Friday, December 21, 2012

Perk-up Your Holidays with Yummy Gardenia Treats!

This is the time of the year when the ordinary becomes extraordinary, and the everyday gets transformed to something magical.

You see it in homes already dressed up in glittering and bright lights, or in the warm feeling that wafts in the air during family reunions, or perhaps on how we uplift our character and mindset to become better persons.

Indeed, the holiday season is a time to look with fresh eyes on all that surrounds us in our daily lives.

Take the dinner table as an example. While we love to pile it up with all things special for this season like delectable hams or exquisite cheeses, it will not be complete without our bread to brighten up our dining experience and make it even more extraordinary and exciting.

And if you’re one of the millions of households that chooses only the best in breads for your dining table on a day-to-day basis, then Gardenia will continue to remain part of your festive table.

While Gardenia has already proven to be healthylicious with or without palaman, the season calls for turning the bread you love to eat every day into remarkable holiday treats.

All you need are imagination, delight and bags of your favorite Gardenia bread to make the happy, festive change! 

Why not go delightfully retro with Gardenia Chocolate Fondue? Along with cubed apples, bananas and white marshmallows, pick up bags of Gardenia Double Delights Ube & Cheese Loaf and Choco & Mocha Loaf, along with Gardenia High Fiber Wheat Raisin Loaf. Cube the assorted breads and watch adults and kids have fun as they dunk them in a bowl of melted chocolate!



Ingredients:
2 slices         Gardenia Double Delights Ube &Cheese Loaf, cubed
2 slices        Gardenia Double Delights Choco & Mocha Loaf, cubed
2 slices        Gardenia High Fiber Wheat Raisin Loaf, cubed
1 cup         Melted chocolate
1 piece        red apple, cubed
1 piece        green apple, cubed
1 piece        banana, cubed
1 30g pack    white marshmallows

How to do it? Simply serve all the ingredients using a fondue set.

Or you can get into the amazing festive indulgence mode using any of Gardenia’s amazing loaves like Gardenia Black Forest, that decadent, succulently soft and moist chocolate bread heaping with rich chocolate filling and luscious cherries, or Gardenia’s Amazing Dates and Walnuts, the soft, juicy and freshly baked bread layered with a delectable mix of fruit and nut. If not, indulge on Gardenia's Butterscotch Loaf with its smooth-tasting caramel goodness with rich and flavorful butterscotch chips found in each slice.

Speaking of butterscotch treats, try the special Gardenia Butterscotch Loaf and tweak it a bit to become a rich teatime snack or a true morning indulgence.  In a loaf pan, simply layer the trimmed bread slices with sliced kiwi, almond and nut chocolate, cream and honey and then chill to make the awesomely delicious Gardenia Butterscotch Kiwi Cake.

 
Ingredients:
8 slices Gardenia Butterscotch Loaf, edges trimmed
3 pieces kiwi fruit, peeled and sliced
2 bars (30g) almond and nut chocolate, chopped
1 240ml pack all-purpose cream, chilled
3 tbsp. Honey
How to do it: Combine all-purpose cream and honey in a small bowl then mix until well blended. Spread the mixture at the bottom of a loaf pan then top it with 2 slices of Gardenia Butterscotch Loaf, cream mixture and the kiwi slices. Repeat the procedure until the pan is filled. Chill the cake at least an hour before serving.

Indeed, Gardenia remains the best of breads whether you eat it every day or transform it into scrumptious morsels fit for the season of turning the ordinary into the extraordinary and the everyday into something magical.

The Gardenia Flavored Loaves are available nationwide at leading supermarkets and convenience stores.

Friday, December 14, 2012

Tutuban officially welcomes the Christmas season


In the midst of the cold breeze of the holiday season, the annual lighting of the Christmas tree at the open parking lot of Tutuban Center, a popular shopping hub in the country, was held recently.

People flocked the venue and excitedly waited for the lighting ceremonies. Everyone were all smiles as they participated in the countdown before the 35-feet tall Christmas tree was finally lighted. The crowd who attended the event cheered as this event signifies the start of the happiest time of the year.

The traditional lighting of the Christmas tree is part of the celebration of Bonifacio Day to remember the sacrifices and bravery of one of the greatest Filipino heroes, Gat Andres Bonifacio.

Seen in the photo above (from left) Inigo Cruz, JM Lagumbay, Yayo Aguila, Tutuban Properties, Inc.’s Business Unit Head Ms. Gina Villamor, VP for Special Projects Mr. Stephen Yap, Tenant Relations Manager Mr. Chris Sioson and celebrity twins Kenny & Toffi Santos.

Monday, December 3, 2012

A gift of health for the family this Christmas


Are you thinking of a great Christmas gift for your family this coming Christmas?

How about something to protect them from illnesses? After all, we always say that health is wealth.

And for those those who place health and well-being for the whole family on top of their wish lists for the Yuletide season, there are good products in the market today that will surely answer your needs.

So it’s best to keep healthy and worry-free, and start by keeping the home clean and rid it of other threats, in particular the dreaded “dust mites,” those dangerous micro-organisms that can bring harm health-wise to anyone regardless of age or gender. And the best way to get rid of dust mites this Christmas in the home of a relative or a friend—or perhaps even your own home—is by giving them the Raycop UVC Anti-Allergy Cleaner.

Why dust mites? The most perilous part there is by having direct contact with their “droppings” or “feces.” Depending on the level of allergic reaction of an individual to certain allergens such as dust mites, it can cause various respiratory problems like asthma for children and also adults, colds, cough, or even allergic rhinitis and skin rashes to some.

Usual suspect places are our beds and mattresses, carpets, pillows, curtains, blankets and linens. Laying on these places, particularly on mattresses which would normally have around 100,000 to more than 10 million dust mites, would surely have unpleasant effects on your health. Shaking mattresses or bringing them out under direct sunlight will not get rid of them. In one of their studies, the Tokyo Allergy Research Center indicated that even direct exposure to the sun’s rays for up to 6 hours will not be enough to kill the dust mites.



