Red Spots On Your Child's Body: How To Tell The Difference Between Chickenpox Or Hand Foot Mouth Disease

The number of cases of hand, foot, and mouth disease (HFMD) in the country is increasing at an alarming rate. A total of 82,846 cases were reported as of 4 June 2022, an increase of 32 times compared to 2,485 cases in the same period in 2021, following the relaxation of distancing, masking, and the opening of day care centres and schools
1
.

According to the Director General of Health, Tan Sri Dr Noor Hisham Abdullah, most cases of HFMD occur among children aged six (6) years and below
1
.

Although HFMD can be classified as a common endemic disease in children, many parents are still confused and unable to differentiate HFMD from other childhood diseases. Perhaps because the symptoms of HFMD are almost similar to those of other diseases, especially chickenpox
2,3
.

Let’s understand the differences between these two diseases so that parents are more aware and can respond effectively if their child is infected.

What is Chickenpox?

Image for representation purpose only

Varicella is an infectious disease caused by the Varicella-Zoster virus. This disease, better known as ‘chickenpox’, usually occurs in children under the age of 10 years old
3
.

After the first infection, most people will have lifelong immunity, though the virus may re-emerge later on in life as shingles for some
4
.

According to Dr. JoAnn, a paediatrician from FirstStep Child Specialist Clinic, chickenpox is so contagious that 90% of those who come into contact with an infected person can get the disease, especially if they are not immune. “This explains why chickenpox outbreaks often occur in schools or daycares. With the contagious nature of chickenpox, parents should visit their children’s doctors to understand more about the preventive measures that they can take, including suitable vaccinations.,” she adds.*

The chickenpox virus is spread through respiratory fluids or direct contact with blistered skin fluids. The most common symptom of chickenpox is a rash on the body. One to two days before the rash on the body appears, your child will begin to feel weak, headaches, have a poor appetite, and fever
5
.

The rash will appear around the face, chest, and back of the body at the beginning of the infection and then spread to all parts of the body. The rash will turn into blisters filled with fluid that are very itchy. The blisters eventually dry out and become scabs
6
.

It is important for parents to note that children who have been vaccinated against chickenpox may be prevented from getting the disease or will experience milder symptoms and fewer rash if they do get infected and the recovery process will occur more quickly
5,6
.

To get a more in-depth understanding on chickenpox, we asked Dr. JoAnn to share some important information as well as her personal experience in treating patients, particularly children with chickenpox.

1. Who is most at risk of getting infected by the Varicella-Zoster virus?

Dr. JoAnn: The majority of chickenpox cases occur in young children. However, older children and adults can also get it if they are not immune.*

2. Is chickenpox usually mild or serious?

Dr. JoAnn: For most healthy people, chickenpox is usually mild, and they recover fully without any specific treatment. However, complications from chickenpox can occur in certain high-risk individuals such as infants, adolescents, adults, pregnant mothers and those with a weakened immune system, for example, those undergoing chemotherapy.*

3. What are the possible complications associated with chickenpox?

Dr. JoAnn: Some possible complications associated with chickenpox infection include bacterial infection of the skin, infection of the lungs (pneumonia), infection or swelling of the brain (encephalitis, cerebellar ataxia), bleeding problems (hemorrhagic complications), and bloodstream infections (sepsis).*

“Although these complications are deemed rare, I have personally seen and treated children with these complications. It is heartbreaking to see any child or parents go through this. With the availability of vaccines for chickenpox, parents should speak with their children’s doctors to understand more.,” Dr. JoAnne shares.*

What is HFMD?

Image for representation purpose only

Hand, foot and mouth disease (HFMD) is an infection caused by viruses from the Enterovirus group especially Coxsackievirus A16, Coxsackievirus A6, Enterovirus 71 (EV71) and several other viruses
7
.

The virus is spread by direct contact with saliva, blister fluid and faeces from infected individuals. Children usually get infected from other children in a ‘faecal-oral’ pattern i.e. the infection is acquired from exposure to faeces or secretions from the nose or mouth
8
.

The symptoms of the disease are usually mild with symptoms of fever followed by a watery rash or blisters on the hands, feet, mouth and tongue
2
. Children infected with HFMD usually have a markedly reduced appetite for food and drinks due to the pain experienced especially on the throat and tongue
2
.

Although the disease infects all ages, HFMD most commonly occurs in children especially those aged ten (10) years and below. But that doesn’t mean that adults and older children can’t also be infected with HFMD
9
.

Cases of HFMD caused by EV71 virus infection is also associated with the increased risk of getting complications such as encephalitis and inflammation of the heart (myocarditis)
10
.

The Difference Between Chickenpox and HFMD

The two diseases share similar general symptoms and signs such as lethargy, fever and rash, but there are several features that distinguish them
2,3
:

Virus Type

Chickenpox is caused by the Varicella-Zoster virus
5
 and HFMD is caused by the Enterovirus type virus, specifically the Coxsackie virus
7
.

Nature of Rash

The chickenpox rash will spread to all parts of the body
6
 while the HFMD rash is concentrated in the mouth, diaper slits, palms and soles of the feet
8
.

Characteristics of Rash

The rash caused by chickenpox starts with small red spots that then become blisters with pus and will rupture, dry out and eventually become scab before healing
5
. Whereas the rash caused by HFMD usually appears first in the mouth like an ulcer and followed by flat red spots which in turn become small blisters
11
. Chickenpox rash is very itchy and HFMD rash can be very painful
5,11
.

Duration

Chickenpox usually lasts about 4 – 7 days
6
. HFMD will heal 7 to 10 days after symptoms begin
12
.

Infectiousness

Chickenpox infection is usually once in a lifetime except for when Varicella-zoster virus which lies dormant in the nerve tissues and may reactivate as Shingles
3
. HFMD infection can occur in a person repeatedly because there are different variants of the Enterovirus
10
.

Treatment

Varicella vaccine can help prevent chickenpox and doctors may prescribe antivirals in some cases
13
. HFMD has no specific treatment other than treating the symptoms
12
.

Secondary Complications

Usually, chickenpox is mild but complications such as pneumonia, inflammation of the brain can occur
5
.  Bacterial infections can also occur in chickenpox rash due to scratching due to itching
3
. In addition, the chickenpox virus that is known to lie dormant in the nerve cells and become active again, causing shingles which are very painful skin blisters
5
.

Chickenpox can cause abnormalities in the foetus if contracted early in pregnancy and makes the baby very sick if contracted towards the end of pregnancy
5
. HFMD is also usually harmless, mainly pain from ulcers in the throat and mouth which causes children to lose their appetite and can lead to dehydration
12
.

Prevention

Both Chickenpox and HFMD are caused by highly contagious viruses
5,7
. The viruses can pass from person to person on unwashed hands and contaminated surfaces. It can also spread through droplets of fluid sprayed into the air when an infected person sneezes or coughs. Contact with rash or blister fluid can also spread the virus easily
5,6
.

So why does chickenpox spread so easily among young children?

“Chickenpox spreads so easily among young children due to a few factors. Young children are often curious and tend to touch everything, sometimes putting objects or their hands into their mouths. They also tend to drool, which helps in the virus spread. Furthermore, it isn’t easy to maintain social distancing among young children,” Dr. JoAnn explains.*

According to the CDC, regular hand washing using soap and adequate sanitation kills not only the HFMD and Chickenpox viruses but also other viruses that commonly infect children. Image for representation purpose only

Therefore, some of the prevention measures to help protect children from being infected with Chickenpox and HFMD is to keep the environment clean, always wash hands with soap, manage disposable diapers properly and most importantly parents are advised not to send their children to daycare, babysitter or kindergarten to prevent infection and outbreaks if your children show symptoms or if there are other children who show symptoms
14
.

“Vaccinating against chickenpox is one of the preventive measures for this highly contagious disease. Most people vaccinated against chickenpox have a lower risk of infection or develop milder symptoms if they are infected,” adds Dr. JoAnn as a reminder to all parents out there.*

So parents, now that you know the difference between the symptoms of Chickenpox and HFMD, you can identify it better. Or if you want to learn how to better protect your children against preventable diseases, speak to your family doctor or paediatrician at the next visit.

*This information is provided as a professional service by MSD. The views expressed in the publication reflects the experience and opinions of the authors.

MY-VVX-00134 Oct/2022

REFERENCES:

From the Desk of the Director-General of Health Malaysia. Kenyataan Akhbar KPK 7 Jun 2022 – Situasi Semasa Kejadian Penyakit Tangan, Kaki dan Mulut (HFMD) di Malaysia (ME 22 2022). Available From:
https://kpkesihatan.com/2022/06/07/kenyataan-akhbar-kpk-7-jun-2022-situasi-semasa-kejadian-penyakit-tangan-kaki-dan-mulut-hfmd-di-malaysia-me-22-2022/
. Last Accessed 26 August 2022.

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease (HFMD). Available From:
https://www.cdc.gov/hand-foot-mouth/about/signs-symptoms.html
. Last Accessed 26 August 2022.

