health

Product Review: Ishigaki Amino Classic White Glutathione (New Packaging, Label and Barcode)

Wednesday, January 15, 2020

    And the consistent effective glutathione brand in the Philippine market award goes to... Ishigaki! Hooray! Yes, this brand that was first introduced 10 years ago is still one of the most affordable and effective brands to date. My first review of Ishigaki Glutathione Whitening Supplement was 2015 and for a span of five years, I have seen how the brand improved its packaging and formulation one after the other. This brand is also a favorite amongst beauty bloggers in the Philippines and Pinay Youtubers are well.

     Ishigaki Glutathione is has been FDA approved since 2017 that's why aside from the certification from FDA, the variants have been repackaged, reformulated, and received a GMP seal. I presume that with all these changes, Ishigaki fans have this burning question if it has the same whitening and glowing effect after finishing one bottle. Will the new variant give the same creamy or almost translucent complexion and faster results in as early as 2 weeks? Cheska's Online Store, the trusted online shop of all things beauty sent me a bottle to try and hopefully answer that question. So here are my thoughts after taking Ishigaki Amino Classic White religiously for a month.

Product Review: Ishigaki Amino Classic White (New Packaging, Label and Barcode)

My Intentions for 2020

Thursday, January 09, 2020

     Here comes New Year and all things resolution. I've seen a lot of friends sharing lists, ideas, infographics, essays, and even memes to kick off their 2020. Let's start the year right by changing one habit or attitude at a time. Do you have a New Year's resolution or intentions for 2020?

     I became serious about my health and fitness journey six months ago because of a medical condition that prevents me from having another baby. I said to myself that apart from regular exercise, I will also follow a healthy diet and lifestyle, more sleeping hours, and less stress. All these intentions are focused on the physical aspect or area of life and that includes our health. If you are also focusing on being the best version of yourself this year, sharing tips and my personal views on health and wellness after the jump.

My Intentions for 2020
One of my intentions last year is to be STRONG. Yes for a stronger for 2020!

A Php1,799 Insurance Yearly? Yes, "KanDuu!"

Tuesday, December 10, 2019

     The past 8 years have been a roller-coaster ride for us because of my father's health condition. He was a diabetic at the age of 35, an end-stage renal disease patient at 50, and was diagnosed with a terminal illness just last month. All these boil down to one important aspect of life- health. My father would always tell me to set him as an example that health is non-negotiable. If he had been considerate and compliant in his early 30's, he is still at the top of his game.

     No thrice a week visits at the dialysis center, no weekly trips to the emergency room, no quarterly staycation at the hospital wards, and no dropping by at the operating room for minor or major surgeries. These series of unfortunate events drained us physically, mentally, emotionally and financially. The worst part? We're not financially stable and don't have life insurance that will somehow ease the burden. I asked my mother why we don't have the insurance in any forms and her answer was the hassle of filling up forms and submitting documents just to get insured. Well, that's a thing of the past because now we "KanDuu" get insurance fast and hassle-free! Scroll down to know more about FWD Life Insurance.

A Php1,799 Insurance Yearly? Yes, "KanDuu!"
My papa at the National Kidney and Transplant Institute after his major colon operation (Sigmoidectomy) last November 2019

Southstar Drug Drop the Prefix Campaign

Thursday, November 28, 2019

     What's your ultimate favorite all-around bag? A tote, bucket, satchel, hobo, duffel, messenger, backpack, or minaudiere? Did I miss one? It's so true that one can never have too many bags, so they, right? For some, each bag has a different use— carrying daily essentials or traveling while some loves a sturdy bag for hauling books in school or simply for flaunting it as a style statement. 

     Our bags play an essential role in life these days. Whether you are working or still in school, your bag keeps all the essential things you need for the day. Some bags are made of expensive leather, some are made of sturdy canvas. While most just go for durability and affordability, some still prefer fashion and value. Each bag has a story and a bag can say so many things about its owner, too. But despite the latest style and trend, there are some bags created for a different and a more important purpose.