With these in mind, there’s no other way but to kill those dust mites, and Raycop UVC Anti-Allergy Cleaner is so far the most effective way. It kills 99% of bacteria and almost 94% of dust mites, and also even the fearsome H1N1 Influenza A virus based on studies done by the Tokyo Allergy Research Center and the Japan Food Research Laboratories, through the use of its patented 3-step allergy care system: vibrating, sterilizing and double-filtering.

Aside from using “UVC” (ultra-violet “C” rays, which is less harmful to humans) rays, this new home companion has a Vibrating Pad that shakes particles and dust mites away from mattresses, pillows and other fabrics and linens at a speed of 3,600 times per minute, making sure that even the most stubborn dust mites are removed.



Its UVC Sterilization lamp, using lamp technology from Philips and Sankyo that contains a highly efficient and effective 253.7 nanometer wavelength, the same germicidal ultraviolet wavelength used in hospitals, clinics and laboratories, exterminates bacteria to leave target surfaces germ-free. And the Raycop cartridge filter captures the larger particles and traps them so they cannot go back to the room and helps extend the life of the Micro Allergy Filter, which is the one that traps the smaller particles to make sure they do not escape as well. 

It’s Christmas so naturally, you wouldn’t want to be sick while everyone’s celebrating. So enjoy your wonderful gifts this Christmas and remain healthy as well by keeping your home dust mite and allergen-free—all through the power of the Raycop UVC Anti-Allergy Cleaner.

The Raycop UVC Anti-Allergy Cleaner is available at Rustan’s Department Stores, S & R, Landmark, Wilcon Builder’s Libis and soon at Abensons. For more information about the Raycop product line and its outstanding features, visit www.raycop.com.

Wednesday, November 28, 2012

Night Market Christmas Shopping

 

Working moms like me faces a dilemma during this holiday season: we want to shop for gifts but sometimes, the shops are already closed when we get off from the office especially when we have to do do overtime work brought about by year-end reports and rush assignments.

Good thing I heard about a good news. When the mall closes but the shopping urge is still unsatisfied, I can go to the Tutuban Center Night Market. It is the Philippines’ answer to the world-renowned night markets of Hong Kong, Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur and Singapore. This unique bargain shopping destination allows you to experience open-air shopping at its best, with the widest array of goods and supplies at the most reasonable prices.

The Tutuban Center Night Market is a clean, organized and secured market area that brings together a collection of stalls that sells personal items, kitchen wares, garden accessories, handicrafts, sports gear and novelty knick-knacks—and just about anything you can think of.

It is the exciting place where, at the close of regular mall hours, street vendors take over the vehicular road network of the main cluster of the Tutuban complex to set up their stores and sell their goodies. From the early evening to midnight, the perimeter area of Tutuban Center metamorphoses into a dynamic market, with pockets of brightly-lit stalls with equally bright-eyed shoppers angling for the most awesome bargains.



Haggling and negotiating over prices is definitely the standard practice, and goods all come at cheaper and more affordable costs. And now that Christmas is around the corner, you can browse more than a thousand imaginative gift ideas. This is the market where “there’s something for everyone” rings true and real.

Gift suggestions are yours for the giving: for your office secret Santa to your special someone; for the sister who is into arts and the niece into crafts; for the brother who is a gadget geek and the nephew who’s a technophile; for the boss who is a cook and his wife’s who’s a foodie; for your Mom who’s a home buff and Dad who’s a garden aficionado.

While Christmas carols are on full blast, enjoy dining al fresco at the Food Street. Freshly cooked seafood and hot-off-the-grill offerings are yours for the partaking to drive away your hunger pangs. Hong Kong-style or homemade noodles will surely chase the cold Christmas chill away while street staples such as hotdogs, kikiam and fish balls are sure to satisfy your cravings.

It is now more exciting and more leisurely to stroll around the Tutuban Center Night Market, but the experience is still the same for shoppers who have loved the nightly bazaar for, such as the great bargains, amazing discounts, joyous atmosphere, and food and fun for the entire family and barkada.

With this kind of shopping experience, going to Tutuban Center Night Market is surely the way to go, where shopping is always the best—any time, any day.

Tuesday, November 20, 2012

Acid reflux now a thing of the past

It’s 2am and you are still awake. Your stomach is hurting. It feels painful and bloated and you just want to throw up. This discomfort is causing you to have another sleepless night. You are worrying about your work deadlines which is causing you more stress.  You take your usual pill, wait for it to take effect, and try to get back to sleep. This is the vicious cycle GERD sufferers have to endure.

You are just one of the millions who suffer from hyperacidity and all its after effects like ulcers and acid reflux. Anti-acids and PPIs promise quick relief. But what you don’t know is that it will happen again and again, over time. Stress and a poor diet are among the leading causes of acid reflux.

Prolonged use of anti-acids can have consequences. Anti-acids based on aluminum and magnesium can weaken your bones by depleting the body of calcium and phosphorus. Another anti-acid is sodium bicarbonate more popularly known as baking soda. This causes very serious imbalance of pH (acidity) in the body known as alkalosis. Balance is the key to good health.

Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs) totally eliminate acid production. Once its effects wear off, your receptors will trigger acid production double time causing more discomfort. And the whole cycle repeats itself.
Little did you know that the plant known for growing beautiful hair and skin can actually be the answer to this recurring problem. Never did you associate aloe vera as relief for your stomach problems.

Various research and studies have revealed that the pure juice from Aloe Vera can prevent gastro-esophageal reflux disease (GERD) – heartburn and acid reflux. “Aloe Vera juice contains a natural acid buffer—malic calcium and/or calcium malate—which helps regulate acid levels in stomach over time,” explains Dr. Santiago Rodriguez Ph.D., one of the top research chemists specializing in Aloe Vera for nearly 30 years. Dr. Rodriguez is part of a global team of experts established by American Global Health Group, LLC. (AGHG), which manufactures AloeCure, a 99.7% organic natural pharmaceutical grade pure aloe vera juice.

So, what is the difference between all these remedies? The difference between        anti-acids, PPIs and pure organic aloe vera extract is that “they” [antacids] only serve as neutralizers, counteracting acid in your stomach. AloeCure, on the other hand, serves as a regulating agent that buffers acid from producing excessively, and help you consistently maintain a healthy acid level in your system.”

