Health and Wellness

According to GLOBOCAN, prostate cancer is one of the top five cancers in the Philippines, with the tenth largest number of cancer-related deaths among Filipino men. Despite the figures, little is known about the condition. The Philippine Urological Association (PUA), in collaboration with the Department of Health (DOH), the Cancer Warriors Foundation, Inc., the Philippine Society of Uro-Oncologists (PSUO), and Johnson and Johnson (Philippines), Inc., organized a series of activities to raise awareness about prostate cancer. Prostate Cancer Sama-Samang Labanan, Tamang Impormasyon Kailangan was the unifying topic, with the goal of educating the public about the significance of early identification and treatment to prevent the course of prostate cancer.

On September 11, a lay forum called Usapang Prostate Cancer was live streamed on the PUA Prostate Cancer Awareness Facebook page to highlight facts about the disease. Representatives from the Department of Health’s Cancer Control Division and the Cancer Warriors Foundation, Inc. also spoke at the event on the available resources to patients and their families from the government and privately supported groups. Last September 18, members of the Philippine Urological Association and the Philippine Urology Residents Association provided free teleconsultations. Over 300 Filipino men took use of the free teleconsultation program.

Fighting prostate cancer with information

Awareness on prostate cancer is very low as men do not talk about it in the open and often confuse its early symptoms as signs of aging. These include frequent urination, a weak urine stream, and pain in the lower back, hips, or pelvis. The only bigger warning signs are blood in the urine or semen and pain or burning sensation when urinating.

The risk of prostate cancer increases with age, especially after 50. It can also run in the family, developed through a combination of genes and poor lifestyle. There is no proven prevention strategy for prostate cancer, which is why early diagnosis is important.

“Information is the most important weapon against prostate cancer,” said Dr. Clarito Cairo, program manager of the National Integrated Cancer Control Program, Disease Prevention and Control Bureau of the Department of Health. “The more people know about its early symptoms, the earlier they can get screened. Even in advanced stages, there are treatments available that still allow patients to live a long life.”

“While mostly indolent, prostate cancer needs to be addressed immediately to stop the cancer cells from spreading to other areas of the body,” explained Dr. Ernesto Gerial, president of the Philippine Urological Association. “Disseminating information about who are at risk of the disease and what its symptoms are can save many lives.”

He added: “The lack of noise around prostate cancer has resulted to unequal support for the disease as compared to breast and cervical cancer. While we at the Philippine Urological Association have been hard at work for many years for prostate cancer to finally take the spotlight, we know that we cannot do it alone. That is why we are happy to be partnering with other medical associations, the government, and Johnson & Johnson in creating greater awareness for the disease and extending help to patients.”

“There is hope in prostate cancer,” said Dr. Erwin Benedicto, head of Medical Affairs of Johnson & Johnson’s (Philippines), Inc. “It is a hard fact that most people should know but don’t—not yet.”

“Doctors are our partners in maintaining good health. Supporting them in the fight against prostate cancer is crucial, especially with the COVID-19 pandemic posing several limitations. By working together, information, proper diagnosis, and appropriate treatment for the disease can be made available for all.”

About Philippine Urological Association

The Philippine Urological Association is the official organization of urologists in the Philippines. As initiated by our founders, we are committed to: (1) promote the art and science of urology to enhance the professional growth of members and provide wholesome fellowship, (2) provide residents of urology with comprehensive education and training to render patients competent, compassionate and quality care, (3) act as professional partners to our colleagues in other medical specialties, and (4) share time, talent, resources in the service of the community by providing undergraduate urology education.

A common cold is unpleasant, so what should you do if you (or a loved one) notice the early symptoms, such as a tickling in the back of the throat followed by a string of sneezes?

#VDefended with #VicksFirstDefence!

Vicks just released a new nasal spray, Vicks First Defense, that contains microgel technology that has been clinically proved to help stop colds in their tracks when taken at the first signs.

