Balanced diet: Quran vs Science

Quran says???

The Qur’ân has not restricted itself in merely mentioning the permissible and impermissible foods but goes to the extent of giving useful tips regarding a balanced diet, a diet which contains most if not all the useful ingredients required for the growth, strengthening and repairing of the human body. These ingredients include animal protein, fat, calcium, iron, salts, etc. The most balanced diets consist of meat, fish, fresh milk, cheese and fruit. Both direct and indirect references have been made regarding the afore mentioned.
The reference regarding the importance of meat protein in the human diet is given in the following verse:
“And the cattle, He has created them for you, in them there is warmth (clothing) and numerous benefits, and of them you eat.”
(16:5)
In this verse special reference has been given to the importance of eating despite having said, “…numerous benefits…”. Reference regarding other types of meat has also been given such as the meat of fowls in the following verse:
“And the flesh of fowls that they desire.”
(56:21)Fish has always been considered as a food of very high protein and is very important for human consumption. Allah says:
“And from them both (fresh and salt water) you eat fresh tender meat (fish).”
(35:12)The usefulness of fresh milk is stressed in these words:
“And verily in the cattle there is a lesson for you. We give you to drink of that which is in their bellies, from between excretion and blood, pure milk, palatable to the drinkers.”
(16:66)The benefits of fruits as good nourishment can be understood from this verse:
“And from the fruits of date palms and grapes, you desire strong drink and a goodly provision.”
(16:67)Similarly there are verses which cover the whole range of fruits, salads, and vegetables which also play an important role in a nutritious, balanced diet:
“It is He who sends down rain from the sky, and with it We bring forth vegetation of all kinds, and out of it We bring forth thick clustered grain. And out of the date palm and its spate come clusters of dates hanging low and near, and gardens of grapes, olives and pomegranates each similar (in kind) yet different (in variety and taste). Look at their fruits when then begin to bear, and the ripeness thereof.”
(6:99)Islam, being a complete religion, also teaches and advises the believer as to what the best method of eating is. The believers are advised to be moderate in every aspect of life. Direct reference has been made in the Noble Qur’ân regarding moderation in eating and drinking.
“And eat and drink, but waste not in extravagance, certainly He (Allah) likes not those who waste in extravagance.”
(7:31)

Islam strictly forbids indulgence in intoxicants such as alcohol and drugs for good reason. The limited pleasure of such vices causes immense long-term damage to both mind, body and the social fabric of society. Particular schools of thought include smoking within the list of prohibitions because of its harmful affects on the body. It seems that if Muslims adhere to the teachings of Islam, they would automatically lead a healthier lifestyle. God says in the Quran:

Satan's plan is (but) to excite enmity and hatred between you with intoxicants and gambling and hinder you from the remembrance of Allah and from prayer, will ye not then abstain? (5:90)
Science says???

• No fruits or vegetables have cholesterol, and most are naturally low in fat and calories.
• Vegetables are a great source for potassium, dietary fiber, folic acid, vitamin A, vitamin E, and vitamin C.
• Fruits are a great source for nutrients such as potassium, dietary fiber, vitamin C and folic acid.
• Diets rich in potassium may help to maintain healthy blood pressure.
• Dietary fiber helps reduce blood cholesterol levels and may lower risk of heart disease. Fiber is important for proper bowel function. Fiber-containing foods such as vegetables help provide a feeling of fullness with fewer calories.
• Folic acid (folate) helps the body form red blood cells. Women of childbearing age who may become pregnant and those in the first trimester of pregnancy should consume adequate folic acid, including folic acid from fortified foods or supplements.

MGUS : Living with a time bomb

What ?

Monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance (MGUS) is a COMMON but typically HARMLESS blood disorder that occurs when there is overgrowth of identical plasma cells in bone marrow. Since it is the job of any given plasma cell to make a single (monoclonal) immunoglobulin protein, an increased population of identical bone marrow plasma cells may be detected by discovery of a monoclonal protein (M protein) in the blood stream. 