National Health Services Inform. Chickenpox. Available From:
https://www.nhsinform.scot/illnesses-and-conditions/infections-and-poisoning/chickenpox
. Last Accessed 26 August 2022.

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Shingles (Herpes Zoster).  Available From:
https://www.cdc.gov/shingles/about/transmission.html
. Last Accessed 26 August 2022.

Mayo Clinic. Chickenpox. Available From:
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/chickenpox/symptoms-causes/syc-20351282
. Last Accessed 26 August 2022.

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Chickenpox (Varicella). Available From:
https://www.cdc.gov/chickenpox/about/symptoms.html
. Last Accessed 26 August 2022.

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease (HFMD). Available From:
https://www.cdc.gov/hand-foot-mouth/about/transmission.html
. Last Accessed 26 August 2022.

Stanford Medicine Children’s Health. Hand-Foot-and-Mouth Disease in Children. Available From:
https://www.stanfordchildrens.org/en/topic/default?id=hand-foot-and-mouth-disease-in-children-90-P01857
. Last Accessed 26 August 2022.

Better Health Channel. Hand, foot and mouth disease. Available From:
https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/conditionsandtreatments/hand-foot-and-mouth-disease
. Last Accessed 26 August 2022.

Yi E, Shin Y, Kim J, Kim T & Chang S. Enterovirus 71 infection and vaccines.
Clinical and Experimental Vaccine Research
. 2017;6(1).

National Health Services Inform. Hand, foot and mouth disease. Available From:
https://www.nhsinform.scot/illnesses-and-conditions/infections-and-poisoning/hand-foot-and-mouth-disease
.  Last Accessed 27 September 2022.

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease (HFMD). Available From:
https://www.cdc.gov/hand-foot-mouth/about/treatment.html
. Last Accessed 26 August 2022.

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Chickenpox (Varicella). Available From:
https://www.cdc.gov/chickenpox/about/prevention-treatment.html
. Last Accessed 26 August 2022.

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease (HFMD). Available From:
https://www.cdc.gov/hand-foot-mouth/about/prevention.html
. Last Accessed 26 August 2022.

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Just Stay at Home! 6 Edutainment Apps & Services to Keep Your Kids Learning

As schools are closed, parents have to rely on the virtual world to keep their kids educated or engaged. Due to this, Digi Telecommunications is now offering Malaysians access to fun and quality learning activities to keep families occupied during this Movement Control Order (MCO).

Parents can subscribe to MyDigi Subscriptions by EasyAdd, which offers various edutainment apps and services that are currently on special discounts and with free trials. Non-Digi users can also access this through
www.easyadd.my
.

Here are six edutainment app and services for your children:

1. JomStudi

To ensure that children are not left behind in their studies, try
JomStudi
, a digital learning hub developed to provide students with educational content that they can easily access anytime and anywhere. The educational content, which includes those from Astro Tutor TV and Media Prima’s FullAMark, complies with the syllabus prescribed by the Malaysian Ministry of Education (MOE) for Year 5, UPSR, PT3 and SPM and gamifies the study process by allowing students a chance to collect e-badges as rewards for completing their assignments.

Digi is now offering free 24/7 data access for all Digi customers for any JomStudi content browsed throughout the MCO.

2. Classruum

Classruum
 is a virtual classroom that enables students to learn from certified teachers and tailor their own lesson plan using study materials that comply with the MOE syllabus. Consisting of core subjects for UPSR, Form 1, PT3 and Form 5 levels, tutorials are broken into lesson plans, practice and summary to enable students to understand the subjects and practice at their own pace. Students have online access to video tutorials, study notes, assessments and even interactive games.

Digi customers can enjoy a limited RM1 offer to access certain Classruum subjects for one month via MyDigi Subscriptions.

3. Me Books

If you’re looking for a great way to bond with your kids,
Me Books
 is an interactive storytime experience which contains over 300 children’s audio books. The quality storytime experience targeted at children aged between two to nine years consists of built-in narration with accurate pronunciations to help children brush up on their language skills. Children and their parents can opt to personalise the experience through a recording programme that records narrations and sounds.

Me Books is now available for subscription at RM12/month or RM60/year via MyDigi Subscriptions.

4. Atom & The Dot

Any parent will know that the trick to keep children out of trouble is to keep them busy!
Atom & The Dot
 enables fun and continuous learning for children aged between two to nine years through hands-on art science activity boxes. Each activity box comes with materials and instructions for art and science-inspired activities and experiments which will keep children entertained while sparking their curiosity and promoting creativity at the same time.

For Digi customers who are interested to try out Atom & The Dot, they can do so with the single trial pack at RM25 or opt for the RM40 for a monthly mini box subscription.

5. Veative

Veative
 offers over 650 VR modules mapped to the Malaysian (KSSM) curriculums. It provides students with another way to connect with complex concepts, via an engaging virtual environment. Open your children’s world to new possibilities and take a deeper dive into science and mathematics topics in a virtual world.

Digi customers can subscribe to Veative for a special price of RM95 which comes with a VR headset and 1-month subscription. Subsequent renewals thereafter will only be at RM10/month.

6. Hopster

Screen time can be an enriching experience for children through
Hopster
, a safe and ads-free entertainment and education app developed by academics in childhood education and cognitive development. The app contains hundreds of television shows, books, songs and games under one platform and comes with parental control features and smart screen time features.

Hopster is available for subscription from RM5/week.

Source: Digi

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Mum injected with skin-cleanser instead of epidural left paralysed

Grace Wang
, a victim of an epidural gone bad will never know what it is like to run free with her son Alex.

An anaesthetist mistakenly injected chlorhexidine, a skin-cleansing fluid, instead of administering an
epidural
 during a routine injection of spinal anaesthesia. The hospital has admitted fault and Grace’s case is the only one of its kind ever recorded.

Not only did the 33-year-old mother from Sydney suffer massive nerve damage, she also had to endure two brain surgeries and ended up paralysed from the waist down.

Epidural Gone Bad: Mum Left with Life-Long Injuries

Picture credit: Now To Love

What was meant to be a joyous occasion being first-time parents, turned in to a nightmare. Grace and Jason never saw it coming. Grace recounts the sadness in her heart because she couldn’t even physically hold her own son when he was born.

“When all those nurses hold Alex, when they kiss and hug him, I feel really sad because I really hope I can also hold him just like the others do because our Alex is so cute,” she says.

According to
The Sydney Morning Herald
, both clear liquids were placed in separate dishes on a sterile table in the delivery room and were mistakenly switched because they were un-labelled.

Grace told
SBS Mandarin News
 in an exclusive interview that she still feels the after-effects of the epidural gone bad till this day. Even while sitting in her wheelchair, she still feels very stiff and as though all the nerves in her body are constantly in pain.

There are days when she still cannot accept the tragedy that befell her. She has to accept that she will be unable to care for her own son. Her husband Jason not only has to take over that role, he also has to care for her. This is difficult because they are on their own in Australia with no other family members who can help.

Our hearts go out to this family, and we hope they get the help they need and so deserve.

Picture credit: Grace Wang – Epidural Tragedy – Updates and Help Facebook account

Watch the interview here:

An Epidural Gone Bad May Cause These Complications:

1. Drop in Blood Pressure

Every time your blood pressure drops, it can also affect the blood flow to your baby. According to the
American Pregnancy Association
, mums will have to be treated with IV fluids, oxygen, and possibly medications, if this happens.

2. Inadvertent Dural Puncture or a ‘Wet Tap’

This occurs when the epidural needle accidentally punctures the membrane that covers your spinal cord. As a result, your spinal fluid leaks out. The result is intense headaches say the
American Society of Anaesthesiologists
. The mum will need to do a “blood patch” to treat the problem. This involves injecting your own blood into the hole to seal it off.

3. Infections

Despite the very real risk, an infection is highly unlikely because the needles used are always sterile. Your back would also be cleaned with antiseptics. The risk is not high, but whenever there’s an opening in the body, it could potentially allow
bacteria
 to enter and grow. Also, the spine is directly wired to your brain. As rare as it may be, an epidural gone bad could mean an infection to your spinal cord, which then can be a risk to your life.

4. Fevers

Epidurals used for more than six hours can lead to fever. In such cases, mum and baby would have to run some tests and be given an
antibiotic
 treatment.

5. Nerve Damage

As scary as this sounds, this injury is only temporary and only lasts a couple weeks. Side effects of nerve damage that last a long time are very rare.

Other not so scary side effects of an epidural gone bad include shivering, itching, or feeling nauseous. Some women get a mild fever or even a headache after an epidural. However, these side effects are usually temporary.

According to
SingHealth

approximately
40-45% patients opt for epidural pain relief during labour
which translates to an annual number of more than 5000 people in KKH.

While epidurals are safe for both baby and mum when administered correctly and by a trained anaesthetist, there still is the possibility of human error. Are you considering pain relief the next time you go into labour? What will you opt for? Let us know in the comment box below.

