THE STAR, FRIDAY 29 SEPTEMBER 2023 HEALTHY HEART

Nourishing your golden years

MALNUTRITION among Malaysia’s
elderly population is a matter of
immediate concern as it brings
forth a multitude of challenges
which include physical and health
consequences.
Elderly individuals experiencing
malnutrition often have weakened
immune systems, making them
more susceptible to infections.
Additionally, they face difficulties
in wound healing, muscle wasting
and an increased risk of frailty.
These health issues not only
diminish their quality of life but
also drive up healthcare costs.
A 2021 study revealed
malnutrition is prevalent among
Malaysia’s elderly with rates at Gan Wan Jing.
7.3%, and that the risk of
malnutrition is even higher at seniors at risk of malnutrition,
23.5%. These statistics highlight allowing timely dietitian referrals
the gravity of the situation and for personalised care plans.
emphasise the urgent need to Nutrition education programmes
address this issue for the well- for elderly residents and their
being of Malaysia’s elderly caregivers also play a crucial role
population. Elderly individuals benefit greatly from proper nutrition, as it supplies essential nutrients that are integral to their in emphasising the significance of
health and significantly enhances their overall quality of life. maintaining the health of elderlies
Factors affecting elderly through a balanced nutrition and
cuisine often includes rice and face, eyes, lips, nails or skin which enjoy and find appealing. This can diet.
nutrition other carbohydrate-rich foods as may indicate micronutrient help create a meal plan that Raising public awareness
staples. While these foods are a abnormalities. patients are more likely to follow.” through campaigns, educational
Damansara Specialist Hospital 2 significant part of the diet, 5. Functional assessment: Malaysian cuisine is rich and materials and workshops can also
dietitian Gan Wan Jing reveals, excessive consumption without a Assessing the individual’s diverse, with many traditional help family members and
“Many elderly Malaysians face balance of other nutrients can functional status and daily living dishes. “Dietitians can help caregivers understand their role in
financial constraints that limit contribute to malnutrition.” activities, as malnutrition can lead patients modify these traditional supporting proper nutrition and
their access to nutritious food. This She further elaborates on how to weakness and reduced physical recipes to make them more MNT for their elderly loved ones.
is particularly true for those who urban areas are witnessing a function. nutritious while still preserving Furthermore, it is crucial to
rely solely on a fixed income, such shift towards processed and 6. Dietary assessment: cultural flavours and familiarity. advocate for government policies
as pensions or social welfare. The convenience foods, which may Reviewing the individual’s dietary Depending on the individual’s that prioritise elderly nutrition in
rising cost of living and healthcare lack the nutritional value of intake and preferences, including medical conditions and dietary aged care facilities. This involves
expenses can further strain their traditional homemade meals. appetite and any challenges with habits, focus on one or two allocating sufficient funding and
budgets, making it difficult to chewing or swallowing. Dietitians achievable dietary goals at a time. resources such as nutritious foods,
afford a well-balanced diet.” Assessing the signs may also conduct a 24-hour dietary This approach ensures that kitchen equipment and staff
The sense of taste and smell recall or food diary to assess recent changes are gradual and training to support proper
often decline with age, resulting in In addressing malnutrition food intake. sustainable, taking into account nutrition. Additionally, advocating
a decreased appetite and a among the elderly, the crucial first 7. Psychosocial evaluation: the individual’s readiness for for the inclusion of dietitians as
lessened enjoyment of food in the step is to effectively identify and Considering psychological and change,” says Gan. essential members of the
elderly. Moreover, problems like assess its signs, and dietitians play social factors like depression, Other strategies include: healthcare team in aged care
tooth loss or dental difficulties can a crucial role in this process. isolation and cognitive l Using clear and simple facilities is vital to achieving
make chewing troublesome, Components that a dietitian will impairment, which can influence language in nutrition education overall improvement in elderly
especially for hard or fibrous food. assess during nutrition assessment dietary choices. materials and counselling sessions, health.
This prompts them to avoid foods include: providing examples and analogies To further enhance the
that are difficult to eat but rich in 1. Medical history: Examining Gan explains, “Based on the to convey information effectively. nutritional care of its elderly
nutrients. the individual’s medical history, assessment findings, dietitians will l Communicating in the population, Malaysia can draw
Besides this, limited mobility including chronic illnesses and help develop individualised patient’s preferred language or inspiration from successful
due to physical disabilities or recent hospitalisations or surgeries nutrition plans to address the dialect to overcome language practices in countries such as
chronic health conditions is a that may have affected their issues faced by elderly individuals. barriers. Singapore. These may include
significant factor contributing to nutritional status. This is why a dietitian asks a lot of implementing meal delivery
poor nutrition among the elderly. 2. Weight changes: Monitoring questions during diet counselling. While Malaysia lacks specific services specifically for elderly
These limitations hinder their weight fluctuations over time, Don’t be surprised by it.” national healthcare policies or individuals, community-based
ability to shop for groceries, particularly unexplained weight guidelines exclusively promoting nutrition programmes and
prepare meals or access loss exceeding 5% of body weight Adapting MNT to preferences MNT in aged care facilities, volunteer initiatives designed to
community programmes offering in one month or 10% in six collaborative efforts among combat social isolation and
food assistance. months. One effective approach to healthcare professionals and promote healthy eating habits.
Loneliness and social isolation 3. Laboratory tests: Performing combat undernutrition in the organisations can significantly Such practices have demonstrated
also play a role in malnutrition blood tests for nutritional markers elderly is Medical Nutrition improve the nutritional outcomes positive effects on the overall
among the elderly. These factors such as serum protein Therapy (MNT), which involves of elderly people. health and well-being of elderly
reduce their motivation to prepare (prealbumin, haemoglobin and evidence-based dietary individuals and can serve as
and consume meals, ultimately haematocrit). Dietitians may interventions to manage and treat Enhancing elderly nutrition valuable models for Malaysia to
resulting in inadequate nutrition. suggest micronutrient testing if various medical conditions. consider.
Mental health challenges, specific deficiencies are suspected Gan emphasises, “Adapting MNT care Gan assures, “By advocating for
particularly depression, can also (e.g., vitamin D, vitamin B12). to meet the cultural and dietary the importance of proper nutrition
impact appetite and eating habits. 4. Nutrition-focused physical preferences of elderly Malaysians As a valuable suggestion to among the elderly, Malaysia can
Elderly individuals dealing with examination: Performing a is essential for its effectiveness. enhance the prevention and work toward enhancing the
depression may lose interest in comprehensive physical Dietitians should always discuss treatment of malnutrition among nutritional care and well-being of
food, experience fluctuations in examination to identify signs such the individual’s food preferences the elderly in aged care facilities, its elderly population.”
weight and neglect proper as fat or muscle wasting, oedema and dislikes. Besides that, they Gan proposes the adoption of
nutrition. (swelling), chewing or swallowing must work collaboratively with routine nutrition screening n For more information, call
Gan also notes, “Malaysian difficulties, and changes in hair, patients to identify foods they procedures. This helps identify 03-7717 3000.
2 Healthy Heart THE STAR, FRIDAY 29 SEPTEMBER 2023

