Finding Balance in Every Meal This Holiday Season

     The Philippines is known for having the longest Christmas season in the world. As early as the ber months, lights and decorations are set up, and holiday promos fill stores and screens, signaling the start of months-long celebrations centered around family, friends, and, more often, food. From lechon and bibingka to festive drinks, the season is filled with indulgence and togetherness. While these moments bring warmth and joy, the National Nutrition Council (NNC) continues to remind the public that excessive eating and drinking can take a toll on one’s health.

     According to the NNC, mindful eating, moderation, and balanced meals guided by the Pinggang Pinoy model are essential for maintaining good nutrition during the holidays. Overindulgence, particularly in alcohol and rich food, can strain the liver, disrupt digestion, and contribute to unwanted weight gain or other health concerns.

Finding Balance in Every Meal This Holiday Season

LAC "Where Wellness Meets Art" Thanksgiving 2025

     LAC Philippines gathered media partners, friends, and wellness advocates at Rockwell Makati for “Where Wellness Meets Art,” a Thanksgiving celebration filled with gratitude, creativity, and holistic self-care.

     The intimate event doubled as a year-end appreciation and a gentle reminder to slow down and nurture personal well-being. Guests joined mindful activities, such as flower arranging and pot painting—simple, grounding rituals that reflect LAC’s belief that wellness begins from within. 

LAC "Where Wellness Meets Art" Thanksgiving 2025

Addressing Dementia: Why Early Action and Everyday Brain Care Matter

     Dementia currently affects more than 57 million people worldwide, with nearly 10 million new cases diagnosed each year. It is the seventh leading cause of death globally and a major contributor to disability among older adults. Alzheimer’s disease, the most common form of dementia, accounts for up to 70% of these cases. In the Philippines, the impact goes beyond the patients themselves. Because care is still largely home-based and formal support services remain limited, families—especially women—carry most of the caregiving responsibilities. Women also face higher risks of disability and mortality, adding to the weight of this challenge.

     To address these gaps, the Philippine Dementia and Alzheimer Care Policy (House Bill No. 185) has been filed in the House of Representatives. The measure seeks to establish a national program for early detection, treatment, and comprehensive support for both patients and caregivers. As Congress deliberates on this bill and with World Alzheimer’s Day approaching this September, LAC Philippines underscores the urgent need for accessible brain health solutions that safeguard cognitive function and improve quality of life.

Addressing Dementia: Why Early Action and Everyday Brain Care Matter

Championing Antioxidant Power for Everyday Wellness

     It's alarming! The 2023 National Nutrition Survey revealed that four in ten adults (39.8%) are overweight or obese. Even more concerning, nearly one in ten Filipino children are now affected: figures that exceed global thresholds and signal an urgent need for action. In today’s fast-paced world, the way we eat has changed—dramatically, and not for the better. Long work hours, relentless traffic, and the constant juggling of responsibilities have pushed families toward what’s quick and convenient. But the consequences are alarming. Fast food, canned meals, and processed snacks have become everyday staples—not just for adults, but increasingly for children. And now, the damage is showing. National health data paints a disturbing picture of a growing public health crisis.

     This crisis, however, isn’t just about individual choices. It’s the result of a food system stacked against healthy living—where highly processed, unhealthy options are cheaper, easier to find, and relentlessly marketed. As the World Health Organization warns, ultra-processed foods like sugary cereals, snacks, and flavored drinks now flood store shelves. Filipino children are among the most vulnerable. According to UNICEF, their diets are shifting away from fruits and vegetables toward dangerously high levels of sugar, salt, and fat. The impact is stark: between 2019 and 2022, the percentage of overweight children aged 5 to 10 jumped from 10.4% to 14%—and the trend is continuing among adolescents.

Championing Antioxidant Power for Everyday Wellness

Honor Moms with More Than a Gift: Support Their Digestive Health This Mother’s Day

     Mother's Day is just around the corner; it's the best time to celebrate the women who hold our homes and hearts together. This special day honors mothers who navigate life’s many demands with strength, grace, and resilience, often putting the needs of their families before their own. But as they continue to give so much of themselves, it’s equally important to remind them—and ourselves—that they deserve just as much care, too. One of the most meaningful ways we can show that love? By investing in their health, starting from the gut.

