Ber months are finally in our midst and what better way to ‘tis the season by satisfying our appetites with all the food that we love? However, the risk of putting on pounds and shooting up blood sugar are just some of the side effects we usually don’t see coming over the holidays. That’s why Easy Pha-Max Wheatgrass shares little lifestyle changes designed to combat one of the most dreaded lifestyle diseases of our time—diabetes. 

Sadly, according to the Philippine Center for Diabetes Education Foundation, an estimated of six million Filipinos have diabetes and rapidly increasing in prevalence over the years, making it one of the leading causes of death in the country. While life isn’t sweet with diabetes, understanding how to live healthily with diabetes is a great way to get started. Leave it to Phil-US registered dietitian-nutritionist Cheshire Que when it comes to easy to follow and decidedly doable tips that are applicable for all ages: 

1. Think Mindful Movement.
   The American Diabetes Association recommends 30 minutes of moderate to a vigorous intensity of aerobic exercises at least five times a week. When you’re active and constantly moving, the cells not only become more sensitive to insulin but it also helps to lower blood glucose levels. Needless to say, physical activity is a key part when managing diabetes that contributes to weight management, reduce risks to heart diseases, improving blood circulation, and relieving stress. So now you’re at the party planning stage, go for activities that encourage movement: play charades, have a fitness game, or opt for a standing party. In short, get physical!

1. Take Control of Your Plate.

Feasting during the entire season is the norm but it should not automatically translate to bloating nor weight gain. Whether or not you have a diabetes, the first smart step is making the right choices. You see, the key element to a healthy eating plan is to fill up your plate with vegetables, fruits, and whole grains. Skip the simple carbohydrates such as cakes, chocolates, or white bread as these will only cause a drastic increase in your blood sugar level. Go instead for complex carbohydrates like whole grain bread and brown rice, and by all means swap anything high-fat to low or non- fat, which will help control your risks for heart diseases and high blood cholesterol. 

While this may sound a lot of sacrifices, it doesn’t mean you have to give up your favorite food all at once. “Moderation and meal-timing are the keys to regulate blood sugar. For instance, if you decide to go for a piece of cake for a dinner affair, be willing to cut back on some of your carbohydrate sources such as rice or pasta or potatoes for that meal. It’s all about give and take. Satisfy your cravings but do not overindulge. Otherwise your blood sugar level will stage a revolt causing havoc on the rest of your body”, Cheshire said. “It’s also important to space out your mealtime regularly to prevent your blood sugar level from dropping too low, a condition we call hypoglycemia, which often leads to shaking, weakness, dizziness, and sometimes seizures,” she added. 

1. Rest from Stress. 

We’re all too familiar with this. The mere thought of it makes us cringe and feel uncomfortable, but managing your stress (and not just merely running away from it) is as important as eating healthy and being active. Knowing how to effectively manage your stressors will not only help improve your mood, but it will also boost your immunity overall wellness. You see, if you’re under stressful situations or conditions, the natural response of our brain is to bombard our body with tons of hormones to neutralize the stressors, often leading to an increased blood sugar level. So this season of soiree and endless parties, learn to say no and never overcommit—have me time and don’t forget about you. 

“Sleep is a vital part of stress management because it gives our body a chance to recuperate and repair body organs. Not only will it enhance your focus and clear your mind, it will also put you in a better mood,” Cheshire added. 

The National Sleep Foundation recommends seven to nine hours of sleep for adults, but if you’re having troubles drifting off, make down time part of your routine. What we mean is to dim the lights, slightly decrease your room’s thermostat, and turn off your mobile or tablet. These simple steps are guaranteed to help your body produce melatonin, a hormone known to regulate sleep.  

1. Remember that Fiber is your Friend. 

In case you don’t know, fiber is the holy grail of a diabetic meal plan. Consuming at least 30 g of fiber every day is beneficial not only in managing your blood sugar level but also in lowering blood cholesterol and improving gut health. Found in your whole grain bread or pasta, brown rice, fruits, and vegetables, fiber also slows down digestion causing a more stable blood sugar level in the long run. It’s also beneficial in weight management due to its high satiety value, which means you feel fuller for a longer period. In essence, fiber plays a vital role in our health as it aids regular bowel movement, prevent colon cancer, breast cancer, and even promote healthy aging! 

But between endless parties and tempting treats, eating more veggies and fruits over the holidays is just hard to prioritize. Thankfully, there’s Wheatgrass CAN to help us meet our required daily three servings of fiber, which is impossible to devour on a daily basis. Touted as the king of alkaline, wheatgrass is a very rich source of fiber that’s equivalent to 10kg of vegetables in nutritional value. Moreover, it only needs 200 ml of cold water for a refreshing surge of antioxidant-rich drink that you can take any time of the day. 

 A nutritional powerhouse that also boasts impressive levels of 17 amino acids, 13 vitamins, 10 alkaline minerals, detoxifying fiber, chlorophyll for a healthy blood circulation, plus more than 100 types of enzymes, Wheatgrass CAN is a must in the arsenal of individuals with diabetes as studies have shown that amino acid helps improve insulin production and action. Needless to say, it’s also undoubtedly beneficial for diabetes prevention!

For long-time Wheatgrass C.A.N. International brand ambassador and sportscaster Dyan Castillejo, wheatgrass has been a staple for her daily source of fiber. “Since I’ve discovered this product in 2009, I never leave home without it. It’s the easiest and most accessible fiber source that I could take with me that helps me to meet my daily required allowance,” shared Diane. “My mom who’s been taking it as well for the longest time maintain her dauntless beauty and grace at 78, with the help of wheatgrass that keeps her blood sugar at normal rate while preventing other diseases such as high blood pressure and high cholesterol.”