The ideal comfort

IN today’s hectic world, work seems to be
never-ending, whether you’re following a
nine-to-five office routine, working
flexible hours or even as a stay-at-home
parent. With all these busy schedules, it’s
easy to become restless and neglect our sensation of having four expert masseuses tit-tar master (bone setting specialist)
physical and mental well-being. Many of
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simultaneously working on your upper
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Datuk Seri master Chris Leong and is
highly recommended as it improves joint “ The Gintell S6 Plus is
but did you know that it can affect your
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takes is a mere 20 minutes per day to
refresh your body and mind.
unique features towards a personalised
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Therapy is a unique feature that employs
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That is why the new Gintell S6 Plus,
8-Hands Wellness Chair is a worthwhile
biometric scanner for 30 to 60 seconds for
it to measure and scan your heart rate,
strategically placed against the back,
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investment where you can refresh and
relax in the comforts of your home. The
blood oxygen level and fatigue index, and
it will auto-run the massage programme
specially designed cape-like strap made of
graphene, enhancing heat absorption for a
This innovative
Gintell S6 Plus is the first massage chair in
Malaysia equipped with 8D Twin Rollers.
that suits your current health index.
Do not worry if you don’t have the time
more effective therapy session. Whether
you are looking to ease muscle spasms,
feature provides the
This innovative feature provides the to properly stretch your body
during your busy days. The
alleviate menstrual cramps or simply
unwind after a long day, the heat spa
sensation of having
230° Thai Stretch is a full- therapy provides targeted and soothing four expert masseuses
body stretching relief.
programme that is Mental stress can be energy-consuming simultaneously
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Gintell S6 Plus. This
as we are often tensed up and are unsure
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background music creates a serene
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tension.”
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Uncommon heart problems

