from 500 to over 2000 quality calories per serving. Mixed with milk or juice, these numbers can rise even higher! Providing high amounts of carbohydrates and protein with low amounts of fat, weight-gain powders is an easy way of ensuring your body has more than enough nutrients for it to grow. After all, it's easier to put in a large amount of calories in the form of a drink rather than eating so much solid food at one go.

Glutamine

2008-03-06T12:08:00.000+08:00

Benefits : Muscle Growth; Strength Gain; Increased Muscle Recovery; Anti-Catabolic (i.e. prevent muscle tissue from being broken down to produce energy).

Glutamine is the most abundant amino acid in the human body. Like other amino acids, glutamine plays a vital role in protein metabolism and muscle recovery by increasing protein synthesis and reducing muscle breakdown. The higher the amount of glutamine in muscle cells, the greater the rate of cell-production. Glutamine is not only utilized by muscle tissue, but also in large quantities by the immune system and by the digestive system as well. However, strenuous exercise can deplete glutamine levels in the human body faster than what we are able to reproduce. This leads to decreased gains in protein synthesis and a lower muscle growth rate.
Glutamine supplementation provides the body with ample amounts of this very important amino acid. Not only does glutamine prevent muscle breakdown, it also creates the proper environment for the body to produce more muscle cells. It shuttles in more fluids into the cells (a process called "cell-volumizing"), which acts as a powerful, anabolic signal for the body to build more proteins.

In short, glutamine is an often-ignored but essential supplement to aid in size and strength gains. It places the body in an optimum state for muscle growth, as well as protects the precious muscles that we have worked so hard for from being torn down for energy.

ZMA

2008-03-06T12:07:00.000+08:00

Benefits : Muscle Growth; Strength Gain; Increased Muscle Recovery; Better Skin Healing Power

ZMA is a unique patent-pending anabolic mineral support formula containing zinc-l-monomethionine, covalently-bound zinc/magnesium aspartate and vitamin B6. It is designed to optimize absorption and availability of zinc and magnesium during peak times of muscle growth and repair.

ZMA has been clinically proven to provide nutritional support for healthy levels of total and free testosterone in active individuals. This equals to an anabolic environment that results in a higher muscle growth rate, as well as a decrease in recovery time between exercise sessions. It also increases strength and power in athletes. Since ZMA is not a pro-hormone or a hormone precursor, it does not adversely affect blood hormone levels. Rather, it naturally supports the body's own anabolic hormone levels.

Zinc and Magnesium can be found in food sources such as oysters, wheat germ and beef liver. Taking ZMA supplementation as directed (usually before bedtime) can significantly increase muscle growth and strength in individuals.

HMB

2008-03-06T12:06:00.000+08:00

Benefits : Anti-Catabolic; Muscle Growth; Increased Muscle Recovery

HMB, which is short for "beta-hydroxy beta-methylbutyrate", is a metabolite of the amino acid, leucine. HMB is basically an anti-catabolic substance that is used for nitrogen retention in the body. It decreases muscle-protein turnover and works primarily by minimizing protein degradation. This means that HMB prevents muscle tissue breakdown that occurs during strenuous exercise.

Usually when an individual exercises longer or more intensely, muscle catabolism (breakdown) can occur. Thus, the positive gains made by stimulating the muscles can be thwarted by the potential damaging effects of exercising. HMB's anti-catabolic properties work against this by shifting the balance towards anabolic growth. This allows the athlete to work out harder or more often and still reap the due benefits.

HMB can be found in food that we eat, such as grapefruit, catfish and is very abundant in mother's milk. However, it is impractical to consume enough quantities of these food, if at all, and on a regular enough basis to provide the benefits of HMB. Supplementation is the easier and more convenient way to go.

Thermogenic Formulas

2008-03-06T12:05:00.000+08:00

Benefits : Fat Loss; Increased Metabolism; Appetite Control; More Energy

Thermogenics are substances that, when taken, raise the body's metabolic rate. It encourages the body to use body-fat as fuel by increasing the rate at which calories are burned to carry out vital functions. Not only do thermogenic supplements increase the amount of calories burnt during exercise, it also increases the body's basal metabolic rate. This means that more energy is used up by the body to carry out its normal routine functions, even when at rest.

Thermogenic supplements are usually made up of a formula of different fat-burning ingredients combined in specific ratios. Although each individual ingredient is effective in its own right in aiding fat loss, stacking them together would create a synergistic effect. Some of the more popular and effective ingredients are used in conjunction with a sensible diet and exercise plan, thermogenic supplements can give an added advantage when it comes to shedding body-fat.