MGUS becomes more prevalent with age. About 3 percent of people 50 and older and 5 percent of those 70 and older have M protein in their blood. The highest incidence is among adults age 85 and older. And MGUS is more common in men than in women.

Sign & symptoms?


MGUS is usually found by chance during a blood test carried out for some other reason. The test, called a serum protein electrophoresis, can reveal abnormal proteins and unusual amounts of normal proteins.It doesn't usually cause any symptoms.

Occasionally people with MGUS have numbness or tingling in their hands and feet or problems with their balance. This may be due to damage to nerves caused by the paraprotein in the blood.

If these symptoms are troublesome or get worse you may be referred to a neurologist, who is a specialist in the nervous system.

Developing Myeloma??

The 3 Veggies with the Least Nutritional Value

1.    Celery: Sure, you can nosh on 8 inches of celery for only 6 calories, but are you really getting any nutrients in return? The answer: Yes, but you'd have to go beyond an 8-inch stalk, which provides a mere 1.6 percent of our daily requirement for calcium and 2 percent of our daily requirement for vitamin C. It does, however, boast a decent amount of fiber and vitamin K. A better alternative: Carrots, which are loaded with eye-protecting beta carotene. Toss them into salads for a low-calorie crunch; braise them as a sweet summer side dish or slice them thin and add them to your favorite stir-fry.

2.    Cucumbers: The cucumber is another low-calorie veggie. One cup of sliced cucumber weighs in at only 16 calories. But it's slim on nutrients, too. In fact, cucumbers contain 5 percent or less of our daily requirement for potassium, manganese, magnesium and vitamin C. On the plus side, cucumber extracts (not the whole cucumber) do have a number of disease-fighting antioxidant compounds, like tannins and flavonoids, says Registered Dietitian and Chef Consultant Michelle Dudash. A better alternative: Purslane, a peppery herb that's high in heart-healthy alpha linolenic acid (a type of omega-3). It's also higher in beta carotene than spinach. Toss it in salads, fold it into omelets or use it as a crunchy green on sandwiches.

3.    Iceberg Lettuce: Iceberg lettuce is one of the most commonly consumed vegetables in the U.S., along with

Embryology + Human creation: QURAN and SCIENCE

"Religion without science is blind and science without religion is lame," Albert Einstein.

Islam and science are not different; the in fact they are one and the same. You can not have one without the other. Without science there is no Islam, and without Islam there is no science. This is the way Allah created it. Science goes to prove Islam, and therefore it is not in conflict with the laws of Islam. To prove Muhammad(pbuh) was a true Prophet, God revealed things to him to but into the Qur'an, hundreds of years before science would know about it. There are many examples of this throughout the Qur'an, every thing from: germs, mold, earth science, to the process of birth, and so much more. In fact the entire birth process was revealed by Muhammad(pbuh) 1100 years before science knew about it. People look at the Qur'an as a religious text only, when it is so much more.

"Do they not carefully consider (investigate) the Qur'an or are there locks upon their hearts." Qur'an 47:24

Dr. Moore was a former President of the Canadian Association of Anatomists, and of the American Association of Clinical Anatomists. He was honored by the Canadian Association of Anatomists with the prestigious J.C.B. Grant Award and in 1994 he received the Honored Member Award of the American Association of Clinical Anatomists "for outstanding contributions to the field of clinical anatomy."

He is or at least was a Christian when this book was written.