IT is common knowledge that being vitamin D metabolites play in human
overweight, a heavy smoker, having high cardiovascular function and disease, such
blood pressure and high levels of as inflammation and thrombosis.
cholesterol puts you at risk of developing Rectifying a nutritional deficiency can
cardiovascular issues. be done through making lifestyle
However, there are more discrete adjustments such as adding vitamin D-rich
factors that have been linked to heart- foods into one’s diet. Consider eating more
related complications. Here are some seafood such as salmon, canned tuna and
unexpected examples of certain conditions shrimp, as well as egg yolks, fortified milk
that are causing your heart to work and oatmeal to supplement one’s diet with
harder than usual. the necessary nutrients to keep the risk of
developing heart conditions at bay.
Spending time outside and exposing
Frequent anger one’s skin to natural sunlight is another
According to Outbursts of anger as a great way to get some vitamin D.
trigger of acute cardiovascular events: a Numerous outdoor activities can also help
systematic review and meta-analysis reduce the risk of heart disease alongside
published in the European Heart Journal, a host of other physical and mental health
people who experienced anger were 4.74 benefits. These include morning jogs,
times more likely to get a heart attack and family picnics and hiking.
3.72 times more likely to suffer a stroke
for the next two hours.
Hence, it is important to manage anger Sudden and intensive physical
levels through deep breathing, meditation exertion
or yoga exercises, or other activities that
are relaxing such as journalling or Engaging in physical activity naturally
reading. leads to a heightened heart rate and has a
host of positive health benefits for the
heart. However, pushing the
Lacking vitamin D cardiovascular system way past its limits
Having a vitamin D deficiency has been can lead to devastating consequences
linked to various cardiovascular diseases which has been a rising cause of
and complications, according to cardiovascular dysfunction amongst
Vitamin D and young adults.
Cardiovascular When participating in strenuous
Disease published exercise such as sports or weight training,
in Circulation one should aim to achieve roughly 50 to
Research. It has 80% of their maximum heart rate
been depending on their age range. An
hypothesised to individual’s general fitness level is also an
be connected important factor. If a person is performing
to the role a vigorous workout for the first time in a
of while, they are more prone to over-
exerting themselves in a way that could
cause cardiovascular complications.
If symptoms of excessive nausea and
chest pains arise, stop working out
immediately and take the necessary rest.
THE STAR, FRIDAY 29 SEPTEMBER 2023 Healthy Heart 3