Southstar Drug Drop the Prefix Campaign

Tiger Balm Plaster now in the Philippines

Wednesday, November 20, 2019

     Certified Titos and Titas, hear ye, hear ye! One of the trusted institutions for healing and pain relief in the Philippines, Tiger Balm recently launched a cutting-edge plaster that aims to alleviate stress-related muscle injuries and pains that come from a build-up of unaddressed and unrelieved stress.

     Filipinos of all ages and classes endure this kind of stress at all times, often without realizing it – from the soon-to-graduate college student, the mother or father juggling two to three jobs to give the family an enjoyable lifestyle, to the businessman or professional who has a hard time sleeping at night to make sure his or her company earns a significant profit. The accumulation of unspoken and unacknowledged tension and anxiety leads to aching joints, back pains, a stiff neck, or tight shoulder muscles. Sometimes it manifests in unexpected muscular strains on the limbs, like their arms and legs, when they try to release some of that stress through sports, exercise, or any physical activity.

Tiger Balm Plaster

Watsons x PPhA, PCCP in Asthma Educators Program

Tuesday, November 12, 2019

     According to NCBI, The atmospheric pollen pollution in Quezon City is heavy in November, December and January; in Los Banos during January, February, March, April, June and November; and in Baguio City during February, March, April and May. So yeah, asthma season is here that's why it is important to arm ourselves with factual knowledge that will help individuals who are suffering from this condition in which your airways narrow and swell and produce extra mucus. This can make breathing difficult and trigger coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath. For many asthma sufferers, attacks can be debilitating and even potentially fatal. (https://watsonshealth.com.ph/5-important-facts-you-need-to-know-about-asthma/)

     Asia’s No. 1 drugstore Watsons Philippines has partnered with the Philippine Pharmacists Association (PPhA) and the Philippine College of Chest Physicians (PCCP) to empower and improve its pharmacists’ competencies to be able to serve its customers’ health needs better.

Watsons x PPhA, PCCP in Asthma Educators Program 

Win Special Trips from Watsons

Friday, November 08, 2019

     Watsons, one of Asia’s top health and beauty retailers, just gave away a 3-DAY / 2-NIGHT TRIP FOR 2 TO BORACAY to a total of 40 loyal cardmembers! As one of the most exciting highlights of the Share the Sun campaign last March, this promo had the simplest mechanics: all card members had to do was shop for their sun essentials at Watsons. Every P500 single-receipt purchase they made from one of Watsons’ participating products automatically got them e-raffle entries that qualified them for the promo!

     This promo is aligned with Watsons’ effort to reward loyalty card members for trusting the retail chain for their health and beauty needs. Out of thousands of Watsons’ loyalty cardholders, twenty (20) lucky winners were drawn to share the sun with family and friends in no less than Shangri-La’s Boracay Resort and Spa, one of the most breathtaking getaways in the world. It definitely was a luxurious way to reward shoppers’ loyalty. 

This is how you can win special trips from Watsons

Product Review: Nuwhite S-Acetyl Glutathione

Wednesday, October 30, 2019

     Ah, glutathione! The most sought-after whitening pill since time immemorial. If my memory serves me right, this skin beautifying supplement has been serving the Philippine market for more than a decade and until now. Filipinas who want to lighten their skin still choose glutathione because of its main function in the body- as a master anti-oxidant. The skin whitening/lightening part is just a bonus but a big factor in giving the user a flawless, smooth and radiant skin.

     I've reviewed a lot of glutathione in the past and over the years, brands are doing their best in reformulating or innovating their product. From the pure form of glutathione to reduced L-glutathione with alpha-lipoic acid, collagen, placenta, and alpha-arbutin combinations, now comes the newest form S-Acetyl Glutathione with the mission of addressing the lower absorption rates of reduced L-Glutathione. Presenting the new version of Nuwhite, the first one to introduce this to the Philippine market in the form of an all-in-one supplement- Nuwhite S-Acetyl Glutathione. More information about the brand and why I highly recommend this brand :)

Product Review: Nuwhite S-Acetyl Glutathione

Does CBD Hemp Oil Get You High?