Celebrity couple Regine Velasquez and Ogie Alcasid swear by this new product and shared how they keep themselves safe and healthy nowadays. “We take all the necessary vitamins, get enough rest, sleep, a little bit of exercise, and exposure to the sun.” But, even with these precautions, the power duo shared that they still get paranoid (or “praning”) about catching a cold, especially because of the rainy season. Watch their full video here.

As Regine and Ogie shared, it’s okay to be extra cautious when it’s about health. “As singers, we automatically become worried when we feel the first signs of a cold. But now we have something we can rely on and help defend ourselves against common cold viruses. And, of course, it’s Vicks First Defence nasal spray. A new product from Vicks, a brand we trust as a family!”

Vicks has a 125-year history and has become the most well-known cough and cold treatment brand in the world. Regine and Ogie even feel it a need in their own home when it comes to giving care for family members who are suffering from coughs and colds. They can also feel more at ease now that Vicks First Defence is available, as it helps to prevent colds when taken at the first symptom.

The couple also shared how they always keep one within reach so they can easily use it when they’re up against a cold. “It’s so small that you can bring it with you anywhere. It’s essential to Filipinos because season changes have been drastic nowadays,” shared Regine and Ogie.

Simply spray 2-3 times per nostril up to 4 times a day and allow the microgel to help trap,  inactivate, and remove the common cold viruses.

So if you’re feeling stuffed up, don’t panic. You don’t have to resign to days with sneezing fits stuck on repeat. Vicks First Defence helps stop a cold when used at the first signs of symptoms.

Visit Vicks’ official Facebook page and Vicks’ official website for more information on Vicks First Defense. Vicks First Defense is available at all major drugstores and supermarkets across the country. Alternatively, you can shop online at Southstar Drug / Rose Pharmacy.    

Always read the label. Follow the directions for use.

Vicks First Defence is not a cure or treatment against COVID-19 and its symptoms.

If symptoms persist, consult your doctor.

ASC Reference Code: P144P110521VS

A puzzling backache could indicate a variety of issues. It could be the result of overuse or a minor injury, or it could be a symptom of Axial Spondyloarthritis.

Axial Spondyloarthritis is an inflammatory condition of the axial skeleton that, if left untreated, can cause severe discomfort and, in some cases, full disability. It’s also a highly heritable condition, so those who come from a family with a history of arthritis are more likely to get it.

Axial Spondyloarthritis usually develops in early adulthood, and it’s been dubbed “the disease of the young” by some. Most patients have a 7-year diagnosis delay, according to research, owing to the fact that Axial Spondyloarthritis only manifests itself as persistent pain in the lower back during the first few years. However, by this time, the disease would have advanced to the point of permanent damage.

For this reason, Johnson & Johnson (Philippines), Inc. (J&J) has teamed up with the Department of Health (DOH), the Philippine Rheumatology Association (PRA), and the Axial Spondyloarthritis Association of the Philippines (ASAPh) to raise awareness about Axial Spondyloarthritis and encourage patients with symptoms to seek medical treatment.

The significance of catching the disease at an early stage

The lack of awareness among the public and the lack of familiarity with the disease among primary care providers have resulted in fewer referrals to specialists and delay in diagnosis of patients.

“Together with DOH, PRA, ASAPh, and J&J, we conducted a lay forum last July 22 entitled Inflammatory Back Pain: Ating Suriin, Ating Alamin! to educate more Filipinos about chronic and debilitating conditions such as Axial Spondyloarthritis. We frequently distribute reference materials too, so that more people would become aware of the complications that follow this chronic, inflammatory rheumatic disease if not acted upon immediately. It is also PRA and ASAPh’s plea to make medications more accessible to patients in need,” added Dr. Reyes.

“Axial Spondyloarthritis is fairly common and so are its symptoms,” said Dr. Bernadette Manapat-Reyes, chair of the Philippine Rheumatology Association for Spondyloarthritis. “The most common symptom is prolonged pain in the lower back. Some people also experience pain in the hips, swelling of joints, episodes of eye inflammation, and even weight loss.”

