International Thyroid Awareness Week Celebration + Things To Know About Thyroid Disorders

“Catching Butterflies: Spotting the Symptoms of Thyroid Disorders in Children” is the theme of this years' International Thyroid Awareness Week Celebration which was culminated by Merck Inc. and ETC 2nd Avenue at the Fisher Mall Event center last May 28, 2016. The butterfly theme was chosen to represent the thyroid, which is a butterfly shaped organ found at the base of our necks. 

Little did we know, millions of Filipinos are affected by thyroid disorders, yet very few are aware of them. In a study conducted by the Philippine Society for Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism in 2012, it showed that one in 11 Filipino adults has goiter, and around one in 12 Filipino adults suffers from some form of thyroid disease. Around 8 in every 1000 children worldwide are affected by thyroid disease but only a handful get properly diagnosed and treated.

The “Catching Butterflies: Spotting the Symptoms of Thyroid Disorders in Children” event aims to increase the awareness of the thyroid and the disorders that can affect children and adults. This is because if thyroid hormone imbalances are left undiagnosed and untreated, they can have harmful effect on a child’s brain development, growth and physical maturity. The awareness campaign showed that thyroid disorders are treatable with early screening and proper treatment.

During the event, a panel of experts from the Philippines Society for Diabetes, Endocrinology, and Metabolism, the Philippine Thyroid Association, and the Iodine Global Network conducted a talk on how to recognize and treat thyroid disorders. They also conducted a Free Doctor's Consultation and Thyroid Screening.

The event was not only educational but also fun-filled, aside from the beautiful decorations there were also many other activities that both children and parents enjoyed together. 

There was as on-the spot art competition.

Butterfly face painting

 Butterfly Cookie Art. Took home some for the kids and they liked it!

There were also butterfly clay art, dance performances, Hypo- Butterfly and Hyper-Butterfly Mascots and so much more. How I wish I brought the kids along, I'm sure they would have loved it! 

ETC 2nd Avenue also had a booth where attendees took their photos on the photo wall, posted it to their social media accounts using the hashtags #thyroidawareness and #wearebraver, have it printed at the booth and instantly win a prize. I participated and won a Flawless Stem cell Cleanser, yey! 

There are a lot of people who may have thyroid disorders, but aren’t even aware until it is too late. It is important to have one’s thyroid checked as early as possible, especially if there is family history of the disease, or during pregnancy. Prevention, proper information and early detection will always be better than cure that comes too late.

Here are some important things you should know about Thyroid Disorders:

1. What is Thyroid? 

The thyroid gland is a butterfly-shaped organ located at the base of the neck. The thyroid produces and stores thyroid hormones, which are essential to the normal development of the body, as well as its normal metabolism and function. Thyroid hormones affect practically all systems of the body, from the brain, to the heart, to the stomach, the reproductive system, etc.

2. What are the difference between hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism?

• Hypothyroidism is when your thyroid doesn't produce enough thyroid hormone. Thus, metabolism is slowed. Patients typically complain of weight gain (even without increasing appetite), cold intolerance, chronic fatigue, sadness/depression, slowed speech patterns, slow heart rate, dry/brittle hair, constipation, and menstrual irregularities.

• Hyperthyroidism is when there is too much thyroid hormone, and Symptoms are typically opposite that of hypothyroidism. Patients will note weight loss, sweating, insomnia and irritability, fast heart rate and palpitations, hair loss, diarrhea, and menstrual irregularities.

 3. How can thyroid disorders be diagnosed?

Diagnosis is made by a physician based on the results of blood tests- TSH (thyroid stimulating hormone) and thyroid hormone levels in the blood.

4. How to asses your own Thyroid?

Facing a mirror, lift your chin up and inspect your neck. Swallow, and if you see a mass at the base of the neck moving up and down, you may need to consult your doctor for goiter.

Also be aware of the symptoms of hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism, so you can consult a doctor when you note you have them.

5. How can hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism be treated?

• Hypothyroidism is treated with thyroid hormone replacement therapy.

• Hyperthyroidism is treated with anti-thyroid drugs, which lower the level of thyroid hormones in the body.

