Share This

Showing posts with label Health. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Health. Show all posts

Saturday, August 30, 2025

Unhealthy sleep patterns

 

Here are six signs that your sleeping pattern is out of whack, and how to improve it.

T0ssing and turning throughout the night, even if you're not really conscious ot it, it is a sign of poor sleep

WE all experience the occasional late night or restless sleep, but when these nights become frequent, it can begin to take a toll on your health and overall well-being.

Britain’s The London General Practice sleep and circadian rhythm specialist Dr Katharina Lederle has outlined six key signs that indicate that your sleep pattern may be offbalance.

She has also shared some helpful tips and tricks on how to reset your routine to help you wake up feeling refreshed.

1. Waking up in the night

Frequently waking up too early or having regular interruptions during the night is a clear sign that your sleep has been disrupted.

“Waking up and going to the toilet once and then falling back asleep within a couple of minutes is fine, but if you are having a lot of toilet trips or just think ‘why have I been awake for such a long period of time’, and then struggle to get back to sleep, that suggests there might be a problem,” she says.

2. Restlessness

“If it takes you longer than 30 minutes to get to sleep on a regular basis, there could be an issue.

“One sign of poor sleep is restlessness – tossing and turning at night,” she says.

“You might not necessarily wake up fully and think I have been tossing and turning a lot, but the next day there may be an awareness of restlessness.

“Or if you have a sleeping partner, they might comment on your restlessness during the night.”

3. Busy mind

A busy mind can be a symptom of a poor sleep schedule, and vice versa.

“Stress can psychologically lead to busy thoughts – worrying about the future and replaying scenes from your day – which can make it harder to get to sleep,” says Dr Lederle.

“Stress can also physiologically lead to raised cortisol levels and a raised heart rate.

“However, what we actually want/need for sleep is the exact opposite. We need relaxation to allow ourselves to let go of everything.”

4. Low mood

Feeling low or down during the day can be another indication that your sleep pattern has been disrupted.

“The resources in the brain are all finite and need to be rebuilt.

“So, if your prefrontal cortex [which plays a crucial role in executive functions and higherorder cognitive processes] is sleep deprived, it can’t fulfil its regulatory role,” explains Dr Lederle.

“This often results in low mood, anxiety and irritability, which can then quite quickly lead to conflict or disagreements.”

5. Struggling to focus

“A lack of motivation and struggling to concentrate are some more signs of disrupted sleep that you may notice during the day,” she says.

“When the prefrontal cortex

nd hasn’t had the chance to rebuild all its resources, concentration can become hard.

“Seeing the bigger picture, attention to detail and switching attention intentionally can also become harder.”

6. Excessive tiredness

Feeling excessively tired throughout the day is likely to be a sign of disrupted sleep or accumulated sleep debt.

“Waking up and still feeling tired and groggy is sleep inertia, which we all experience to some extent.

“But if you repeatedly feel excessively tired without an

explanation, that could indicate a bigger problem,” says Dr Lederle.

Reset your routine

Here are some strategies to help your sleeping pattern get back on track:

>Expose yourself to light in the mornings

“When you wake up in the morning, let the light in and go outside,” she recommends

> Make your bedroom room dark and cool in the evenings

“Try to keep your sleeping environment quiet, dark and cool,” she advises.

Go to bed and wake up at regular times

“It’s okay to have some late nights when we go to the theatre or to a party, but on the whole, it’s important to keep your sleep and wake times as regular as possible,” says Dr Lederle.

Expose yourself to light in the mornings

“When you wake up in the morning, let the light in and go outside,” she recommends. > Make your bedroom room dark and cool in the evenings

“Try to keep your sleeping environment quiet, dark and cool,” she advises.

Think about what might be causing your stress

“Identify where your stress is coming from and think about what you can control,” suggests Dr Lederle.

“Think about: how can I recover? How can I let go of my work? How can I relax? How can I get a sense of autonomy or control?”