Source:

SBS News
,
SingHealth
,
WebMD

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Experience Pet Health and Care Right at your Fingertips with the Launch of Pet Health by Pet Lovers Centre

Pet Lovers Centre, the largest pet retail chain in Malaysia is offering a one stop solution to all your pet inquiries with just a click away. Their user-friendly website connects consumers directly to pet pharmacists and pet care consultants. It offers both online and offline (in selected Pet Lovers Centre stores)  services ranging from Pet Pharmacy, Veterinary and Pet Care Consultant which provides consumers the ease of access to attend to the needs of their furry friends.

As a brand that is dedicated to enhancing their customers’ experience, Pet Lovers Centre have taken the initiative to expand their service offerings beyond the regular retail experience with the launch of the Pet Health platform. With this latest initiative, Pet Lovers Centre hopes to make pet care more accessible to the general public and provide with them the convenience of seeking immediate health consultations for their pets through the range of services offered on the website.

Pet Pharmacy

The goal of the Pet Pharmacy service [online and offline] is to make it easy for pet owners to get professional advice and access to pet healthcare expertise from the safety and comfort of their own homes. Pet Lovers Centre’s pharmacists are registered with the Pharmacy Board of Malaysia and are equipped with skills and knowledge on pharmacotherapy, prescription screening, medicine counseling and nutritional management.

Placing an order with Pet Pharmacy is as simple as filling up a form and providing a valid vet prescription for non over the counter medications. Consumers can opt for self pick up in selected stores or alternatively may also request for home delivery services and expect to receive the items and products they ordered  within 3-5 working days, subject to availability.

Pet Care Consultant

A little guidance and advice can go a long way in helping pet parents care for their fur kids’ health. That is why Pet Health’s Pet Care Consultants are always available via Live Chat and in selected Pet Lovers Centre stores.
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The consultants are veterinary trained professionals who are able to share holistic, professional advice through their combined expertise, skills and experiences, in order to help pet parents maintain their pet’s optimum health. The Live Chat operates daily from 9am to 10pm. All you need to do is click on the Live Chat icon to start chatting with a Pet Care Consultant.

Visit the Pet Lovers Centre’s website
HERE
 today for free pet health consultations or to place your pets medicine prescriptions orders, it’s only one click away.

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6-Year-Old Boy Suffers Facial Seizures After Excessive Screen Time

Everywhere we go, we often see this familiar sight among young families: children bent over their tablets and phones. Absorbed and cut-off, these children are very much lost in their own digital world. But sadly, this phenomenon is becoming a disease. Even young children are starting to show gaming addiction signs.

A six-year-old Filipino boy has recently developed persistent facial seizures after playing
 video games for almost nine hours a day
. While most of us would find nine hours of video games truly excessive, this is the norm for John Nathan Lising – who was suddenly hit with uncontrollable facial tics on 23 July 2018.

His parents rushed him to the nearest hospital, but according to CT scan results, John’s brain is surprisingly healthy.

There was no real way to medically prove that John’s facial seizures are linked to gaming addiction signs, however, doctors did advise his parents to stow away all gadgets and keep them away from their son.

Doctors also mentioned that the symptoms were similar to a disorder named “Focal Seizure”, which affects only one half of the brain. Currently, they are unable to properly diagnose John’s actual condition due to lack of evidence. But it would be wise for us parents to heed the doctor’s initial advice: reduce the amount of screen time even if our children are not showing gaming addiction signs.

Video of Six-Year-Old Boy Having Facial Seizures

How to Spot Gaming Addiction Signs

A couple of red flags that parents should note when looking for gaming addiction signs include:

unsuccessful control
 – when it becomes hard for the child to stop using screen media

loss of interest in everything else
 – when screen time is all that motivates your child

lack of social interaction/disengagement
 – when your child is preoccupied to the point where it interferes with family activities

withdrawal
 – when they become irritable when you cut down on their gaming or screen time

tolerance
 – playing for increasing amounts of time

lying
 – to conceal gaming or sneak in extra screen time

Preventing Gaming and Screen Addiction in Children

Be firm with the boundaries you’ve set. And be prepared to be unpopular. While other parents lug gadgets, power banks and earphones, you need to start bringing colour pencils, books, small portable toys, and stickers.

Find out what is the recommended limit for screen time per age group and stick to those limits. This includes the use of TV, computers and mobile devices. Here are new guidelines from the
American Academy of Pediatrics
.

Make the effort to go offline yourself and spend time doing fun physical activities with your children.

No TVs and electronic gadgets in your child’s bedroom. Set certain places as “tech-free” zones.

Set “tech-free” times during meals, homework time and bedtime.

Start early by teaching your children about the importance of moderation. Praise them when they follow your set boundaries.

Keep logs and monitor your child’s screen time.

Even if there is no medical proof to link gaming addiction signs to facial seizures,
WebMD
 says that stress and
sleep deprivation
 seem to play a role in both the occurrence and severity of motor tics.

Just imagine if your child spends hours and hours staring at the screen. Think about how this can affect their stress levels due to
overexposure of blue light in the eyes
 and also strain in the
neck
.

There is no actual way to measure stress levels in a person. So stow away your gadgets and focus on physically bonding with your children. They might protest now, but soon they will find that spending quality time with their own folks can be pretty fun too.

Source:
Edgar Lising
,
WebMD
,
World of Buzz

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Cute, Tiny, Furry Trios are Back in Action with We Baby Bears!

With fandom all over the world, squealing over their cuteness, We Bare Bears has captured the hearts of children and adults with their funny antics. With so much success over the original series, this year we get to be charmed all over again with the junior versions of Grizz, Panda and Ice Bear in We Baby Bears.

The spin-off of the hit Cartoon Network series, We Baby Bears follows Grizz (Connor Andrade), Panda (Amari McCoy) and Ice Bear (Max Mitchell) – as their younger baby selves – travelling in a magical box to fantastic new worlds searching for a place to call home.

Along the way, they meet new friends, learn a few lessons and discover that “home” can mean wherever they are, as long as they’re together.

We caught up with Christina Chang, the Creative Director for the Cartoon Network Original Series We Baby Bears to know more about the show.

The difference between the spin-off compared to We Bare Bears

According to Christina, aside from featuring locations out of San Francisco- the art style is just something different and more vivid; a completely different take on the Bears actually, an AU (alternate universe).. literally!

She stated that the message the show is trying to convey to the audience is through the Bears’ adventures. She feels sthey leave each of the worlds they visit with a better understanding of the characters and people they meet – and they learn what works for someone else may not work for you and vice versa.. and that it’s ok!

How the show would appeal to audiences, both kids and adults

In terms of visual appeal, credits would have to be due to the art director, Valerie Schwarz! Valerie and her team take so much time researching and pulling inspiration from real flora, fauna, architecture, and more to create the fantastic visuals we have in the show!

When it comes to the characters, all of We Baby Bears’ board artists do such a fantastic job drawing in fun expressions- which might be an appeal point for kids.

Overall, Christina thinks travelling and exploring is on a lot of people’s minds, especially during the pandemic. The Bears get to zip zap all around the universe and see new places. All exciting and something new to explore.

Christina’s favourite bear

When asked about her favourite bear, Christina said she liked Ice Bear’s monotone vibe, but she thinks she has gotten to like Panda more – he’s not shy about expressing his comfort zone and is pretty resourceful! As long as he’s got his cellphone and decent internet connection.

Watch the official trailer right here:

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We Baby Bears is also executive produced by Daniel Chong and Manny Hernandez, We Baby Bears will also feature an otherworldly list of guest stars including Anjali Bhimani, Rhys Darby, Janeane Garofalo, Young M.A., Jason Mantzoukas, Stephen Oyoung, Willow Smith and Bernardo Velasco with its theme song,
“The Bha Bha Song”
, is performed by K-pop supergroup,
TRI.BE
.

Don’t forget to catch We Baby Bears on Cartoon Network (Astro Ch 615) at 10:30am on weekends. The series will also be available to stream on
HBO GO
.

Disclaimer: You are not allowed to share this article on any other website or on Facebook without providing proper credit and the original article link on
theAsianparent Malaysia website

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10 Things Parents Should Know About Strong Immunities & Mental Development in Children

Making sure your toddler gets enough of the right kind of nourishment remains top of mind for all parents. Now, more than ever, having a strong immunity system is the main priority, whilst keeping them happy, curious and actively learning!

Proper nutrition is one way to help build strong immune systems and to promote mental development at every stage of a child’s growth. Starting early and putting in place the right foundation at the beginning will ensure improved future growth and development. At the same time, this strong foundation will serve to protect them from seasonal illness and health problems.

So, here are the top 10 things all parents should know to help build strong immune systems and mental development in their growing child!

1. The early years are the most active period for creating neural connections in the brain. In the first few years of life, more than 1 million new neural connections form every second
1
,
which is why proper nutrition is one of the key areas during this critical period in supporting their growth and development. It is also during this period that parents start looking for ways to prepare their child for a complex and challenging world.

2. It is best to nourish your child with a wide variety of food and maintaining a balanced diet according to the food pyramid.
Milk is one of the most important meal requirements
for the growing up children as it is nutrient-dense which provides energy as well as high quality protein
2
. Considering the nutritional value of milk, the Malaysian Dietary Guidelines for Children and Adolescents 2013 recommends that children
consume 2 to 3 servings of milk or milk products a day
2
.

