War on Diabetes: Why Eating Right is Your Best Defence
Diabetes is a global health crisis, affecting over 537 million people worldwide, with 1 in 10 adults living with the condition as of 2021. In Singapore, the situation is particularly concerning, with about 1 in 3 adults aged 60 and above diagnosed with diabetes. The issue is further exacerbated by the fact that nearly 1 in 2 people with diabetes globally are unaware they have it, and in Singapore, approximately...
Sleep Tips for the Perimenopausal Woman: How to Combat Night Sweats and Insomnia
Struggling to get a good night's sleep? If hot flashes and night sweats are leaving you restless, you're not alone. For women in their 40s and 50s, perimenopause can bring significant challenges to getting restful sleep. Hormonal fluctuations during perimenopause can disrupt your sleep cycle. The irregularity in oestrogen and progesterone levels often leads to trouble falling and staying asleep, leaving you tired and irritable. Let’s explore practical tips to help...
Behind the Label: The Truth About “Reduced Sugar” Claims
In today’s health-conscious world, many consumers are drawn to food labels that promise to deliver on various health benefits. Phrases like “low sugar,” “low carb,” or “low fat” are often prominently displayed on packaging, and they tend to grab attention immediately. After all, who wouldn’t want to make healthier choices? However, these claims can sometimes be deceptive, serving more as a marketing strategy than a genuine indicator of health benefits. The...
BUZUD Multi-Parameter Patient Monitor: Revolutionising Patient Care
In today's fast-paced healthcare environment, the need for reliable and comprehensive patient monitoring systems has never been more critical. The BUZUD Multi-Parameter Patient Monitor stands out as a beacon of innovation and reliability, offering healthcare professionals the tools they need to provide the highest standard of care. The BUZUD Multi-Parameter Patient Monitor is designed to deliver real-time, accurate data across multiple vital signs, including Electrocardiogram (ECG), Blood Oxygen Saturation (SpO2), Non-Invasive...
Understanding what your urine is telling you about your health
Your body actually tells you a lot about your health issues in many ways, one of which is your urine. Urine colour can be a useful indicator of your overall health. It can provide clues about your hydration levels, diet, and even potential medical conditions. It can also be a warning sign because you may otherwise be ignorant about a health issue until it’s too late. Here’s a detailed look...
Understanding the Difference Between Good and Bad Cholesterol
12High cholesterol is a significant risk factor for cardiovascular diseases, including heart attacks and strokes. When cholesterol levels in the blood are elevated, it can lead to the buildup of plaques in the arteries, restricting blood flow and increasing the risk of cardiovascular events. In Singapore, about 36.9% of individuals aged 18 to 74 had high blood cholesterol in 2020, according to the National Population Health Survey (NPHS) 2022. Cardiovascular diseases...
Demystifying Artificial Sweeteners: Understand the truth behind this seemingly perfect solution
Artificial sweeteners are low-calorie compounds designed to mimic the taste of sugar. Common ones include Saccharin (Sweet n’ Low®), Aspartame (Equal®), and Sucralose (Splenda®). While they may not spike blood sugar levels like sugar, they can cause gastrointestinal issues, such as bloating and diarrhoea, and some, like erythritol, are linked to higher risks of heart attack and stroke. Artificial sweeteners often present themselves as a tempting alternative to sugar: all the...
Understanding and Analysing Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM) Reports
Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM) is a critical tool in managing diabetes, providing real-time data on glucose levels. This article aims to guide nurses and pharmacists on how to read and analyse CGM reports effectively, enabling effective diabetes management by maximising the potential and capability of the CGM. Key Sections of the CGM Report The following sections provide a comprehensive overview of glucose management during the reporting period, including glucose statistics and targets,...
How Women with PCOS Can Lower Their Risk of Diabetes
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a common hormonal disorder affecting women of reproductive age. It is characterised by a combination of symptoms such as irregular menstrual cycles, excess androgen levels (which can lead to acne, hirsutism, or male-pattern baldness), and polycystic ovaries (enlarged ovaries containing multiple small cysts). PCOS can also cause insulin resistance, which may increase the risk of type 2 diabetes and other health issues. In Singapore, PCOS is...
Optimising Diabetes Management by Mastering the CGM
Continuous Glucose Monitors (CGMs) are game-changers for diabetes management, providing real-time glucose data and trends that empower users to take proactive control of their health. This constant stream of information allows users to understand how their blood sugar levels respond to various factors such as diet, exercise, and medication. By seeing these patterns, users can make more informed decisions about when to eat, how much insulin to administer, and when...