To prove the efficacy of AloeCure, the only certified aloe vera extract in the Philippines, here are some success stories.

It was December 2011 when Jimmy Castillano, City Information Officer of Las PiƱas City, got hospitalized due to severe gastritis. He was prescribed several medications but Jimmy found AloeCure to be the final solution. “I asked my doctor if I can take it together with the prescribed medications and he agreed. In a month’s time, I became better and my doctor even told me to stop the medications and just continue taking AloeCure. It’s been nine months and I haven’t experienced any acid reflux attack.”

AloeCure also solved Rosalie Guelas’ long-time problem of being ‘acidic.’ “It was triggered when I took the board exam because of too much stress. I have tried a lot of antacids before, but the attacks still recurred until I tried AloeCure. After Aloe Cure I have not experienced any more acidity.”

But aloe vera does more than cure acid reflux. Other stomach discomforts such as Irritated Bowel Syndrome (IBS) are also relieved. “Clinical trials proved that drinking aloe juice has a great potential in effectively treating IBS.”

As a supplement, AloeCure enables a healthy digestive system, which is the key to better health. Proper absorption of nutrients and vitamins that the body needs is dependent on the condition of the digestive system, so having a good one enables it to work properly and quickly. Aloe supplementation increases the body’s ability to absorb vitamin C and E which are essential for recovery and healing.

Without acid reflux, you will be able to sleep better at night. And because sleep is more important than diet in weight control, Aloe Cure aids in weight management, a side effect that Rosalie delighted in. She attributes feeling better, stronger, and livelier to AloeCure and said that since she started taking it, her bowel movements normalized and she has even lost weight.

Dr. Rodriguez believes that Acid Reflux is now a thing of the past with AloeCure. “If there will be more people availing of its health benefits, a lot more will enjoy living a healthy life. Who knows, there will come a time that no one among us will experience hyperacidity or acid reflux ever again.”

At work, you could still be stressed, but your stomach is fine. Thanks to aloe vera—and AloeCure.
AloeCure is available at Rustan’s Flower Shop, Health Express and Gana Vida outlets. AloeCure is exclusively distributed in the Philippines by Organic Basket located at Lapanday Center, 2263 Chino Roces Ext., Makati City.  For more information on AloeCure visit www.aloepurephilippines.com, www.aloecurephilippines.com or call +632.888.2563.     

Monday, November 19, 2012

Choosing the best TV Station

Local online entertainment hubs Starmometer, Showbiznest and LionhearTV join forces to bring the latest ‘star awards’ which will give netizens power in recognizing the hard work and excellence of celebrities and their achievements over the last year.

Netizens Choice Awards will celebrate the trending hottest celebrities in television, dario, music, film and the web in the choicest.

Starting November 10, everyone who has access to the internet can vote once each day per category for their favorite “Netizens Choice Awards” nominees at www.starmometer.com, www.showbiznest.com and www.lionheartv.net. Through these votes will generate an alternative results’ page. The entry with the highest votes will be listed as first. You as readers can see how many votes each project has received. You are given a maximum of 3 votes, 1 each blogsites, for each categories per day.

There is also a Bloggers’ Choice for the Favorite Television Station which will work as a writing project. Anyone who has blog in at least 3 (three) months with at least 3 posts in any niche is eligible to join in this writing project. Please include the links of the three host blogs in your blog entry and help us spread the word and encourage everyone to participate.

Bloggers should state which among the TV stations is the best for them and blog about why he/ she chose hat station.

Post a comment in any of the three host sites so your entry can be monitored. Only one entry per blogger. Cut-off date and time for submission of entries is on December 8 (until 11:59pm). After the said date, submission of comments shall be closed.

And for my vote, I choose GMA 7 as the TV Station of the Year because a lot of my favorite programs are shown here. Unang Hirit for breakfast, Eat Bulaga for lunch and drama series for dinner. This is one station where every woman in the house can spend time watching while doing household chores and never get bored.

How about you, what's your vote? Join the search for the best of the best!

Monday, November 12, 2012

First ever Zen branch outside the metro


The chance to be physically transformed inside and out has come of age south of Manila. The Zen Institute has reached out to the province of Batangas located at St. Frances Cabrini Medical Center, Maharlika Hi- way, Brgy. 2, Sto. Tomas, Batangas. This is the first ever Zen branch outside the metro.   

The newly opened medical spa “ Skin and Body Center”, managed by the Zen Institute, reflects the kind of inspiration evoked by its guiding philosophy : “Elegance in its simplicity” where true beauty rises from the inner well-being.  True to the ambience that permeates all centers of the Zen Institute—the main one in Bonifacio Global City, Hotel Sofitel branch, and another one at Sct. Rallos, Quezon City—“Skin and Body Center managed by Zen Institute also combines a sense of creativity, taste and aesthetics, in the pursuit of perfect health that creates perfect beauty through non-invasive and non-surgical treatments.

Zen founding president, Dr. Mary Jane “MJ” Torres, shared, “The need to reach out to the rest of the Filipinos, all over the country and the world in the promotion of total health, wellness and beauty without the risk of surgery. This is the primary purpose of the birth of this new Skin and Body Center.”
Men and women of all ages from south of Metro Manila who want to attain a beautiful face and body now no longer need to go to Manila for various non-invasive expert services like skin pampering treatment, facial contour, and anti-aging treatment, body sculpting  with weight management, and hair revitalizing treatment, among others.

Dr. MJ revealed that the different treatments are all based on a medical protocol. “Skin and Body Center” by Zen creates a program protocol to assist its clients to live a healthy lifestyle through personal coaching.  The Center seeks to deliver effective and immediate solutions for stress-induced conditions like muscle pain, weight management, sun-damaged skin, aged-spots, anti-aging —all these through non-surgical means and some breakthrough solutions tested in more advanced countries and here.”

The Skin and Body Center by Zen Institute is one solid statement that soon it will be able to realize and complete its dream of crafting perfection as it reaches out to every Filipino wherever they are… and whoever they are.”

“As the essence of the ‘Zen’ concept: Perfection comes from harmony and flow, a natural consequence of a healthy lifestyle,” Dr. MJ ended.