6. Should children be screened for Thyroid problems?

Parents should be aware of the symptoms of thyroid disorders so they can bring their child to the doctor. If they notice mood and behavior changes, difficulty learning, and other signs, consult a doctor.

7. Should pregnant women undergo screening for thyroid problems?

It is recommended that women get screened for thyroid disorders if:

• previous history of thyroid disorders, thyroid surgery
• above 30
• family history of thyroid disorders
• previous history of pregnancy loss or difficulty getting pregnant
• living in iodine deficiency areas

8. How can Thyroid disorders affect pregnant women and the unborn baby?

Thyroid disorders, if untreated, can lead to negative outcomes for the mother and child. Conditions like eclampsia and placenta previa can occur. Furthermore, the child might have developmental abnormalities, especially with mental and cognitive abilities. Children with mothers who are iodine deficient or hypothyroid can have lower IQs.

Ask your doctor about thyroid screening if you are pregnant.

9. What type of foods are good for the Thyroid?

People are encouraged to take iodized salt, to avoid iodine deficiency, the most common cause of goiter.

10. Is Thyroid Disorder hereditary?

There is a hereditary component to thyroid problems. If you have a relative who has thyroid disorders, you should regularly have yourself checked.

The event is organized by Merck Inc. in collaboration with ETC 2nd Avenue for the International Thyroid Awareness Week Celebration

Merck is the world’s oldest pharmaceutical and chemical company with headquarters in Darmstadt, Germany. Merck is a leading science and technology company that works to further develop technologies that improve and enhance life – from biopharmaceutical therapies to treat cancer or multiple sclerosis, cutting-edge systems for scientific research and production, to liquid crystals for smartphones and LCD televisions.

Taco Bell's Gordita Supreme: A Tasty twist to your favorite taco

Taco Bell puts a tasty twist to our favorite taco! Are you ready to take your taco experience to the next level?

Presenting, Gordita Supreme! A mouth-watering treat that's shaped and stuffed like your favorite taco but it’s not your typical taco. Made with seasoned beef, fresh shredded lettuce, cool sour cream and diced tomatoes all cradled inside a warm pillowy flatbread, Gordita Supreme presents taco lovers with a tasty twist to their everyday favorite.

Last Sunday, Jaear, Athena and I got to try the Gordita Supreme at Taco Bell Alabang center. It is available at P99 a la carte and you can mix it with nachos and a 16oz drink for P149. 

You shouldn't miss this delectable offering, it's available at Taco Bell Alabang Town Center, Trinoma and Gateway Mall. Hurry as Taco Bell’s Gordita Supreme is available until July 11, 2016 only.

Learn more about Taco Bell’s latest offering Gordita Supreme, and try other delectable treats that you’re sure to love only at Taco Bell! Visit the official website at www.tacobell.com.ph, or check out their official Facebook page at www.facebook.com/tacobellPHL, follow @TacoBellPHL on Twitter and Instagram, and check the official hashtag #TacoBellPHL across Twitter, Facebook and Instagram.

Live Beautifully at any Age with HyC150 + Launching of Ask a Doctor Online

As we age, our skin loses moisture and suppleness, our hair becomes weak and dry, and our muscles become stiff making us less energetic. Thus the search for solution and anti-aging products takes place. But with the many anti-aging products nowadays, it's hard to tell which one really works.

I am not getting any younger and I can't stop the time, days and years from passing by but as they say age is just a number, so there's definitely something I can do on how I choose to age. And, even though I am not a beauty expert, as early as now I try to familiarize myself with things that can help my future self. That's why I was glad to have been invited into a Japanese Springtime Themed event at Oracle Aesthetic Clinic, where experts and specialists revealed the secret on how to live beautifully at any age, with the aid of HyC150. 

What is HyC150?

Premium HyC 150 is supplemental drink manufactured by Fine Japan Co. Ltd., it has a potent combination of natural ingredients to combat signs of aging. Only HyC 150 combines the moisturizing effect of 150mg of Hyaluron, also known as nature’s moisturizer, with collagen and ubiquinol, all natural ingredients known for its anti-aging properties. With HyC 150 food supplement, not only does one’s natural beauty becomes enhanced, but being beautiful also means being healthy too. 