Boosting your metabolic rate

INCREASING metabolic rates has NEAT is simply the energy body metabolism is the lowest.
been of interest to many, consumed when performing daily The major factors contributing
especially among weight- activity. Optimising daily activities to the basal metabolic rate include “Metabolism is
conscious individuals.
Understanding metabolism is
such as cooking while standing or
pacing around the room while on
sex, height, age, ethnicity, body
composition and genetic factors. the conversion of
crucial in guiding us to obtain an
optimal metabolic rate.
the phone has been shown to
increase metabolic rates. Since
While the body compositions are
mainly composed of the vital energy intake i.e.
Metabolism is the conversion of
energy intake i.e. food
these activities will naturally be
done every day, enhancing the
organs, bones, body fat and
muscle mass, the latter two are
food consumption
consumption into products
including energy and waste
energy burned through this
pathway could be regarded as an
the only factors that can be
intentionally changed.
into products
products. Increasing the rate of opportunity that should not be Total body fat is composed of including
conversion is believed to be
burning off body fat. But is this
missed. Moreover, NEAT is found
to be associated with
essential and storage fat. Storage
fat is mainly deposited under the energy and
true?
MSU Medical Centre (MSUMC)
improvement in overall health
and helps in body fat reduction.
skin as subcutaneous fat, or
around the body organs as waste products.
health screening and wellness
specialist Dr Faridah Mohd Zin
EAT is the body’s energy
consumption through structured
visceral fat. The latter has been
shown to have a strong
Increasing the
explains, “Our body consumes
energy in four pathways: basal
exercise which primarily includes
cardiovascular, strengthening,
correlation with the increment in
cardiovascular diseases including
Dr Faridah Mohd Zin. rate of conversion
metabolism, food thermogenesis, flexibility and balance. heart attack and stroke. that work the major muscle is believed to be
non-exercise activities
thermogenesis (NEAT) and
Furthermore, each type should
have specific criteria in terms of
Energy consumption of more
than required would be stored in
groups (legs, hips, back, chest,
abdomen, shoulders and arms) at burning off body
exercise activities thermogenesis
(EAT). More than half of the
frequency, intensity, time and
types (FITT approach) for
the body as fat. Hence, a negative
balance between energy intake
least two times each week.
Examples of muscle- fat.”
body’s metabolism is consumed as different objectives of exercise. and consumption is essential to strengthening activities include
basal metabolism, for the function For example, in maintaining force our body to use up the lifting weights, using resistance
of vital organs such as the heart, fitness, a total of 150 minutes of storage fat as a source of energy, bands, doing push-ups and some
kidneys, brain and many others cardiovascular exercise per week leading to weight reduction. types of yoga. Even everyday Body metabolism happens
(about 60%). is recommended while a longer Looking at the origin of storage fat activities such as gardening, continuously, allowing ongoing
The thermic effect of food has duration is needed for body being food intake, alteration of an playing with your kids and opportunities to maximise its
the lowest contribution which weight reduction. individual’s food intake is crucial carrying groceries can strengthen effect. Body fat is a way for our
involves the energy needed to Food thermogenesis contributes to achieving the desired body fat muscles. body to store unused energy.
change the food we eat into the least to body energy level. Although resistance training is Hence, optimising the body’s
substances that are “edible” by consumption. High lean protein Increasing muscle mass would an important part of a complete metabolism while eating lower
our cells i.e., glucose (about 10%). and whole food use more energy increase the ability of the body to exercise regimen, consuming the than our body’s daily energy
Increasing the metabolic rate in the metabolism compared to use up energy. The American appropriate amount and type of requirement will certainly force
would mean increasing the other types of food and processed College of Sports Medicine protein to maintain and build our body to burn off energy from
energy-burning rate of the body food. Although eating the former recommends regular resistance muscle is just as important. On the stored body fat. Thus,
which theoretically could be would induce higher training exercises as the key to top of that, a healthy balanced consistency in creating this
increased by optimising the NEAT, thermogenesis hence a higher building and keeping muscle. Men diet is crucial to ensure adequate negative balance in energy will
EAT, thermic effect of food and metabolic rate, the contribution and women should participate in macro- and micro-nutrients gradually shave off unwanted
body metabolism. made in the increment of daily muscle-strengthening activities needed for a healthy body. storage fat.
4 Healthy Heart THE STAR, FRIDAY 29 SEPTEMBER 2023

Precision coronary
CORONARY angioplasty is performed to
widen narrowed coronary arteries with
the aim of restoring normal blood supply
to the heart muscles. The world’s first

angioplasty using OCT

coronary angioplasty was performed in
1977 using a technique known as balloon
angioplasty. In contemporary practice,
balloon angioplasty is generally followed
by the implantation of a small,
expandable wire mesh tube known as a
stent which will be left in the artery
permanently.
Bare-metal stents which are simple
metal mesh tubes have largely been
replaced by drug-eluting stents which are
coated with a medicine that is gradually
released into the artery over time. Drug-
eluting stents have undergone significant
improvements over the years in terms of
their design and the type of medication
that is used to coat the stents. These
improvements are meant to improve the
longevity of the stents. Despite all the
advancements, two problems that lead to
stent failure still linger after the
implantation of drug-eluting stents.
The first problem would be in-stent
restenosis whereby there is re-narrowing
of the artery at the segment where the
stent was implanted due to either the 3D assessment of the coronary artery after the implantation of a stent using the OCT. Dr Lee Zhen-Vin.
formation of scar tissue or the build-up of
cholesterol plaques. The second problem reduce the rate of stent failure. and pattern of blockage and since OCT has used to assess whether the stent has been
which is a more serious one, would be Intracoronary imaging is performed by a higher resolution compared to IVUS, it appropriately expanded, whether the
stent thrombosis whereby there is the inserting a flexible tube known as a provides a better assessment of the plaque stent is in contact with the wall of the
formation of a blood clot within the stent catheter over a wire and into the coronary characteristics. artery and whether there is any form of
itself leading to the occurrence of a major artery to generate detailed images of the It is also able to more accurately injury to the wall of the artery, especially
heart attack. While stent failure can be artery. The two forms of intracoronary determine the depth of the calcium within at the edges of the stent. All this
caused by poor control of the underlying imaging are intravascular ultrasound the plaques. This serves as important information gained via the OCT is vital in
medical conditions, it can certainly occur (IVUS) and optical coherence tomography guidance during the procedure as improving the overall success of the
due to the mechanical issues surrounding (OCT). appropriate techniques and tools will need coronary angioplasty procedure.
the implantation of the stent itself. As opposed to IVUS which uses sound to be used to address the problem of In summary, the usage of OCT allows
Examples of mechanical issues include waves, OCT uses near-infrared light to excessive calcium prior to implantation of precision coronary angioplasty to be
implantation of the stent at unhealthy generate high-definition and three- a stent to ensure that the stent is well performed and this has been shown to
areas of the artery, implantation of an dimensional (3D) images of the coronary expanded after implantation. OCT also definitively improve short-term and long-
undersized stent and incomplete artery. OCT is performed using a permits precise measurement of the size of term outcomes.
expansion of the implanted stent. systematic protocol before and after the the artery and length of the blockage to – By Dr Lee Zhen-Vin (consultant
Intracoronary imaging is recommended implantation of a stent. Before angioplasty, guide stent selection. interventional cardiologist at Damansara
by international guidelines as a method to OCT is used to better understand the type After implantation of a stent, OCT will be Specialist Hospital 2)
THE STAR, FRIDAY 29 SEPTEMBER 2023 Healthy Heart 5