Saturday, October 27, 2012

I Can Be Body Beautiful at Any Age with Wacoal



I am beautiful.

Well, that's what my husband tells me everyday every time I ask him how do I look in the morning before I rush to the office. My sister would also say the same thing while trying on a new piece inside a fitting room of a mall. My 3-year old son would whisper to me these words especially when he wants something from the fridge.

Their words are sweet music to my ears but sometimes I feel that they might just saying it to please me especially when I see other ladies the same age as me with curvier sexier and bodies.

I am already in my early 30s and I want to stay as sexy as possible not only for the reason that my husband will continue with his "you're beautiful" before-i-go-to-work greetings but also for me to stay confident that I am beautiful in my way.

It is also good to know that there are products in the market today that can us feel beautiful and sexy with the many choices they offer. One of them is Wacoal, Japan’s leading manufacturer of women’s intimate apparel.

Through the years, the brand has always been keen on understanding the needs of women. And I am very happy to say that I can be body beautiful at any age with Wacoal. I found these undergarments from their collection to be perfect to women in their thirties like me. A Cami bra with non-wire thin pads (SB 5404) combined with a high-waist skirt-type girdle (TV 5534) is a perfect fit not only on my body but also to my pocket. You  can get this pair of quality product for just a little over P2,000.  That's priceless comfort and self-confidence for such a reasonable price.


I love the style of this combination--- sexy yet not too revealing. The pair looks very comfortable to wear and can sleep soundly in it.  Hmm... I think I'll share this post via Facebbok and tag my husband just in case he needs some inspiration on what to give me on Christmas.


                                                      www.wacoal.ph


 As an added good news to all the beautiful Nuffnagers, Wacoal and Nuffnang Philippines will hava an exclusive screening of The Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn Part 2 on November 15, Thursday, at the Newport Cinemas of Resorts World Manila!





Thursday, October 25, 2012

An exciting new way for kids to enjoy snack time


Are you looking for a new snack to offer to your kids?

Knick Knacks, the brand well-known for their chocolate coated biscuits, now comes with an exciting new way for kids to enjoy snack time. Knick Knacks X-Blast is the newest chocolate milk drink that is set to tickle every kid’s taste buds. And this is one snack upgrade that any mommy should not miss.

In surveys conducted this yearby the manufacturer and distributor of Knick Knacks, Delfi Foods, Inc., found that Knick Knacks X-Blast is well received by both mommies and kids, for several reasons.

Taste is definitely one of the factors that really captured the respondents’ attention. “Unlike other brands, X-Blast has just the right amount of sweetness in it,” one of the mommies said, “which means, I won’t have to worry about my kids taking in too much sugar.” For the kids, it was the reeal taste of chocolate that made them excited about the product. “I enjoy how the chocolate taste stays in my mouth,” a kid said.

Not only that the kids will have a real treat with Knick Knacks X-Blast, they will be also getting nutrients with every sip since it is packed with vitamins and minerals that will keep every kid going. Knick Knacks X-Blast also has milk that can keep every kid’s bones strong and healthy. Mommies would definitely love to know that their kids still get a healthy treat every snack time.

Knick Knacks X-Blast’s design also caught the respondents’ attention. “It looks unique and very colorful. My kids will definitely be tempted to ask me to buy it for them,” as one mommy puts it. Aside from its design, kids can also enjoy solving the puzzle at the back, as one of the kids say, “I will cut this out and do the puzzle.”
“I wouldn’t worry about making my kids drink their milk, because they can have the same nutrients with X-Blast,” one mommy said as she explains how much she likes the product, “and it’s a lot easier for me to encourage them to drink it because it’s chocolate.”

“I like to have one every day in my lunchbox,” one of the kids said who really enjoyed X-Blast, “ soI’ll ask mommy to buy me in the grocery.”

Moms and kids can definitely enjoy snack time at school or at home, every time, with Knick Knacks X-Blast, which also comes great with Knick Knacks Biscuits, those popular fish-shaped biscuits coated in yummylicious goodness such as chocolate, choco on choco, milk and strawberry.

“Judging from the reaction of the Moms and their kids, we are confident that the Knick Knacks X-Blast Chocolate milk drink will soon become part of every kid’s snacking experience. Who knows? With the kind of experience that Moms had with our product, it would not be a surprise if adults end up loving the X-Blast, and probably make it a part of family bonding through fun snacking,” comments NiloChincuanco, General Manager of Delfi Foods, Inc.

So load up on chocolate with the Knick Knacks X-Blast Chocolate Milk Drink and upgrade your snack time any time—even best when coupled with your favorite Knick Knacks biscuit—for an even greater and more fun snack experience.

Knick Knacks X-Blast Chocolate Milk Drink is available in major supermarkets and groceries nationwide and comes in 250 ml and 110 ml sizes.

Wednesday, October 24, 2012

A health and energy booster for people on the go



If your fast-paced lifestyle, sports-filled days, frequent partying and/or tedious work demands get you wondering where you’d get the next outburst of sustained energy, not to mention, aid to health, you now have the answer. (Or in certain cases, if your health condition prevents you from pursuing an active life, like some people interviewed with liver or some specific ailments, you may now have the answer.) A food supplement trusted by athletes worldwide, which occupies, in fact, a long history in the tradition of the Olympics, is now in the country through the trusted brand Gano Excel, distributed locally through Gano iTouch Phils. But Cordyceps is not only for the sporty and athletic people, it’s also for those of you who off and on feel that your energy is zapped but simply need to get going. 

According to the Gano Excel Founder, Sir Leow Soon SengNutritious and safe to take, Cordyceps is an all-natural, organic capsule made out of an edible mushroom species named Cordyceps, which is used as herbal medicine. It is thus taken not only for energy and stamina, but also for good health.”