Antioxidants

2008-03-06T11:22:00.000+08:00

Benefits : Muscle Recovery; Supports Immune Function; Less Bruising; Better Circulatory Health

Free radicals are by-products of cellular activities that can damage other cells or cause stress on the human body. This is especially true for athletes and physically active people. When we exercise, the amount of free radicals produced by our cells is very high. These free radicals attack other cells in our bodies and can cause fatigue, stress, and other damaging effects, which not only impair our performance and recovery rate but also weaken the immune system.

Antioxidants, in the form vitamin C, E, beta-carotene, selenium and glutathione are also very effective in countering the effects of free radicals.

Pine bark and grapseed extracts are a powerful form of antioxidant. The OPCs (oligomeric proanthocyanidins) in these extracts bind itself to collagen fibres in the body, thus improving the elasticity and integrity of your body's connective tissues. Not only does it protect your body from environmental stresses, but it works as an anti-inflammatory agent as well. Pine bark and grapseed extracts provide a wide range of health benefits, of which include the strengthening of blood vessels, overcoming inflammation, and improving joint flexibility. In this, it keeps the circulatory system fit and reduces the risks of circulatory and cardiovascular diseases. The fact that it maintains skin health comes as a welcome bonus.

A good antioxidant formula is an essential part of every active person's nutritional arsenal. Although it does not boast of any sensational athletic gains, it helps that the individual perform at his optimum level by preventing the negative effects of exercise.

General Knowledge : Vitmains and Minerals

2008-03-06T10:56:00.000+08:00

What are Vitamins and Minerals?

Vitamins and minerals are micronutrients essential to life, which is much needed in relatively small amounts, functioning as coenzymes in our body. They are the basic component of enzymes which are vital for all our bodily functions.

In addition, vitamins and minerals have other functions. For example, vitamin E acts as an antioxidant; calcium, magnesium and phosphorus form our bones, and vitamin D regulates the absorption and use of calcium and phosphorus, aiding in the formation of normal bones and teeth.

Vitamins are distinguished as being water-soluble or fat-soluble. Water-soluble vitamins, namely the B vitamins and vitamin C are utilized' by the body once they are absorbed and must be replenished regularly. Fat-soluble vitamins A, D, E and K, on the other hand, stay in the body for a longer period of time.

Minerals may be classified into two groups: bulk minerals and trace minerals. Bulk minerals are needed in larger amounts and they include calcium, magnesium and phosphorus; the trace minerals are zinc, iron, copper, manganese, chromium, selenium, iodine and potassium, which are stored primarily in bone and muscle tissue.

Information on Minerals

2008-03-05T10:06:00.000+08:00

Calcium
Sources :
Milk, yogurt, cheese, legumes, seeds, bones and bone soups, calcium-fortified foods such as tofu, orange juice and soymilk.

Importance :
Formation and maintenance of bones and teeth. Assists in normal blood clotting,muscle action, nerve and heart function.

Nutrient Destroyers :
Absorption inbited by stress, lack of exercise, magnesium deficiency, lack of hydrochloric acid, diuretics.

Deficiency Symptoms :
Softening of bones, brittle bones, back and leg pain, insomnia, irritability, depression.

Chromium
Sources :
Whole grains, brewer's yeast, cheese, meats, dark green leafy vegetables.

Importance :
Carbohydrate metabolism and glucose tolerance. Increases effectiveness of insulin. Stimulates enzymes in metabolism of energy.

Nutrient Destroyers :
Level decreases as age increases.

Deficiency Symptoms :
Depressed growth rate, glucose intolerance in diabetics, atherosclerosis.

Copper
Sources :
Organ meats, whole grains, nuts, legumes, egg yolk, seafood, mushrooms, blackstrap molasses.

Importance :
Formation of connective tissue and hemoglobin. Aids absorption & transportation of iron. Works with vitamin C to form elastin. Part of many enzymes.

Nutrient Destroyers :
Absorption inhibited by excessive zinc.

Deficiency Symptoms :
General weakness, impaired respiration and skin sores.

Iron
Sources :
Blackstrap molasses, raisins, apricots, sunflower seeds, wheat germ, parsley, liver, eggs, red meat.

Importance :
Hemoglobin formation. Protein metabolism. Promotes growth, resistance to disease, improves energy level and condition of teeth, skin, nails and bones.