Sunday, October 20, 2019

     A common reason why people seem to keep way from CBD oil is the fact that they believe it will make them high. The short answer is no, CBD oil does not make you high. But in order to understand why CBD does not have any psychoactive effects, one must first understand what cannabidiol is and what is the difference between CBD and THC. 

Does CBD Hemp Oil Get You High?

The Best Fitness Supplements for Beginners

Wednesday, October 16, 2019

     People engage in fitness exercises for varied reasons. Some take to exercising for leisure and networking at their work or social places. For others, it may be their profession, whereas others go for fitness on medical grounds. Generally, the need for toning your body muscles should be your daily preoccupation. In whichever category above you fall in, you must know the basics about boosting yourself with essential supplements.

     Most beginners go into the gym without knowing the essential supplements. This leads to the intake of non-performing supplements in the market. Exercising is worthwhile if you know the best fitness supplements for beginners. In all your preferences, you should never miss amino acid supplements.

The Best Fitness Supplements for Beginners
image from pexels.com

AVON Pink Light Night Run and Walk 2019

Thursday, October 10, 2019

     Did you know that 1 in 3 Filipinas will develop breast cancer in her lifetime? My grandmother is a cancer survivor and I have two relatives now who was diagnose with stage 1 cancer last year but they are cancer-free now. 

     Breast cancer remains one of the top causes of death among Filipinas. The Philippine Obstetrical and Gynecological Society also reported in February 2017 that the Philippines has the highest prevalence of breast cancer among 197 countries that's why the need to educate women on the importance of early detection as the best way to beat the disease is as urgent as ever.

AVON Pink Light Night Run and Walk 2019

Anger Management Therapy: How to Get Help

Sunday, September 08, 2019

     A 2018 Gallup poll has revealed that worldwide many people are experiencing increased levels of anger and stress. Indeed, we have all experienced intense and irrational anger at some point in our lives, whether as hormonal teenagers, or stressed adults facing financial and family crises. While everyone gets angry, there is a difference between healthy and unhealthy anger. If you notice your anger becoming a problem, many options for help are available.

      Anger can be managed effectively through therapy to allow you to live a peaceful and fulfilling life. Anger management sessions can either take place in a group or one-on-one sessions with a therapist. For busy individuals, online therapy is becoming increasingly popular. Rest assured that seeking help is not a sign of weakness, but a sign of strength. Improving mental health, relationships with family, work colleagues, and your community is the first step to building a more positive life.

Anger Management Therapy: How to Get Help

Watsons x Civil Service Commission Fun Run

Tuesday, August 27, 2019

     Asia’s leading health, wellness and beauty retailer Watsons joins the Civil Service Commission National Capital Region (CSC NCR) in the R.A.C.E. to SERVE Fun Run happening on September 1, at the Quirino Grandstand, Manila. 

     With the theme “Civil Service at 119: Upholding Integrity and a High Trust Society,” the fun run aims to raise funds for the benefit of Pondong Pamanang Lingkod Bayani (PLBi) Program which honors public servants who sacrificed their lives in the service of the Filipinos. It will also serve as the kick-off activity to CSC’s 119th anniversary this September. 

Watsons x Civil Service Commission Fun Run
L-R: Watsons Trading Health Director Rafael V. Lim and Marketing Director Viki H. Encarnacion, and Civil Service Commission Chief of the Public Assistance and Liaison Division Mira Michelle A. Brazil and NCR Regional Director Judith A. Dongallo-Chicano

Top 10 Benefits of Sleeping On Your Side

Friday, August 23, 2019

     Sleep quality can be affected by so many things. You’ve likely heard many of the tips suggested to improve sleep. The advice often includes tips like finding a mattress that is supportive and comfortable, sleeping in a dark, clean, and quiet environment, and that exercising and eating a well-balanced diet supports sleep. You’ve probably also heard that limiting any stimulation before sleep and giving yourself adequate time to relax and wind down is prudent. All of these things are valid and are things you should implement if you aren’t already doing so. However, one tip that is often overlooked is the position in which you actually lay your body for sleep. 