“Traditionally called Cordyceps Sinensis, which widely known and used in traditional Chinese medicine,it has been given names in both China and Japan: the Chinese call it ‘DongChongXiaCao’or DCXC, while the Japanese refer to it as ‘Tockukaso’, which means ‘winter-insect and summer-plant’.“

“It is as old as the Qing Dynasty of the 1700s and has been written about by noted Chinese scribes, as something made up of proteins, fibre, crude fats, carbohydrates, cordycepin, cordycepic acid, polysaccharide, and different vitamins, among others; it also increases oxygen utilization and enhances the production of ATP—Adenosine triphosphate, which transports chemical energy within the cell for metabolism,” he adds.

Other Gano Excel research findings about Cordyceps Sinensis: other bioactive components are nucleotides, needed to produce RNA and DNA; ergosterol, which is an important precursor of vitamin D2;amino acids which are protein building blocks; fatty acids, both saturated and unsaturated, which help in lowering blood lipids and protect from cardiovascular diseases; and metal elements, such as Zn, Mg, Mn, which are good for the gonads and kidney. This is verified by the Journal of Pharmacy and Pharmacology, which in 2008 stated that Cordyceps Sinensis has a protective effect on organs. From the said journal, one can gather that it deters liver fibrosis, hastens macrophage phagocytosis, and enhances the immune function of organisms with its strong capacity to clear the virus.” 

What’s more, Cordyceps was found to boost the weak immune system and suppress overactive immune reaction. This is according The Journal of Leukocyte Biology Volume 85, June 2009. Several studies are available to conclude that Cordycyeps may help enhance physical stamina and fight fatigue, and may promote healthy respiratory and lung function. It helps reduce bad cholesterol and blood sugar and increase good cholesterol. It may alleviate back and knee pains, and may have anti-aging value. It may also help alleviate sexual dysfunction in males.

Sir Leow adds, “There are studies that indicate that Cordyceps has anticancer, anti-metastatic, immuno-enhancing, and antioxidant effects. This is according to Gene Bruno of the 2009 clinical trials MHS of Huntington College of Health Sciences, which support the efficacy of Cordyceps especially on the liver, kidney and the immune system.”

Bruno also made a statement on how Cordyceps aids in endurance. He cites the testimonial of eight female champion Chinese athletes, who vied in 1993 for a track distance event in the Stuttgard World Championships who broke several world records in 1993 in the Chinese National Games in Beijing and won a series of medals at the German World Athletic Championships. The athletes said in unison that they included Cordyceps in their diet along with intense training and dedication. There are now even Filipinos who have tried Cordyceps and will soon be giving testimonials on its efficacy.

Find out more about the Cordyceps food supplement by calling these numbers: (02) 7063152 and 7063137.  Read up on Gano iTouch corporate and product information by visiting their websites www.ganoitouch.com and for the international parent company Gano Excel International, http://www.ganoexcel.com.

Monday, October 22, 2012

Slow-juicing for vitality

Dr. Edwin A. Bien, medical director of the Le Bien Wellness Specialists chain of clinics that advocate natural medicine

The fast-food craze and the mushrooming of instant food products in the market, while addressing hunger pangs on a budget, may have far-reaching health consequences. Sodas, processed foods from convenience stores, and all those made available in the market place that are laden with food colors and are high in sugar or sodium (salt) content are not good for the body, especially if ingested in ample quantities and frequently. Too much chemicals introduced to our body systems can upset its equilibrium. To keep its balance, we need the help of enzymes to rectify ‘internal combustions’ by taking them regularly as part of our daily diet.

Into this picture comes a time-tested product for creating juices filled with enzymes either from fruits or vegetables - the Hurom juicer. “This machine is unique as it addresses concerns from cradle to tomb. It can make juices for babies and parents and to people of all ages. While a lot of juicers are available in the market, consumers must choose the right machine. The slow grinding to extract nutrients from fruits and veggies guarantees that essential enzymes are not lost. Slow is good,” apprised Tommy Kim, manager of overseas sales for Asia.

Juice therapy has given carcinoma patients a longer period of survival as against chemotherapy treatment alone. In the US and Singapore, complementary and integrative medicine advocates wellness through proper diet, nutrition, regular exercise and the intake of natural products. “Alternative medicine is rarely prescribed in the Philippines. Enzymes are the precursors to recovery. 

Once ingested, they start the repair and healing processes of our systems. We are so used to the Western approach of medicine. Oriental cultures have longer and better quality of life and juicing is a big part of their diets,” enlightened Dr. Edwin A. Bien, medical director of the Le Bien Wellness Specialists chain of clinics that advocate natural medicine.

“After graduating from UST in 1987, I wanted to become a cosmetic surgeon. However, all that changed when then DoH Secretary Juan Flavier told me that people need less synthetics but a more natural approach to medicine. In 1989, through my radio program “Kabalikat sa Kaunlaran,” my program started reaching 300,000 to half a million listeners with ailments. One per cent of those listeners came to visit my first clinic in Sucat. That’s how my advocacy began,” he added.

Dr. Bien hosted the defunct TV show “What’s Up Doc” on the UNTV channel on Sunday mornings for six years. He is still continuing the health initiative, albeit through the medium of radio, withhis weekly program “Itanong Mo Kay Doc” aired 10-11 am every Sunday over DWIZ ((882 KHZ), and through his column “Radio Clinic” every Thursday with the Business Mirror.

“During chemotherapy treatments, enzymes protect the normal cells from being killed. They’re insulated during the radiation process. Enzymes are the catalysts to many metabolic processes inside our bodies; from digestion, to absorption and unto extraction/excretion. I believe in preventive measures. People should eat functional food and stay away from fast foods. Chronic illnesses, degenerative ailments and lifestyle diseases happen because of wrong food choices,” explained the staunch follower of Austria’s celebrated wellness guru Dr. Max Jerson.

Dr. Bien is an accredited member of the American Academy of Family Medicine as well as the Royal Institute of Alternative Medicine Singapore. The Le Bien wellness clinics are located in Cubao (QC), Sucat (Paranaque), Zabarte (Caloocan), Sta. Cruz (Manila) and Calapan (Oriental Mindoro) with affiliate branches in the cities of Baguio, Naga and Davao.