     Mothers are the unsung heroes, tirelessly balancing demanding careers with the never-ending responsibilities of family life. A recent Milieu Insight survey reveals just how heavy this load can be, with 66% of working mothers in the Philippines struggling to manage both duties. And even as more Filipino women are becoming proactive about their health, particularly during pregnancy and postnatal recovery, nutritional deficiencies remain a widespread concern. This has driven a demand for high-quality supplements that provide reliable, long-term support. While it's true that moms often power through discomfort or stress, they shouldn’t have to. Simple daily practices, like supporting gut health, can make a significant difference in their well-being. Trust it when a mother says, "I have a gut feeling that something is wrong." Sharing more information about the importance of gut health and what supplements you can give moms this Mother's Day after the jump.

Honor Moms with More Than a Gift: Support Their Digestive Health This Mother’s Day

Rest & Radiance: LAC Philippines Supports Quality Sleep for Women’s Wellbeing

     It is no secret that with the many expectations placed on our shoulders, we need the extra support and care to fulfill their responsibilities while also maintaining their wellbeing. As we juggle multiple roles, our needs will vary. Whether it’s staying sharp and productive or maintaining a vibrant glow, these can be achieved by fostering holistic well-being, where quality sleep plays a crucial role. 

     If there's one thing that is constant in my birthday wish, that is 8 hours or more of sleep. Yes, long hours of uninterrupted sleep is one of the things that I miss. But there's a lot of things to consider especially now that I'm in adulting-parenting stage where everyday requires demanding tasks from day to night. Aside from eating a high protein balanced meal, regular physical activity like yoga and weight lifting, taking supplements is non-negotiable in my overall wellbeing. Are you sleep deprived and needing that extra boost from health supplements? You're in for a treat! Sharing a brief information why sleep is important and what supplements can help you achieve that much needed R&R after the jump!

     

Rest & Radiance: LAC Philippines Supports Quality Sleep for Women’s Wellbeing
LAC TriAction Sleep Formula and LAC Taut® White

A You Year: Take Charge of a Stronger, Healthier, Happier 2025

     Ready for a fresh start? It's time to bid farewell to the festive season, the holidays made time for family, joy, and making memories one for the books that's why we are eager to step into the new year with renewed energy, focus, and a sense of well-being. While the post-holiday period can feel challenging, it's also an opportunity to hit the reset button and begin anew.

     It's time to get back on track, reconnect with your health goals, and regain balance between work, family, and personal responsibilities. The first month of the year is the chance to recharge both physically and mentally, so you can face the year ahead with a clear mind and vibrant energy. With a positive mindset and a renewed sense of purpose, you can rediscover your rhythm and embrace the exciting possibilities ahead.

A You Year: Take Charge of a Stronger, Healthier, Happier 2025

Jolina Magdangal for OMROM PH's "Be Sure Campaign"

     In the bustling world of Filipino television, Jolina Magdangal has long been a household name, lighting up screens with her vibrant personality and unmistakable charm. But off-screen, she is just as dedicated in her role as a wife and mother of two, always putting her family’s health and happiness first. This dedication to good health makes Jolina the ideal brand ambassador for OMRON Healthcare business in the Philippines, the country’s leading provider of health monitoring and management solutions. As the new face of OMRON, the multifaceted actress emphasizes the crucial role of healthcare monitoring in ensuring family wellness through its “Be Sure” campaign.

     Like Jolina, I'm an advocate of health and wellness through a healthy lifestyle. It may sound cliché that "prevention is better than cure" but I will not get tired of saying this to my family and friends repeatedly. I've experienced a lot of difficulty during the time that my father is in and out of the hospital during his dialysis days. The sight of the emergency room has been traumatizing and the stress that it gave me both physically and mentally is something that I don't want to happen again. Thankful that OMRON PH launch this campaign with Jolina Magdangal to understand why it's important to "Be Sure" when it comes to monitoring our family's health. Click continue to read more about OMRON "Be Sure" Campaign below. 

Jolina Magdangal for OMROM PH's "Be Sure Campaign"

Important Things to Keep in Mind Before Starting Mental Health Therapy

     Embarking on the journey of mental health therapy can be a transformative experience, providing individuals with the tools to navigate life's challenges and improve their overall well-being. However, before taking the plunge into therapy, it's crucial to consider certain factors that can significantly impact the effectiveness of the process. From choosing the right therapist to managing expectations, being mindful of these key elements can set the stage for a more successful therapeutic journey.