Engaging in an activity you enjoy before bed can provide a sense of autonomy and control, which may help lower your stress levels and help you drift off to sleep.

“It could be that your goal is to meditate and you start with doing five minutes every evening,” she says.

>Adjust eating times Stay active Seek help

“Eating late or eating sugary foods before bed can impact people’s ability to fall asleep,” she says.

“The general rule of thumb is to try and eat dinner at least three or four hours before you go to sleep.

“Having caffeine in the evening, or drinking too much during the day, can also make it harder to fall asleep.”

>Stay active

“Make sure you are moving throughout the day and try to avoid sitting on a chair for hours on end,” says Dr Lederle.

“Try to do some exercise to help release tension and stress from the body.”

“If we have a stressful event, it’s quite normal to have poor sleep.

> Seek help

“But if you are struggling to sleep for more than two weeks, start to think about what might be impacting your sleep,” she says.

“Then if your sleep hasn’t resolved after that, I would suggest speaking to a specialist.” – PA Media/dpa

By CAMILLA FOSTER

Tuesday, August 5, 2025

New medical innovations to address rising cancer burden in Malaysia

 

The Hospital Picaso medical team is showcasing a cutting-edge, minimally invasive therapy for patients with prostate cancer 

Prostate, pancreatic and liver cancers remain among the most pressing health challenges in Malaysia, with late-stage diagnoses continuing to impact patient outcomes.

Prostate cancer is one of the most common cancers affecting Malaysian men, with many cases detected only at advanced stages.

Liver cancer is also one of the most common cancers among Malaysians, while pancreatic cancer remains one of the deadliest due to late detection and limited treatment options.

In Petaling Jaya, Hospital Picaso – a dedicated centre of excellence for advanced surgery and integrated oncology – is responding to these challenges with next-generation treatment options.

It is the leading hospital in Malaysia to offer Irreversible Electroporation (IRE), a non-thermal ablation technique that targets cancer cells while sparing healthy tissue.

This innovation represents a significant advancement in prostate cancer care, giving patients more precise options with fewer long-term complications.

“This technique gives us a targeted way to treat prostate cancer, while reducing damage to surrounding structures,” said Hospital Picaso consultant urologist Datuk Dr Loh Chit Sin.

“This treatment can help patients to retain urinary continence and preserve erectile dysfunction.

“These outcomes address two of the biggest concerns men face – maintaining quality of life while seeking effective care.”

Known as Irreversible Electro­poration (IRE), this technique utilises high-voltage electrical pul­ses to destroy cancer cells without the use of heat.

This method allows treatment near delicate structures, such as nerves, ducts and blood vessels, making it suitable for tumours in the prostate as well as liver, pancreas and kidneys.

It reflects a more personalised approach to cancer care that supports both survival and post-­treatment well-being.

Building on this advancement, Hospital Picaso is also introducing the Electrochemotherapy (ECT), further expanding its interventional oncology capabilities.

ECT combines short electrical pulses with localised chemotherapy to enhance drug absorption directly into tumour cells.

It is particularly effective for difficult-to-access or previously unresponsive tumours in the liver and pancreas.

By concentrating treatment where it’s needed most, while limiting systemic side effects, ECT offers new hope to patients with limited options.

New technologies are expanding what’s possible but early detection is still key to better outcomes.

“When we detect prostate, pancreatic or liver cancer early, we’re able to offer options that are less invasive and more targeted,” said Dr Loh.

“With techniques like Irreversible Electroporation and Electrochemotherapy, we’re not just treating the disease – we’re giving patients more control over their treatment journey.”

At Hospital Picaso, these innovations represent more than medical advancement.

They mark a shift in how cancer care is delivered – giving patients better options, making treatments more precise and helping people live more fully during and after recovery.