     Chances are high that you have a favorite sleeping position built up from years of just doing it that way. Habits are difficult to break and being comfortable is necessary for a great night’s rest. However, according to science, there is more and more evidence, starting to show that sleeping on your side may very well be the superior sleep position. 

Top 10 Benefits of Sleeping On Your Side

Product Review: Healthmax Care Mangosteen Plus 8 Berries

Saturday, August 17, 2019

     How do we define a healthy lifestyle? I presume your immediate answers are proper nutrition and exercise but did you know that health and wellness come in a total package? It’s a balanced combination of food, exercise, sleep, emotion, and food supplement. We need to nourish our body with the food that we eat but there are individuals who have a hard time getting those vitamins and supplements from food. 

     There are many food supplements available in the market today and there’s one where the superstar ingredients are mangosteen and berries. I'm sure that some of you know the amazing health benefits of Mangosteen and adding eight (8) kinds of berries to make the mixture supremely anti-oxidant rich to make Healthmax Care Mangosteen Plus 8 Berries more effective for best results. I took this supplement for 3 months to address my 7cm cyst and for immune system booster. More information about Healthmax Care Mangosteen Plus 8 Berries and my thoughts after the jump.

Product Review: Healthmax Care Mangosteen Plus 8 Berries

Ways To Take Care of Your Liver

Thursday, July 04, 2019

     The liver is one of the most important organs of the body and is responsible for the chemical actions that the body needs to survive. It is the largest internal organ of the body that is essential to digestion and antioxidant action of toxins in your body.

     You are what you eat and so is the health of your liver. Think about fatty food and alcohol. When you eat and drink excessive amounts every day, it will damage your liver little by little until the time that it will fail its bodily function. This “Silent Hero” needs tender loving care like other organs of the body that's why we must take care of it always! Know more about this powerhouse organ and how to take care of it.

Ways To Take Care of Your Liver
photo from pexels.com

Product Review: Dermadry Total

Friday, June 28, 2019

     Living in a tropical country is awesome. They say that it has perks that everyone must be thankful for- the cool vibe, the beaches, the nice and warm weather (if you hate winter and frostbite), the food and the activities you can do all year round. But for some, this hot humid weather of ours is a no-no. Yes, it is for a person who sweats or perspires a lot. Perspiration or sweating is a normal thing for us. It’s our body’s natural way of regulating body temperature but if you sweat excessively, it’s already a problem. It’s a medical condition called Hyperhidrosis

     Excessive sweating of hands, feet, and underarms may be mild, moderate or severe. Those who have this may experience negative impacts on their social life, general well-being, and mental health but with the help of a portable device that you can use at home, there’s still hope in combating nasty excessive sweating. Presenting Dermadry- a tap water iontophoresis machine for single patient use designed for home use. Its intended use is to treat hyperhidrosis (excessive sweating) of the hands, feet, and underarms. User has to be 13 years old and above. More about this device after the jump!

Product Review: Dermadry Total

Dermadry

     This solution works by directing a small current through the skin, neutralizing the connections between the sweat nerves and sweat glands. The device treats different levels of hyperhidrosis, from mild to severe. Dermadry is suitable for most people over the age of 13. But before using this device, there are precautions, contraindication and side effects like with other treatments or devices. 

Product Review: Dermadry Total

     You should consult with your physician first if you suffer from health conditions that may interfere with the use of the device. Visit this LINK to know more information on this. But don't worry because Dermadry is dermatologist-recommended and has a Medical Device License from Health Canada. Dermadry's quality system is certified by Intertek for compliance with ISO 13485. 