 Important Things to Keep in Mind Before Starting Mental Health Therapy
image from unsplash.com

Feature: LifeFood Food Supplements for Women's Health

     I've been dealing with different kinds of emotions and feelings for the past few weeks. Aside from the stress that was brought about by the surge of Covid-19 cases last month, I experienced episodes of irritability, anxiety, and fear. It's a rollercoaster of emotions most especially if it's the time of the month. I noticed that as I near my 40s, premenstrual emotions get stronger. My mood swings became intense with mild hand tremors and palpitations.

     Listen up ladies: Don’t let premenstrual syndrome or PMS, menopause, and other women’s health concerns keep you from reaching your full potential and living life the way you want to. Now that the new year is here, give yourself the gift of health and wellness. Start taking better care of yourself at gawing mas buhay na buhay ang buhay with LifeFood. These food supplements for women's health sounds promising, let's get to know more about them below :)

Feature: LifeFood Food Supplements for Women's Health

AIA Philippines Total Health Solution

     How's life lately? I'm hoping and praying that you are all safe and sound. We are down to the last two months of the year and a lot of things happened already because of Covid-19. Amid the global pandemic, we find ourselves today, taking care of our health has become more important than ever. Unfortunately, with everything we have on our plates now, it can be challenging to always put one’s health first.

     AIA Philippines, the country’s premier life insurance company, recently introduced Total Health Solution, its ecosystem accessible through a single touchpoint platform that allows customers to access all of its services that can help them live better, protect better and get better. Read more information about this promising offering from AIA Philippines below.

AIA Philippines Total Health Solution

     Last October, I was invited to an afternoon of all things health and wellness as AIA Philippines introduced a new way that will help us Live Better, Protect Better and Get Better so we can achieve this goal, no matter what our health starting line may be.

We at AIA Philippines understand the importance of staying healthy especially during the pandemic,” AIA Philippines Chief Marketing Officer Leo Tan said. “We all have different health needs but we have the same goal, which is to be the healthiest we can be. The Total Health Solution ecosystem will help our customers achieve this. Insurance companies used to be just about providing protection products. With Total Health Solution, we are there to help them live better so they are able to maintain a healthy lifestyle, protect better so they have peace of mind that they are prepared for life’s uncertainties, and get better, giving them access to healthcare needs should they find themselves unwell.”

     To make the launch more exciting, they sent us special kits with items that will help jumpstart our journey towards a healthier, longer, and better life. 

AIA Philippines Total Health Solution

Live Better

     AIA Philippines customers can find the support they need to sustain a healthy lifestyle in the Total Health Solution ecosystem. It houses the AIA Vitality program, the Company’s game-changing program that incentivizes customers with rewards for knowing and improving their health. It’s also where healthcare partners such as EZ Consult can be easily accessed, allowing customers the means to consult nutritionists with a few clicks of a button.

Protect Better

      “As a life insurance company, our mission is to race against risk to protect more Filipinos. And at the end of the day, that is at the core of what we do. Through Total Health Solution, we are able to fulfill this mission by providing them the means to be protected, and more importantly, stay protected,” Tan explained.

     Within the ecosystem, customers have clear visibility on their policies, and allows them to make changes. With these details on hand, customers can be reminded regularly when their premiums are due, helping them avoid missing their payments.

Get Better

     With Total Health Solution, customers have the support they need anytime, anywhere. Healthcare needs such as teleconsult, medicine purchase via delivery, vaccine administration, and discounted laboratory procedures are easily accessible.

The pandemic has increased the need for healthcare solutions among Filipinos. As their partner in health and wellness, we want to be able to address that need. These days, it can be a strain to schedule a consultation or a lab procedure, especially if you don’t know where to go. Having the Total Health Solution ecosystem reassures our customers that they will be supported for everything related to their health care needs,” Tan expounded.

     The journey to helping Filipinos live better began in 2017 and with Total Health Solution, AIA Philippines has come full circle. “This is one of the many innovative solutions we have developed to take care of our customers as part of our transition to AIA Philippines. Through Total Health Solution providing the means for us to be with our customers every step of the way, we bring to life our purpose of helping more Filipinos live Healthier, Longer, Better Lives,” said Kelvin Ang, AIA Philippines Chief Executive Officer.

