Is your nose always stuffy? Do you find yourself sneezing every morning like clockwork? If so, it might be more than just a passing irritation. You could be dealing with allergic rhinitis. A common but often misunderstood condition that affects millions of Filipinos. In a recent episode of Real Talk with Dok, Bell-Kenz Pharma’s health education series, Dr. Oliver Domingo, an Ears, Nose, and Throat (ENT) Specialist, introduced a simple and practical way to manage allergic rhinitis. Known as the 4A Strategy, this approach offers everyday steps to help prevent and relieve the symptoms that come with this chronic allergy. Here’s how it works: 1.    Avoid Allergens The first step is to steer clear of known triggers. Common allergens include dust mites, molds, pet dander, and pollen (Domingo, 2025). These are often found indoors, making it important to keep living spaces clean. Regularly washing bed linens, vacuuming, and using hypoallergenic materials can help reduce exposure and prevent flare-ups. 2.    Air (Clean) For people living in densely populated or polluted areas, air purifiers with filters can help remove particles that might trigger allergic reactions (Domingo, 2025). Cleaner air can make breathing easier and reduce nighttime discomfort. 3.    Antihistamine Over-the-counter antihistamines can provide fast relief from sneezing, nasal congestion, and itching (Domingo, 2025). However, not all antihistamines are suitable for everyone. Some may cause drowsiness or other side effects. It is best to consult a healthcare provider to find the most appropriate option for your lifestyle. 4.    Approach a Doctor If symptoms persist or worsen despite preventive measures, it is important to seek professional help. Allergic rhinitis, when left untreated, can affect sleep, concentration, and overall well-being (Domingo, 2025). A doctor can provide a tailored treatment plan, recommend stronger medications if needed, or identify specific allergens through testing.   Real Talk with Dok, produced by Bell-Kenz Pharma Inc., is an online video series that features medical professionals discussing timely health concerns and offering expert advice in a language that is both accessible and actionable for everyday Filipinos.     Reference   Domingo, Oliver. (2025, April). Real Talk with Dok: Allergic Rhinitis [Video]. Facebook. https://www.facebook.com/share/v/19pTgY7Whm/

Kamakailan, idineklara ng Quezon City ang dengue outbreak matapos makapagtala ng 1,769 kaso at 10 pagkamatay mula Enero 1 hanggang Pebrero 14, 2025, na halos 200% na pagtaas kumpara sa nakaraang taon (ABS-CBN News, 2025). Sa buong bansa, umabot sa 28,234 ang mga kaso ng dengue hanggang Pebrero 1, 2025, na 40% na pagtaas mula sa parehong panahon noong nakaraang taon (Cebu Daily News, 2025). Kung ikukumpara sa mga nakaraang taon, mas mabilis ang pagdami ng kaso ngayon. Kaya naman, mas pinaigting ng gobyerno ang kampanya laban sa dengue. Upang mapigilan ang pagkalat ng dengue, ipinapayo ng Department of Health (DOH) ang 5S Strategy, isang epektibong pamamaraan upang labanan ang dengue (2023): Search and Destroy: Ang mga lamok ay madalas mangitlog sa mga lumang gulong, paso ng halaman, baradong kanal, at hindi natatakpang lalagyan ng tubig — kaya siguraduhing malinis at walang naipon na tubig sa mga ito! Self-Protection Measures: Gumamit ng insect repellent, magsuot ng mahahabang damit, at gumamit ng kulambo kapag natutulog. Tandaan din na hindi lang dapat pangsarili ang proteksyon. Mas mainam kung buong pamilya at komunidad ang susunod sa mga hakbang na ito para mas epektibong maiwasan ang dengue! Seek Early Consultation: Kapag may lagnat nang higit sa dalawang araw, huwag