Be wary of the silent killer

ACCORDING to the National
Health and Morbidity Survey
2019, three out of 10 Malaysians
live with hypertension, equating
to 6.4 million people being
affected. However, only half of experience heightened blood
them are aware of it, as high pressure.”
blood pressure can be a silent
killer. Diagnosing hypertension
There are generally no obvious Regularly
symptoms until complications Blood pressure exhibits a monitoring
arise. Most of the time, patients dynamic that fluctuates over 24 your blood
only discover they have hours, where during the day, it pressure is
hypertension when they suffer a experiences an increase, peaking essential to
stroke, heart attack or kidney at midday, while diminishing ensure it
failure, or they may discover it during the afternoon and night. remains
incidentally if they have a blood Multiple measurements are within the
pressure machine at home. essential for a comprehensive ideal range.
Sunway Medical Centre, understanding, particularly
Sunway City cardiologist Datuk Dr during the initial stages of This practice entails consistent patients. Emphasising exercise
Yap Yee Guan explains that 95% diagnosis. Analysing the complete monitoring over a week, with and weight loss within the
of the time, primary hypertension, 24-hour profile is imperative in patients subsequently presenting lifestyle, assuming blood pressure
also known as essential determining whether an their readings to a doctor. is within manageable levels, is
hypertension, has no underlying individual is experiencing “The second method involves also crucial to lowering Datuk Dr Yap Yee Guan.
causes. However, the remaining hypertension. utilising ambulatory blood hypertension.
5% have secondary causes due to Doctors play a crucial role in pressure measurements (ABPM), Furthermore, adopting a of treatment, the emergence of
congenital problems such as differentiating genuine which employs a portable blood Mediterranean-style diet rich in renal denervation serves as a
narrowing of the kidney arteries hypertension from white-coat pressure device. Similar to fruits, vegetables, seeds and whole high-potential adjunctive
or tumours of the adrenal glands hypertension. The latter occurs wearing an old-style Walkman, grain products is advisable. This treatment along with medication.
which cause an excessive amount when elevated blood pressure this device features a cuff that holistic approach constitutes the Renal denervation involves
of hormones in the body, resulting results from the anxiety or periodically measures blood essence of lifestyle modification, inserting a catheter into the renal
in higher blood pressure. apprehension associated with pressure, even during sleep.” wherein dietary improvements artery that supplies blood to the
Dr Yap notes, “The older we are, medical settings. This 24-hour monitoring unveils and physical activity take centre kidneys. The catheter then
the more likely we may develop Dr Yap outlines two distinct the entire circadian profile of stage in treatment. delivers radiofrequency energy
high blood pressure. Both men approaches to differentiate blood pressure fluctuations which Following these lifestyle to the nerves surrounding the
and post-menopausal women between white coat hypertension are otherwise unobservable changes, the next phase involves kidney artery, which will reduce
exhibit a higher propensity for and essential hypertension, or through self-measurement. introducing medication and hormone secretion, thereby
developing high blood pressure. possibly a combination of both. maintaining regular follow-ups lowering the blood pressure.
Other key factors include family “Firstly, individuals are instructed Lifestyle modifications and with your doctor. The overarching Such technology signifies a
history, a sedentary lifestyle and to conduct blood pressure objective is to curtail the mortality positive outlook for the future,
chronic stress. Smoking, elevated measurements in the comfort of treatments and morbidity associated with providing high hopes for the
cholesterol levels, inadequate their homes. The initial step in managing hypertension. Generally, the discovery of more effective non-
dietary habits and obesity also “This method capitalises on the hypertension is guiding target blood pressure to strive for pharmacological treatments in
play significant roles in elevating absence of doctor-related individuals towards lifestyle should be less than 140 over 90. managing hypertension and for
blood pressure levels. stressors at home. By doing so, if adjustments. This encompasses a Lifestyle modifications should improving patient outcomes.
Additionally, individuals their blood pressure readings reduction in the consumption of invariably be advocated for all
grappling with diabetes or other remain elevated, it implies the salty foods, as excess salt is patients. While pharmaceutical n For more information, contact
underlying health disorders may presence of genuine hypertension. detrimental for hypertensive therapy remains the cornerstone 03-7491 9191.
6 Healthy Heart THE STAR, FRIDAY 29 SEPTEMBER 2023