“We know Axial Spondyloarthritis has an early onset, but life doesn’t have to stop when it happens,” said Dr. Erwin Benedicto, head of Medical Affairs at Johnson & Johnson (Philippines), Inc. “If you have been experiencing symptoms of Axial Spondyloarthritis, it is very important that you see a specialist immediately. You shouldn’t delay this because the disease can be crippling if left unchecked.”

“Axial Spondyloarthritis is a lifelong condition that may affect you differently at different times. Creating a treatment plan with your rheumatologist can greatly help in dealing with the challenges that come with living with Axial Spondyloarthritis.”

“While there is no permanent cure for Axial Spondyloarthritis, its symptoms can be managed and the speed of its progression can be reduced with early diagnosis and appropriate treatment.”

Axial Spondyloarthritis can be controlled with regular exercise and physical treatment in the best-case scenario. In addition to nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medicines, disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs, and injectable biologics, patients can be treated with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs, and injectable biologics.

About Johnson & Johnson (Philippines), Inc.

At Johnson & Johnson, we believe good health is the foundation of vibrant lives, thriving communities and forward progress. That’s why for more than 130 years, we have aimed to keep people well at every age and every stage of life. Today, as the world’s largest and most broadly-based healthcare company, we are committed to using our reach and size for good. We strive to improve access and affordability, create healthier communities, and put a healthy mind, body and environment within reach of everyone, everywhere. We are blending our heart, science, and ingenuity to profoundly change the trajectory of health for humanity. Learn more at www.jnj.com. Follow us at @JNJNews.

Dimples Romana, Gretchen Ho partner with Tuseran and Unilab to launch campaign to call for urgent vaccination against COVID-19

Filipinos are always looking ahead. Amidst being affected by the Covid- 19 pandemic, they keep looking forward to returning to a normal life—being able to hug friends and family again, returning to school and the office, traveling anywhere, celebrating holidays and milestones, and simply being able to go out whenever one wants, whether it’s for coffee with friends, a movie, or a relaxing massage.

Filipinos have never allowed themselves to be defeated by all of this, no matter how long and painful the last months have been. This is why an increasing number of celebrities and influencers have decided to take control of their health by being vaccinated against Covid-19 and are now sharing their experiences.

For these celebrities, winning the battle against Covid-19 calls for smart choices, and that includes getting vaccinated.

Vaccinations are the best weapon we have against Covid-19, complemented by safe practices such as social distancing, the use of masks, and hygienic practices. They help protect against severe Covid disease and so helps prevent hospitalizations and death. According to the World Health Organization, Vaccination is safe and any licensed vaccine is rigorously tested across multiple phases of trials before it is approved for use, and regularly reassessed once it is introduced to the public.

On Instagram, actress Dimples Romana recalled how heartbroken she was when her son, Alonzo, asked why he couldn’t punch the virus so he can see his classmates. She explained that “today, fighting means staying home, praying, following safety rules, and getting vaccinated.” Dimples offers this explanation on why the need for vaccine: “Just think of it this way, kung sa common ubo nga, sipon at sakit ng ulo, we take Tuseran Forte di ba? Ibang-iba naman kapag nagka-COVID ka, ibang kalaban eh! …Ang bilis makahawa at di nakikita!… Get vaccinated please!”

Posting a photo of herself getting vaccinated along with the Olympics-bound delegates, sports journalist Gretchen Ho  wrote “kahit may pandemya, pursigido tayo sa trabaho kaya dapat maging malakas at healthy. We can all contribute to ending this pandemic by taking good care of ourselves and being responsible.”

Indeed, the prolonged pandemic has been challenging for everyone but a positive outlook can make a difference. Motivational speaker and coach Lyqa Maravilla acknowledges that “being stuck at home during the pandemic can leave us feeling helpless and hopeless. One thing I keep asking myself is, what can I do? One thing is to get vaccinated. Don’t just do it for yourself. Do it for your loved ones. Do it for the health care workers. Do it for our country.”