Nutrient Destroyers :
Absorption inhibited by caffeine, excessive phosphorus or zinc.

Deficiency Symptoms :
Fatigue, anemia, paleness, brittle nails, constipation,difficulty in breathing.

Iodine
Sources :
Seafood, seaweed, iodized salt.

Importance :
Involved in energy generation and basal metabolism. An important component of the hormone, thyroxine. Necessary for the prevention of goiter. Contributes to healthy hair, skin, nails and teeth.

Nutrient Destroyers :
Absorption inhibited by food processing.

Deficiency Symptoms :
Thyroid disorders, obesity, goiter, irritability, nervousness, dry hair, cold hands and feet.

Magnesium
Sources :
Nuts, dark green leafy vegetables, legumes, whole grains,seafood.

Importance :
Catalyst in utilization of carbohydrates, fats, proteins,calcium,phosphorus and potassium. Essential for energy generation, muscle contraction, bones and teeth formation.

Nutrient Destroyers :
Absorption inhibited by diuretics and alcohol.

Deficiency Symptoms :
Nervousness, tremors, mental confusion, irritability and depression.

Manganese
Sources :
Wholes grains, nuts, vegetables,fruits.

Importance :
Involved in normal skeletal development. Maintains sex hormone production. Needed for synthesis of mucopolysaccharide for formation of cartilage.

Nutrient Destroyers :
Absorption inhibited by excessive phosphorus and calcium.

Deficiency Symptoms :
Convulsions, dizziness and loss of hearing.

Potassium
Sources :
Vegetables,tubers,fruits (especially bananas).

Importance :
Maintains cellular pH and fluid balance. Important for muscle functions. Regulates heartbeat, nerve and kidney functions.

Nutrient Destroyers :
Absorption inhibited by sugar, caffeine, diuretics, laxatives, stress, alcohol and cortisone.

Deficiency Symptoms :
Poor reflexes, nervous disorders, irregular pulse, constipation, general weakness and insomnia.

Phosphorus
Sources :
Organ meats, meats,fish, milk, cheese, whole grains, legumes (peas), seeds, nuts.

Importance :
Works with calcium to build bones and teeth. Utilizes carbohydrates, fats and proteins. Involved in energy generation and muscle contraction.

Nutrient Destroyers :
Absorption inhibited by sugar,excessive intake of magnesium, aluminum and iron.

Deficiency Symptoms :
Loss of weight and appetite. Irregular breathing, fatigue and nervous disorders.

Germanium
Sources :
All organic material, of both plants and animals origin. Broccoli, celery,garlic,shiitake mushroom, milk, onions, rhubarb, aloe vera and ginseng.

Importance :
Improves cellular oxygenation. Helps to fight pain, keep the immune system functioning properly, and rids the body of toxins and poisons.

Deficiency Symptoms :
Mood disorder, depression.

Selenium
Sources :
Garlic, onions, oyster,fish, organ meats, brazil nuts.

Importance :
An antioxidant. Works with vitamin E. Preserves tissue elasticity. Helps defend the body from free radicals and oxidative damage.

Nutrient Destroyers :
Absorption inhibited by food processing.

Deficiency Symptoms :
Premature aging, stamina loss, impaired male sexual function.

Silica
Sources :
Whole grains, horsetail herb,alfalfa,bell peppers, soybeans, dark green leafy vegetables.

Importance :
Essential for integrity of connective tissues such as tendons, cartilage and blood vessels. Strengthens bones, teeth, hair and nails.

Nutrient Destroyers :
Lost in the refinement process of food.

Deficiency Symptoms :
Brittle bones, teeth, hair and nails.

Vanadium
Sources :
Vegetables, whole grains, fish.

Importance :
Inhibits cholesterol formation. Important for bone, cartilage and tooth development.

Nutrient Destroyers :
Tobacco decreases uptake of Vanadium.Take vanadium and chromium at different times.

Deficiency Symptoms :
Brittle bones, teeth, hair and nails.

Zinc
Sources :
Oysters, clams, organ meats, vegetables, whole grains, pumpkin seeds.

Importance :
Component of insulin and male reproductive fluid. Aids digestion and metabolism of phosphorus. Aids healing process. Required for DNA synthesis. Involved in muscle contraction. Needed for metabolism of carbohydrates, alcohol and fatty acids.

Nutrient Destroyers :
Absorption inhibited by alcohol, excessive calcium and excessive sweating.