ipagsawalang-bahala. Lalo na kung may pagsusuka, matinding pananakit ng tiyan, pagdurugo ng gilagid, o panghihina, baka malala na ito at kailangan nang agarang gamutin! Support Fogging During Outbreaks: Makipagtulungan sa mga lokal na pamahalaan para sa mosquito control programs tulad ng fogging at misting lalo na tuwing may outbreak. Tandaan, ang fogging ay pansamantalang lunas lang! Dapat sabayan ito ng regular na paglilinis at pagsusuot ng proteksyon upang siguradong mabawasan ang lamok. Sustain Hydration: Uminom ng hindi bababa sa 2 litro ng tubig araw-araw. Kapag nakakaramdam ng panghihina, tuluy-tuloy na pagsusuka, o matinding pagkatuyo ng katawan, maaaring kailanganin nang magpa-IV sa ospital. Ang dengue ay isang seryosong problema sa kalusugan na nangangailangan ng agarang aksyon. Tayong lahat ay may papel sa pagpigil sa dengue. Sa pamamagitan ng pagsunod sa 5S Strategy, maaaring mapababa ang bilang ng kaso at maprotektahan ang ating pamilya sa tahanan, sa paaralan, at mga opisina!   Sanggunian   ABS-CBN News. (2025). Quezon City dengue outbreak: 10 deaths, over 1,700 cases in 2 months. Retrieved from https://www.abs-cbn.com/news/health-science/2025/2/15/quezon-city-dengue-outbreak-10-deaths-over-1-700-cases-in-2-months-1703 Cebu Daily News. (2025). DOH reports 40% rise in dengue cases as of Feb. 1. Retrieved from https://cebudailynews.inquirer.net/623169/doh-reports-40-rise-in-dengue-cases-as-of-feb-1 Department of Health. (2023). Dengue Prevention and Control Program. Retrieved from www.doh.gov.ph Quezon City Government. (2025). Quezon City declares outbreak amid rise of dengue cases. Retrieved from https://quezoncity.gov.ph/quezon-city-declares-outbreak-amid-rise-of-dengue-cases/

Isipin mong may kakilala kang malusog at aktibo, pero biglang natakot nang malaman niyang siya ay may HIV. Totoo bang wala na siyang magagawa? O baka naman may maling paniniwala tayong dapat itama? Sa Pilipinas, patuloy na tumataas ang bilang ng mga kaso ng HIV, partikular sa hanay ng kabataan. Noong 2024, iniulat ng Department of Health (DOH) na 47% ng mga bagong kaso ng HIV ay mula sa mga kabataang may edad 15 hanggang 24 (Department of Health, 2025). Ang pagtaas na ito ay maiuugnay sa kakulangan ng tamang edukasyon ukol sa HIV, limitadong access sa preventive measures, at ang patuloy na stigma na pumipigil sa mga kabataan na magpasuri at humingi ng tulong medikal (UNAIDS, 2019). Upang maiwasan ang paglaganap ng HIV, mahalagang itaguyod ang tamang impormasyon at edukasyon sa mga para sa lahat ng mga Pilipino. Kung kaya, narito ang limang karaniwang maling paniniwala tungkol sa HIV at ang katotohanan sa likod ng mga ito: Myth 1: “Ang HIV at AIDS ay pareho lamang.” Magkaiba ang HIV at AIDS. Ang HIV (human immunodeficiency virus) ay isang virus na sumisira sa immune system, habang ang AIDS (acquired immunodeficiency syndrome) ay ang malalang yugto ng impeksyon kung hindi ito maagapan. Sa pamamagitan ng maagang paggamot, maaaring hindi umabot sa AIDS ang isang taong may HIV (WHO, 2023). Ang HIV ay maaaring matukoy sa pamamagitan ng blood test, tulad ng HIV antibody test at antigen/antibody test. Pinakamainam na magpasuri kung may mataas na panganib o kung may huling hindi protektadong pakikipagtalik sa loob ng 3 buwan. Myth 2: “Mahahawa ka sa simpleng pakikisalamuha sa taong may HIV.” Hindi naipapasa ang HIV sa yakap, pakikipagkamay, paghalik, pagbahing, o paggamit ng ginamit na kubyertos ng taong may HIV. Ayon sa WHO (2023), hindi rin ito naililipat sa luha, pawis, laway, o ihi, maliban kung may kasamang dugo at pumasok sa sugat o mucous membranes. Ang HIV ay naipapasa lamang sa unprotected sex, paggamit ng kontaminadong karayom, at mula sa ina