“Juice therapy is done with regularity so it’s best that you have the device for it. Slow juicing doesn’t destroy the enzyme’s structure. Slow juices are better than fast food. Like a snack, you take them between meals or once every four hours. The ‘spark of life,’ or enzyme production, triggers the beginning of digestion as it enters the body through our mouths. Ptyalin is released from our salivary glands to help in the breakdown of carbohydrates. And the rest of the enzymes in the digestive system follow.

“After two months of uninterrupted therapy, patients will experience increased energy, reduced pain and other symptoms like weakness, sleeplessness, and will achieve their ideal body weight. Enzymes will aid in unblocking clogged arteries caused by incorrect food patterns. It’s also important that people know the order of eating food because if the order is reversed, the digested food will be fermented between layers of undigested particles. Fruits digest after 30 minutes, Rice and other forms of carbohydrates after two hours while meat is completely broken down after four hours. There must be the right mixture of ‘rainbow colors’ on your plate. Go for fruits and vegetables that are in season and are readily available like pineapple, red beets, radishes, all green leaves, and any other sweet fruit you prefer. Simply put them all inside your Hurom blender and drink your way to optimum health,” intoned Dr. Bien.

Hurom is a 45-year-year old company based in Busan, South Korea. Since 1967, it has only manufactured juicers for wellness and never diversified into any other product. Its dedication to the well-being of people around the world has remained steadfast and unwavering.

Hurom Slow Juicer is available at all Rustan’s department stores, S & R outlets, Landmark, Wilcon Builders (Libis & Makati Branch), Shop TV. For more information about the product and its outstanding features, simply call Zinven International Corp. through 926-7782 or 926-7786, the exclusive distributor of Hurom Slow Juicer. For more information, simply log-on to their website www.hurom-slowjuicer.com.

Saturday, October 20, 2012

Happy World Bread Day!



More than 30,000 years ago since it was first made, bread has become a global food staple enjoyed by millions of people regardless of nationality, religion, political belief, or socio-economic status.

For several generations, bread was, is, and will always be, a vital part of humans’ physical (nutritional) and emotional sustenance, and this fact encouraged bread lovers all over the world to celebrate this via the “World Bread Day,” a global and significant event every October 16 that espouses the philosophy of “sharing” and “breaking” of bread as a meaningful and symbolic humanitarian act.

And the Philippines is not left behind in the celebration of World Bread Day, thanks to Gardenia Bakeries Philippines, Inc. (GBPI), the company that makes the popular Gardenia bread known for its good taste, freshness, softness, oven-baked aroma and nutritive value. Today, Gardenia celebrates a fun-filled “Happy Bread Day” Fair and gathers Filipino families, friends and just about any bread lover, here at the Eastwood City Mall Open Park in Libis, Quezon City to commemorate this momentous event.

Now on its second year after its initial staging at the GBPI plant in Laguna where it showcased its steadfast commitment to provide nutrition to needy Filipinos and its vision of helping enrich people’s lives, the Gardenia “Happy Bread Day” Fair will be held outside the confines of its world-class facility. This full festive treat will be packed with fully enjoyable activities all throughout the day, designed for the entire family or companies of friends in this day of bonding and celebration.

The day starts with the “Gardenia Taste-Surround 3D (Delightful, Delicious, Delectable) Experience,” which will run for the entire duration of the “Happy Bread Day” Fair. Bread lovers will definitely love the various “bread corners” put up especially by Gardenia for the enjoyment of bread fair visitors. The “Sweet Corner” provides people, particularly kids, the time to indulge in sweet treats using Gardenia breads while the “Healthy Corner” is for the health-conscious ones who love enjoying Gardenia bread “lean and mean.”

On the other hand, enjoy Gardenia at its savory best via the “Savory Corner” and lastly, discover how you can enjoy Gardenia with your favorite beverage at the “Beverage Corner” for a thirst-quenching treat.

Simultaneously, various games and tricks will be held every hour for the enjoyment of kids and the kids-at-heart, or even adults and their friends for the whole day for a totally exciting experience.

The Gardenia “Happy Bread Day” Fair will culminate with a “Happy Bread Day Show” hosted by popular actress, host and dancer, Ms. Regine Tolentino, plus performances by the RT Studio Dancers and Tuloy sa Don Bosco Choir. There will also be a special cooking demo featuring Chef Rosebud Benitez, former host of the well-loved cooking show “Quickfire,” together with actor and host Drew Arellano.

With its continuous commitment to expand its corporate social responsibility efforts, Gardenia’s Happy Bread Day Fair will be beneficial to the needy sectors. Today, every loaf of Gardenia bread bought during the event will help improve lives of Gardenia’s countless beneficiaries.

“We made sure that ‘Happy Bread Day’ Fair will not just be an enjoyable bread experience, but memorable as well as it aims to help the less-privileged kids. This has been our responsibility, our commitment to build a stronger nation through nutrition and health,” explains Simplicio Umali Jr., President and General Manager of Gardenia.

To this day, bread—in whatever form and manner it is served—continues to be an important part of people’s lives primarily because of its flexibility, the convenience it offers and the essential nourishment it provides to individuals and families in every part of the world.

And today, Gardenia made Filipinos’ bread experience even more meaningful with “Happy Bread Day.”

For more about Gardenia Bakeries Philippines, Inc. and Happy Bread Day, visit www.gardenia.com.ph.

Friday, October 12, 2012

Raycop: Eradicating even the invisible



DJ George of Wave 89.1 FM with son Jacob
If it’s difficult enough to confront an enemy that’s clearly visible, then it is more challenging if it is unseen.

Take, for example, dust mites, those invisible creatures too-small to see with the naked eye without the aid of a microscope or magnifying lens and belongs to the arthropod family (spiders, scorpions and ticks). They usually feed on human dead skin and leftover food from all those boob-tube marathons that leave behind bits of popcorn and chips on the sofa, on bedcovers and atop other furniture.

However, it’s not the dust mites that actually wreak havoc to our health but their excreta (feces). Most people develop severe allergies like itchy red lumps when they come in contact with dust mite droppings, or even severe difficulty breathing and asthma attacks once dust laden with dust mite droppings is inhaled.

The great news, however, is that a new home device was invented to ward off these dangerous parasites through the use of UVC. UVC is a type of ultraviolet ray from the sun that’s germicidal in nature and kills various bacteria upon exposure in just a few seconds. And this is the type of technology used by a pioneering home appliance: the Raycop UVC anti-allergy cleaner.