KKLIU: 2321/EXP 31.12.2027

Sunday, July 13, 2025

BE LABEL-SAVVY TO STAY HEALTHY for organic food among health-conscious consumers

 

PETALING JAYA: The multi-billion-­ringgit global organic food and beverage market is expected to grow more by 2030, according to market research firm Grand View Research.

For Malaysia, there is a growing appetite for organic food among health-conscious consumers.

CLICK TO ENLARGECLICK TO ENLARGE

But how do people know whether the “organic” foodstuff they buy are truly organic?

An important source is the myOrganic sticker that is usually found on the packaging of organic foodstuff sold at shops.

The myOrganic certification scheme is used to promote, implement and facilitate the adoption of organic agriculture, explains Agriculture Department (DOA) director-general Datuk Nor Sam Alwi.

“This certification scheme covers various organic activities, including fresh produce farming, beekeeping, the breeding of organic plant varieties and wild harvesting.

ALSO READ: Verifying food markers not quite an organic process

“The Malaysian Organic Certification Scheme is now known as myOrganic,” she said in in a statement to The Star.

To safeguard the authenticity of certified organic products, the regulation of organic items is primarily governed under the Food Act 1983 and Food Regulations 1985, overseen by the Health Ministry, she added.

The Agriculture and Food Security Ministry has also registered the myOrganic certification logo with the Intellectual Property Corporation of Malaysia (MyIPO) as a legitimate trademark.

“If the DOA receives complaints about the misuse of this logo, the matter will be referred to the Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Ministry for further investigation.

“In cases where fraud is confirmed, the offending company may be prosecuted under the Trademarks Act 2019,” she said.

Upon conviction, offenders may face a fine of up to RM10,000 per item bearing the misused trademark, imprisonment of up to three years or both.

ALSO READ: How bugs help you spot organic durians

Nor Sam said the department has issued guidelines to certificate holders outlining the terms and conditions for the use of the myOrganic logo.

“However, we also rely on the cooperation of consumers to address the risks of fraud and logo misuse by lodging complaints where appropriate.

“Matters related to processing, repackaging or importation of organic products fall strictly under the jurisdiction of the Health Ministry,” she said.

To create awareness, the department is actively carrying out promotional activities targeting consumers through physical events and social media platforms, as well as by engaging with local organic associations.

“These initiatives focus on promoting Good Agricultural Prac­tices (GAP), highlighting the importance of recognising the myOrganic logo, encouraging the purchase of certified farm produce.

“Additionally, consumers can verify the validity of organic certification by visiting the DOA website at www.doa.gov.my under the list of certified recipients,” she said.

Dr Juju Nakasha Jaafar, senior lecturer at the Faculty of Agri­culture at Universiti Putra Malay­sia, said there has been confusion on the authenticity of organic products.

“For example, a seller might claim he is selling pesticide-free or chemical-free vegetables, which gives consumers the impression that the products are organic.

“In reality, these vegetables may be free from chemical pesticides but are still grown using chemical fertilisers and thus do not qualify as organic,” she said.

“For vegetables to be certified as organic, all input must be completely natural.

“This includes compost fertilisers, organic pesticides and non-genetically modified organism seeds.”

These are outlined in the myOrganic certification guidelines.

“Consumers can look for the myOrganic logo on vegetable products to ensure they are truly organic.

“The DOA strictly regulates this certification,” she said, adding that more details can be found on the DOA website.

Federation of Malaysian Consumers Associations (Fomca) secretary-general Dr Saravanan Thambirajah said traders must verify the certification documents provided by suppliers before selling or labelling any product as organic.

“They should only use the term ‘organic’ when backed by certification,” he said.

Saravanan said consumers should look for official certification logos on packaging and not rely solely on general claims like ‘natural’.