sa anak sa pagbubuntis o pagpapasuso (Kaplan, 2024). Myth 3: “Ang HIV ay sakit lang ng LGBTQIA+ community.” Batay sa datos, maraming heterosexual individuals ang naaapektuhan ng HIV sa buong mundo (UNAIDS, 2023). Habang sa Pilipinas naman, batay sa DOH, mahigit 30% ng mga bagong kaso ng HIV ay mula sa heterosexual individuals (2024). Kung kaya, kahit sino ay maaaring magkaroon ng HIV, anuman ang kasarian, edad, relihiyon, o pamumuhay. Mahalagang alisin ang maling paniniwala na ito upang matiyak na lahat ay may access sa tamang impormasyon at proteksyon laban sa sakit. Myth 4: “Ang HIV ay sentensiya ng Kamatayan.” Hindi na ito hatol ng kamatayan. Salamat sa antiretroviral therapy (ART), maaaring mamuhay nang normal at malusog ang mga may HIV. Ayon sa NIH, ang mga taong may HIV na regular na umiinom ng ART ay may normal o halos normal na haba ng buhay.  Pinipigilan ng ART ang pagdami ng virus sa katawan, kaya maaaring hindi na rin ito maipasa sa iba (2023). Myth 5: “Walang paraan para maiwasan ang HIV.” Mayroong epektibong paraan upang maprotektahan ang sarili laban sa HIV, kabilang ang paggamit ng condom, pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) para sa mga nasa mataas na panganib, at regular na HIV testing (WHO, 2023). Ang pagsasagawa ng ligtas na pakikipagtalik at pagiging responsable sa sariling kalusugan ay mahalagang hakbang sa pag-iwas sa sakit. At ayon naman sa UNAIDS (2019), ang mas maagang edukasyon tungkol sa HIV sa paaralan ay napatunayang nagpapababa ng risk ng HIV infection lalo na sa mga kabataan. Ang maling paniniwala tungkol sa HIV ay nagdudulot ng takot at diskriminasyon. Huwag hayaang ang maling impormasyon ang humadlang sa tamang desisyon. Magpa-HIV test, magbahagi ng tamang kaalaman, at maging bahagi ng solusyon!   References   Department of Health. (2025, Enero 29). 47% of new HIV infections reported among youth — DOH. Manila Bulletin. https://mb.com.ph/2025/1/29/47-of-new-hiv-infections   Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS. (2023). Global HIV & AIDS statistics — Fact sheet. https://www.unaids.org/en/resources/fact-sheet   Kaplan, J. (2024). HIV myths and facts. WebMD. https://www.webmd.com/hiv-aids/ss/slideshow-hiv-myths-facts   National Institutes of Health. (2023). HIV treatment: The basics. https://hivinfo.nih.gov/understanding-hiv/fact-sheets/hiv-treatment-basics   UNAIDS. (2019, Oktubre 21). PH is country with fastest growing HIV cases – UNAIDS. Manila Bulletin. https://mb.com.ph/2019/10/21/ph-is-country-with-fastest-growing-hiv-cases-unaids/   World Health Organization. (2023). HIV/AIDS. https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/hiv-aids

Alam mo ba kung normal ang iyong blood pressure, blood sugar, o cholesterol? Ilang hakbang ang natatapos mo araw-araw? Sa panahon ngayon, mahalagang malaman at masubaybayan ang ating mga health numbers upang mapanatili ang malusog na pangangatawan at maiwasan ang mga sakit. Kung kaya, narito ang limang (5) mahahalagang health numbers para sa mas mahabang buhay at mas malakas na pangangatawan.   1.    Blood Pressure Ang blood pressure ay sumusukat sa lakas ng presyon ng dugo sa ating mga ugat. Kapag mataas ito, tumataas ang panganib ng stroke at atake sa puso (Whelton et al., 2018). Narito ang mga dapat tandaan: • Normal: Mas mababa sa 120/80 mmHg • Medyo Mataas: 120-129 (systolic) at mas mababa sa 80 (diastolic) • Hypertension Stage 1: 130-139 (systolic) o 80-89 (diastolic) • Hypertension Stage 2: 140 pataas (systolic) o 90 pataas (diastolic) Paano ba natin mapapanatili ang normal na BP? Sa pamamagitan ng pagkonsumo ng masustansyang pagkain, pagbawas sa maaalat na pagkain, at pag-e-ehersisyo nang regular.   2.    