YouTuber Mommy Haidee also weighed in, reminding followers to “give it a shot, guys. Do it for yourself and your loved ones. Any protection is better than nothing at all,” as she showed off her own vaccination card.

A normal future is something that everyone looks forward to. Radio and TV host Show Suzuki posted about his dog Gonta greeting him with a smile after his vaccination. “He knows that he can look forward to more adventures again in the near future,” adding “your health should always be your top priority especially if you have people/dogs who rely on you.”

Besides vaccinations, these influencers proactively manage their health, taking Tuseran Forte to address common ailments.  Clinically proven to be effective against cough, colds, and headache, Tuseran Forte has helped these influencers in ensuring they stay on top of everything at hindi nagpapatalo sa sakit.

It may be impossible to fathom how the road to normalcy will look after such a long pandemic, but with vaccine, we can return to our old lives one day. We can see our friends and family again, rejoice and party as much as we want, and go to new places.

We must be proactive about our health in these unpredictable times. We can overcome health challenges and go about our regular lives by being vaccinated and being prepared for common illnesses.

Ang Pilipino, ‘di papatalo sa sakit. Magpabakuna para talunin ang COVID, mag-gamot sa ubo, sipon at headache sa tulong ng Tuseran Forte!

Healthy snacking is an important part of anyone’s diet. But for athletes and active individuals, snacking ensures adequate fuel for exercise, improves muscle recovery, boosts mental performance, and helps maintain healthy body composition.

As a sports dietitian, athletes often ask me: What should I eat before and after a workout? What’s a good sports snack? These are great questions I’ll be happy to answer.

Healthy Pre-Workout and Post-Workout Snacking

Snacks are “mini-meals” that fill the gap between our main meals and provide the energy and nutrients our bodies require. Your hunger signals, as well as your job, academic, sports, or sleep patterns, should influence the amount and type of snacks you consume.

To stay on track with your nutrition and performance goals, you must make smart snack selections. Here are some of my favorite healthy snacking ideas:

1.)Combine Lean Protein with a Carbohydrate and/or Healthy Fat.

In general, think of balance when looking for snacks to curb hunger. Pair protein-rich foods with a carbohydrate or healthy fat for a balanced snack. It is crucial to have lean protein at every meal and snack to support muscle growth and repair. Protein also promotes fullness, helping ward off hunger until your next meal.

Carbohydrates provide both your body and your brain with energy. Choose whole grains, like whole-wheat bread or crackers or a high-fiber cereal, for long-lasting energy. Healthy fats, like nut butter or avocados, also provide energy with staying power.

Examples of balanced snacks include Greek yogurt with granola, half a turkey sandwich, a fruit smoothie made with Greek yogurt, a banana with peanut butter, string cheese and fruit, and trail mix.

2.)Don’t Ignore Your Hunger Cues. Listen to your body and pay attention to your hunger cues.         Common signals include stomach rumbling or growling, fatigue, shakiness or dizziness, and poor concentration.

If you have these symptoms, too many hours have passed without fuel. Being able to recognize these signals is crucial for athletic performance. You’ll need energy to perform your best.

Typically, spacing meals and snacks out every 2-3 hours is adequate timing to avoid hunger pangs and to ensure your body has enough fuel. This amounts to 2-3 snacks in addition to three main meals per day.

3.)Fuel Your Exercise with Pre-Workout Snacks. Carbohydrates are the preferred source of fuel for exercising muscles. Timing is important: prioritize easy-to-digest carbs in your pre-workout snack.

A small amount of lean protein is okay, but limit or avoid fats, as they may cause digestive issues if eaten too close to the time of your workout. Timing will vary, but eating your snack one-hour pre-workout should allow enough time for digestion.

Examples of pre-workout snacks include a fruit smoothie or applesauce, a handful of dried fruit plus whole-grain cereal, Greek yogurt with berries, a piece of fruit plus a carbohydrate-electrolyte beverage, and a piece of whole-grain toast with jam.