"O mankind! if ye have a doubt about the Resurrection, (consider) that We created you out of dust, then out of sperm, then out of a leech-like clot, then out of a morsel of flesh, partly formed and partly unformed, in order that We may manifest (Our Power) to you; and We cause whom We will to rest in the wombs for an appointed term, then do We bring you out as babes, then (foster you) that ye may reach your age of full strength; and some of you are called to die, and some are sent back to the feeblest old age, so that they know nothing after having known (much). And (further), thou seest the earth barren and lifeless, but when We pour down rain on it, it is stirred (to life), it swells, and it puts forth every kind of beautiful growth in pairs." Qur'an Al-Hajj verse 5

If you read the descriptions of birth, it is exactly as it happens. When the birth process starts, the embryo look like a blood clot, then a leech and feeds like a leech. It then goes on to say t it looks like a morsel of flesh what this means is; then the embryo looks like a piece of chewed meat. Actually it looks exactly as such, the best comparison in modern time is: a piece of chewed gum with teeth marks in it.

“But He fashioned him in due proportion, and breathed into him something of His spirit. And He gave you (the faculties of) hearing and sight and feeling (and understanding): little thanks do ye give!” Qur'an As-Sajda verse 9

Once again knowing the birthing process, you would know that in the beginning the human child in the womb is not proportioned well, until it is time for birth.

“Was he not a drop of sperm emitted (in lowly form)? Then did he become a clinging clot; then did (Allah) make and fashion (him) in due proportion.” Qur'an Al-Qiyama verse 37-38

Happy Eid Mubarak to all muslim

Idul Fitri

Allahu Akbar, Allahu Akbar, Allahu Akbar !

La ilaha ilallah, Allahu Akbar !

Allahu Akbar, Walillahilhamdu !

a harmonious, joyous voice

echo all around earth, sea, and sky

everybody cheer up, everything shine

a victorious, amorous sound

soar so beautifully, proudly and confidently

human and nature join in gorgeous celebration

all hearts bow to Allah

all eyes cries in faithfully pray

all families smile to face a new day

only to God, only to Allah

all thanks dedicate, all best wishes go

all praises ascend, all greetings deliver

the Most Merciful, the Greatest

forgive us, our children, our parents 

guide us to the bright path, to the right way

the Most Powerful, the Greatest

bless us, our nature, our environment

save us, our friends, our families, our leaders

Allahu Akbar, Allahu Akbar, Allahu Akbar !

La ilaha ilallah, Allahu Akbar !

Allahu Akbar, Walillahilhamdu !

By Ahmad Shiddiqi (Indonesian)

Behind the scene of Hari Raya:

1. It is a day of victory for Muslims, having successfully completed the fast.

2. Zakat-e-fitr to help the poor & needy.

What to say?

The main greeting used by Muslims in Singapore and Malaysia is “Selamat Hari Raya”which means “wishing you a joyous Hari Raya” .

What to do?

1. Period of family gathering.

2. Asking for forgiveness between each other.

3. Visiting mosque: Performing Solat Hari Raya. [sunnah muakkad]

4. Visiting neighbours as well as exchanging food.

5. Cheering up by wearing new clothes, shoes etc.

6. Some lights up - eg: bunga api, mercun etc.

Circumcision - Benefits from religion & science

 The shar’i (religious) benefits: 

Circumcision is one of the commands concerning beautification enjoined by Allaah, which Allaah has prescribed for His slaves to make them beautiful both outwardly and inwardly (physically and spiritually). It is the perfection of the fitrah (natural state of man) with which He created them, and hence it is the perfection of the haneefiyyah (pure monotheism) of the religion of Ibraaheem (Abraham). The origin of the institution of circumcision as the perfection of haneefiyyah was when Allaah made a covenant with Ibraaheem and promised to make him an imaam (leader) of mankind, and promised him that he would be the father of many people, that prophets and kings would come from his loins and that his descendants would be many. And He told him that between him and his descendants there would be the sign of the covenant, which would be that every newborn male among them would be circumcised, and so the covenant would have this sign on their bodies.  Circumcision is a sign of having entered into the religion of Ibraaheem, and this is in accordance with the interpretation of the verse (interpretation of the meaning) –

“[Our Sibghah (religion) is] the Sibghah (religion) of Allaah (Islam) and which Sibghah (religion) can be better than Allaah’s? And we are His worshippers”

[al-Baqarah 2:138] –

as referring to circumcision.  