Blood Sugar Levels Ang blood sugar ay sukatan ng kakayahan ng katawan na iproseso ang glucose. Ang sobrang taas nito ay maaaring mauwi sa diabetes. Narito ang mga normal na levels (American Diabetes Association, 2022): • Normal: Mas mababa sa 100 mg/dL (pagkatapos ng 8 oras na pag-aayuno) • Prediabetes: 101-125 mg/dL • Diabetes: 126 mg/dL pataas (dalawang beses na test) Ang HbA1C ay isang pagsusuri na sumusukat sa average blood sugar sa loob ng tatlong buwan, kaya mas mainam ito bilang pangmatagalang batayan sa blood sugar control. • Normal: Mas mababa sa 5.7% • Prediabetes: 5.7%-6.4% • Diabetes: 6.5% pataas Paano naman makakaiwas sa mataas na blood sugar? Iwasan ang matatamis na pagkain, pagpili ng gulay at protein-rich ingredients, at aktibong pamumuhay.   3. Cholesterol Levels Alam niyo ba na ang cholesterol ay kailangan ng ating katawan, pero kapag ito ay sobra-sobra, maaari itong magdulot ng baradong ugat at blood vessels, at sakit sa puso (National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, 2020). Narito ang mga dapat tandaan: • LDL ("Bad" Cholesterol): Mas mababa sa 130 mg/dL (para sa karamihan), ngunit kung may mataas na panganib sa sakit sa puso, mas mainam na pababain ito sa 100 mg/dL o mas mababa pa. • HDL ("Good" Cholesterol): Higit sa 45 mg/dL (lalaki), higit sa 50 mg/dL (babae) • Triglycerides: Mas mababa sa 150 mg/dL Paano natin mapapanatili ang healthy cholesterol levels? Kumain ng isda, mani, at fiber-rich foods tulad ng gulay at prutas, iwasan ang matatabang pagkain, at muli ang pag-e-ehersisyo.   4. Ehersisyo at Aktibong Pamumuhay Batay sa World Health Organization (WHO) (2020), ang sapat na ehersisyo ay nakakatulong upang mapanatili ang malakas na pangangatawan at pag-iisip. Narito ang ilang rekomendasyon sa oras at tagal ng pag-e-ehersisyo. • 150 minutes ng moderate-intensity exercise kada linggo (halimbawa: brisk walking) • Dalawang (2) beses sa isang linggo dapat may muscle-strengthening activities (halimbawa: pagbubuhat o push-ups) Ano ang benepisyo ng regular na ehersisyo? Nakakatulong ito sa pagpapababa ng panganib ng obesity, diabetes, high blood pressure, at sakit sa puso. Mahalagang tandaan na   5. Optimal Number of Daily Steps Hindi kailangang mag-gym para maging aktibo! Ang paglalakad araw-araw ay malaking tulong sa kalusugan. Narito ang maaaring i-achieve na step count araw-araw (Saint-Maurice et al., 2020): • 10,000 steps kada araw – magandang target para sa tamang timbang at pangkalahatang kalusugan • 7,000-8,000 steps – sapat na para mabawasan ang panganib ng maagang pagkakasakit At dahil tayo ay nasa digital age na, mayroon na rin tayong mga fitness trackers at mobile apps na mahahanap online na maaaring makatulong sa mas madaling pag-mo-monitor hindi lamang nga ating daily step count, kundi pati na rin sa iba pa nating mga health numbers. Maaaring gamitin ang mga fitness tracker tulad ng Fitbit, Apple Watch, o mobile apps gaya ng Google Fit at Samsung Health upang madaling ma-monitor ang ating health numbers. Huwag hayaang lumipas ang panahon nang hindi natin sinusubaybayan ang ating kalusugan. Simulan ngayon ang pagbabago—regular na sukatin ang iyong blood pressure, blood sugar, at cholesterol, maging aktibo, at huwag kalimutang kumonsulta sa doktor upang mapanatili ang malusog na pangangatawan!     References   American Diabetes Association. (2022). Standards of medical care in diabetes. Diabetes Care, 45 (Suppl 1), S1–S264. National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute. (2020). What is blood cholesterol. Retrieved from [https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov]. Saint-Maurice, P. F., Troiano, R. P., Bassett, D. R., et al. (2020). Association of daily step count and step intensity with mortality among US adults. JAMA, 323(12), 1151-1160. Whelton, P. K., Carey, R. M., Aronow, W. S., et al. (2018). 2017 ACC/AHA guideline for the prevention, detection, evaluation, and management of high blood pressure in adults. Journal of the American College of Cardiology, 71(19), e127–e248. World Health Organization. (2020). Physical activity guidelines. Retrieved from [https://www.who.int].