“Me and my two boys, 5-year-old Jacob and 14-year-old Jason, are all asthmatic. Now that I’m using Raycop’s revolutionary cleaner, the attacks became less and less. I don’t get stressed out that much but what’s good is that I have lesser expenses on medications,” shared popular radio deejay DJ George.

She said that while they don’t scrimp on their health budget, the Raycop has made it even more affordable for them, budget-wise and as long as it does its job, they’ll have peace of mind. “It’s so easy to use. You need not make pagpag (repeated beatings), bilad (tedious sun drying), and with its powerful features, the dust mites are shaken and sucked out,” she continued.

Raycop’s process of eliminating bacteria and other allergens is through its 3-step allergy care system of vibrating, sterilizing and double-filtering. “A regular vacuum cleaner does not work the same way as Raycop’s Smart or Hera anti-allergy cleaners because dust particles are still blown into the air. And most models are not specific for mattresses, so you still feel the itch after cleaning them. With Raycop, you feel the cleanliness. It makes your bed linens smooth like those on a hotel bed because of the UVC component that thoroughly cleans them. You’ll realize the sniffles are gone and you don’t sneeze as much, especially in the mornings,” attested Raycop’s new brand ambassador.

Georgia Cotaoco, more popularly known as DJ George, is heard daily over at Wave 89.1 FM. “I’m now more relaxed. I have more quality time with the family without feeling anxious that my brood would have impending asthma attacks. The Raycop UVC anti-allergy cleaner is truly a wise investment, easy to use and light on the family budget,” she concluded.


Raycop’s UVC anti-allergy cleaner is the first anti-allergy home device with the Seal of Approval from the prestigious British Allergy Foundation, the Trophee de la Maison from the French Consumers’ Union, and the LOHAS Seal of Approval from the Korea Standards Association.

Manufactured by the Health and Home appliances division of Bukang Sems Co., Ltd., the global and award-winning Korean-based company headquartered in Incheon, the brand is sold in around 30 countries worldwide including the United States, Germany, France, the United Kingdom, Japan, South Korea, and the Philippines. Raycop’s aim is to help people live healthier and create a better home environment for their loved ones.

The Raycop UVC ‘Smart’ and ‘Hera’ vacuum cleaners are available at all Rustan’s department stores, S & R outlets, Landmark, Wilcon Builders (Libis branch) and all Abenson’s department stores. For more information about the Raycop product line and its outstanding features, simply call Zinven International Corp., the exclusive distributor of Raycop UVC anti-allergy cleaner, at 926-7782 or 926-7786 or visit their Web site at www.raycop.com.

Thursday, September 6, 2012

The Seven Super Berries


Clearer, sharper vision. Age-defying, healthier-looking skin. Better protection from free radical damage.

This isn't a list of some superhero's extraordinary powers, or any flawless and great-looking Gods or Demigods. It's only a sampling of the many health benefits that come with every bottle of the new InnerShine® Berry Essence (IBE).

Made by BRAND'S®, a company with a pioneering presence in the health and wellness industry for the last 170 years, InnerShine® Berry Essence is a delicious fruit-based, ready-to-drink essence that serves as a natural source of vital nutrients and powerful antioxidants. It contains the goodness of seven premium types of berries from Europe and the U.S.—acai berry, bilberry, blackcurrant, chokeberry, cranberry, elderberry, and strawberry—combined to form an exclusive "super berry" blend, providing health, nourishment, and protection in ways that no other fruit-based drinks can.

Available at Watsons, Landmark supermarkets, and Mercury Drug stores in the Greater Manila area at an SRP of P85 per bottle, BRAND'S® IBE is also fortified with Vitamins A, C, E, and zinc. It contains no added artificial colorings or preservatives, and bursts with an irresistible all-natural taste that also remains unrivaled by regular diet drinks and artificial supplements.

IBE’s Seven Super Berries. The seven super berries make every bottle of InnerShine® Berry Essence the perfect nutritional drink in today's increasingly stressful modern environment. As you carry out a very hectic and stress-filled work day facing the computer for long hours, exposure to many types of environmental pollution, spending late nights at work, and other situations that may create problems for both your skin and eyes, IBE works to deliver special benefits that promote supple and smooth skin and clearer and healthier vision. The berries, in fact, each have rich antioxidant qualities that help protect the skin and eyes from free radical damage, such as that caused by UV radiation, environmental pollution, and heavy visual workload.

Apart from shielding the eye cells, which make up the human body's most delicate and sensitive sense organs, BRAND'S® InnerShine® Berry Essence also packs vital nutrients that help improve overall health as well as support one's ability to have a beautiful, well-nourished body. The exotic acai berry has been heralded for centuries for the many benefits it brings to the body. Not only is it extremely high in anthocyanins, it has powerful antioxidants that help defend the body against life’s stressors.

The rare bilberry fruit from northern Europe, just like the acai berry, is also rich in anthocyanins to strengthen and protect the eyes’ blood vessels and help lessen eye fatigue, while the blackcurrant further enhances eye health with its unique ability to synthesize a biological pigment called rhodopsin (or "visual purple") that enables vision in low-light conditions.

Filtering intense sunlight and providing increased protection from constant exposure to UV radiation is the role of the chokeberry, a shrub fruit native to eastern North America. Thanks to its high levels of anthocyanins and flavonoids, chokeberry is also known as a dietary deterrent against diseases caused by oxidative stress.

Cranberry, on the other hand, is a nourishing fruit with a balanced profile of Vitamin C, dietary fiber, manganese, and essential phytonutrients. They are known to help protect the body from free radical damage, optimize urinary tract health and provide important anti-inflammatory benefits. Also with similar health-boosting capacities is the elderberry, which helps boost the immune system by driving the production of cytokines, the cell-signaling proteins used to regulate immune response.

Rounding out the IBE's set of seven super berries is the sweet, bright red strawberry. Like the cranberry and elderberry, it packs Vitamin C, dietary fiber, and phytonutrients. Strawberries have also recently been linked to the prevention of heart disease and diabetes, while stimulating proteins with antioxidant qualities.