4.)Refuel, Repair, and Recover with Post-Workout Snacks. A good post-workout snack should have three components: protein, carbohydrates, and fluids. The goal after exercise is to replace the fuel that was burned, restore fluids lost through sweat, and provide protein to promote muscle repair.

Aim for at least 20 grams of protein in your snack to prevent muscle breakdown and to promote muscle building. Eating your snack within the first hour after exercise is ideal for replenishment and rebuilding.

Examples of good recovery snacks include low-fat chocolate milk, a protein shake, a fruit and Greek yogurt smoothie, trail mix with dried fruit, whole grain bread with nut butter, and banana plus low-fat milk.

5.)Snack Mindfully and Avoid Distractions. Munching mindlessly is an easy way to end up with your hand at the bottom of an empty bag of chips without knowing how it got there.

First, make sure you chose a healthy snack that aligns with your performance and health goals. Then, stop what you’re doing for a few minutes – turn off the TV, put down your phone, and close your laptop – and eat your snack.

Eating without distractions will help you feel more satisfied and you’ll be less likely to overeat.

6.)Don’t Get Tricked by Treats. Distinguish a healthy snack from a treat. Healthy snacks are nutritious and satisfy hunger. Treats, such as sweets, fried foods, and chips lack useful nutrients and provide “empty” calories,” meaning they cannot help your body grow, recover or perform to the best of your ability.

Treats might satisfy a craving, but they rarely satisfy hunger, leaving you to reach for something else soon after. Treats often lead to overeating, which could eventually lead to weight gain. Instead, choose a healthy snack that can satisfy your craving while making you feel full.

7.)Choose Healthy, Convenient Snacks to Fill Nutrition Gaps. Whether you’re fueling for exercise, replenishing energy losses, or building and repairing muscles, your body needs constant nutrition. In my experience, many athletes are consistently hungry and can’t seem to get enough calories throughout the day.

When you’re on-the-go, choose a convenient snack such as a protein bar, fruit, or Greek yogurt. Snacking is a great way for active people to get the extra nutrition they need to achieve body composition and performance goals.

8.)Plan Ahead. Prepare healthy snacks at home to take with you to work, school, or training. Skip the vending machine and avoid buying snacks where healthy options are limited.

By prepping nutritious snacks ahead of time, you’ll not only save money, but you’ll also get more nutritional bang for your budget. In your backpack or sports bag, keep some portable snacks.

You will not miss your nutritious snacks if you plan ahead and know your schedule.

About Herbalife Nutrition Ltd. Herbalife Nutrition

(NYSE: HLF) is a global company that has been changing people’s lives with great nutrition products and a business opportunity for its independent distributors since 1980. The Company offers high-quality, science-backed products, sold in over 90 countries by entrepreneurial distributors who provide one-on-one coaching and a supportive community that inspires their customers to embrace a healthier, more active lifestyle. Through the Company’s global campaign to eradicate hunger, Herbalife Nutrition is also committed to bringing nutrition and education to communities around the world. For more information, please visit IAmHerbalifeNutrition.com.

The weather is great, and school is out for the summer, which means it’s officially time for family getaways and beach side outings. However, because the current scenario necessitates more family time spent at home, your young and active children may be forced to spend their spare time occupied with activities within the boundaries of your home. While this necessitates activities that involve adult engagement and inventiveness, the oppressive heat is a substantial barrier to staying active.

Reduced physical activity, such as long walks, are far more handy, although spending hours beyond these days isn’t good either. Physical activity, on the other hand, is a crucial component of improving one’s health because it can help reduce stress, increase sleep quality, strengthen immunity, and improve blood health. It’s never too late to get your family out and around. Despite the dry season, here are three enjoyable activities that you and your family may do at home to bond. .

