EXPERT VIEWS

Southeast Asia is witnessing a rise in non-communicable diseases (NCDs), such as cardiovascular diseases and diabetes¹, due to factors like a diet high in unhealthy processed food and a more urban, sedentary lifestyle. There is a need to strengthen awareness on the importance of a balanced nutrition and an active lifestyle among the public, which includes consuming more plant-based food daily. 

During any meal of the day, protein-based dishes are often the highlight on the plate or table. But did you know that having the right amount and type of protein, alongside balanced carbohydrate and fat, can also help you to achieve healthy weight loss and maintenance?

Small and mid-size enterprises (SMEs) in Southeast Asia have long been an integral part of economic growth. They are also a segment that will receive strong support for post-pandemic recovery. This makes the entrepreneurial path an exciting avenue for people from all walks of life to follow their passion.

As the world turns a page on the pandemic, much is still unknown on the full implications of the Covid-19 virus and its health impacts in the long term. For example, “long Covid” is an emerging phenomenon that has brought about anxieties over the pandemic’s largely undiscovered long-term effects. Recent studies show that this virus could increase the risks of cardiovascular diseases (CVDs). This is especially true for people with pre-existing cardiovascular conditions or those who lead unhealthy lifestyles. 

With so many products on the market, there is often confusing information concerning their safety and efficacy. Amid a barrage of product claims, contradicting news, and erroneous product claims, how should consumers decide? Reputation, conducting preliminary research, tech assistants, and investing in mental health are some aspects both consumers and healthcare professionals can look more into, in the drive towards individual health advocacy.

The pandemic has accelerated the trend of hybrid working. The hybrid model incorporates a mixture of in-office and remote work and may look different for every company. However, there is one thing in common - a greater need for employers to focus on employee well-being, as they work towards creating the new normal.

Eating a high-protein diet instead of a carb-heavy diet may enable your body to burn more calories per day.

For years, boosting one’s metabolism has been a goal of consumers because it impacts our weight, appetites, and body fat levels. The faster your metabolism, the more calories you’ll burn, even when you’re resting. What many people don’t realize, however, is that having a high metabolism means you may need to eat more, and/or adjust your meal timing, to maintain your weight. What’s important here is understanding how your body processes food and what foods you will need for optimal function. 

As doctors we know the critical importance of maintaining a healthy diet and exercising regularly and are obliged to propagate the same for our patients.

The pandemic has brought a significant change to the patient-doctor relationship. As a doctor, treating your patient holistically has become the need of the hour.

As the world is slowly moving towards reopening industries, shops, and restaurants under certain conditions, we have to keep in mind one thing: the pandemic is not over yet and we still need to be mindful of health and hygiene measures.

Nutrition is the key to healthy living and success in all walks of life. In the recent years, we have witnessed several food and nutrition trends in the region. 

Surfing through the grocery stores, most of us have been drawn towards products labelled as organic, natural, trans-fat free and gluten free. But how many consumers understand these labels and their importance well? 

Food safety has become a topic of importance, especially during the pandemic. People are now concerned about the safety of their food. Technology is playing the role of an effective enabler in the new normal.

The best part of living a good life is acquiring quality health especially through the golden and productive age and, ensuring wellbeing and comfort through the less active years.

Asia Pacific (APAC) region is home to some of the world’s fastest growing economies and ironically more than half of the undernourished children on the planet too.

We are fighting multiple health devils in our daily lives. While COVID-19 is the most recent one, it’s important that we do not lay our eyes off a few of those healthcare issues that have been afflicting the urban dwellers for long.

As sports enthusiasts restart their exercise routines, it’s important to kick-start on the right note with the necessary dietary support that can fuel their athletic endeavors.