HyC150 was given the Gold Award at the 2015 Monde Selection Awards for Diet and Health products. This international recognition is a testament to the superior quality of HyC 150 compared to all other anti-aging supplements in the market today.

Product Content and Benefits: 

• Hyaluron-  HyC 150 contains 150mg a gel-like substance that moisturizes the body and lubricates the joints and tissues so you can move freely and pain-free. At the same time, the skin is well hydrated to revent wrinkles, while the hair becomes strong and silky.
• Collagen- It also contains 5,250mg of collagen, the lifting supplement that tightens skin. Our body naturally produces collagen but we lose it as we age. By drinking HyC 150, you are supplied with the amount of collagen needed to repair body tissues and form structure in order to prevent sagging.
• Ubiquinol-  HyC 150’s 10mg ubiquinol, helps increase the body’s energy. Aside from being an energy-boosting element, ubiquinol is an antioxidant that protects the body from environmental toxins, strengthens the immune system, and prevents hair loss.

Believing that one has to be beautiful and healthy inside and out, HyC 150 is also fortified with Vitamin C, biotin, elastin and pearl coix, making it a powerful drink that must be added to your daily diet.

• Vitamin C- is a powerful antioxidant that protects the body from several cancer types while providing for a stronger immune system.
• Elastin - is a protein found in the body’s connective tissue that helps maintain the skin springiness and elasticity. 
• Biotin - makes hair shiny and scalp healthy.
• Pearl coix - the right dose of pearl coix will whiten skin to remove dark spots, even acne; and bring out that radiant, youthful glow in you.

Hyc150 is available at selected Watsons stores nationwide and online at Lazada, they also recently opened an online store store for convenient, easy access to its products offering free delivery to all customers nationwide. During the event they also launched the Ask a Doctor, an online conversation with medical experts who are practicing aesthetic medicine. Ask a Doctor is a personal way of getting information from medical experts that is best suited for you. 

 (L-R): Dr. Rudy Apostol (Doctor for Regenerative Medicine & Stem Cell Therapy), Hannah Ruth Sison (former Bb. Pilipinas 1st Runner Up, Hyc150 user), Dra. Em Sevilla (Founder and President of Vine Holistic Medical Aesthetics),  Susan Dimacali (Oracle Beauty Clinic owner) and Mr. Antonio Crisanto (General Manager - BrightRay Enterprises)

Now, your questions regarding ingredients found in food supplements or possible side effects, about aging, skin health and moisturization, and other related issues can be answered. All you have to do is visit the website www.hyc150.com and go to the website’s Ask a Doctor page. Fill in the form with your name, email address and your questions. After submitting it, the doctors will receive your questions through email, and will send a reply directly to your email.

HyC 150 is safe to be taken by women or men even in their 20’s. Take one sachet every day at P 125 per sachet and feel younger each day.

For more details and updates “Like” HyC150 on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/HyC150 Follow them on Twitter (#HyC150) or Instagram (@HyC150), or call (02) 5467297, 0917-7750779 for inquiries.

Product Review | Doctor J 70% Isopropyl Rubbing Alcohol: Trusted by Hospitals and Households

One of our must have item in the house is a rubbing alcohol and I prefer the 70% Isopropyl among others. We always make sure that there is a big bottle of alcohol in the house and a small handy one whenever we're on the go. Tristan and Athena also got 1 small bottle each in their hygiene kit at school. I taught the kids the importance of hand washing especially before and after eating, using the bathroom and after playing. However, it's almost impossible to do it most especially when we are outdoors, and that is when rubbing alcohol saves the day!

To my delight, I have received a 500ml bottle of Doctor J 70% Isopropyl Rubbing Alcohol together with the Mighty Mom Dishwashing Liquid that I reviewed here. Both brands are from Kohl Industries Corporation.  

This isn't the first time that I've heard about Doctor J. We first came across this brand last April when Athena was confined at University of Perpetual Help Dalta Medical Center here in Las Pinas, her hospital kit includes a small bottle of Doctor J 70% Isopropyl Alcohol. 