For the haneefs (pure monotheists, i.e., Muslims), circumcision has the same status as baptism does for the worshippers of the cross (i.e., Christians). They purify their children – as they say – when they baptize them in the baptismal water, and they say, now he has become a Christian. Allaah has prescribed for the haneefs their own rite, the symbol of which is circumcision. Allaah says (interpretation of the meaning):

“[Our Sibghah (religion) is] the Sibghah (religion) of Allaah (Islam) and which Sibghah (religion) can be better than Allaah’s? And we are His worshippers”

[al-Baqarah 2:138] – 

… So Allaah has made circumcision a symbol of those who belong to Him and to His religion, and who attribute themselves to Him as being utterly enslaved to Him alone… 

The point here is that the religion of Allaah is haneefiyyah (pure monotheism) which fills the heart with knowledge and love of Him and sincerity towards Him, and worship of Him alone with no partner or associate, and which marks the body with the characteristics of the fitrah, namely circumcision, removal of the pubic hair, trimming the moustache, cutting the nails, plucking the hair from the armpits, rinsing the mouth, rinsing the nose, using the siwaak (toothbrush made from twigs from a certain tree) and cleaning oneself after elimination of urine or faeces. 

So the fitrah of Allaah is manifested in the hearts of the haneefs and on their bodies. 

(Tuhfat al-Mawdood bi Ahkaam al-Mawlood by Ibn al-Qayyim, p. 351) 

It is not essential for the child to remain as he is when he comes forth from his mother’s womb, if there is something that may be done for him that serves a purpose and is enjoined by the pure religion. Such things include shaving his head after he is born, because that is in his best interests. The Prophet of Islam (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “Remove the harm from him.”

The same applies to washing the blood from him and cutting the cord by which he was attached to his mother, and other things which are done to benefit him. 

The health benefits: 

Dr. Muhammad ‘Ali al-Baar (a member of the Royal College of Surgeons in the UK and a consultant to the Islamic Medicine department of the King Fahd Centre for Medical Research in the King Abdul Aziz University in Jeddah) says in his book al-Khitaan (Circumcision): 

“Circumcision of newborn boys (i.e., within the first month of life) brings numerous health benefits, including: 

1 – Protection against local infection in the penis, which may result from the presence of the foreskin, causing tightening of the foreskin, which may lead to retention of urine or infections of the glans (tip) of the penis – which require circumcision in order to treat these problems. In chronic cases, the child may be exposed to numerous diseases in the future, the most serious of which is cancer of the penis.

Hyperthyroidism -' people usually unaware of! '

Hyperthyroidism is a condition caused by the effects of too much thyroid hormone on tissues of the body. Although there are several causes of hyperthyroidism, most of the symptoms patients experience are the same regardless of the cause (see the list of symptoms below).

Because the body's metabolism is increased, patients often feel hotter than those around them and can slowly lose weight even though they may be eating more. The weight issue is confusing sometimes since some patients actually gain weight because of an increase in their appetite. Patients with hyperthyroidism usually experience fatigue at the end of the day, but have trouble sleeping. Trembling of the hands and a hard or irregular heartbeat (called palpitations) may develop. These individuals may become irritable and easily upset. When hyperthyroidism is severe, patients can suffer shortness of breath, chest pain, and muscle weakness. Usually the symptoms of hyperthyroidism are so gradual in their onset that patients don't realize the symptoms until they become more severe. This means the symptoms may continue for weeks or months before patients fully realize that they are sick. In older people, some or all of the typical symptoms of hyperthyroidism may be absent, and the patient may just lose weight or become depressed.

Common symptoms and signs of hyperthyroidism

·         Palpitations

·         Heat intolerance

·         Nervousness

·         Insomnia

·         Breathlessness

·         Increased bowel movements

·         Light or absent menstrual periods

·         Fatigue

Fasting is good..