3. Milk Fat Globule Membrane (MFGM
) is a nutrient rich component naturally present in milk and in
our brain. In 2017, MFGM complex hit headlines as the next breakthrough in children nutrition. Studies show that MFGM consumption leads to
improved emotional and behavioral regulation
3
in young children.
It promotes the
production and transmission of neurotransmitters
(substances that participate in the creation of brain cell connections)
4
. By helping brain cells to connect, they regulate mental abilities, emotions and mood
5
.

4. MFGM complex plays a role in
building immunity
as well! In one study,
consumption of MFGM enriched milk by young children was shown to have
protective effect
against gastrointestinal infections, producing a significant decrease in the number of short febrile episodes (symptoms of fever)
3
.

5. Incorporating fatty acids such as
DHA, Omega 3’ and 6’
into your child’s diet provides benefits for your child’s
mental development
as it is shown to be associated with better reading and working memory performance
6
. DHA is a primary structural component of brain tissue, which plays a role in
effective communication between brain cells
. It is essential for mental function, including key development areas such as intellectual, motor, emotional/social and communications skills
7
.

6. DHA and MFGM are
abundantly found in the brain
and they
work synergistically
. Scientific studies shown that MFGM & DHA work together to help support mental and emotional development contributing to significantly better behaviour
4
. Preschool children who consumed enriched MFGM for 4 months were evaluated by their parents and were found to have
better behavioural and emotional regulation
compared to the controlled group children
4
.

7. Emotional Intelligence (EQ)
plays a starring role in a child’s
development too. Emotional well-being and social competence in the early years provide a strong foundation for emerging cognitive abilities and together, they are the
building blocks of brain architecture
1
. Just like IQ (intelligence quotient), social-emotional skills such as communication, problem-solving and collaboration are just as important in adapting well in school and working effectively with others.

8. PDX^ (Polydextrose) and GOS (Galacto-oligosacharide) are dietary fibres that work together throughout the large intestine to foster the growth of good bacteria and promote digestive health and immune system
8
. Yeast Beta Glucan is known for its ability to help
support the body’s natural defenses
9
. Research has shown that children consuming milk fortified with DHA, PDX^+GOS and Beta-Glucan have been shown to have
fewer episodes
of acute respiratory infections (ARI) compared to children consuming unfortified milk. Furthermore,
lesser children received antibiotics
and
recovered faster
when they consumed milk fortified with DHA, PDX^+GOS and Beta-Glucan
10
.

9. While fresh milk is still beneficial, fortified milk contains
added essential nutrients
such as DHA, MFGM, Vitamin A, Vitamin B12, Vitamin C, Iron and Zinc. It is a great choice in boosting your child’s natural defenses
11
and ensuring their daily nutritional requirements are met.

10. Strong immunity and healthy mental development also mean having
adequate sleep, active
lifestyle
and
good hygiene
.

Enfagrow A+’s
unique blend
of MFGM complex, highest DHA**, a prebiotic mix of PDX^+GOS and Yeast Beta Glucan. Scientific studies show that MFGM, DHA, PDX^+GOS and Yeast Beta Glucan help support
dual function
in mental development and immunity resistance towards infections
4

The formulation contains
40% higher DHA*
that meets FAO/WHO expert recommendation in terms of daily DHA^.

Stronger children lead fuller lives, let’s help build their tomorrow by providing them with optimal nutrition and stimulation for their emotional and mental development #TodayBuildsTomorrow.

**Compared to key growing up milk brands in the market as September 2019, Enfagrow A+ provides
105 mg of DHA in 3 servings a day.
* Compared to previous formulation, Enfagrow A+ provides
105 mg of DHA in 3 servings a day
^FAO/WHO recommends daily dietary DHA intake of 10-12mg/kg body weight for children 12-24 months or 100-150mg DHA+EPA for children 2 years old & above
12
 .

References:

1

Center on the Developing Child at Harvard University. Brain Architecture.
Retrieved from:
developingchild.harvard.edu/science/key-concepts/brain-architecture/
.

2

National Coordinating Committee on Food and Nutrition. Malaysian Dietary Guidelines for Children
and Adolescents 2013. Retrieved from:
nutrition.moh.gov.my/wp-content/uploads/penerbitan/buku/MDG_Child…
.
Accessed on 14 March 2017.

3

Veereman-Wauters G et al. Milk fat globule membrane (INPULSE) enriched formula milk decreases
febrile episodes and may improve behavioral regulation in young children. Nutrition. 2012;28:749-752. Retrieved from:
www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0899900711003741?via%3Dihub

4

Küllenberg D et al. Lipids in Health and Disease. 2012; 11(3),1=16
Retrieved from:
www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3316137/

5

Banjari I et al. Brain food: how nutrition alters our mood and behavior. Hrana u zdravlju i bolesti,
znanstveno-stručni časopis za nutricionizam i dijetetiku, 2014; 3(1),13-21 Retrieved from:
hrcak.srce.hr/file/186517

6
Montgomery P et al. PLoS ONE. 2013; 8(6): e66697. doi:10.1371/journal.pone.0066697
Retrieved from:
journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0066697

7

Kuratko CN, Barrett EC, Nelson EB, Salem N Jr. The relationship of docosahexaenoic acid (DHA)
with learning and behavior in healthy children: a review. Nutrients 2013;5:2777-810. Retrieved from:
www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3738999/

8

Roytio,H, Ouwehand A.C (2014) The fermentation of polydextrose in the large intestine and its
beneficial effects. Wageningen Academic Publishers, 5(3), 305-314. Retrieved from:
www.researchgate.net/publication/261742337_The_fermentation_of_polydextrose_in_the_larg
 e_intestine_and_its_beneficial_effects

9

Volman JJ, Ramakers JD, Plat J. Dietary modulation of immune function by beta-glucans. Physiol
Behav. 2008;94:276-84. Retrieved from:
www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/18222501

10

Li F, Jin X, Liu B, Zhuang W, Scalabrin D. Follow-up Formula consumption in 3- to 4-Year-Olds and
Respiratory Infections: An RCT. Pediatrics 2014;133:e1533-1540. Retrieved from:
www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/24843061

11
www.nutrition.org.uk/healthyliving/covid19/immunity.html?__cf_chl_jschl_tk__=7d0ad307d6b

53eef8e16b4f95226ddf3dd06ce8c-1588678013-0- AQHxglDBzVXoTpQIWknc3be4KHLRXmTasztodUqYjYHVDh0cZWWO1tfMGveK8abnGH_ZxRGpN Olg6JP1F1bw2J2kykrXa6loOfpFBYDZY1myiig0WmaEHqmQ8KTMdg8pnGEHm4CSLR3h7xqubs2N Aom- 7aTQCjUbgixXkhrh3HFCGyL0oxBdzsbefeszPOfy9Ng_mgxOiuCiIE3d0HMs1YkWxIBmdrmhxVN7UV _DCDgPDpQ0IH4DC_vQ0GFPDiO0viQdIGzkzkBtTBdCku8CH7SHcNd-
T9owefUfGOZJ8J5ml2PVegI0Nj2iQIxgqL8tHFKYuhIRL- mYB5Hy_P0JgXTNrM1taVUrmtsvIszQVA5D5T2mulPbxD1CxXfkJHBzjA

12
FAO 2010. Fats and fatty acids in human nutrition. Report of an expert consultation. FAO Food and
Nutrition Paper no.91. FAO: Rome.

This article is republished with permission from Enfragrow A+ Malaysia

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Top 8 Tips for Photographing Kids

Every parent wants a great photo of their kid, but kids have a mind of their own. Sometimes, that just doesn’t happen. We always dreamt of photographing kids in their natural state – just simply being kids!

However, I have friends who photograph kids for a living, and even they say kids are as unpredictable as the weather. They are the hardest to photograph and you really just have to follow their cue and keep them focused.

I wish we owned a DSLR camera, but realistically our phones are our fastest bet these days at capturing the moment. Kids are fast. Very fast, and by the time you unpack, adjust your camera settings, the moment is gone.

Depending on the type of phone you’re using, high speed burst shots are really as simple has holding down one button these days. And if all else fails, there’s always video – heh! With so many photo editing apps available for
Iphone
 and
Android
 users, you can almost cheat.

Simple great tips in photographing kids

 Here are some tips for ending up with some reasonably good shots of your fidgety, fussy or unruly kid.

#1 Get down on their level

Get down to their level, and start a conversation with the child. It can be a story or a series of questions about their favorite things. Have a stool or a chair to keep them in one place so that it is easier to get a shot.

#2 Mobile Babies

For mobile babies who can’t quite follow instructions yet, food/treats or even their favourite toy are a great way to keep them in one spot for just about long enough to get the shot. Sit them down in a pretty spot, drop their favourite snack/toy, then make some funny noises, snap your fingers, clap, call their name… anything to get them to look at the camera and hopefully smile.