Heart disease in women

ACCORDING to the Department of
Statistics Malaysia, ischaemic heart
disease accounted for 13.7% of
reported deaths in 2021, making it a
significant concern in Malaysia.
Other forms of heart conditions Institut Jantung Negara (IJN), delivery, along with past breast
include heart valve disease and “Other reasons women are cancer treatments, particularly Guard your heart
heart arrhythmia, contributing to typically underdiagnosed and radiation to the left chest, can It’s important to prioritise
the overall burden of heart diseases undertreated is due to how further elevate the likelihood of heart health at any age through
in the country. women frequently downplay their heart disease.” primary prevention.
Despite the gravity of these symptoms due to a lack of Moreover, non-modifiable For individuals above 40,
statistics, a significant number of awareness leading to a delayed factors such as genetics, ageing regular check-ups and
women continue to experience presentation. The historical and menopause can influence participation in health screening
undertreatment. underrepresentation of women in hormone levels and vascular programmes are recommended
clinical trials has also led to a function, potentially increasing to detect risk factors early.
limited understanding of the the risk of heart disease. Notably, If you have conditions like
What to look out for mechanisms and treatment mood disorders like anxiety and diabetes, hypertension or known
The primary manifestation of responses for cardiovascular depression which can be more heart disease, following
ischaemic heart disease for both diseases specific to women.” common in women can also prescribed medications and
men and women is chest pain. aggravate this risk. lifestyle advice while maintaining
However, there can be variations in Given these insights, the focus regular follow-up care is essential
the way heart disease symptoms
Know your risk should be on managing to prevent future cardiovascular
manifest between genders. When considering the factors at modifiable risk factors such as issues.
Women may experience a play, it’s important to recognise sedentary lifestyles, unhealthy For those experiencing
broader spectrum of symptoms, that heart disease poses a risk to eating habits, diabetes, symptoms like chest pain,
ranging from being asymptomatic Dr Emily Tan. everyone. hypertension, high cholesterol breathlessness or palpitations,
to having nonspecific feelings like Dr Tan further elaborates, “In and obesity. seeking prompt medical attention
fatigue, weakness, nausea and experienced can significantly the context of women’s health, is crucial to rule out
breathlessness. They are also more impact the diagnosis and treatment there are specific factors to cardiovascular disease.
likely to experience discomfort in of heart disease. consider. Pregnancy-related
Treatment evolution While heart disease continues
atypical locations such as the jaw, According to senior consultant factors such as gestational Various new advancements in to be an issue in Malaysia, Dr Tan
neck and back. cardiologist and clinical director of diabetes, pregnancy-induced treating heart disease in notes that more people have
These differences in symptoms women’s health Dr Emily Tan at hypertension and preterm Malaysia encompasses various become aware of the issue,
pharmacological and device- “Generally, I see a healthy trend
based therapies to better of increasing awareness amongst
manage cardiovascular risk people of all ages and genders
factors, heart failure and with regards to heart health,
cardiomyopathies and to likely attributable to
improve symptoms and technological advances with easy
prognosis. There are also accessibility to information at the
advances in imaging techniques fingertip. Nevertheless, it is fairly
in particular cardiac magnetic easy to fall into the trap of
resonance imaging to further aid misinformation and we need to
clinical diagnosis and facilitate remind ourselves to seek
better understanding of the information only from reliable
underlying disease process sources and always cross-check
which in turn helps the clinician with your doctor when in doubt.”
in deciding the best appropriate
treatment for each individual n For more information, call
patient. 03-2617 8200.