Fasting may be defined as a period of complete abstinence from all types of food or just specific food. Contrary to perception that fasting is akin to subjecting the body to austere measures, it may turn out to be a ‘good treat’ for the body. What is perhaps a rare phenomenon with humans is rather second nature to animals, who instinctively avoid food to ease pain, discomfort or disease.
Many are wary of fasting fearing unhealthy outcomes. According to A. J. Carlson, Professor of Physiology, University of Chicago, a healthy person can survive without food for 50-75 days, of course only in the absence of  health problems or emotional stress. The rationale is each pound of human fat is equivalent to 3,500 calories. Even one pound of superfluous or extra fat is enough to provide the required calories for a full day of strenuous physical exertion.

Fast Healing

Phenomenal benefits occur when fasting is done following the advice of a specialist. During the initial days of a fast, usually the toughest phase, large quantities of waste flood the blood stream, ready to be flushed out. The body throws out waste through every pore, perceptibly as a thick coat on the tongue and a foul breath emanating from the mouth.

As the fast extends, the cleaning process is perfected, cleansing the body off fat, diseased cells, and mucus. When people undertake extended fasts, even toxins accumulated in the cells are removed. Diseased cells, dead cells, thickened coating of mucus on the intestinal wall, waste from - blood stream, liver, spleen, and kidney make an exit from the body. The body holds on to important minerals and vitamins throwing out toxins and old tissues. When the toxic load of the body is lessened, the efficiency of each cell is enhanced. This promotes healing. Thus during a fast, the body is on a ‘conserve energy’ and ‘healing’ mode.

Fast Treat 

Why do people feel more energetic after a fast? In addition, why do they experience less hunger? 

Not many of us may know that the body requires abundant energy to digest food. Fasting enables rest for the digestive system, and this saved energy goes into self-healing and repairing operations. Cleansing and detoxification in the intestines, blood and cells heals the body from many ailments.  Fasting thus, invigorates the immune system to function at its best and helps promote physical and emotional health, by rejuvenating the body. 

Fasting is especially beneficial in the following situations:-

• Finding relief from a variety of health disorders may no doubt begin my making lifestyle changes. Supervised fasting for a stipulated period helps patients make those required changes in their life that will positively influence their health. 

ECSTASY: common teens' problems

What Is It?

“Ecstasy” is a slang term for MDMA, short for3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine, a name that’s nearly as long as the all-night parties where MDMA is often used. That's why MDMA has been called a “club drug.” It has effects similar to those of other stimulants, and it often makes the user feel like everyone is his or her friend, even when that’s not the case.

MDMA is man-made—it doesn't come from a plant like marijuana does. Other chemicals or substances—such as caffeine, dextromethorphan (found in some cough syrups), amphetamines, PCP, or cocaine—are sometimes added to, or substituted for, MDMA in Ecstasy tablets. Makers of MDMA can add anything they want to the drug, so its purity is always in question.

What Are the Common Street Names?

There are a lot of slang words for MDMA. “Ecstasy” is one of the most common. You might also hear “E,” “XTC,” “X,” “Adam,” “hug,” “beans,” “clarity,” “lover's speed,” and “love drug.”

How Is It Used?

Most MDMA abusers take a pill, tablet, or capsule. These pills can be different colors, and sometimes have cartoon-like images on them. Some MDMA users take more than one pill at a time, called "bumping."

What Are the Effects of Ecstasy?

It is known for its energizing effect, as well as distortions in time and perception and enhanced enjoyment from physical experiences.

Guillain-Barré syndrome..You may be 1 of the victims!

What is it?