#3 Make it a Game

For the older kids, you can make it a Game. Simon says “Smile?” Do you have a bubble machine? Time to stock up on small bottles of bubbles. That one never fails.

#4 Get Your Kids in a Picture Together

Especially, when you want both of them to be well behaved and in the same picture. Give them a task to achieve together – sibling interaction is nice to capture on photos too. Sometimes simple team work works, otherwise you can get them to check each other’s nose for boogers.

#5 Add an adult into the Melee

Because sometimes it is about getting back some semblance of a control. Plus who doesn’t want mom in the picture?

#6 Bribery

I am un-bashfully admitting this works EVERY TIME. I bribe mine with organic gummy candies and I reserve candy sessions solely for this purpose.

#7 Do Some Actions and Get them to Mimic You

Nothing like clowning around for a bit and getting them to copy some funny actions. Even if it isn’t full proof at least it would relax the kiddos and add some cheer. Remember this is suppose to be fun, not boot camp.

#8 Above all else KEEP YOUR COOL

Nothing like getting visibly angry/frustrated/annoyed at the kids for lack of cooperation and ruining the whole shoot. Keep it in check and spew it later.
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See? That was not so hard, was it? Photographing kids is a tricky but fun business especially when you and your little ones get the chance to look back all those sweet memories.

All images are provided by Andy Kho of
Andy Kho Photography
.

Disclaimer: You are not allowed to share this article on any other website or on Facebook without providing proper credit and the original article link on
theAsianparent Malaysia website

Read more
:
Hugging and kissing your baby can make him smarter: Study

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5 Smart & Educational Gifts for Kids

Christmas is probably a kid’s favourite holiday as they are spoiled with gifts from all of their family. However, if you haven’t had the time to pick out a present for the toddlers and young children, it’s not too late – we have the perfect gift guide for you.

Although we may be tempted to spoil them with fun toys, opt for a thoughtful gift that can benefit their abilities instead. Remember, these early days are crucial as they provide a foundation for their future skills and development.

So, here are five gifts for kids ideas that are fun, encourage learning and help develop important skills!

1.  Storybooks

Credit: iStock

Reading and storytelling shape your child’s abilities such as understanding different cultures, learning new languages, identifying while triggering their imagination and curiosity. Books are the easiest, affordable and most accessible gifts for kids, depending on which storybook you choose as they cater to children of all ages – little tots can enjoy picture books, while the older kids can read into an adventure that teaches them valuable life lessons.

Furthermore, picture books have been identified to be an important source of a new language, concepts and lessons as it allows the transfer of the information they gather from the books into the real world
!

Recommended shop:
POPULAR Malaysia, Lot 2.24, Level 2, Sunway Velocity Mall

 2.
Building Blocks

Building blocks make great gifts for kids especially toddlers and young children – there are large versions made for the younger children and more advanced sets that the big kids will enjoy. While they make fun playtime tools, early childhood educators believe that building blocks serve various developmental abilities in children
.

It encourages problem-solving as they build their vision, imagination, allow self-expression, as well as use critical thinking such as mathematics when they understand concepts such as length, measurements and estimations.

Recommended shop:
Toys “R” US, Lot 2.47, Level 2
, Sunway Velocity Mall

 3.
Art set

Credit: iStock

Art is a common school subject with good reason – it creates a learning environment as they have fun with colours and play with their imagination. These simple activities using items such as a paint set, colouring pencils, or merely pencil and paper allow children to develop various skills.

Motions associated with art such as using a paintbrush mould their motor skills, while art can also give them the opportunities to develop their language with simple colours, shapes or actions. Additionally, art can also encourage inventiveness and cultural awareness
.

Recommended shop:
POPULAR Malaysia, Lot 2.24,
Level 2,
Sunway Velocity
 Mall

 4.
Coin Bank

Coin banks, or commonly known as piggy banks, teach kids the value of money and saving. Research has highlighted that wealth management is an important skill for young children as it benefits them when they grow up
.

Children are still grasping the concept of money, which is why a coin bank is a useful and educational gift. Instead of just giving them what they want, parents can teach their kids to earn and save for the things they want to buy. Plus, coin banks these days are made in various shapes, sizes and even characters so you’ll have plenty of options to choose from that will interest them.

Recommended shop:
Typo, Lot G.12, Level GF, Sunway Velocity Mall

5.
Plasticine or modelling clay

Playing with clay develops abilities similar to that when playing with building blocks – it nurtures their coordination, builds strength in their arms, improves their fine motor skills and more
.

The best part of it is that it is purely up to their imagination – they can create figures, animals or even, food. These days there are sets that come with extra tools to fuel their creativity, such as an ice cream mould or a shape maker!

Recommended shop
Daiso, Lot 4.13,  Level 4, Sunway Velocity Mall

Redeem Rewards at Sunway Velocity Mall’s Blessed Christmas Until 3 January 2021!

Over at the Main Atrium in Sunway Velocity, the Christmas atmosphere has taken over to spread holiday cheer. Shoppers can shop for special, not only gifts for kids but for everyone (or even yourself) with exclusive promotions at POPULAR, MILANO, Little Pleasures, Veesee, Skin10, Krispy Kreme and more!

To celebrate a time to be grateful to our families, especially during this tough year, Sunway Velocity’s Blessed Christmas will be rewarding shoppers until 3 January 2021.

Here’s what you can get:

RM20 Food Street Cash Vouchers:
Feast on some delicious dishes when you spend RM300 in maximum of two receipts to redeem exclusive cash vouchers, while Sunway Pals members or Sunway Velocity Mall mobile app users only need to spend RM200 in a maximum of two receipts.

Be gifted a Glass Lock Jar Set:
Spend RM600 in a maximum of two receipts to redeem a classic glass lock jar set. Sun Sunway Pals members or Sunway Velocity Mall mobile app users only need to spend RM500 in a maximum of four receipts to receive this.

To top it off, a discount booklet will be provided with every redemption and Sunway Pals members can collect any amount of points to enjoy one Walls ice cream, plus a daily freebie!

To become a Sunway Pals member, just download the Pals For Life app and get one Walls Ice Cream when you sign up with the code ‘VMERRY20’.

For more information on Sunway Velocity Mall’s Blessed Christmas, visit their
website

or
Facebook page
.

With that, we wish everyone a very a merry Christmas – we hope this holiday brings you some joy this year!

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Eat THIS fruit if you want to conceive a baby boy!

We’ve all heard of old wive’s tales about eating certain food to influence the gender of your baby. But have you ever heard that you should eat bananas for baby boy?

Now, science has proved that there just might be some truth in these stories.

The study

Scientists at UK’s Exeter and Oxford universities based their research on the eating habits of 740 first-time pregnant British mums.

Data about these women’s nutritional intake was collected for the following key periods: preconception, early pregnancy and late pregnancy.

The study was published in
The Royal Society
.

Reportedly
, the findings seem to confirm certain traditional beliefs related to diet and gender, while disproving others.

Fiona Mathews, who is lead researcher on the study, had this to say: “We were able to confirm the old wives’ tale that eating
bananas
 and so having a high potassium intake was associated with having a boy, as was a high sodium intake.”

“For the first time, we’ve shown there is a clear association between a mother’s diet and the gender of her infant,” she elaborated. “The mother seems to be able to influence the survival of either the sperm or the fertilised egg in its very early stages, probably before it has even implanted in the womb.”

High energy intake = high energy little people?

It’s not just bananas that assist with the conception of little boys. Researchers also found that 56% of the women with the highest energy intake around the period of conception, had boys.

In other words, “a higher calorie intake prior to conception can increase the chances of having a son from ten to 11 boys in every 20 births.”

This was in comparison to just 45% of women with the lowest energy intake.

To break it down further:

Average calorie intake for mums of sons: 2,413

Average calorie intake for mums of daughters: 2,283

Other than potassium found in bananas, women who had sons also consumed a higher quantity and larger range of nutrients. These included vitamins C, E and B12, as well as calcium around the time of conception.

Another addition to the diets of mums of boys when they were trying to get pregnant were
breakfast cereals.
(Hint: If you want a baby boy, add chopped bananas to your morning cereal!)

In contrast, women with more restricted diets were likely to have daughters.

Mathews told
New Scientist
 magazine that the study identified this simple dietary “trick”:

“If you want a boy, eat a healthy diet with a high calorie intake, including breakfast.”

Sensible eating in pregnancy

Ladies, do keep in mind that all health professionals – including the scientists who led this study – do
not
recommend that you drastically change your diet with the hope of influencing the gender of your baby. For example, eating too much sodium could be detrimental to your health.

As Mathews says, “If you’re looking for a boy, then eating breakfast cereal every day and within safe limits, having a reasonable intake of sodium, potassium and calcium, plus a good intake of protein looks like a sensible option. It’s the converse of that if you’re hoping for a girl, but again, only within safe limits.”

Recommended reading:
Tips to Conceive a Baby Girl

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How to Teach Kids to Embrace Peers with Special Needs

At some point your kid will come across a child with special needs. It’s important that kids know how to accept their peers despite their differences, as being able to get along with one another benefits everyone.