Did you know that the secret to better health might already be growing in your backyard? Packed with essential nutrients, these local superfoods can help combat inflammation, support digestion, manage diabetes, and improve heart health. Here are the top 10 Filipino superfoods that deserve a spot on your plate and why they are worth the try.   1. Malunggay (Moringa): Often called the “miracle tree,” malunggay is a powerhouse of protein, iron, vitamins A, B6, C, magnesium, and antioxidants. Studies suggest that it can provide up to 19% of the recommended daily intake (RDI) of vitamin A and 20% of the RDI of iron per 100 grams (Brownstein et al., 2023). Known for its ability to regulate blood sugar and boost the immune system, malunggay is also believed to combat Type 2 Diabetes (Barlongo & Mercado, 2024). Enjoy it in soups, stews, or even as a tea. 2. Saluyot (Jute Leaves): This nutrient-rich green boasts calcium, iron, vitamins A, B, C, and E, along with antioxidants. Saluyot supports digestive health, reduces inflammation, and may alleviate headaches (Keerthana, 2022). A beloved ingredient in traditional Filipino cuisine, it’s often prepared as a comforting soup or sautéed with garlic for a flavorful side dish. 3. Bataw (Hyacinth Beans): Rich in protein, phosphorus, potassium, and essential minerals, bataw helps combat inflammation, anemia, and high cholesterol (Barlongo & Mercado, 2024). The young bataw pods can be boiled for salads or added to curries, while its seeds can be boiled or roasted. The young leaves, tops, and flowers are also edible, either boiled as a salad or included in traditional dishes like dinengdeng (pinakbet) (Barlongo & Mercado, 2024). 4. Patani (Lima Beans): Loaded with iron, potassium, magnesium, and folate, patani is a heart-healthy superfood that stabilizes blood sugar and lowers cholesterol (Barlongo & Mercado, 2024). One serving provides around 20% of your daily fiber needs. Add these creamy beans to stews or toss them into salads for a healthy and satisfying meal. 5. Sigarilyas (Winged Beans): Sigarilyas are packed with protein, fiber, calcium, iron, and vitamins A and C. These nutrients support strong bones, healthy digestion, and cholesterol management. A cup of sigarilyas provides nearly 30% of your daily calcium needs (Barlongo & Mercado, 2024). Known as the "poor man's food," sigarilyas is also appreciated for its edible leaves, flowers, roots, and pods, which can be eaten raw or cooked (Bassal et al., 2020). 6. Alugbati (Malabar Spinach): High in vitamins A and C, calcium, and iron, alugbati is excellent for reducing inflammation and relieving constipation (Barlongo & Mercado, 2024). This leafy green can replace regular spinach in recipes and is perfect for soups or sautés. Try adding it to a sinigang recipe for a flavorful twist. 7. Mangga (Mango): This golden fruit is not only a delicious treat but also a nutritional powerhouse. Rich in dietary fiber, vitamin A, and antioxidants, mangga supports digestion, boosts immunity, and promotes healthy skin (Keerthana, 2022). Enjoy it fresh, dried, or blended into smoothies and desserts for a sweet health boost. 