Guillain-Barré syndrome is a disorder in which the body'simmune system attacks part of theperipheral nervous system. The first symptoms of this disorder include varying degrees ofweakness or tingling sensations in the legs. In many instances the weakness and abnormal sensations spread to the arms and upper body. These symptoms can increase in intensity until certain muscles cannot be used at all and, when severe, the patient is almost totally paralyzed. In these cases the disorder is life threatening - potentially interfering with breathing and, at times, withblood pressure or heart rate - and is considered a medical emergency. Such a patient is often put on a respirator to assist with breathing and is watched closely for problems such as an abnormal heart beat, infections,blood clots, and high or low blood pressure. Most patients, however, recover from even the most severe cases of Guillain-Barré syndrome, although some continue to have a certain degree of weakness.

Guillain-Barré syndrome can affect anybody. It can strike at any age and both sexes are equally prone to the disorder. The syndrome is rare, however, afflicting only about one person in 100,000. Usually Guillain-Barré occurs a few days or weeks after the patient has had symptoms of a respiratory or gastrointestinal viral infection. Occasionally surgery or vaccinations will trigger the syndrome.

After the first clinical manifestations of the disease, the symptoms can progress over the course of hours, days, or weeks. Most people reach the stage of greatest weakness within the first 2 weeks after symptoms appear, and by the third week of the illness 90 percent of all patients are at their weakest.

Causes?

No one yet knows why Guillain-Barré - which is not contagious - strikes some people and not others. Nor does anyone know exactly what sets the disease in motion.

What scientists do know is that the body's immune system begins to attack the body itself, causing what is known as an autoimmune disease. Usually the cells of the immune system attack only foreign material and invading organisms. In Guillain-Barré syndrome, however, the immune system starts to destroy the myelin sheath that surrounds the axons of many peripheral nerves, or even the axons themselves (axons are long, thin extensions of the nerve cells; they carry nerve signals). The myelin sheath surrounding the axon speeds up the transmission of nerve signals and allows the transmission of signals over long distances.

Take care of your eyes!

Eyenstein says:

Now its time to learn about all the things you need to do to make sure that your eyes are always healthy and safe!

What should I do if I get something in my eye?   
If you get something in your eye, NEVER EVER rub your eyes! Eyes are sensitive and can be scratched easily. Always ask an adult to help you.

How can I protect my eyes when I play sports?

When playing sports, always use the proper eye protection, such as goggles, helmets, or visors.

What kinds of foods should I eat to make my eyes stronger?

Milk. Drink lots of milk every day. Its full of important vitamins. Fruits and Vegetablesare a good source of vitamins too! Vegetables like broccoli, cauliflower, brussels sprouts and carrots, and fruits such as apples, pears and oranges are very, very good for your eyes, and you should get in the habit of eating some of these every day. And if you don't think you like a particular vegetable, you should try at least two bites, one for each eye!

Why should I never look into the sun?

Your eyes are made to see only certain kinds of light, and the sun is just too bright for your eyes to handle.

So you should never look into the sun, because its brightness will damage the light-sensitive part inside your eye called the retina.

What does 20/20 vision mean?

Mammogram: A screening tool to detect breast cancer

According to the World Health Organisation’s International Agency for Research on Cancer, regular mammogram screening could reduce deaths from breast cancer by 35%.

BREAST cancer is the most common cancer in women in most parts of the world. There is a geographical variation, with the highest incidence in North America and North Europe, an intermediate incidence in South America and South Europe, and a lower incidence in Asia and Africa.

According to the Malaysian Second Report of the National Cancer Registry, there were 3,738 cases in 2003. It was the commonest cancer in all ethnic and age groups of Malaysian women, comprising 31.0% of all cases reported.

The peak incidence was in the 50 to 59 years age group, with a decline in older age groups. About 64.1% of all cases were diagnosed in women aged between 40 and 60 years.

Seeing lumps: A mammogram is an X-ray of the breasts. It can be used to detect breast cancer in women who have no signs or symptoms, in which case it is called a screening mammogram.

Many women regard the breast as a badge of their femininity, and they can be markedly affected psychologically if they have breast cancer. Experience worldwide has shown that its early detection and treatment helps in making possible a high cure rate.