Deficiency Symptoms :
Retarded growth, delayed sexual maturity, poor wound healing, irregular menses, loss of taste and appetite, diabetes and white spots on fingernails.

Information on Vitamins

2008-03-01T19:16:00.000+08:00

Vitamin A
Sources :
Liver, green leafy vegetables, green and red bell peppers, fish live oil, egg yolk.

Importance :
Converted in the body into vitamin A, which is essential for good eyesight and night vision, for bone formation and normal body growth of skin and teeth. Acts as an antioxidant.

Nutrient Destroyers :
Absorption inhibited by caffeine, mineral oil, alcohol, excessive iron and vitamin D deficiency.

Deficiency Symptoms :
Night blindness, rough dry, scaly skin, increased susceptibility to infections, loss of appetite, fatigue, insomnia, depression, brittle nails and dull hair.

Vitamin B Complex
Sources :
Whole grains, liver, meat, eggs, nuts, bean, fish, bean, fish, brewer's yeast.

Importance :
Metabolism of carbohydrate, protein and fat. Helps in nervous system function, maintains healthy muscle tone in the intestinal tract, maintains skin, hair, eye, mouth and liver health.

Nutrient Destroyers:
Absorption inhibited by caffeine, tobacco, alcohol, sleeping oils, estrogen drugs, antibiotics and stress.

Deficiency Symptoms :
Dry, rough, cracked skin, acne, dull, dry or grey hair. Fatigue, poor appetite and gastrointestinal health.

Vitamin B1 (Thiamine)
Sources :
Whole grains, brewer's yeast, meat, legumes (peas), nuts.

Importance :
Metabolism of carbohydrate. Helps maintain healthy nervous system. Stimulates growth and muscle tone. Stabilise the appetite.

Nutrient Destroyers :
Absorption inhibited by caffeine, tobacco, alcohol, stress, fever, raw clams.

Deficiency Symptoms :
Gastrointestinal problems, fatigue, loss of appetite, nervous disorders, heart disorders.

Vitamin B2 (Riboflavin)
Sources :
Eggs, organ meats, milk, almonds, mushrooms, seaweed, dark green leafy vegetables.

Importance :
Metabolism of carbohydrate, protein and fat. Aids in formation of antibodies and red blood cells. Maintains cell respiration.

Nutrient Destroyers :
Absorption inhibited by caffeine, alcohol, sugar and tobacco.

Deficiency Symptoms :
Mouth sores and cracks, dermatitis, retarded growth and digestive disturbances.

Vitamin B3 (Niacin)
Sources :
Brewer's yeast, organ meats, fish, legumes, (peas), whole grains.

Importance :
Metabolism of carbohydrate, protein and fat. Maintains healthy skin, tongue and digestive system. Improves ciriculation.

Nutrient Destroyers :
Absorption inhibited by caffeine, alcohol, sugar and antibiotics.

Deficiency Symptoms :
Nervous disorders, headaches, insomnia, digestive disturbances, sore mouth and gums.

Vitamin B5 (Pantothenic Acid)
Sources :
Whole grains, legumes (peas), brewer's yeast, egg yolk, organ meats.

Importance :
Release of energy form carbohydrate, protein and fat. Needed for synthesis of steriods and steriod hormones. Improves stress resistance.

Nutrient Destroyers :
Absorption inhibited by caffeine, alcohol and sugar.

Deficiency Symptoms :
Increased susceptibility to infection, gastrointestinal disturbance, depression, fatigue, restlessness and vomiting.

Vitamin B6 (Pyrodoxine)
Sources : Orgain meats, brewer's yeast, whole grains, fish, legumes (peas), bananas, avocados.

Importance :
Promotes amino acid metabolism. Aids synthesis of antibodies. Helps maintain sodium and phosphorus balance.

Nutrient Destroyers :
Absorption inhibited by alcohol, birth control pills, tobacco, caffeine, radiation exposure.

Deficiency Symptoms :
Anemia, mouth disorders, nervousness, muscular weakness, dermatitis, dandruff and water retention.

Vitamin B12 (Cobalamine)
Sources :
Organ Meats, clams, crabs, oysters, eggs and fish.

Importance :
Normal nerve transmission. Aids in metabolism and transport of fats. Helps regulate liver and gallbladder health.

Nutrient Destroyers :
Absorption inhibited by tobacco, caffeine, alcohol and most laxatives.

Deficiency Symptoms :
Fatigue, anaemia, stunted growth in children and nervousness.