Here are ideas on how to teach kids to embrace people with disabilities.

1. Talk About How People Can Be Different

Children need to know that we all have our differences— each of us possessing unique challenges and strengths. First and foremost, we’re all still people, with various characteristics that make up who we are. A disability doesn’t define us.

Explain to your child that peers with special needs might take a longer time to do some things.

Sometimes they may need extra help or special technology.

Tell her that not all kinds of special needs can be easily seen, and she can’t ‘catch’ a disability from someone. Try and use simple, relatable words when you are talking to your child about the topic.

Remember to set a safe space for her to ask questions and be curious about special needs.

2. Expose Your Kid to Material That Discusses Diversity

A great way to get your child to learn about disabilities is through educational material that discusses the topic—in a child-friendly, uncomplicated fashion.

Sesame Street, for example, has episodes that highlight children with special needs. They even introduced a young Muppet named Julia, who has autism.

There are also a number of children’s books that touch on diversity, such as the celebrated watercolour-illustrated book Special People, Special Ways by Arlene Maguire and Sheila Bailey.

3. Set an Example

It’s widely known that children learn a lot from observing others. As parents, children are watching us for clues on how to behave in different situations.

Be a role model to your kids by setting the right example. Show warmth and empathy to people with special needs, and talk to parents who have kids with disabilities. Get to know them, their challenges and how you can help encourage inclusion.

4. Explain to Your Kid That Everyone Likes Having Friends

We may have our differences, but people are also similar in some fundamental ways. Remind your little one that every child likes feeling included and appreciated. This is why making friends is a wonderful way to celebrate and support one another.

You could suggest ways for your child to make friends with peers who have special needs. Encourage your child to approach them and get to know them better. For example, if a classmate speaks with sign language, why not try and teach your child how to sign a few useful words?

Most importantly, teach your child patience. Learning to communicate well with someone who has special needs can take some time, as it requires understanding the individual better and recognizing that each person may do things at their own pace.

This article has been republished with permission from
 Kiddy123.

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The Correct Way to Eat Fruits!

Fruits are nature’s desserts! They’re packed with nutrients, loaded with fibre and to top it off, they’re really tasty. It’s universally understood that in order to stay healthy, there should be a measure of fruit included in your diet. But the question that is often asked is, “What’s the right way to consume fruits? Does it have to be on an empty stomach?”

To be fair, there is no real ‘wrong way’ to consume fruit. Eating fruit at anytime of the day will still bring you health benefits to a certain extent. However, that said, there is the ‘best’ or effective way to consume fruit – one that will make sure you get the most out of each fruit and that will also reduce some of the harmful risks that might affect you from eating fruit ‘incorrectly’.

Credit: Unsplash

How to consume fruits & the best time to eat your fruits

The answer to this question is on an empty stomach and/or between meals. Best practice is to consume your fruit first thing in the morning before anything else. This way your body can absorb all the nutrients in said fruit because it is not bogged down by other food items in your stomach.

Fruits digest very quickly in the stomach, so when eaten on an empty stomach – especially one that is well rested overnight, it allows the stomach to easily process the fruit. This is the optimal way to eat fruit.

Rules of ‘empty stomach’ fruit:
But bear in mind that not everyone is able to consume fruits on an empty stomach. I will not recommend this to those who have stomach ulcers, acid reflux and diverticulitis, as well as people who might have weak stomach functions like the elderly or toddlers. This is because certain fruits such as grapefruits, cranberries, pineapples, tomatoes, citrus, lemons and even persimmons, contain acetic acid that stimulates the production of gastric acid in the stomach which can worsen heartburn and lead to discomfort later.

Between meals as a snack

Fruits are also great as a snack between two meals – mid morning snack and mid afternoon snack. I always say that a balanced diet should consist of three main meals and two snacks. Not only will this keep your metabolism rate up, a healthy snack in between will also help maintain your blood sugar levels so your body does not fall into ‘starvation’ mode and start storing fat instead of losing fat.

Credit: Unsplash

Never consume fruits at this time

1# Right after a meal

Us Malaysians do love to finish our meals with a little bit of fruit. Many falsely believe that by eating some fruits after a meal, it helps digest or breakdown the calories that they just consumed effectively. Sorry to burst your bubble but eating fruit right after a meal will not counter the calories you just ate – remember fruits contain calories too, especially those high in sugar. So you are only putting extra burden/calories in your body.

All this extra sugar (from fruits) can cause havoc in those who suffer from metabolic syndromes, glucose intolerance and diabetes. The sweetness of the fruit mainly comes from the fructose content, and unlike glucose, fructose goes directly to the liver to be metabolised, and the metabolic product? It’s ‘fat’ and it is stored in the body. So, can you consume too much fruit and put on weight? The answer is YES!

So consume these high sugar fruits in moderation:

Banana, fig, grapes, guava, kumquat, lychee, mango, persimmon, pomegranate, durian, and watermelon.

For those who have issues with sugar, eat these low in sugar fruits:

Papaya, passion fruit, peach, apple, pear, pineapple, plum, raspberry, and strawberries.

2# Right before you go to bed

If you really want to snack on fruit before bed, make sure you pick the ‘right’ type of fruit. Bananas (contains tryptophan that helps you relax), kiwis (natural serotonin that calms you down), and cherries (natural melatonin that improve sleep), are good choices as they aid sleep. That said, make sure you consume fruits at least one to two hours before bedtime. Avoid high-in-sugar fruits like mango, durian, and grape right before bed, as these may actually disturb your sleep during the night because of the sugar content that can keep your brain active and awake.

3# Fruit juice is not as healthy as the whole fruit

Fruit juice is tasty and refreshing, but is not as healthy as the real deal. When a whole fruit is pressed to make juice, some of the nutrients, most notably the fibre and the water-soluble vitamins, are lost in the process. While 100% fruit juice is not completely devoid of nutrients, it is undoubtedly less nutrient dense than the whole fruit that it came from.

Take the almighty orange juice. A staple in many breakfasts all over the world. The white pulpy part of the orange is the primary source of its flavonoids, which are colourful pigments that support numerous metabolic processes in the body, and most importantly, it also helps you to absorb the vitamin C from the orange. In other words it is there for a reason as a whole, but when the pulpy white part of the orange is removed in the processing of orange juice, the flavonoids in the orange are lost in the process.

Additionally, fruit juices are also loaded with sugar, although it is ‘healthy’ natural sugar, but too much of a good thing can also be an issue. And stay away from juice boxes from supermarkets! They contain very little actual fruit and a lot of preservatives and sugar. As a result, it is easy to consume a large amount of calories without getting any actual nutrition.

Hope these tips help. Enjoy eating your fruits! If these fruit-eating tips were beneficial and you’d like more info by well known nutritionists and health experts, check out our
Virtual Care Package
by Carina Lipold, where you’ll get natural remedies and healthy yummy recipes. To do at your own time, certified by experts, guaranteed to get you and your family onto the healthy train.

This article has been republished with permission from
PurelyB.

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Parenting With Anxiety

Anxiety can affect anyone & anybody. As it comes unannounced, anxiety can make your life a bit stressful. But, being diagnosed with an anxiety disorder is not the end of the world.

Anxiety may make your heart race and you may feel like it’s hard to catch a breath. You may feel hopeless, you cry and at the end of the day, and the anxiety can leave your body exhausted.

Anxiety can develop for any reason, unknowingly. However, anxiety is also a common disorder diagnosed in new mothers. Postpartum disorder, the experience of handling a demanding newborn baby can sometimes drain the mother which can then lead to anxiety. And as a parent, dealing with anxiety can be challenging.

Of course, as a parent who has an anxiety disorder, daily challenges with the responsibilities and taking care of children can make your anxiety worse. But to breakdown in front of the kids is not ideal. Fortunately, anxiety can be better managed by adding several of the tips below:

Read:
5 Postpartum depression symptoms you should know

Get your “me time” at least once a week

Credit: Shutterstock

If you are a full-time parent who manages the house, doing all the house chores alone while managing children can be stressful and tiring at times. This is why a “me time” can be very helpful. “Me time” can help us to find ourselves, our passions or hobbies. Take some hours off at least once a week, go out for some window shopping, have a massage or have a coffee with friends. This can help to rejuvenate our mind and soul & helps with managing anxiety.

Take a deep breath

You probably heard this tip from your therapist or physician if you have ever seeked professional treatment. When the anxiety attacks, we will find ourselves having difficulty in breathing like we are running out of air. But by adopting breathing techniques, this “out-of-air” can gradually be managed. What you can do each time the anxiety attacks is similar to meditation. Get yourself to sit comfortably and take a deep breath; slowly inhale through your nose & exhale out your mouth. One round is for ten counts. Do this for at least four or five sets until you feel calm.

Adopt plants

Credit: Shutterstock

Nature is a good therapist. Adopting plants at home can help to alleviate the stress and promote calmness in the ambience. Studies also support that being around plants makes us release more serotonin which can calm us. Thus, this can help to improve mood and reduce anxiety.

