What is Parental Anxiety? Most parents will worry about their children to some extent – it goes with the territory of being a parent and continues even as children grow up. Parental Anxiety however, is associated with excessive worrying in relation to their child’s wellbeing, or living with overwhelming fears that something might go wrong with their child or family. What are the common signs and symptoms? Every parent-child relationship is unique, however some parents with Parental Anxiety may: • Experience persistent thoughts that something bad could happen or be happening to their child • Av ..read more

There are 6 pillars of lifestyle medicine: nutrition, stress management, positive social connections, avoiding harmful substances, physical activity and restorative sleep. Obviously Nutrition is its own topic, but here I share my views on how the other 5 pillars are closely connected with nutrition. I have also included some tips on how to use nutrition to optimise each pillar.  1. Stress   Stress hormones regulate and can change our hunger and satiety regulations. Stress hormones also alter our ability to digest food and absorb nutrients. Studies have demonstrated connection be ..read more

Traveller’s diarrhoea impacts travellers who ingest contaminated food or water. This gastrointestinal issue shares many symptoms with typical food poisoning, including diarrhoea, fever, and vomiting. The symptoms of traveller’s diarrhoea can appear either during your journey or shortly after you return home. What causes traveller’s diarrhoea? This condition is caused by exposure to pathogens during your international travels, which your body is not used to contracting at home. While bacteria are often the culprits, viruses or parasites can also cause problems. Pre-travel preparation to protect ..read more

Smoking is widely recognised as a significant contributor to various health risks, including heart disease, stroke, and lung diseases, among others. As such, the government in Singapore and across the world, have implemented various measures to curb smoking, including increased taxes on cigarettes and restricted smoking areas. However, while Singapore has one of the lowest percentages of the global population with smokers, approximately 10% of the population continues to smoke, according to CNA. And despite knowing why smoking is bad for their health, they say it’s challenging for them to quit ..read more

When you are constantly on the go, opting for processed food often seems more convenient than spending time in the kitchen preparing a nutritious meal. Generally, processed food encompasses any food item modified from its original form, typically for safety purposes or convenience. This category encompasses a wide range of food products, from basic processes like freezing vegetables to retain nutrients and freshness to more complex processes like drying fruits to extend their shelf life and enhance portability. While certain processed foods can offer essential nutrients and much-needed conveni ..read more

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome is a type of endocrine disorder that affects many women around the world. In Singapore, specifically, it affects 5 to 10% of women of reproductive age, according to SingHealth. What is polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)? Polycystic ovary syndrome or PCOS develops when the ovaries produce excess androgens (these are male sex hormones that women may have), but typically in small amounts. The term “polycystic” comes from the numerous small cysts that could potentially form in the ovaries when an individual has PCOS. However, there are some instances where a cyst may not de ..read more

Long COVID: common symptoms and how to manage them While some individuals may fully recover from COVID-19, others may endure prolonged symptoms or experience significant changes to their physical health. This is commonly referred to as ‘long COVID’, and this condition continues to impact many people well beyond their initial recovery. The World Health Organization (WHO) has called for a greater awareness of this condition due to its medium to long-term effects. In fact, WHO discovered that 10 to 20% of individuals who have experienced COVID-19 have increased chances of developing long COVID. A ..read more

Entering perimenopause marks a significant phase in a woman’s life, signalling the transition towards the end of the fertile years. This period is characterised by hormonal fluctuations and various physical and emotional changes. In this article, we’ll take a look at perimenopause, exploring its symptoms, age range, and management strategies while emphasising the importance of seeking guidance from doctors experienced in treating perimenopause and menopause. Understanding perimenopause Perimenopause, often referred to as the “menopausal transition,” typically begins several years before menopa ..read more

Living as an expat in Singapore brings with it a multitude of opportunities for adventure and growth. But amidst the hustle and bustle of expat daily life, many people find themselves experiencing feelings of isolation. Understanding expats’ unique challenges and equipping oneself with effective coping strategies is important for fostering a sense of connection and well-being in this vibrant city-state. The adventure may initially overshadow feelings of loneliness. Still, as the novelty wears off, many expats grapple with the reality and the anxiety of being far from loved ones and support net ..read more

Testosterone, a hormone predominantly produced in the testicles, plays a crucial role in men’s health. Its impact extends beyond just physical characteristics like muscle mass and facial hair, influencing everything from bone density to mood and mental clarity. However, when testosterone levels decline, it can lead to a range of symptoms and health issues. This article explores what testosterone is, the signs of low testosterone (low-T), and what treatment options are available. Understanding testosterone and its role in men’s health Testosterone is integral to various physiological processes ..read more