1. Explore Virtual Fun Run Events

Running and building up your cardio doesn’t always require exploration of the outside world. Since the shift to a new normal lifestyle, brands and events that previously held fun run events have adapted to a safer alternative of previous marathons that were held outside. Now, you can register your whole family for virtual races, choose an appropriate distance everyone is able to accomplish, and flash a video on screen while running in place or around your home. Not only is this exciting but it also helps keep everyone in the family active. And the best part is every one gets rewarded with a medal for finishing the race!

2. Groove and Move with a Dance Party

Running around in one place might not be as enjoyable for everyone in the family. If that’s the case, a dance party is also a great way to have the family bond in movement, learning, and connection, while doing physical activity. Music can make any age naturally move and groove to the beat.[1]Just set a playlist of at least an hour with different genres of music that all ages of the family can enjoy, set the lighting according to the mood and get the dance party started, any time of the day! You can also upgrade the dance party by incorporating a theme where you dress up, use props like glow sticks, ribbons, face paint,and color-changing LED lights. The creative possibilities are endless to keep your loved ones active for a boosted immunity and healthy blood.

3. Peaceful Staycation at Home

Relaxation also strengthens our health just as much as rigorous physical activity. Stress can weaken the body’s immune system leading to people getting sick at stressful and unsure times.[2]While a dance party and an at-home marathon might seem enjoyable to some,for families who prefer activities that don’t require feeling exhausted, or loved ones who have conditions that prevent them to dance or run; a peaceful staycation at home can still help boost their immunity and keep their blood healthy.

A staycation at home can start off with a nutritious breakfast meal with fruits and vegetables, and relaxing music playing in the background. While others prepare for the next meal, the children can be entertained with a short animation film or through a book reading session. Lunch can be setup as a picnic on your backyard, veranda, or terrace. Taking a siesta can help refresh the mind as well. [3]After dinner, a soothing bath can cap off the whole day of relaxation at home.

These 3 summertime activities may help your family moving while reducing stress and building their immunity during the dry season. Yet with age and lifestyle differences of your loved ones, some may need external help to keep their blood healthy that physical activities and relaxation may not be able to provide sufficiently.

Multivitamins + Minerals (Sangobion IRON+) is Your Family’s Blood Health Ally

Multivitamins + Minerals (Sangobion IRON+) is an iron supplement with vitamins and minerals that helps to replenish iron stores and increases red blood cell levels in the body. It has ferrous gluconate, a type of iron salt which allows better absorption of iron in the body, Folic acid, and vitamin B12 which are vital for production of red blood cells and during pregnancy. It also contains Vitamin C which helps improve iron absorption, and Copper sulphate and manganese sulphate that helps in the metabolic processes of blood cell production. [4]

Recommended intake is one to two capsules daily, during or after meals, or as prescribed by your doctor.

Multivitamins+ Minerals (Sangobion IRON+) helps to treat iron deficiency anemia that can lead to weakened immunity and increased susceptibility to infection. Iron deficiency anemia happens when the blood has a lower amount of red blood cells or hemoglobin than normal. This can cause the body to feel weak, tired, dizzy, look pale, and experience headaches.[5]

Although this year’s summer events with the family will be spent at home, the circumstances will not prevent the enjoyment and leisure. You and your family may stay blood healthy all year long by eating a balanced diet, exercising regularly, getting enough sleep, and taking Multivitamins + Minerals (Sangobion IRON+).

If symptoms persist, consult your doctor.

ASC REFERENCE CODE: P108P062821SS

[1] “Why do we like to dance–And move to the beat?” Scientific American. https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/experts-dance/

[2] “Psychoneuroimmunology: psychological influences on immune function and health” J Consult Clin Psychol. https://doi.org/10.1037//0022-006x.70.3.537

[3] “Siestas and your heart: Can you nap your way to health?” Harvard Men’s Health Watch. https://www.health.harvard.edu/newsletter_article/Siestas_and_your_heart_Can_you_nap_your_way_to_health

[4]“About-Sangobion.” Sangobion, https://www.sangobion.sg/about-sangobion.