Specially formulated with these seven super berries, BRAND'S® delicious new InnerShine® Berry Essence indeed packs a healthy punch. A chilled bottle a day of IBE not only serves to build a strong foundation for a lifestyle of health and wellness; it also brings the thought of having extraordinary powers closer than we can ever imagine.

Tuesday, September 4, 2012

Trend Alert: Fall 2012 Collection of Naturalizer® Footwear

 

Brown Shoe Company, Inc. in partnership with Retail Specialist, Inc., debuts the new Naturalizer® fall/winter 2012 collection which will be in stores October 2012.

Woman Avenue was lucky to be one of the invited few to take a sneak peak of the collection that is definitely eye-candy to any shoe lover like me.  We were privileged to meet Ms. Erika E. Szychowski
Global Marketing Head of Brown Shoe Company, Inc. who shared some good news and interesting information about Naturalizer.

Here's a little trivia about the brand: In 1927, Naturalizer had the revolutionary idea of creating stylish and comfortable shoes made just for women. The brand became known as “the shoe with the beautiful fit.” As Naturalizer celebrates its’ 85th anniversary, the brand continues to understand how truly comfortable shoes can help women move energetically through their day and live life to the fullest.



Naturalizer’s fall 2012 line offers women two key looks for Fall and Winter seasons:

• The British Are Coming: Gaining ground since the Royal Wedding, this trend takes cues from the swinging London subculture of the 70’s, timeless country classics are re-interpreted in a modern street-fashion way. Trend elements include traditional prints, tassels, and sturdy block heels. Wear this trend’s rural countryside style with tartan or plaids and stylish loafers.

• Launch Pad: As space flight becomes a reality for everyone, get ready for fashion to project into space-aged futurism. Trend elements include clean, simple lines updated with techno textiles, leathers and color blocking that take this look to “infinity and beyond”. Wear this trend with modern, sleek dresses with high-shine patent heels or skinny cropped pants; reflecting how “form follows function” is both simple and beautiful.


Comfort is a core essential to the Naturalizer brand heritage, and a priority in every shoe. What’s our secret? The N5 comfort inside every design. Amazingly flexible, lightweight, and cushiony-soft with cool, breathable linings. Naturalizer shoes keep you in balance and feeling fabulous...wherever life takes you!

Naturalizer shoes are sold in the Philippines at:

• Shangri-la Plaza
• Glorietta 4
• Trinoma
• Alabang Town Center
• Robinsons Place Manila 
• Robinsons Galleria
• SM Mall Of Asia
• SM Megamall
• The Block, SM North Edsa 
• Gateway Mall, Araneta Center
• Marquee Mall
• Ayala Center Cebu
• SM City Cebu 
• Abreeza Mall
• Davao
• SM City Davao
• SM Cagayan De Oro



Brown Shoe is a $2.6 billion global footwear company. Brown Shoe's Retail division operates Famous Footwear, a leading family branded footwear destination with over 1,100 stores nationwide and e-commerce site FamousFootwear.com, approximately 260 specialty retail stores in the U.S., Canada and China primarily under the Naturalizer brand name, and footwear e-tailer shoes.com. Through its wholesale divisions, Brown Shoe designs and markets leading fashion and athletic footwear brands including Naturalizer, Dr. Scholl's, LifeStride, Sam Edelman, Franco Sarto, Via Spiga, Vera Wang Lavender, Etienne Aigner, Avia, and rykƤ. Brown Shoe press releases are available on the Company's website at www.brownshoe.com.

Thursday, August 30, 2012

SHARP envisions a promising future for generations to come

For a safer and more livable shelter for Elsie Gaches children, SHARP Philippines Corporation (SPC) has donated quality home appliances as part of its global commitment to promote corporate social responsibility through “My Sharp, Our Future”. (From right (R) to left (L), Happy Elsie Gaches children received Sharp refrigerator, washing machine and TV unit together with Sharp Philippines Corporation representatives namely B2B Manager Peter Villanueva and Assistant Marketing Manager Amor Golifardo. 
Sharp Philippines Corporation (SPC) embarks recently on a socially relevant campaign with its ASEAN flagship program “MY SHARP, OUR FUTURE”.

“MY SHARP, OUR FUTURE” is a major initiative of SPC to promote corporate social responsibility while helping the impoverished sector of society particularly homeless children, kids with severe illnesses and calamity victims.

SPC President Takahiro Tanaka urged,” We need to take care of our young generation to ensure their brighter future especially those who are incapable to have a decent living.  Each of us can do something to build a promising future for them”.

To mark the global celebration of SHARP’s 100th Anniversary, Sharp Philippines Corporation commits to donate Php 20.00 for every purchase of plasma cluster ion products and LCD/LED TV during the campaign period from June 7 until September 15, 2012.

Donation of proceeds shall be awarded to a chosen beneficiary, which will be revealed during the 100th Anniversary of SHARP-WORLD and 30th Anniversary of Sharp Philippines on September 14, 2012 at the Manila Hotel.

To realize this vision, SHARP continues to strengthen its store visibility and dealers partnership to make SHARP products and services closer and readily available to consumers nationwide.

SPC Executive Vice President Kazuo Kito noted,” As SHARP Philippines Corporations continues to develop high-standard consumer electronic products, we also strengthen our partnership with appliance stores nationwide aside from our growing sales and service centers.  This is to ensure that SHARP products and services are accessible to every Filipino consumer”.

SHARP Philippines Corporation has been active in delivering relentless community service by donating quality home appliances to charitable institutions.  Two of the most recent beneficiaries were Elsie Gaches and Tuloy Foundation, which received Sharp refrigerator, washing machine and TV unit.

Through donation of quality home appliances, SHARP Philippines Corporation, a major player in the consumer electronics industry for 30 years now, affirms to build safer and more livable shelter for children under the care of government and non-government centers.

For a brighter future of young generation, SHARP Philippines Corporation (SPC) is encouraging all Filipinos to partake in its serious commitment to improve the lives of socially disadvantaged children because for every SHARP product could mean a SHARPer future to them.