Mammograms play an important role in the screening and diagnosis of breast cancer and other breast conditions. According to the World Health Organisation’s (WHO) International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), regular screening could reduce deaths from breast cancer by 35%.

A mammogram is an X-ray of the breasts. It can be used to detect breast cancer in women who have no signs or symptoms, in which case it is called a screening mammogram. When it is used for diagnosis in women who have signs and symptoms of breast disease, e.g. a lump, pain, nipple discharge, or change in breast size or shape, it is called a diagnostic mammogram.

A screening mammogram usually entails the taking of two X-ray images of each breast to detect lumps that are not felt on touch. Small amounts of calcium (microcalcifications), which occasionally is indicative of breast cancer, can also be detected.

A diagnostic mammogram is used when there are signs or symptoms of breast disease. It is also used to evaluate images detected in a screening mammogram or when there is difficulty in doing a screening mammogram, e.g. presence of breast implants. It entails the taking of more X-rays to obtain images from various angles. Hence, more time is required than a screening mammogram.

The images obtained in a mammogram are stored on film or digitally. In the case of the latter, the images stored in a computer can be magnified, enhanced, or manipulated for detailed assessment, which is not possible with images stored on film.

This has the advantage of assessing subtle image differences, assessment at another site (teleradiology), and fewer repeat X-rays, leading to a decreased radiation exposure.

There is no difference in the procedure for conventional film or digital mammography.

Mammogram

The patient is asked to remove the top of her dress by a female radiographer. Each breast is placed firmly between two small plates of an X-ray device, one at a time. The compression of the breast facilitates the taking of clear X-ray images.

Some women find this uncomfortable, others find it painful. However, the discomfort is transient, i.e. only during the compression of the breast. There is evidence that discomfort or pain is reduced by quality information about the procedure and control over the breast compression.

Painkillers (analgesics) are not helpful.

Two X-rays are usually taken in a screening mammogram, one from above, and the other from the side. This process doubles the cancer detection rate.

The X-ray images are assessed by a specialist (radiologist). If the images are not clear, or abnormalities are found, the patient will be asked to return for additional X-rays.

The time taken for the report to be available depends on the healthcare facility. It is natural to have some degree of anxiety while waiting for the result of a mammogram, which will be reported by the radiologist.

2 April, World Autism Awareness Day

Be prepared, World Autism Awareness Day is coming this 2nd April. Get to know autism and try to understand more of our fellow autistic brothers and sisters in this world. Let's say hello to Quinn here who is autistic.




Here's a little (not many!) info on autism , cited from National Autistic Society of the UK :

Autism is a lifelong developmental disability that affects how a person communicates with, and relates to, other people. It also affects how they make sense of the world around them.

It is a spectrum condition, which means that, while all people with autism share certain difficulties, their condition will affect them in different ways. Some people with autism are able to live relatively independent lives but others may have accompanying learning disabilities and need a lifetime of specialist support. People with autism may also experience over- or under-sensitivity to sounds, touch, tastes, smells, light or colours.

Asperger syndrome is a form of autism. People with Asperger syndrome are often of average or above average intelligence. They have fewer problems with speech but may still have difficulties with understanding and processing language.

Some message from the General-Secretay of the United Nations, Ban Ki-moon:



Did you know the awareness ribbon for autism? (like the red ribbon representing awareness for AIDS). Well here it is:

And lastly, here's a recommended movie for you with a hero who is autistic, featuring the world famous Bollywood actor, Shah Rukh Khan.

Mother and daughter doctor-heroes: Hawa Abdi + Deqo Mohamed

Raw Cocoa: A Super Nutrition. It's Purist Form for Maximum Benefits

The chocolate evolution is gaining speed. Cocoa is making its way through the world of nutrition. Yes, cocoa is chocolate but in its purest form. It is un-roasted and only a few subdued ingredients like sea salt.

Cocoa has been used for thousands of years. Research has recently  shown us that dark chocolate has the ability to reduce blood pressure, that is provided it has at least 70% and above of cocoa. Now enters cocoa with its wondrous health benefits.