[5]“Iron-Deficiency Anemia.” National Heart Lung and Blood Institute, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health-topics/iron-deficiency-anemia.

Santé has been a trusted industry leader in the Philippines for over a decade, consistently creating and producing outstanding natural and organic health and fitness goods and services. The firm closes up the second quarter of 2021 by announcing Luis Manzano as the official ambassador of SweetVia, a natural sweetener with incredible health advantages.

Luis is well-known in the industry not just because of his craft in hosting but also because of having a well healthy lifestyle. As I attended the zoom meeting I really enjoyed it because of the fun vibe Luis filled during the event and also to all the lessons I acquired coming from the newest endorser. Luis is really that person who had a really funny personality but at the same time he is that kind and loving person not just in the people that are dear to his heart but also to the people whom he is committed to.

During the zoom meeting

SweetVia contains potent natural plant ingredients, such as Chicory Root Fiber Inulin and Stevia (Stevia Rebaudiana) – a safe and non-toxic herbal extract that aids in keeping blood sugar low. ¹In both human and animal studies, the addition of inulin has been found to normalize blood lipid and glucose levels (Gibson & Delzenne). Also, it showed a reduction in food intake and decreased body weight. On the other hand, ²Stevia is an accepted sugar substitute that can contribute to weight management and improved caloric control. And unlike other sugary foods, stevia inhibits the formation of cavities and plaque (Elkins, 1997).

A single 1g sachet of SweetVia instantly provides a sweeter taste to any beverage and every food recipe minus the guilt and harmful effects of too much sugar.

As one of the most influential celebrities in the entertainment industry today, Luis Manzano is a multi-hyphenate who is in the prime of his career. He has a highly hectic schedule that consists of several thriving business ventures, multiple brand partnerships, and top-trending TV shows on the Kapamilya Channel. Among his projects is his hosting stint in the recently concluded third season of the singing and impersonation competition, Your Face Sounds Familiar, and his weekly appearances on ASAP Natin ‘To every Sunday afternoons.

Luis is also known as a passionate advocate of wellness who believes that a well-balanced lifestyle which consists of proper time management between work and personal life coupled with regular physical exercise and proper diet are key factors in maintaining a productive life that is absolutely healthy, which is very vital especially now amid the pandemic.

“I just turned 40 this year and what I learned as we grow older is that we must always watch what we eat,” says Luis. “I know a lot of people who got diabetes either genetically or because of their food choices. I’m really into sweets, and there’s always room for so much more desserts in my life. Because of SweetVia, I now have a healthy alternative that enables me to satisfy my cravings without putting myself at risk of diabetes and minus the guilt, as well.”      

Luis also reveals that he is confident, calm, and relaxed with SweetVia, “I could sleep better knowing that my choice to incorporate Sweet Via in my daily diet essentials is both effective and excellent because its ingredients are natural and plant-based. I am assured that I made the right choice with SweetVia.”

“Luis Manzano lives the ideal lifestyle that perfectly represents Sweet Via as he is enjoying a balanced life that is both active and healthy,” says Santé CEO Joey Marcelo. “We are honored to officially welcome Luis to the Santé family, and we are looking forward to all the exciting projects that we will do in collaboration with him in the months to come.”

Luis also expresses how grateful he is to partner with SweetVia, “It’s great to partner with a brand like SweetVia. This is the best alternative every time I want to eat or drink something sweet. Another plus with Sweet Via is the prebiotics that it contains, which takes care of my tummy. SweetVia is so versatile because it could be used not just in drinks and desserts but in every single food recipe imaginable.”        

SweetVia is sold in major Mercury Drug stores, Watsons, The Generics Pharmacy, Puregold, Lawson, The Landmark, and All Day Supermarkets, and can also be ordered online through Lazada and Shopee. Follow @sweetviaofficial on Instagram, like Sweet Via on Facebook, and subscribe to SweetVia on YouTube for more information and exciting news and updates on Luis Manzano and SweetVia.