And after some research, I found out that Doctor J Alcohol is actually a top quality alcohol-disinfectant known in the Philippine market for a long time already, yes, since 1994! Kohl Industries Corporation has acquired the rights for the brand in June 2002, and in 2003 transformed the Doctor J brand into a leading alcohol-disinfectant of choice by major hospitals in the country. Yes it is, remember it was in Athena's hospital kit? 

So what do I like about Doctor J 70% Isopropyl Rubbing Alcohol?

1. Trustworthy- It's a top choice by major hospitals and used by millions of households, so I put my 100% trust in it.

2. Better formulations-  It contains high quality, non-recycled alcohol making it an effective disinfectant and antiseptic.

3. Contains natural moisturizers- It's gentle so goodbye drying and say hello to soft hands!

4. Clean fragrant scent- It's like a cologne, leaving your hands smelling clean and fragrant for long. *ts fragrance is imported from Grasse, France!

5. Packaging- The one they sent me is 500ml perfect size for a family of 5 and it comes in a pump dispenser which is what I prefer because it's easier to use.

Doctor J is also available in following sizes:

• 1 Gallon
• 1 Liter
• 500mL pump
• 500mL bottle
• 250mL
• 150mL
• 60mL

Con:

There's only one thing I noticed with the pump dispenser, the alcohol leaks on the bottom part of the pump so make sure it's always standing up to avoid it from spilling. That's all. 

Seriously, this is now my new favorite alcohol brand. Will definitely make a purchase once we consumed this bottle they sent me. Have you tried using this yet? If you haven't, I suggest you do and who knows, you might make a switch too just like me!

Where to purchase Doctor J?

• Robsinsons Supermarket
• Shopwise, Watsons
• Rustan’s
• Wellcome Supermarket
• AFPCES, Super 8
• Fisher Supermarket
• Unimart
• Makati Supermarket
• Walter Supermarket
• CVC Supermarket
• San Roque Supermarket

For more details and updates check out their website: http://kohlindustries.com/

and follow them on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/doctorjalcohol/

Review | Mighty Mom: A Mighty Dishwashing Liquid of Choice For Every Home

Just like a kid who gets all giddy when given a new toy, as a mom, I too get happy and excited when given stuff especially things that can help me in my household chores. And a week ago, I received a household product, a 750ml Mighty Mom Dishwashing Liquid in Lemon variant for me to try and review.

Honestly, it was the first time that I came across this brand and I'm happy because I'm discovering something new. Aside from the Mighty Mom Dishwashing Liquid the package also includes a 500ml Doctor J Isopropyl Alcohol which I reviewed here. Upon receiving the products, I immediately made my own research. These two brands are actually manufactured by KOHL INDUSTRIES CORPORATION.

KOHL INDUSTRIES CORPORATION is a Philippine FDA CGMP, Certified Manufacturing Corporation and is recognized as a trusted manufacturer of high-grade disinfectants, personal care, household products and medical device solutions  in the Philippines. It is proudly Filipino-owned and was incorporated in June 2002 by Mr. Aton C. Atilano.

With its Certificate of Good Manufacturing Practice, Kohl Industries Corporation develops products specially for professional use. Formulated together with an expert team of chemists and pharmacists, their products adhere to the strictest standards set by top hospitals, where only high-level cleansing is accepted. Knowing this, I felt confident that my family will be in good hands.

On my previous post I've mentioned that I don't really like washing the dishes but as a mom and without a helper who else would get the job done? Of course me.....and Jaear, yes we take turns with household chores! But I was the one who got to try the Mighty Mom dishwashing liquid first and shared with him my impression which I will also be sharing with you.

The brand name itself, Mighty Mom Dishwashing Liquid makes it appealing to every mommies and adding to it is the mommy image on the label. Cool! Its packaging also is comparable to those leading brands, its made out of thick durable plastic dispenser with a pump. I prefer pump dispenser the most as it's easier to use. 