8. Niyog (Coconut): Coconut is a Filipino staple offering fiber, manganese, copper, and iron. It boosts metabolism and aid in weight management (Barlongo & Mercado, 2024). Use niyog in desserts, curries, or as a refreshing drink. Coconut milk and oil also provide healthy fats that support heart health. 9. Mangosteen: Known as the “queen of fruits,” mangosteen is rich in vitamins C, B1, and B2, and minerals like manganese. It’s lauded for its anti-inflammatory properties and potential skin-healing benefits. Studies suggest that mangosteen’s xanthones may help reduce oxidative stress (Keerthana, 2022). Eat it fresh or as a juice for a zesty boost. 10. Saging (Banana): A household favorite, bananas are high in vitamin B6, potassium, and magnesium. These nutrients promote heart health, improve digestion, and boost energy levels (Bjarnadottir & Shoemaker, 2023). A medium banana can provide 9% of your daily potassium needs. Enjoy it as a snack, smoothie base, or fried for a classic merienda.   Incorporating these superfoods into your diet not only enhances your meals but also supports a healthier lifestyle. From the antioxidant-rich malunggay to the heart-healthy saging, these nutrient-packed ingredients can be easily included in traditional Filipino dishes or modern recipes. Try adding one or two of these superfoods to your meals this week and experience the benefits firsthand!     REFERENCES   Barlongo, A. J., & Mercado, M. F. (2024). Introducing Microgreens to Pinggang Pinoy: Prospects in Cultivation, Marketability, and Indigenous Crops Utilization. DMMMSU Research and Extension Journal, 8, 35–61. https://doi.org/10.62960/dmmmsu.v8i.40 Bassal H, Merah O, Ali AM, Hijazi A, and El Omar F. 2020. Psophocarpus tetragonolobus: An underused species with multiple potential uses. Plants 9(12): 1730. Bjarnadottir, A. and Shoemaker, S. (2023, July 7). 11 Evidence-Based Health Benefits of Bananas. Healthline. https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/11-proven-benefits-of-bananas Brownstein, K., Amin, R., Nguyen, H. (2023). Moringa leaf. Retrieved January 27, 2025, from https://natureclaim.com/nutrition/info/moringa-leaf/ Keerthana, A. (2022). Filipino superfoods to boost your health. Sprint Medical. https://sprintmedical.in/blog/filipino-superfoods-to-boost-your-health Manzano, M. (2023). Filipino superfoods: Adlai, malunggay, forbidden rice. Vogue Philippines. https://vogue.ph/beauty/wellness/filipino-superfoods-adlai-malunggay-forbidden-rice/

Kung usapang malusog na tiyan at maayos na pagtunaw, palaging bida ang fiber. Ang fiber ay maaaring makuha mula sa kangkong, saba, mani, at iba pa. Ang mga simpleng sangkap na ito ay mayroong napakaraming benepisyo para sa ating kalusugan. Alamin natin kung bakit mahalagang isama ang fiber sa ating pinggan, upang ang buhay ay gumaan. Ano ang ‘Fiber’ at bakit ito mahalaga? Ang ‘Fiber’ ay isang uri ng carbohydrate na hindi natutunaw ng katawan. Makikita ito sa prutas, gulay, butil, at legumes. Kahit hindi natutunaw, napakalaking tulong ng fiber sa maayos na pagtakbo ng digestive system. May dalawang uri ito ang soluble fiber (oats, soybeans, saging, mansanas, atbp.) na natutunaw sa tubig at nagiging parang gel, na nakakatulong sa pagpapabagal ng pagtunaw, at insoluble fiber (whole grains, mani, brown rice, atbp.) na hindi natutunaw at nagbibigay ng “bulk” sa dumi, kaya mas madaling nailalabas (Gunnars, 2023). Paano nakakatulong ang fiber sa ating gut health? Narito ang mga pangunahing benepisyo ng fiber (Panlasigui, 2023): • Nagre-regulate ng bowel movements Kung hirap kang dumumi, ang fiber ay nagbibigay ng bulk sa dumi at ginagawang mas madali ang paglabas nito. • Pinanatiling malinis ang gastrointestinal tract Ang insoluble fiber ay panlinis ng bituka, tinatanggal nito ang dumi