Many people have had a difficult year adjusting to new habits in order to be healthy and safe, while their relationships have been affected in unimaginable ways. Being with your loved ones 24 hours a day, seven days a week can put a strain on your relationship. 1 Being under one roof with them may appear appealing at first, but that is just until boredom sets in, followed by confrontation. Those who are in an LDR scenario, on the other hand, have little to no assurance that they will be able to see each other. These circumstances might cause stress, which can negatively impact your immune system and blood health.

But all hope is not lost. Whether you spend most of your time with your loved ones or are miles apart, here are four ideas on how to express TLC — because they deserve to feel cared for, especially for their well-being.

1. For those who appreciate words than actions

This gift is maybe for that friend who saves your most meaningful conversations or your parent whose face brightens up when you send them a thank you message. This is for those who think that words speak louder than actions. Writing a heartfelt letter to a loved one who’s fond of affirmation, is already enough for them. But you can always go beyond. Include friends, family, and loved ones to write a short letter for them and compile it as a notecard or as notes in a bottle. This way they are reminded that they are loved even at times that they feel the most need to.

2. When they would rather spend time with you

Not everyone is able to appreciate the usual V-day staple gifts. Sometimes, material things aren’t always ideal for those who just want to spend time with you — all they need is time with you. Your full presence and attention are greatly appreciated by people who enjoy spending quality time. Also, being with your loved one knows no distance. A video call for them matters so much more than you may imagine, especially when you’re miles apart. So, whether if it’s just a movie marathon night, a virtual game night, or a weekend spa day at home, they’ll definitely feel cared for and grateful for your time and attention.

3. Be there when they need your help

Helping your loved ones in need of extra help is also another way of making them feel loved through actions. This is for those who are always swamped with work, chores, and daily tasks that they would feel most taken care of when others are able to notice that they also need help. This can be expressed through doing their chores for them, serving them breakfast in bed in the morning, or running an errand that they may have mentioned before. Doing deeds is how they may show their affection and that’s how they best receive it too.

4. Gift them a healthy blood for strong immunity when they most need it

Attentiveness to your loved ones’ needs is one of the many ways to make them feel special and appreciated. Paying attention to their lifestyle, and health condition should be of top priority given the current situation. When you notice and feel that they’re having little to no sleep, looking paler, and easily gets tired — they might be experiencing Iron deficiency anemia. This occurs when the blood has a lower amount of red blood cells or hemoglobin than normal. Iron deficiency anemia can cause the body to feel weak, tired, dizzy, look pale, and experience headaches. ²

Offer your loved ones the help they need by cooking them nutritious meals, encouraging regular exercise, getting proper sleep, and taking Multivitamins + Minerals (Sangobion IRON+) to help maintain their blood health.

Multivitamins + Minerals (Sangobion IRON+) is an iron supplement with vitamins and minerals that helps to replenish iron stores and increases red blood cell levels in the body. It has ferrous gluconate, a type of iron salt which allows better absorption of iron in the body, Folic acid, and vitamin B12 which are vital for production of red blood cells and during pregnancy. It also contains Vitamin C which helps improve iron absorption, and Copper sulphate and manganese sulphate that helps in the metabolic processes of blood cell production.³

Recommended intake is one to two capsules daily, during or after meals, or as prescribed by your doctor.

Love knows no bounds, just as much as stress knows no limits. Keep your loved one’s blood healthy through maintaining a healthy diet, encouraging physical activity, and taking with Multivitamins + Minerals (Sangobion IRON+) that treats iron deficiency anemia that can lead to weakened immunity and increased susceptibility to infection.

When you’re at a loss for what to say to someone you care about, try one of these four suggestions. What counts most at these times, magnificent or not, is that your loved ones keep a strong immune system and a healthy blood supply with the support of Multivitamins + Minerals (Sangobion IRON+).

If symptoms persist, consult your doctor.

ASC REFERENCE CODE: P113P052021SS