     For more information on AIA Philippines,

visit their official website: http://www.aia.com.ph/

email customerservice.ph@aia.com, or call (02) 8528-2000.

Like them on Facebook: AIA Philippines 

COVID-19 Antigen Test Kits Now Available at Watsons

     Recognizing the importance of widespread testing, Watsons will sell FDA-certified COVID-19 antigen test kits with a price range of P399-P500 at select stores in Metro Manila starting October 25 and will be available in all stores nationwide by November 25. The testing kits are for administering by medical professionals such as doctors, nurses, and medical technologists and will require medical prescription. 

     The required specifications set by the Health Technology Assessment Council (HTAC) are at 80% sensitivity and 97% specificity and these test kits can deliver at least 95% sensitivity and 99.2% specificity. "As more people head out to work, school and gatherings, Watsons knows that antigen test kits are important in helping reduce transmission," said Maita A. Santiago, Watsons Philippines Customer Director.

COVID-19 Antigen Test Kits Now Available at Watsons
image from pexels.com

Herbalife Virtual Run 2021

     The pandemic and mandatory quarantine have confined us in our homes for more than a year already. Some of us became less productive when it comes to physical activities while others stayed focused on their health and wellness journey. Apart from eating healthily, I always make sure to move my body first thing in the morning. As much as possible, I avoid sitting down unless I'm working on content creation. This kind of physical activity doesn't end there as I also include yoga or weight lifting in my exercise routine five times a week.

     This month, I'm so excited to incorporate another kind of physical activity in the form of running. It's my first time to join a run hosted by Herbalife Philippines called Herbalife Virtual Run that started last October 1 until 31, 2021. Now in its second year, the challenge is part of the premier global nutrition company’s Get Moving With Good Nutrition campaign that seeks to give people the push toward healthy active living. More details and tips on how to prepare for this run below.

Herbalife Virtual Run 2021

Practical Ways to Manage Stress from Herbalife Nutrition Experts

     When I ask someone the question "how's life going lately?" The immediate answer I always get is the word stress. We are all experiencing stress because of the pandemic and it's been affecting our well-being. Stress is part of daily living, but it can become a major cause for concern when it starts to affect one’s health. There are several ways to manage it, and we can start by being more mindful of the food we eat, and taking better care of our mental health.

     Last July, I was invited to the monthly online media engagement of Herbalife Philippines to join  Herbalife Nutrition Institute Chairman Dr. David Heber and Herbalife Nutrition Global Fitness Advisory Board Member Shayamal Vallabhjee as they share ways how to deal with stress. Both Dr. Heber and Vallabhjee have been speakers in separate Herbalife Nutrition eWellness Tour events presented by Herbalife Nutrition Philippines. The monthly forum aims to promote nutrition education by inviting experts from the fields of science, nutrition, health, and fitness to talk about the importance of good nutrition and having a healthy active lifestyle in achieving overall health and wellbeing. Read more highlights of this online event below.

Practical Ways to Manage Stress from Herbalife Nutrition Experts 
image from Pexels

Ways to Keep Your Brain Healthy the Herbalife Way!

     Our brain, like the rest of our body, needs to be checked regularly. When I say check, it's like evaluating if one or all of the key components of mind health is present like strong memory, ability to think and reason, steady mood, and agreeable personality. With the recent events and the uncertainties happening, our mental health may not be in good shape. I presume that some of you have experienced signs of stress, anxiety attacks, and sleep disturbances because of our current situation. 

     It is very timely that Dr. Small, who is a member of the Herbalife Nutrition Advisory Board, talked about “Healthy Aging: Brain Fitness for Healthy Adults” at the most recent Virtual Wellness Tour hosted by Herbalife Nutrition Philippines. As part of the discussion, he shared his views on effective ways to improve memory and help maintain cognitive functions. He also provided relevant information on how balanced nutrition, sustained physical activity, and sound lifestyle practices will safeguard our ability to perform mental processes. Sharing the highlights of this online event below :)

Ways to Keep Your Brain Healthy the Herbalife Way!