at toxin sa loob ng katawan. • Nakatutulong sa proseso ng detoxification Ang fiber ay sumasama sa mga toxin at tinutulungan ang katawan na alisin ang mga ito. • Tumutulong sa malusog na digestive system Sinusuportahan nito ang pag-cultivate ng good bacteria sa ating bituka na mahalaga para sa kabuuang kalusugan. • Nagre-regulate ng nutrient absorption Sa mabagal na pagtunaw, mas steady ang pag-release ng mga nutrients tulad ng sugar at fat, na nakakatulong maiwasan ang biglaang pagdagdag ng timbang. • Nagma-maintain ng blood sugar levels Pinapabagal ng soluble fiber ang pag-absorb ng sugar sa dugo, kaya nakakatulong ito sa mga may diabetes o gustong iwasan ang biglang pagtaas ng blood sugar levels. Sa simpleng pagdagdag ng gulay sa sinigang o prutas sa meryenda, magagawa natin ang mga benepisyong ito. Paano magdagdag ng fiber sa diet? Hindi kailangang maging komplikado ang pagdagdag ng Fiber sa iyong pagkain. Subukan ang mga tips na ito (Batz, 2023): • Simulan sa umagahan: Kumain ng saba o kamote bilang meryenda. • Pumili ng whole grain: Maaari ring alternative sa white rice, o pasta ang pagkain ng whole grain options gaya ng tinapay. • Magdagdag ng beans: Magdagdag ng lentils, chickpeas, o black beans sa mga ulam. • Kumain ng makulay: Siguraduhing may prutas o gulay sa iyong kakainin. Tandaan, hindi lamang pampadumi ang fiber, kundi ito rin ay mahalaga sa pangkalahatang kalusugan. Mula sa pag-regulate ng bowel movements hanggang sa tamang blood sugar levels, at pagtulong sa weight management, hindi matatawaran ang kahalagahan nito. Kaya sa susunod na maghahanda ka ng hapunan, huwag kalimutang isama ang bida: Fiber!     REFERENCES   Batz, D. (2023). Why fiber matters for your health. Franciscan Health. Retrieved from https://www.franciscanhealth.org/community/blog/why-fiber-matters-for-your-health Gunnars, K. (2023). Why is fiber good for you? Healthline. Retrieved from https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/why-is-fiber-good-for-you Panlasigui, L. (2023). Beyond ‘Bahay Kubo’: The wonders of dietary fiber. Nutrition Masterclass. Retrieved from https://www.nutritionmasterclass.com.ph/articles/beyond-bahay-kubo-wonders-dietary-fiber

The Barangay BK Program of Bell-Kenz Pharma Inc. has successfully implemented an information campaign and vaccination drive at Saguiaran, Lanao Del Sur last September 5, 2024. LANAO DEL SUR, Philippines – With the initiative of Bell-Kenz Pharma Inc. and the Barangay BK Program to conduct a wide-scale vaccination drive and information campaign in far-flung communities across the country, new hope has been brought to the people of Saguiaran, Lanao Del Sur. The program addressed vaccine hesitancy and the aftermath of a measles outbreak that affected the area last year. In 2023, a measles outbreak swept through the municipality of Saguiaran, leaving many families fearful of vaccines due to misinformation and a lack of awareness. In response, the Barangay BK Program launched the “Kaalaman at Libreng Bakuna, Para sa Mas Ligtas at Malusog na Komunidad” campaign to educate residents on the safety and benefits of immunization. The program was a collaborative effort involving the Municipality of Saguiaran, the Philippine Medical Association (PMA), the Lanao Del Sur Medical Society (LDSMS), and the 44th Infantry Battalion, 1ID, Philippine Army. Together, they provided free vaccinations and conducted educational sessions to debunk myths surrounding vaccines. Sittie Rahima Mimbantas, a volunteer nurse and advocate for public health, shared her experience during the campaign. “Karamihan sa amin, hindi naniniwala sa vaccine. Dati, hindi nakaka-receive ng bakuna ang mga bata,” she explained. Mimbantas