On its label, it's stated "Concentrated" and that is why it's frothy and has long lasting bubbles which I find entertaining every time I wash the dishes. Haha! In terms of its scent, since I got the Lemon variant, it's sweet and citrusy. It smells good but just overpowering and leaves a clean fragrant scent on the plates and glasses especially plastic ones. So if you don't want it to leave a smell on, rinse it properly and I suggest you to only use a little amount of dishwashing liquid or you can even dilute it in water. And, because it's concentrated, you can actually save, even a little drop will go a long way, so a bottle will last for a longer time for sure. 

Aside from the Lemon variant, Mighty Mom is also available in endearing scent of Kalamansi which is my favorite, and the newest to the group, Vitamin E infused Soft Skin variant. Can't wait to try them all!

Mighty Mom dishwashing liquid also effectively cleans and cuts grease. Just make sure to properly rinse your dishes also to avoid food residues. What I like the most about Mighty Mom is that it has Anti-bacterial properties not only cleaning our plates and utensils but disinfects it making them germ free as well. Great isn't it?

And another good news, Mighty Mom is easy on the pocket! They are doing an ad campaign on several stores and they also supply this in bundles unlike other dishwashing liquid in the market. 

For SM supermarkets, a 500mL bottle with 2 FREE 250mL pouch is priced at Php88.00 only and a 1 Liter bottle with pump + FREE 3 250mL pouch is priced at Php149.00 only. For Shopwise, a 750mL bottle with 2 FREE 250mL pouch is priced at Php149.75 and a 500mL bottle bundled with another 500mL bottle is priced at Php95.00 only. For Robinsons, a 250mL bottle with 2 FREE 250mL pouch is priced at Php49.75 only. What a great deal! It's definitely worth hoarding for as this can be stored for a long time plus buying this is supporting local products, as this is Proudly Pinoy-owned.

Give it a try mommies, not only are you going to make big savings but you are also ensured that your dishes are clean, deodorized, germ free and that your family is safe! Indeed a mighty dishwashing liquid of choice for Supermoms.

Mighty Mom is currently available in Robinsons Supermarket, SM Supermarket, SM Savemore, SM Hypermarket, Fishermall, APCES, Shopwise, to name a few. It is also available in Marketa, an online market place.

For more details and updates check out their website: http://kohlindustries.com/
and like their Facebook page: Mighty Mom

Sun Life:Rise PH, Aims to serve 5M Clients by 2020

Time takes its toll on everyone. It breaks my heart to see old folks in the streets still working as they struggle to even stand up. They make some of my worries and troubles seems negligible as I fall into tears trying to imagine how hard life must be for these elderly. We're not getting younger, though I wish that would be the case. Days, Weeks, Months and Years continues to pass. I'm sure you'd agree that as a parent there's a time when you dream of being prepared for all the struggles that might come in life especially to our children. I don't want to trust my future to anyone else like the government because I understand that at the end of the day, it all comes down to how much I've prepared for it. It's like how one of my favorite saying goes: "Fail to prepare, Prepare to fail".  These days I've had my eyes in learning more about stock exchange and life insurance plans. I've yet to attend seminars with my husband about stocks but in terms of life plans, SunLife has pique our interest especially after knowing how the company operates with their ideals. Thus let me share with you a few details as well:

Sun Life of Canada (Philippines), Inc., the top-ranked and the longest-standing life insurance company in the Philippines, aims to serve five million clients by 2020 under its new five-year growth plan that is dubbed as “Rise PH”

“Rise PH” champion’s financial inclusion in the Philippines, where only a small percentage of the whole population utilizes financial products such as insurance and investments. 

“Despite the bright prospects that the country’s economy has, prosperity still hasn’t trickled down to the more disadvantaged sectors of society. We have to address this”, Sun Life President and CEO Riza Mantaring said. “Sun Life would like to see more Filipinos looking forward to a brighter future and the whole country rising to greater heights. We would like to start by targeting five million clients in five years."

While it may seem like an ambitious goal, Mantaring believes that it’s best to set the targets high. 

“At Sun Life, we always dare to dream big – more so if the stakes are high. This is the country’s future we’re talking about, after all”, she explained. “Setting high targets will push us to do more, and will allow us to make a greater contribution to our country’s future.”