Easy Pha-max Wheatgrass comes in original, honey, and lemon flavors and available in all Mercury Drugstores, S&R, Watsons, and other leading supermarkets nationwide.  For order and inquiries, contact Customer Service Hotline at (02) 8901111 or 09055757799 and follow social media pages: Wheatgrass C.A.N on Facebook and ilovewheatgrass on Instagram and Twitter.

Easy Pha-max Wheatgrass comes in original, honey, and lemon flavors and available in all Mercury Drugstores, S&R, Watsons, and other leading supermarkets nationwide.  For order and inquiries, contact Customer Service Hotline at (02) 8901111 or 09055757799 and follow social media pages: Wheatgrass C.A.N on Facebook and @wheatgrasscan on Instagram and Twitter. –

 When should you drink prune juice? If you’re having a problem with regular bowel movements, experts say, prune juice may be the solution you’re looking for. Start your day with a glass of Jolly Fresh 100% Prune Juice that is made from dried plums or prunes from California because it contains essential nutrients, antioxidants and fiber. A hydrator that’s made of 100% prune juice, you’re guaranteed that it’s a natural health booster and a rich source of energy. It is a great addition to your diet too as it is rich in fiber and fat-free.

Doctors recommend drinking prune juice or munching on dried prunes to your daily diet. Here are some of the reasons why:

1. Prunes are rich in fiber that aids digestion and regulates bowel movement. Whether you are drinking the juice of snacking on dried prunes, you get the benefit as fiber acts as a natural laxative that prevents constipation.
2. Prunes help control the bladder. Adding fiber to your diet can help control your sudden urge to pee! How? Regular bowel movement decreases pressure in your tummy, and so you feel less bloated too. We recommend drinking a glass of prune juice every morning.
3. Prunes are high in potassium, an electrolyte that helps the body function. Potassium is a mineral that helps with important body functions such as digestion, heart rhythm, as well as blood pressure. 
4. Prunes are high in vitamins, packed with iron, and contain high levels of antioxidants. Both the juice and the whole fruit prevent a multitude of deficiencies and pose positive effects on the body – from stronger bones and muscles, lower blood pressure, and healthy respiratory system.
5. On a diet? Prunes help stave off cravings. Manage your weight by consuming fiber-rich prune juice and prunes that keep you feeling satiated for a longer time

Add Jolly Fresh Pitted Prunes to your breakfast oatmeal, baked goods, or create a healthy snack by mixing them with dark chocolates, dried fruits, and nuts. You’ll feel healthy, jolly and fresh when you know you’re taking only the good stuff!

Jolly Fresh Pitted Prunes & Prune Juice are available in Mercury Drug and leading supermarkets such as Robinsons, Puregold, Rustan’s, Shopwise, Walter Mart, Landmark and in grocery stores near you. 

Before you ask…. yes, Singles Day actually exists! It’s a holiday celebrated in China today, November 11, for single or unmarried people to treat themselves with special gifts. Here in our country, we love special occasions, that’s why we’re joining in the fun! And the great thing is, the good people behind Eatigo has a big gift for the “unattached”- with their Singles Day Promo.

Here’s how it works:
1.Have a minimum of 2 attended reservations for 2 pax using the promo code: SINGLE11 on Eatigo between November 11-25, 2018 and get a chance to win an  Samsung Galaxy Note 9.

2.Customers with 2 attended reservations for 2 pax using the promo code: SINGLE11 on Eatigo between November 11-25, 2018 will be sent a form to fill out through e-mail. Once e-mail is filled out, user will automatically be eligible to join the raffle.

3. The winner will receive a brand new Samsung Galaxy Note 9 and will be notified via e-mail, registered mail, and SMS.

4. The announcement will be made on November 30, 2018 on Eatigo Philippines’ Facebook page- so stay tuned!

Being single doesn’t mean eating alone. Invite a friend and discover new restaurants! Download Eatigo now, sign up, and enjoy scouring the app for hundreds of their delicious deals to restaurants all over the metro. Visit https://goo.gl/PqhWZx. Who knows? You just might be the lucky winner!

Countless Christmas moments await the whole family as SM Supermalls marks the month of November with the Super World of Joy Christmas launches, inviting everyone to experience the spirit of a joyful Christmas with new and fun-filled activities happening all throughout November and December till the first week of January in all SM malls across the country.

“Everything Christmas is here at SM. Shop, dine, and spend precious time and holiday reunions with the people who matter the most, and continue creating unforgettable memories with your loved ones at your one-stop winter wonderland,” invites Steven T. Tan, SM Supermalls Chief Operating Officer.

Mallgoers can share Christmas moments at Superworld of Magic interactive mall displays and centerpieces. You can take the kids out to catch Grand Christmas Parades, fireworks spectacles, and Holiday Performances, featuring chorales, orchestras, and ballerinas! If you haven’t bought the kids their gifts yet, there is the Christmas Toy Fair from November 9 to 25.

Christmas is for sharing love and happiness with the less fortunate – for only 200 pesos, you can buy two SM Bears of Joy – one bear to keep, while the other will be donated to the mall’s chosen charity.

Naughty or nice, we invite you to bring the kids to meet and greet Santa from November 30 to December 25. You can also send your Christmas wishes and write to #DearSMSanta for chance to have you wish granted. For more info on #DearSMSanta and to know to more about SM’s 2018 Christmas celebrations, visit www.smsupermalls.com/christmasmoments.