When should you use Dermadry?

1. If your hands are VERY SWEATY! I have a classmate when I was in high school that has dripping hands. Sweat is literally dripping from his hands even if he is doing nothing. He avoids shaking hands and holding slippery objects.

2. Your feet sweat and stink! Using closed shoe every day requires you to wear socks and after 8 hours of work, you'll notice that it's wet and stinks even if you also applied foot powder. 

3. Your body odor is out of control. Your underarms sweat most of the time- after walking a short distance, when you're in a stressful situation, and when you wore a shirt or dress that didn't dry well. 

4. If you experience STRESS SWEAT. This is the reason why I decided to give this home device a shot. If you're a long-time follower of this blog, prolly you've read my updated on how stressful my life was last year and this year because of my father's condition. According to this article

Product Review: Dermadry Total
How is this sweat triggered?
Stress! Sweating stinks, but stress sweat literally stinks. Stress is one of the biggest triggers for excessive sweating, and unlike the clear sodium chloride solution secreted by the eccrine sweat glands, sweat that is triggered by an overreaction or stimuli to the sympathetic nervous system releases the foul-smelling sweat. Not all sweat is created equal, and stress sweat is chemically different from exercise or heat sweat. Once the body encounters a stressful situation, it sends a signal to the brain that activates the human “fight or flight” response. This is a response to a sudden and emotionally stimulating event. The brain then sends a signal to the nervous system, which floods the body with hormones such as adrenaline, cortisol, and norepinephrine (key stress hormones), which produce apocrine secretion. This sweat produces a strong odor when you’re nervous, anxious, or scared. This secretion is instant and spontaneous, so being proactive is key.
Dermadry Total Box Components

1. Controller/Device
2. Case
3. Cable (pair)
4. AC adapter and blade (plug adapter)
5. Hand and foot electrode (pair)
6. Towel (pair)
7. Underarm electrode (pair)
8. Underarm pocket (pair)
9. Instructions for use

Product Review: Dermadry Total

Dermadry for hands

     I have a semi-active lifestyle. I practice yoga 3-4 times a week and sweat a lot. Perspiring is normal because of this activity but there are parts of my body that perspire non-stop. When sweat started to drip from my hands, I'm having a hard time doing Yoga poses that requires hand support. It's not normal and I know it's mild hyperhidrosis.

Product Review: Dermadry Total

     I'm glad that I can use Dermadry Total to treat that excessive hand sweating. What I do is split the case and make it two trays. For hand treatment, I place the tray on the table then place the two electrode plates at the bottom and cover both with towels. Pour 500ml of water each tray, plug the cables and controller. Then there are three settings for Dermadry Total- underarms, hands, and feet. I choose the hand illustration in the device and that's it. For feet treatment, I place the tray on the floor, do the same process but this time I will select the feet part on the device and it's good to go. Since each session has been set automatically, I only need to relax and wait until the end of the treatment.

Dermadry for feet

Product Review: Dermadry Total
     
     I used the device for more than six weeks and I'm impressed with the results. Hand sweat decreased after three weeks of using the device. Now, I can go to Yoga class with only one towel for my face unlike before that I bring one for my hands and one for my feet too. I like that I can still use this for maintenance treatment. Hyperhidrosis treatment is not an overnight process that's why I'm thanking heavens that this kit can be used anytime, anywhere. I don't need to go to a dermatologist and spend hundreds or thousands of pesos for every session.