“If you suspect a product is being falsely marketed as organic, you should report it to the Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Ministry or lodge a complaint with Fomca,” he added.--

By KHOO GEK SANDIVYA THERESA RAVIRAGANANTHINI VETHASALAM

https://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2025/07/12/be-label-savvy-to-stay-healthy

Friday, June 27, 2025

Go easy on durian, say experts ; Time ripe to grow durian dynasty

 

(From left) Mohammad Taufik Saidon, Muhamad Hafiz Azizan and Mohd Iszuan Ismail from Alor Setar enjoying the King of Fruits at Anjung Indah in Balik Pulau, Penang. — ZHAFARAN NASIB/The Star

IT IS durian season again, but over-indulging in the King of Fruits can pose a serious risk to our health.

Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) family medicine specialist Dr Mastura Mohd Sopian said those with diabetes, heart disease, kidney problems or high blood pressure should not binge eat.

“To enjoy the nutritional benefits of durian safely, limit intake to no more than two medium-sized pieces per day, or about 80g,” she said.

Eating too much durian could have a negative impact on blood sugar levels, she noted.

“Bingeing on durian may cause discomfort and disrupt normal metabolic functions.

“For those with chronic conditions, durian should only be consumed in small amounts, occasionally or not at all,” she added.

Dr Mastura said certain foods should be avoided when eating durian, which contains carbohydrates, vitamins and minerals.

“These include spicy dishes, caffeine, carbonated drinks, sweet fruits, desserts, soft drinks and sugar-sweetened beverages.

“Consuming these alongside durian can cause digestive discomfort and increase health risks,” she said.

“Durian also has a ‘heaty’ effect, though reactions may vary among individuals,” said Dr Mastura.

Penang Health Department nutritionist Zuhaida Harun said that like any other fruit, durian should be eaten according to the recommended serving size.

“One serving of durian is two to three pieces.

“It is high in calories and natural sugar.

“For people with diabetes, it can cause a dangerous spike in blood sugar,” she said.

Zuhaida said high consumption of durian could significantly increase a person’s overall calorie intake.

“Sometimes, bingeing can also lead to other health issues such as bloating, indigestion or feeling overheated,” she said, adding that moderation applied to all foods.

Penang health committee chairman Daniel Gooi reminded the public to practise moderation when enjoying durian, especially during the current peak season, to avoid potential health risks.

“Overindulgence, particularly in hot weather, can lead to discomfort such as a sore throat, dehydration or digestive problems,” he said.

“Drink plenty of water and exercise self-control to fully appreciate the fruit without experiencing adverse effects,” Gooi advised.

Source link

Time ripe to grow durian dynasty

Smells like success: Durians on display at a stall in SS2, Petaling Jaya. — ART CHEN/The Star

PETALING JAYA: In the world of durians, Malaysia’s Musang King may reign supreme but a new wave of contenders is emerging.

From the creamy Black Thorn and Red Prawn to the sweet Hajah Hasmah, the government is championing lesser-known premium varieties to capture growing international demand.

Other established types like Sultan and Tekka are also seeing interest, offering the fruit at a more accessible price and broadening Malaysia’s footprint in the global durian market.

Agriculture Department director-­general Datuk Nor Sam Alwi said Musang King and Bukit Merah are the main varieties recommended for export due to their rich, creamy texture and strong flavour but efforts are under way to highlight other premium types such as Black Thorn, Red Prawn and Hajah Hasmah.

“These varieties are being evaluated for future certification and export readiness, based on their potential in terms of taste, texture, shelf life and suitability for long-distance shipping,” she told The Star.

Nor Sam said that Chinese nationals, in particular, are willing to pay premium prices for these varieties.

As such, she said the department is working towards registe­ring durian varieties grown in Malaysia, conduct agronomic assessments and ensure compliance with the phytosanitary requirements of importing countri

“This includes pest disinfestation methods such as vapour heat treatment, traceability systems and farm export certification schemes,” she said.

CLICK TO ENLARGECLICK TO ENLARGE

These efforts, she said, were in line with the department’s goal of diversifying Malaysia’s durian varieties in the global market, strengthening the competitiveness of the national durian industry and maximising its export value.