Less perfectionism

Some people can be perfectionists. While perfection may be needed in some tasks or areas, sometimes it can cause more stress than good. Accept the fact that as humans we can never be perfect. Sometimes letting go and taking things easy or as they show up can save ourselves from unnecessary stress that may lead to anxiety attacks.

Get some peace

Having children following us around and clinging onto us 24-hours can take a toll on the mothers’ mental health. Not to mention when they are fighting and crying and you had to play a referee. Take a short time for some peace such as taking a long shower, do some reading or gardening. Include this into your everyday routine and see how it changes your mood.

Include him and let’s co-parenting

Credit: Shutterstock

Remember, taking care of children is not one person’s job alone. Parenting needs both partners to work together. Co-parenting can be extremely helpful to your mental health. Parenting together can lift the burden and halve the stress. As a parent with anxiety, being open with your partner is important. Let your partner know what triggers your anxiety so he too can play his part. Sometimes being open to your partner can help reduce the pain and working together can spark more love between the couple.

Every mother wants the best for their children. Anxiety may affect the quality of life of a mother, but it can never affect the quality of her parenting. Living with anxiety may be challenging, but by adopting the right tools, we can pick up the pieces and stand strong for our children.

This article has been republished with permission from
PurelyB

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9 Ways You Can Implement To Raise A Bilingual Child

Children are like sponges. It is amazing how they can soak up loads of information and develop phenomenal learning capacity that the average adult cannot do. So when it comes to language acquisition, adopt these clever techniques in honing your little one’s skills to become a
bilingual
 child.

Tips On How To Raise A Bilingual Child

Join a playgroup

Allow your child to join in a playgroup or any learning situation where other kids speak the second language. He or she can learn best in a fun, laid-back, normal environment where there are many children of different ages.

Read to your child

Start
reading for your bundle of joy
 as soon as he or she arrives and don’t stop even until he or she is able to do it on his or her own. In fact, you should even encourage questions, comments, and suggestions while reading together.

Make it fun!

Second language fluency can be supported by surrounding your child with games, television shows, and other learning tools that build up the vocabulary, provide grammar rules, and enhance other pertinent language skills.

Watch shows in a different language

If your child loves games and adventure, find out ways you can enhance his or her bilingual skills in this aspect. “My 3-year old daughter adores all the “Dora the Explorer” episodes,” says a mom. “So we download the “Dora la Exploradora” series to get her to learn more about the Spanish language.”

Think outside the box

A dad wanted his son to hear Chinese from someone else other than just him, so he brings him to parishioners’ tea after the Sunday mass. “My little one is a huge delight for the other families especially when they hear him utter words in Chinese.”

Adopt a strategy

It can be one parent speaks the mother tongue when talking to the child while the other speaks the second language. You can also try speaking the second language at home if the child speaks the mother tongue in any other places.

Reward your child

While other parents may not agree, you can let your child earn a little prize if he or she finishes a task or has done something great to enhance his or her bilingual skills. “My daughter loves all Angry Birds novelties so after she finishes her daily homework, she gets something to add up to her collection. It only heightens her enthusiasm for doing her task.”

Invest in a bilingual babysitter

If you need to find a babysitter, go for an au-pair or a babysitter who can teach your kid a new language. The payment would be worth it and soon you’ll have a bilingual kid at home.

Travel with your kid

Visit the country where the language is spoken, if your budget and time will allow you to do so. Total immersion for even just a few days can do wonders to your child’s bilingual skills. If you do not want to break the bank, encourage family and friends to pay you a visit instead so they can interact with your little one

Above all, remember to provide all the love and attention your child needs during his or her formative years. Time flies fast so enjoy every moment that he or she learns to utter simple syllables until meaningful sentences. Resist reprimanding when your child commits a mistake. Do not get irritated too quickly when he or she asks questions repeatedly. It may take a lot of effort to do so but it will quicken the pace of your child’s bilingual skills and deepen your bond with each other.
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Inspiring Instagrammers in Malaysia

Inspiration is everywhere — whether it is food, fame, brains, amazing couples and wanderlust that tickles your fancy. Whether you aspire to be them, cook like them, here are some of my favourite inspiring Instagrammers in Malaysia.

#1 Inspired by Number of Followers

If fame by number of followers inspires you then your sure bet is
Nora Danish,

 To date she has surpassed even the likes of
Lisa Surihani
,
Dato’ Siti Nurhaliza
 and
Scha Alyahya
 with 3.7 million followers on Instagram.

Nora binti Mohd Danish Hanif
 (born 7 March 1982) or better known as
Nora Danish
 is a Malaysian actress, model and television host. Ambassador for SafiRaniaGold, OPPOF1 and MameeChef, she is also a mother and a
single parent
. Despite her rocky marriage that ended in a divorce, she still emits cheer where ever she goes and remains positive about her love life.

#2 Inspired by Power Couples

She is
Scha Alyahya
, a Malaysian actress, model and TV host. He is
Awal Ashaari
, a Malaysian actor, model and TV host. And together with their daughter rising Instagram celebrity
Lara Alana
 and you’ve got yourself the top Instagram family to follow.

#3 Inspiring Foodies

Need I say more? Click
here
 for more “torture”.

#4 Inspiring Wanderlust

Hadhinah Fawwazah Nasaruddin or better known as
Hannah on Earth
 is a full-time adventurer in the USA. Hails from Borneo, she has toured 47 of the 50 states in the USA and hopes to complete all 50 of them . Travelling to all 50 states in the USA is a feat in itself, even people in the USA alone find this difficult. Besides USA, Hadhinah has traveled to more than 20 countries around the world.

#5 Inspired by Brains, Beauty and Talent

Lisa Surihani binti Mohamed
 is a Malaysian actress, model, television host and commercial model. Better known as
Lisa Surihani
, she was born on 23 March 1986 and raised in Kuala Lumpur to a family of Buginese and Chinese heritage. She has completed her studies majoring in Law from Help University College and Aberystwyth University in Wales, United Kingdom. She is also wife to Yusry of KRU and mother to daughter Yahaira Leanne. With so many awards under her belt, there is no denying her talent.

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7 Pelvic Health Issues You Need To Know About As A Mother

When the words “pelvic health” come to mind, what do you think of? Many women don’t know what to think because there has been little education about it.

In fact, there are many conditions that women suffer from in silence because they have no idea what they are going through or they are embarrassed about it.

These are 7 common pelvic health issues that women go through.

1. Urinary incontinence

If you’ve ever laughed so hard, a little bit of pee came out, this is just a minor instance of urinary incontinence. And guess what? That’s not normal. As women grow older, or they recover from labour or surgery, or maybe even go through major hormone changes such as menopause, they might find themselves suffering from urinary incontinence. Urinary incontinence, or lack of bladder control, can be caused by many factors – some of which has been listed above.

2. Fecal incontinence

Though not as common as urinary incontinence, fecal incontinence is another pelvic health issue that women often face and need to address in their lives and is the second most common issue women face. Fecal incontinence is the lack of bowel control. Those experiencing this might have the urge to pass a bowel movement but not be able to control before reaching the toilet or they might just leak stools anytime.

3. Overactive bladder

An overactive bladder is described as the need to use the toilet excessively. This means needing to go multiple times in the night, not being able to hold your urine in without feeling that it will leak out or always needing to rush to the toilet. This can be caused by uncontrolled diabetes, pelvic floor nerve damage, low levels of oestrogen after menopause or even sleep apnoea.

4. Uterine prolapse

There are actually four types of prolapses that can happen in women. First is the uterine prolapse, which is when the uterus drops in the vaginal canal (and sometimes out of the vagina). It can happen due to any of these factors like childbirth, chronic coughing, chronic constipation and heavy lifting, which can cause straining of the abdominal muscles or very commonly, menopause, which causes oestrogen levels to decrease and, as a result, weaken pelvic tissues.

5. Cystocele prolapse

This type of prolapse happens when the front wall of the vagina sags and causes the bladder to drop. Aging is one of the factors that causes this pelvic floor issue, but it can also be due to childbirth, menopause or injury.

6. Rectocele/enterocele

This kind of prolapse is when the back wall of the vagina pouches forward, causing the rectum or the intestines to bulge into the vagina. This can also be caused by childbirth or obesity or injury.

7. Vaginal vault prolapse

Finally, the last kind of prolapse that women experience is the vaginal vault prolapse which is when the vaginal walls sag after a patient has a hysterectomy.

But not all hope is lost if you are facing such problems. There are many ways you can address these issues like practicing Kegel exercises, hormone therapy or even prolapse surgery for the more extreme cases.

If you’re not sure about your condition, it is always best to check with an expert.
Vibrance Pelvic Care Centre
 in Bangsar offers consultation and treatment options for women who want to improve their pelvic health.  Find out more about your pelvic health today.

For more information,
download
 theAsianparent Malaysia app, the #1 parenting app in Southeast Asia.