Native Americans have acclaimed the wonders of cocoa  through pottery, stone work and stories handed down from one generation to the next.

What makes Cacao a Medical Asset ?

Cocoa  has been demonstrated in science that its Cocoa Flavonols(CF) can improve cognitive function. In a double blind study consisting of 30 healthy adults. The adults had consumed either 520mg or 994mg of CF mixed into a beverage. Both groups of the adults had shown improved cognitive function,and  mental fatigue reduction was found only in those who had consumed 520mg. Those who consumed 994 mg of CF showed increased visual information processing but produced more errors in one of the cognitive tests.This suggests taking flavanols in moderation is much better than taking it in excess.

Cacao also contains potassium, phosphorus, copper, iron, zinc and magnesium, that aids cardiovascular health.It helps lower blood pressure and lowers risks of death from heart disease.

Raw cacao ranks first for nutritional content in comparison to other chocolates. Raw chocolate keeps almost all of its nutritional value due to low processing temperatures than chocolate which is roasted.

Cacao also contains all those nutrients in high doses for health such as vitamin C and omega 6 fatty acids. Studies published in 1996 showed that chocolate contains anandamides that act at the same site in the brain as cannabis. But later studies concluded that these constituents are too low in chocolate to produce any pharmacological effect.The most likely reason for its role in elevating mood and the chocolate craving phenomenon is that it stimulates the release of endorphins.

The Chocolate Information Center has the following facts:

An average size dark chocolate bar contains between ten to sixty milligrams of caffeine. The normal cup of coffee has 175 milligrams.

Dark chocolate weighing forty grams is equal in caffeine to one cup of decaffeinated coffee.

A cup of hot chocolate contains four to five milligrams of caffeine.

Cacao is a great source for antioxidants if it is certified organic raw cacao according to the ORAC scale.

The ORAC scale was developed by USDA researchers. It is a test in which measures the oxygen radical absorption capacity in different foods. It is called the ORAC scale and is one of the most sensitive and reliable methods in measuring antioxidant capacity. The higher the score the higher the level of antioxidants.

"Mind your HEALTH" Dr. C. S. Foo

THERE is a curious little abstract area in the head that determines whether an individual soars with excellence or flaps the wings of mediocrity in life.

This is the trigger zone for many of the decisions we make on a daily basis. It houses passion, determination, commitment, and greatness, but also shares seats with negative emotions, insecurity, fear, prejudice, etc.

It’s in the mind

That non-anatomical entity we call the mind is the conscious part of the brain.

“Mind your language” – speak with consciousness. “Mind your step” – be extra wary not to trip. “Mind your head” – avoid decapitation (by an awkwardly low ceiling fan). “Mind your health” – to prevent future turmoil.

Minding involves conscious control. The mind is like a lawn, with flowers and weeds growing side by side, and like any garden, needs tending. We have to mind the mind, plucking out the wild plants; otherwise, we lose control of directions, goals and dreams.

Weeds of carelessness, a “could-not-care-less attitude”, procrastination, and inertia to action breeds poor health, financial turmoil, and much unhappiness.

The appreciation of certain stimuli is represented by specific areas in the brain. Sight is beheld by the rear (of the brain of course). Taste, smell, touch, and hearing are discerned by different areas on the side of this distorted organ.

What lies in front is the complex processing centre for thoughts, emotions, memory, reasoning, abstract thinking, etc, which also houses the centre of consciousness.

Unfortunately, squatting here, there is a prison for the inmates of negativity, fear, insecurity, and hopelessness.

Taste it, feel it

Taste is the only sensation that fires off excitatory signals from the unconscious to the conscious mind, inducing a constant overwhelming inspiration of the highest degree. Most other impulses bypass this area of conscious awareness and evaporate into nothingness, with no drive or reason to change directions, no spark of inspiration for the day.