Biotin
Sources :
Egg yolk, organ meats, brewer's yeast, legumes (peas), nuts.

Importance :
Metabolism of carbohydrates, amino acids and fatty acids. Involved in energy generation. Aids utilisation of other B vitamins.

Nutrient Destroyers :
Absorption inhibited by alcohol, caffeine, raw egg white.

Deficiency Symptoms :
Dermatitis, depression, muscle pain, poor fat metabolism and poor appetite.

Choline
Sources :
Whole grains, beans, nuts, brewer's yeast, fish, egg yolk, organ meats.

Importance :
DNA synthesis and red blood formation. Maintains healthy nervous system.

Nutrient Destroyers :
Absorption inhibited sugar, alcohol, caffeine.

Deficiency Symptoms :
Fatty liver, high blood pressure and hemorrhaging kidneys.

Folic Acid
Sources :
Brewer's yeast, dark green leafy vegetables, fruits, organ meats.

Importance :
Red blood cell formation and DNA synthesis. Aids metabolism of proteins. Necessary for growth and division of body cells.

Nutrient Destroyers :
Absorption inhibited by stress, alcohol, caffeine, tobacco.

Deficiency Symptoms :
Reproductive disorders, poor growth, anemia, poor memory, graying and loss of hair and gastrointestinal disorders.

Inositol
Sources :
Citrus fruits, whole grains, nuts, milk, meats, brewer's yeast.

Importance :
Necessary for lecithin formation. Vital for hair growth. Metabolises fats and cholesterol.

Nutrient Destroyers :
Absorption inhibited by sugar, alcohol, caffeine, tobacco.

Deficiency Symptoms :
Constipation, eczema, hair loss, high blood cholesterol.

Paba
Sources :
Liver, brewer's yeast. kidney, whole grains, molasses.

Importance :
Promotes healthy intestinal flora and production of folic acid, aids in breakdown and utilisation of proteins. Participates in formation of red blood cells. Acts as a sun screen.

Nutrient Destroyers :
Absorption inhibited by caffeine, alcohol, estrogen drugs, sulfa drugs.

Deficiency Symptoms :
Fatigue, irritability, depression, nervousness, constipation, headaches, digestive disorders, graying hair.

Vitamin C
Sources :
Fruits, tomatoesm green pepper, alfalfa, broccoli.

Importance :
An antioxidant. Needed for collagen formation. Essential for tissue repair. Fights bacteria and viruses. Maintains vascular health, increases iron absorption.

Nutrient Destroyer :
Absorption inhibited by mineral oil, birth control pills, chlorine, rancid fats and oils.

Deficiency Symptoms :
Bleeding gums, slow healingof wounds and fractures, nosebleeds, impaired digestion.

Vitamin D
Sources : Fish liver oil, egg yolk, liver.

Importance :
Regulates calcium and phosphorus absorption an excretion, blood calcium level and bone formation. Maintains stable nervous system and heart action.

Nutrient Destroyers :
Absorption inhibited by mineral oil.

Deficiency Symptoms :
Poor bone and tooth formation, weakening of bones and teeth, stunted growth, lack of vigor, nervousness.

Vitamin E
Sources :
Leaft vegetables, egg yolk, whole grains, wheat germ, seeds and nuts.

Importance :
An antioxidant and anticogulant. Protects fat-soluable vitamin. Red blood cells. Essential in cellular respiration. Improves circulation and skin and hair condition.

Nutrient Destroyers :
Absorption inhibited by stress, sugar, tobacco, antibiotics, fever, asprin, cortisone drugs.

Deficiency Symptoms :
Anemia, dry, dull hair, poor circulation and muscle degeneration.

Coconut Lamps

2008-02-28T19:51:00.000+08:00

I took a fantasy when I saw this floor standing lamp called "Coconut Tree" Lamp.

I bought from the website http://www.myfilmage.com/

I even bought another 2 table lamps. These lamps are truly handmade carved. Everyone nowadays are talking about saving the earth. I bought these also partly from the reason. The other reason is that I really appreciate the design, it looks so natural.

Another reason from fengshui point of view, these lamps have the ability to attract and keep its master's wealth and money and at the same time keep the house bright and shining like gold.

All the good things will enter all sides through the holes, fall and gathered into the coconut shell, thus preventing the good things from escaping.