What I like:
  • The device is portable and very handy. I can take it anywhere I go. 
  • The Dermadry Total can be used for hands, feet, and underarms. Talk about convenience in one little yet powerful device.
  • It's a non-invasive treatment, no drug or needle that I can use at the comfort of our home.
  • This is an iontophoresis machine that is safe and effective with minimal side effects.
  • I like that treatment only lasts for 20 minutes. 
  • It's very easy to use. The settings for all treatments are already set. I just need to plug the charger, sit back and relax during the duration of my chosen profile. 
  • It made my hands dry for up to 6 weeks. Since I have the freedom to use the device at home, I can also do maintenance once a month. Yay!
  • No breakout, irritations, or whatsoever after using this device for a month.
  • I was impressed that it reduced the sweating of my hands during Yoga class. I  usually bring extra towels and place it on the mat where I do hand poses. 
  • Dermadry is dermatology tested and safe to use.
  • Free-shipping worldwide, 60-Day Money-Back Guarantee, and 24 months guarantee.

What I don't like:
  • I have thin skin and there were times that I can really feel the electric current on my hands. 

Will I repurchase? Yes for a friend or family member who has mild, moderate, or severe Hyperhidrosis. I'm glad that there is also a device that's right for every individual's need. It can be the hands and feet or the underarms kit.

Recommendation:
      I give this a 4.75/5 rating. I highly recommend this device to those who have hyperhidrosis because it's safe, effective, and you only need to spend one time for the kit. You can save a lot and no need to go to a dermatologist for the treatment. Dermadry Total is P17,815 (International and Free shipping are available).

     There are also two models available on the website that target specific areas like hands and feet or underarms that have lower prices. Don't let sweaty hands prevent you from handshakes, sweaty feet from wearing your favorite pair of shoes, and sweaty underarms from making you feel uncomfortable and embarrassed because of stains and smelly odor. Let Dermadry treat excessive sweating in the simplest, safest, and most cost-effective treatment for hyperhidrosis. 

For more information about Dermadry,
visit their website: https://www.dermadry.com/
Like them on Facebook: Dermadry
Follow them on Instagram: @dermadry

Good Times!~

Product Review: Shiseido The Collagen Powder

Wednesday, May 15, 2019

     And the search for the best or at least right collagen for me continues. When I say right, it only means the one that will give me the glow and youthful skin sans the plump cheeks. I love the effects of collagen in my skin but my round face looks rounder and adds volume to my chubby cheeks. I always feel like I'm gaining weight when taking collagen that's why the search is still on for me and for those who want glowing and supple skin minus the weight gain.


     Kudos to Shiseido for making collagen supplement easily accessible and readily available in all forms! From tablet, liquid, now in powder form. After roadtesting this product for 21 days, I can say that the powder form is also effective like Shiseido The Collagen Tablet but...

Product Review: Shiseido The Collagen Powder

Are Your Ready to Introduce Nootropics into Your Life?

Friday, May 03, 2019

     You may have already heard of nootropics, as they have been steadily growing in popularity for a number of years now. Lots of claims are made about nootropics, both for and against them. As always, working out what nootropics are capable of, what they do and what their limitations are is important if you are going to get the most out of them.

     But how is the beginner supposed to know where to begin with nootropics? It’s a jungle out there for the newbie, with different advice and conflicting information abound. This guide aims to arm the beginner with everything they need to know in order to dive into the world of nootropics.

Are Your Ready to Introduce Nootropics into Your Life?
photo from pexels.com

Taste Australia Grapes

Saturday, April 27, 2019

     It's harvest season for grapes from the Southern Hemisphere which means the Taste Australia campaign is back to entice customers to try and buy beautiful, sweet and crunchy Aussie grapes. Thanks to the diverse geology and unique micro-climates across Australia, grapes are able to enjoy a long production window from November to May. Rich soils, warm summer days, cool nights, and long daylight hours create grapes with intensified sweetness and an eye-catching red, black or green colour. A top tip when selecting green grapes is to choose a bunch with a golden tint as this means they are sweeter in flavour.

     Did you know Australian table grapes can be eaten straight from the bunch? There’s no need to peel or de-seed, just simply rinse before eating and enjoy the taste of an Australian summer. This means grapes are the perfect addition to kids lunchboxes or a go-to snack at work to re-energize and hydrate active bodies, which is especially helpful when you live a busy lifestyle.

Taste Australia Grapes

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