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All-Inclusive Family Holiday Destinations for That Much-Needed Quality Time With Kids Only At Club Med

When it comes to family holidays, choosing the right destination is key to ensuring a memorable and enjoyable experience for everyone involved. With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to decide where to go. But fear not, as we’ve put together a guide to help you choose the perfect family holiday destination.

With school holidays commencing, many families are seeking destinations and activities to spend some much-needed quality time with their children that not only keep them occupied, but also provide a transformative experience that helps build their knowledge, skills, character, and confidence in the real world.

Things to Consider Before Picking Your All Inclusive Resorts Destination

Firstly, consider the age range of your family members. If you have young children, a destination with plenty of activities suitable for them, such as water parks or theme parks, may be ideal. Alternatively, if you have teenagers, a destination with vibrant nightlife and adventure activities like rock climbing or surfing could be more suitable.

Secondly, consider your family’s interests. If you’re a family of nature lovers, a national park or countryside retreat could be a great choice. Alternatively, if you’re a family of foodies, a destination with a rich culinary scene could be perfect.

Thirdly, consider practicalities such as budget and travel time. If you’re on a tight budget, a destination with affordable accommodation and activities could be ideal. If you have limited time, a destination within a short flight or drive could be more convenient.

Club Med, the Leading Name in All Inclusive Resorts

Club Med has been a pioneer of kids and family experiences since 1967 and guests with families will feel right at home as everything from the get-go is designed to make families feel welcome and free to make the most of their holidays.

With so many destinations they offer, you will be spoilt for choice. Here are some of our favorite top picks!

Enroll in the school of cool at Club Med Kiroro Peak, Hokkaido, Japan

Those looking for a spring skiing adventure will be delighted with the latest addition to Club Med’s mountain portfolio in Hokkaido, Club Med Kiroro Peak. The resort, which is open to guests ages 12 years old and above, will provide a one-of-kind snow experience offering guests access to some of the best powder snow in the world and long ski seasons till May, the only Club Med mountain resort in Asia to offer spring skiing.

Bringing on a new dimension to vacation experiences, the 216-room resort offers a multitude of facilities and activities including the brand’s first traditional Japanese onsen, distinctive restaurant and bar concepts, a full-service spa and wellness space, modern event spaces.

Club Med’s all-inclusive formula allows for a hassle-free holiday, as ski lift passes and group skiing or snowboarding lessons are also offered in the holiday package.

Embark in an adventure into the wild at Club Med Cherating

The resort boasts a breath-taking view of nature, nestled in an 85-hectare seaside jungle retreat that beckons a family-fun filled adventure into the wild. Whether it is adults or children, guests can look forward to plenty of spaces and activities within the resort compound, such as the signature flying trapeze, educational nature walks, or other adrenaline-pumping sports such as archery, tennis, rock climbing, and sailing.

Club Med Cherating is also committed to sharing their values on biodiversity preservation by partnering with The Turtle Conservation Society – the first non-governmental and non-profit organisation dedicated to the conservation of wild turtle population in Malaysia.

The collaboration has brought about specially designed programs suited for the whole family with the aim of raising awareness on one of the most endangered animals in the country. Families can look forward to interactive activities that are both educational and fun, such as:

Environmentally-friendly soap and lotion making DIY workshops, where guests can look forward to learning about how house-hold products can affect the habitat of turtles and other sea animals. Adults and children alike will be delighted as they not only get to bring home a new skill, but also the products made at the workshop as souvenirs.

Informative mini exhibition of turtle specimens as well as interactive talks for guests to learn more on the importance of biodiversity and the existing turtle population in our region.

Be immersed in the cultural wonders of Thailand at Club Med Phuket

This vibrant family-centric resort comes complete with newly-designed spaces and upgraded entertainment facilities that offer families and couples a tropical island paradise gateway.

At Club Med Phuket, they can connect with their loved ones and take advantage of the wide open spaces of rich greenery and landscapes, beach views of the Andaman sea and revel in the myriad of fun activities, cultural highlights and delectable local and international fare at their fingertips. Club Med Phuket is back and ready to welcome guests back to happiness.

A brand-new partnership with “Oceans For All” will help to breed these endangered species and support the marine biodiversity in Phuket. The bamboo sharks are a harmless breed that feed on invertebrates like crabs and small fish on the reef and are threatened due to its popularity with fish collectors and exotic food enthusiasts.

Club Med Phuket is dedicated to the conservation of the bamboo sharks and will be taken care of by our Gentil Organizers (G.Os), and after 4 to 6 months, they will be released into the ocean. This will provide them with a size advantage and give them a better chance of survival in the ocean.

Connect with your loved ones under the sun at Club Med Bali

Club Med Bali invites you to a harmonious destination for the whole family, where you can relax in our wellness spa and enjoy the best beaches Bali has to offer. Dive into outdoor adventures, get Zen with a yoga practice on the beach and take in the natural beauty of Bali. Rejuvenate your body, savour authentic Indonesian flavours, appreciate perfect family moments and connect to the soul of Bali through vivid experiences at Club Med.

Connecting you to the soul of Bali, the resort also introduced a dedicated Balinese Day each week, where families can join in local cooking classes with striking flavours and relish in the rich, cultural performances.

Another note-worthy event is the Nomad Festival themed day, where colourful bohemian-chic happenings and curated workshops such as eco-friendly glitter make-up, dreamcatcher-making and boho-chic festival party with a live DJ await. Watch as families of all ages doll up, bringing vibrancy of the island to life and with it.
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Childcare at Club Med

From 4 to 17 years, children will be meaningfully engaged by the attentive G.Os with a most enriching experience at
Mini Club Med+,
 a brand new science-based framework inspired by Positive Education.

With specially designed age-appropriate programmes that seamlessly integrate education into play and encourage the development of unique character strengths.

 Club Med prides itself on uncovering a child’s Creativity, Confidence, Connection, Cheerfulness, Courage and Cooperation (the 6 Cs of Mini Club Med +); vital soft skills to being happy, staying connected and growing with confidence.

Not forgetting the youngest from 4 months to 3 years of age, Baby Club Med and Petit Club Med are available in selected Club Med resorts with a programme of their own and is bookable in advance at an additional cost.

In addition, children under the age of 4 get to stay free at selected Club Med resorts!

Ultimately, the perfect family holiday destination will depend on your family’s preferences and priorities. By considering the above factors and doing some research, you’re sure to find a destination that will create lifelong memories for everyone.

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School Zone Safety: Slow Down, We are Sharing the Road

A Year Five pupil from SK Telok Medan was pronounced dead at the scene after he was knocked down by a lorry in front of the school last
Wednesday
. A CCTV footage, believed to have been recorded by the school’s security system, went viral after it was shared on social media yesterday.

The
35 second footage
 showed Mohamad Haikal Helme crossing the road to his school at the designated crossing spot to the school entrance. A crossing guard, who was manning the traffic, had also held up a “STOP” sign to allow the pupils to cross the road.

credit : www.hoffmannpersonalinjury.com

The lorry driver had seen the victim crossing the road. But because the distance was too near, he could not stop the vehicle in time and ran over the pupil.

Ministry of Education

The Education Ministry will be working with police on traffic conditions in front of schools, especially those with entrances near a main road.

Sungai Siput, Perak, Deputy Education Minister Datuk P. Kamalanathan urged the Road Transport Department (JPJ) and safety authorities to take
stern action against motorists who speed in school zones
.

“The ministry will look into improving safety measures but in the most recent incident, the driver was speeding without heeding the signs, even in the presence of a road safety guard,” he said.

What Can Parents Do?

If You’re Dropping off

credit : www.kosmo.com.my

Know the school’s designated drop-off point and crossing point

Don’t double park; it blocks visibility for other children and vehicles

Don’t load or unload children across the street from the school

Carpool to reduce the number of vehicles at the school

Remember You Are Sharing the Road with Young Pedestrians

Don’t block the zebra crossing forcing pedestrians to go around you; this could put them in the path of moving traffic like motorbikes

Always stop for a school traffic guard on duty holding up a stop sign

Take extra care to look out for children in school zones

Never pass a vehicle stopped for pedestrians

Remember You Are Sharing the Road with School Buses and Transporters

Take extra care if you’re passing a school bus, van or transporter that has stopped to load or unload children

If you have to stop, stop far enough back to allow them space to safely enter and exit the bus

Be alert; children often are unpredictable, and they tend to ignore hazards and take risks

Remember You Could Be Sharing the Road with Bicyclists

This is not so common in the city, but in smaller towns this could be a possibility especially if the school is really near homes. Generally bikers are already hard to see. Children riding bikes are even harder to notice.

I don’t think road traffic safety are taught as an actual subject in schools in Malaysia. I seriously doubt some of these kids are taught basic bicycle safety. You got to admit that here in Malaysia, we are not very good at enforcing rules.

Be extra vigilant in school zones and residential neighborhoods

Watch for bikes coming from driveways, behind parked cars or in between cars

Check side mirrors before opening your door

Watch for bike riders turning in front of you without looking or signaling; children especially have a tendency to do this

credit : sktmnputraperdana.blogspot.com
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By exercising a little extra care and caution, drivers and pedestrians can co-exist safely in school zones.

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