emphasized the importance of leading by example, saying, “Nagpakita po ako na nagpabakuna ako para ma-convince natin ang mga kababayan natin na magpabakuna dahil ito ay safe. Ang mensahe ko sa mga magulang ay magpabakuna sila ngayon o sa kanilang [available] schedule para maiwasan ang sakit, lalo na sa mga kabataan, dahil sila ang may mahinang immune system.” The campaign’s focus on both information dissemination and direct healthcare intervention proved pivotal to improving public health and safety in the municipality. It addressed lingering fears while providing immediate access to immunization. Organizers reported a significant turnout, with many parents bringing their children to receive vaccines after understanding the risks of preventable diseases like measles. Bell-Kenz Pharma Inc. expressed its gratitude for the community’s participation and reaffirmed its commitment to health initiatives. Through these efforts, the Barangay BK Program marks a significant step forward in promoting public health in Lanao Del Sur, paving the way for a healthier and more resilient community.

In the Philippines, where 8 out of 10 cardiac arrests occur outside hospitals, most often in the homes, with family members nearby but with little to no knowledge of lifesaving skills, being prepared can mean the difference between life and death. Access to essential life saving knowledge, like cardio-pulmonary resuscitation (CPR), remains a critical gap in many parts of the country. To address this, Bell-Kenz Pharma Inc, through its health initiative, Barangay BK, has embarked on a series of CPR trainings. To kickstart the CPR training, Barangay BK rolled out the initial free Hands-Only CPR training for company employees, conducted by Dr. Francis Lavapie from the Philippine Heart Association (PHA). Bell-Kenz employees practice CPR. In the Philippines, where 8 out of 10 cardiac arrests occur outside hospitals, most often in the homes, with family members nearby but with little to no knowledge of lifesaving skills, being prepared can mean the difference between life and death. Access to essential life saving knowledge, like cardio-pulmonary resuscitation (CPR), remains a critical gap in many parts of the country. To address this, Bell-Kenz Pharma Inc, through its health initiative, Barangay BK, has embarked on a series of CPR trainings. To kickstart the CPR training, Barangay BK rolled out the initial free Hands-Only CPR training for company employees, conducted by Dr. Francis Lavapie from the Philippine Heart Association (PHA). Bell-Kenz employees practice CPR. Dr. Francis Lavapie from the PHA demonstrates CPR techniques, advancing Bell-Kenz's CPR Ready initiative. Dr. Francis Lavapie instructs on AED use during Bell-Kenz’s CPR-Readiness training sessions. “This advocacy for CPR readiness is close to our hearts because we believe that every Filipino deserves the chance to save a life. By bringing these lifesaving skills to the people, we’re not just improving healthcare access, we’re building a healthier, more resilient nation,” says Dr. Luis Go, Medical Director of Bell-Kenz Pharma Inc. The initiative has also been amplified further through the second episode of Bell-Kenz's health talk show, Real Talk with Dok titled “CPR at ang Pusong Pinoy” which is posted on Bell-Kenz Pharma’s Facebook page. Real Talk with Dok isn’t just another health show—it’s a timely response to real barriers in healthcare access that many Filipinos face. The program, hosted by medical experts from across the nation, aims to provide practical guidance on preventing common diseases and empowers communities with lifesaving and essential knowledge like CPR every month.