In order to reach the company’s goals, several initiatives will be launched under “Rise PH”. These initiatives will have Sun Life reaching out a broader market, further boosting its financial literacy advocacy, and expanding its reach nationwide.

Financial Independent Month

The initial set of initiatives has been launched this June, which Sun Life has declared as Financial Independence Month. This includes the cooperation with 8990 Holdings Inc., one of the top mass housing developers in the country, for efforts to promote financial literacy.

Another initiative is Money for Life, a comprehensive customizable financial planning program that will ensure a client to have sufficient funds in every stages of his life.

To help insure the public to create their own Money for Life plan with financial advisor, Sun Life created a 360-degree visual reality (VR) video, transporting them to different scenario based on their chosen life stage. This will enable the viewer to live the dream for a minute and be encouraged to start planning for their future through Money for Life and Sun Life’s life insurance and investment products.

Viewable with a VR headset, the video can be experienced in a customizable bus “Bus to the Future” which will be making its way to different malls and school campuses nationwide from June 11 to July 2.

Meanwhile, those who will not be able to visit the “Bus to the Future” stops will still get a boost in their financial journey with the Money for Life e-planner. They simply have to go to at moneyforlife.com.ph and they can start their financial planning, get product recommendations, and even buy mutual funds from Sun Life Asset management Co., Inc.

Financial Independence Month is now on its third year highlighting the national importance of financial preparedness among Filipinos. 

“This June marks a new beginning as Sun Life embraces its goal of serving five million clients in five years,” Mantaring said. “We are very much excited about the possibilities, and we look forward to helping our country rise to reach its potential.”

For more information, you may check Sun Life Financial Philippines at http://www.sunlife.com.ph/. Like their Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/sunlifeph/

Nutella Blizzard: Dairy Queen's Fans' Choice Blizzard of the Month

Who doesn't love Nutella? The gooey, rich and luscious taste, spread it on your bread or eat it alone. Yum!

And, from a choice of six top choco favorites, over 10,000 fans of Dairy Queen the world’s most favorite ice cream chain, voted for Nutella! 

Nutella Brownie

So in response to the clamor for this favorite chocolate spread to be its next featured ice cream flavor, Dairy Queen unveiled its newest Blizzard of the Month – the Nutella Blizzard.

Nutella Cheesecake

Dairy Queen’s Fan’s Choice Blizzard of the Month is available in two incredible flavors: Nutella Brownie, a combination of Nutella and chewy baked brownies melded with Dairy Queen’s soft serve; and Nutella Cheesecake, perfect for those who love the sweetness of Nutella and the tanginess of cheesecake. You can enjoy it in a mini size Blizzard cup at P59 and biggest size at P119.

Aside from the introduction of Fan’s Choice Blizzard of the Month, Dairy Queen is celebrating its 10th anniversary in the Philippines with a series of activities that include is doing monthly charity activities with the Binibining Pilipinas winners and its #10on10th campaign, where customers can buy the One Ball Ice Cream Cone for only P10 on every 10th of the month. Dairy Queen has also released special Blizzard cups to celebrate this milestone.

For more information, visit www.dairyqueen.com.ph or like Dairy Queen Philippines Official Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/dairyqueenphilippines/?fref=ts

ABOUT DAIRY QUEEN

Dairy Queen® is one of the largest ice cream chain in the world. It offers a lot of variety presentations of delicious soft serve, like classic and dipped cones, shakes, sundaes, Royal Treats, Moolatte, Blizzard®, and DQ® Cakes. The Dairy Queen system has more than 5,700 locations operating throughout 24 countries including the Philippines.

In the Philippines, Dairy Queen is owned and operated by the Philippine Pizza, Inc., the same franchise owners of

Taco Bell and Pizza Hut. It currently operates 80 stores that are strategically located all over the country.

Dairy Queen is proud to be different, unique, and fun, because it has an optimistic ambiance that encourage you to live life to the fullest. Whether it be any celebration, a family day, a self-indulgent moment, or a mere break to satisfy one’s dessert craving, the Dairy Queen experience makes you always come back for more.