Coconut Table Lamp

Coconut Globe Table Lamp

Small Bonsai

2008-02-22T10:59:00.000+08:00

My recent hobby is planting. I start to plant very cute and special plants. I have been eyeing this bonsai "Fukien Tea Tree" for almost 1 month at Takashimaya before I actually bought it. I like very much about the layout display of the stone, small pavilion. I feel like there is something miss out of the display, therefore I put a mini clay frog which make the whole bonsai like much nicer.

Small Rockgarden

2008-02-20T19:24:00.000+08:00

This is my another bonsai also called small rockgarden, a gift from Thailand. This small tree is called "Feroniella lucida" or "wood apple".

Hoya Kerrii "Yellow Splash"

2008-02-08T18:32:00.000+08:00

This is another type of Hoya Kerrii. This type of "sweetheart" hoya is rare. Each green heart-shaped leaf has a bold splash of yellow in the center. Hoya Kerrii is originated from Thailand. Altogether, I have 3 types of Hoya Kerrii.

This is the original green form of the sweetheart Hoya Kerrii, with big green heart shaped leaves with a thick leathery texture.

This is Variegataed Hoya Kerrii. The thick rubbery leaves are margined in cream to pale yellow.

Sunset at Seaside, Jomtien Beach

2008-01-18T23:59:00.000+08:00

On 18 Jan 2008, I went to Jomtien Beach at Pattaya in Thailand. This is a quiet natural beach which I have started to appreciate the sun, blue sky, sea and sand. I even can breathe the freshness of the air and hear the romantic sound from the waves making at the seaside. If I got chance, I would like to spend time with my loved ones and to stay till old age. It would even better if I can open a small restaurant nearby to cook and to serve visitor patronising the beach.

SilverLake, Jomtien, Thailand

2008-01-18T23:50:00.000+08:00

This grape vineyard "Silverlake" is at Jomtien, Pattaya - Thailand. I was too engrossed with the beautiful scenery that I have forgotten I was under a very hot sun.

I bought the grape drink and was surprised to receive a nice design cup as shown above. The grape drink tastes very nice especially under a hot weather. I bought back a bottle of grape jam and a few pieces of the cup back home.

Buddha Mountain

2008-01-18T23:20:00.000+08:00

Buddha Mountain, Pattaya - Thailand. This is the largest Buddha image on a cliff face inlaid with gold leaf in the outline of a sitting, Sukhothai-era Buddha. The image stands 130 metres tall, 50 metres wide.

Kanchanaburi (Thailand) Trip

2008-01-16T23:39:00.000+08:00

This historical black iron bridge, "Death Railway" over the River Kwai was the target of allied bomding during 1945 (World War II). The railway was built by prisoners of war (POWs).

I took a 1hr train ride along part of the railway from Tha Kilen Station to Nam-Tok Station.

Along the railway trip, I saw some beautiful cows and crops.

This is Khwae Noi River, western part of Thailand, a 4-hour distance from Bangkok.

I took a short long-tailed speedboat trip along the unforgettable Khwae Noi River, surrounded by the unspoiled mountainous jungle scenery.

Chinatown at Bangkok

2008-01-14T23:59:00.000+08:00

I had my first sumptuous dinner at roadside Lek & Rut Seafood Restaurant at Chinatown in Bangkok. The above pictures show are my favourites dishes; Padi Thai, Stirfried Kangkong and Big Head Prawns, followed by Shark Fin Soup and Bird Nest Desert.

Hoya Kerrii (♥ Shape Plant)

2008-01-01T18:38:00.001+08:00

This is another my favourite plant, Hoya Kerrii "Heart Leafed Hoya". This plant is a robust grower with the most unusual leaves. The thick leaves are heart-shaped and up to 5" in length. Clusters of flowers form during the summer months at the leaf axis. Each individual flower has a burgundy center surrounded by white.

Happy New Year 2008

2008-01-01T10:15:00.000+08:00

I wish the whole world peace and harmony and to individual everyone to have a brand new year with great happiness and prosperity.

On 31 Dec 2007 midnight, I happened to lean myself onto my room window and look up in the sky. To my surprise, I saw very nice fireworks, I presumed the fireworks came from Marina Bay. I was too slow to take out my camera to snap the very first moment where the sky were full of fireworks. I just managed to take a few nice shots with left a few of the fireworks on the sky.

吉星高照，国泰平安，万象更新，财运亨通，福寿康宁，招财进宝，一帆风顺，心想事成. 竹报平安，马到成功，大吉大利，一团和气，五福临门。