The Malaysian Agricultural Research and Development Institute (Mardi) has found that there is a growing appetite for a wider range of flavours among durian enthusiasts.

“Consumers are becoming more adventurous. They are seeking out unique taste profiles. We are also seeing renewed interest in older, established clones such as D24 and Tekka, which are more affordable and offer classic durian characteristics,” it said in a statement.

Mardi said regional favourites and specific kampung durians with distinctive traits are gaining popularity, too.

On the export front, Mardi said it is focusing on developing new hybrids for domestic and global markets.

Its MDUR series (a hybrid durian clone developed by Mardi), in particular, has shown promise.

“One of the main highlights is MDUR 88 (D190), a hybrid of D10 and D24.

“It is golden yellow, slightly sticky and creamy with a flavour that many compare favourably to Musang King.”

In view of its quality, Mardi said the Agriculture and Food Security Ministry is promoting MDUR 88 for export.

“MDUR 88 has recently been rebranded as ‘MARDI Super 88’ (MS88),” it said.

Mardi is also working on other hybrids, such as MDUR 78 (D188) and MDUR 79 (D189), which offer improved yields and greater resistance to diseases like root borers and stem canker.

The institute also highlighted its broader breeding initiatives, noting that its second hybridisation programme, launched in the late 1980s, involved crosses between 10 different varieties.

Several promising hybrids from this programme are now in the final stages of assessment and are expected to be introduced under the 13th Malaysia Plan.

Mardi’s third set of hybrids is undergoing evaluation and assessment.

The institute is optimistic about the potential of these new hybrids.

“While Musang King and Black Thorn continue to set the benchmark in terms of market presence and price, we believe that our own developed hybrids, particularly MDUR 88, have the characteristics and quality to compete in the international market,” it said.

Federal Agricultural Marketing Authority (Fama) director-general Abdul Rashid Bahri said that in addition to Musang King, premium varieties including D24, Black Thorn, IOI and D9 have been sent for assessments to ensure they meet phytosanitary and quality compliance for targeted export markets like China.

“Fama is also working to expand market access beyond China and Hong Kong to countries such as the United Kingdom, Canada, the United Arab Emirates, Australia and the Netherlands,” he said.

Abdul Rashid said that strategic initiatives include participation in trade fairs, digital marketplace partnerships, in-store promotions and collaborative awareness programmes with the Malaysian embassies.

“To strengthen Malaysia’s competitive edge and credibility in premium markets, the ministry is also enhancing the national branding of agricultural produce through Malaysia’s Best, a certification that assures quality and safety for both domestic and international standards,” he said.

In 2023, Malaysia exported 54,374 tonnes of durians, valued at RM1.51bil, with China accounting for more than 45.7% of the total export.

Abdul Rashid said the volume is expected to increase following China’s approval for fresh durian imports.

“Fama will continue to work with industry stakeholders to monitor market trends, optimise logistics, and scale up capacity to meet growing international demand,” he said.

Malaysia’s durian cultivation area has been steadily expanding in recent years, with data from the Agriculture Department showing an increase from 70,286ha in 2019 to a projected 92,129ha in 2024.

Durian production followed suit, rising from 390,635 tonnes in 2020 to a projected 568,852 tonnes this year, despite some fluctuations due to weather and cost challenges.

The increase has been driven largely by global demand especially for premium varieties.

Related :

pike-

Spike-tacular search for best durian

9 Jun 2025 — Time ripe to grow durian dynasty · Roundup: Indonesian durian eyes China's massive market potential · QuickCheck: Is there really an odourless ..


6 Nov 2024 — From flower to ripe fruit, this takes about three months. This ends with the emergence of the beloved durian, a favorite among many. Durian ....
Kan Yao durians are available in Thailand during the wet season, typically from May through June. Current Facts. Kan Yao durians, botanically classified as