Neucell Essence of Mushroom: Helping You See the Benefits of Yun-zhi

     One of my favorite comfort food is mushrooms. I love it in my soup, together with tasty gravy, or with lots of stir-fried garlic. These fleshy and edible fungi are packed rich in B Vitamins like riboflavin, niacin, and pantothenic acid. The combination is good for cardiovascular health, digestive system and maintaining healthy skin. Several centuries have passed and the mushroom, even up to this day, has become a staple ingredient not just in food but also for treatment due to its renowned medicinal benefits, especially in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM).

     There were many mushroom varieties that have sprouted, and claims about its wondrous benefits have become legendary. However, it was only probably in the 1970s that mushrooms’ properties were studied up close. Animal testing saw success in slowing down cancer cell growth and improve mortality, but the real test was when it involved humans. During clinical trials, mushroom compounds proved effective in reducing cancer mortality while improving response to cancer treatments. Since its introduction decades ago, mushroom extracts have been used as medicine in Japan and as an adjunct to cancer treatment. Read more about Yun-zhi and its benefits after the jump!

Neucell Essence of Mushroom: Helping You See the Benefits of Yun-zhi

TRAINING WITH T: Get to Know More of Tatiana Lampa

     Hello dearies! Today, I'm so excited to share with you this article because the topic is close to my heart- Fitness. I decided to commit to a healthier lifestyle a year ago and sharing all things related to health and wellness is something that I will always do to inspire you. 

     Today, I'm featuring one of the trainers who recently launched an exciting fitness app called TRAINING WITH T, meet Tatiana Lampa- a NYC based trainer and is taking over the online space with her signature program - MOVE BETTER. Get to know more about Tatiana as she answers some of my burning questions with regards to strength training and cardio after the jump!

TRAINING WITH T: Get to Know More of Tatiana Lampa

AIA Philam Life Med-Assist for Children

     I just realized that life insurance is essential when my father was in and out of the hospital a few years ago. It never crossed my mind that I'll be needing it too for my family especially for my child. In this time of uncertainty, protection from financial burden in time of sickness is non-negotiable and getting one today is the key to peace of mind among others.

     It's true that for most parents, getting medical insurance for their child rarely crosses their minds. The more pressing matter, especially for first time parents, are immediate physical needs. But the truth is, a child’s medical needs can be costly, and with 54% of health expenses coming from the household budget, this can be a burden to many.

AIA Philam Life Med-Assist for Children
Nico and Solenn Bolzico with daughter Thylane

High Protein Low-Calorie Milk Brands in the Philippines

     Milk is one of my favorite drinks. It's packed with important nutrients like calcium, phosphorus, B vitamins, potassium, vitamin D, and an excellent source of protein. ⁣Drinking milk and dairy products may prevent bone fractures, osteoporosis, and even help you maintain a healthy weight.⁣

⁣

     I usually combine a glass of milk to my Herbalife Formula 1 Shake for added creaminess and protein. In order for me to achieve the required protein amount based on my macronutrient count or macros, (protein is very hard for me to achieve with just eating alone) I incorporate this muscle gainer daily in my drinks too. Can you guess my top 2 fave milk brands in the photo below? Sharing a short feature and review of the milk brands that I highly recommend if you're into weight loss and building muscle after the jump!

High Protein Low-Calorie Milk Brands in the Philippines

Product Review: Safeguard Gentle Micellar Body Cleanser

     Skincare junkies, hear ye, hear ye! Say hello to the all-new Safeguard Gentle Micellar Body Cleanser that's perfect for sensitive skin! I’m so excited to share this because it’s a breakthrough in germicidal soaps. We all know that anti-bacterial soaps tend to be harsh on sensitive skin making it dry. The all-new Safeguard Gentle Micellar Body Cleanser gently lifts up to 99.9% of germs, dirt, and oil with its Micellar technology- tiny balls of oil cleansing molecules suspended in water to draw out dirt and impurities without overdrying your skin.

     Did you know that sensitive skin is more vulnerable to germs? This is due to a weaker skin barrier vs normal skin that's why if you have sensitive skin, you need a germ-protecting soap like Safeguard Gentle Micellar Body Cleanser series that's also paraben-free, and dermatologically tested. The three variants are already a staple in the household. I’m currently hooked with Berries & Pear variant while my son uses the unscented one that's perfect for his sensitive skin. ⁣Sharing my thoughts on the all NEW Safeguard Gentle Micellar Body Cleanser below.

Product Review: Safeguard Gentle Micellar Body Cleanser