The risk of heart disease exists for women of all ages.

Revolutionising
heart monitoring
OVER the past three decades, are equipped with optical
deaths attributed to sensors that continuously
cardiovascular diseases have seen monitor heart rate throughout
a significant increase of 60% the day. This data helps
globally. This is why early individuals and healthcare
detection and effective professionals identify
management are crucial for irregularities or spikes in heart
reducing the risk associated with rate, which may indicate
these conditions. potential heart problems.
In recent years, wearable l ECG/EKG integration –
fitness technology has emerged as Some high-end wearables now
a powerful tool in the battle feature electrocardiogram (ECG
against cardiovascular diseases. or EKG) capabilities. Users can
These devices, ranging from take ECG readings using their
smartwatches to fitness trackers smartwatches, providing a more
have revolutionised heart comprehensive view of their
monitoring by providing heart’s electrical activity. This
individuals with real-time data feature is particularly useful for
about their cardiovascular health. detecting arrhythmias and atrial
fibrillation.
l Blood pressure monitoring
Advancements in wearable – Wearables are evolving to
fitness technology include blood pressure
monitoring functionality.
l Continuous heart rate
monitoring – Modern wearables > SEE PAGE 8
THE STAR, FRIDAY 29 SEPTEMBER 2023 Healthy Heart 7

Keeping your heart healthy

THE prevalence of heart disease in simple steps: Bioactive oat beta-glucan with high it is lab-tested and **low in Glycaemic
Malaysia is ever increasing and it is still the 1. Be physically active by engaging in molecular weight is the unique form as it Index (GI<55) which makes it suitable for
No.1 killer in Malaysia. According to the exercises such as brisk walking, running, has been scientifically proven to produce pre-diabetic and diabetic patients. Besides,
Department of Statistics Malaysia, the jogging, cycling, swimming, etc. cholesterol-lowering and blood glucose- it is also high in total fibres (soluble and
mortality rate caused by heart disease 2. Avoid red meats such as beef, pork controlling effects due to its high viscosity. insoluble fibres) and lactose-free with no
demonstrated an increasing trend from and lamb. For healthier alternatives, added sugar, artificial ingredients and
13.2% in 2016 to 17.0% in 2020. choose white meats such as fish or lean How does bioactive oat beta-glucan preservatives. Biogrow Oat BG22 also has
Having a high cholesterol level is one of chicken. good solubility as it dissolves readily in
the main culprits that can put you at risk of 3. Choose healthier cooking methods work? water with no shaker required.
developing heart disease. When the low- such as steaming, grilling, baking or Bioactive oat beta-glucan dissolves Let’s embrace a healthy lifestyle by
density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, also boiling which help to reduce the amount readily inside the digestive tract where it making small healthy changes in your diet
known as “bad” cholesterol, is too high, it of oil used. forms a thick viscous gel in the small for good heart health today. Biogrow Oat
builds up in the wall of the arteries to form 4. Eat a high-fibre diet especially foods intestine. This viscous gel attenuates the BG22 is available in major pharmacies
plaque. This condition, known as rich in soluble fibre such as oat beta- intestinal uptake of LDL cholesterol as well and Biogrow Official Store at Shopee Mall.
atherosclerosis, can increase the risk of glucan. as the reabsorption of bile acids which the
heart attack due to the blockage of blood body makes from cholesterol. In response, *Bioactive oat beta-glucans are high in
flow in the arteries. Unleash the power of bioactive oat the body will draw upon the pool of molecular weight and have been
Regardless of your age or current health circulating cholesterol to produce new bile scientifically shown to produce a good
status, it’s never too late or early to take beta-glucan in oat bran acids which are essential for digestion and viscosity effect in the gut for optimal
steps to protect your heart. In order to Oat beta-glucan is a type of soluble fibre absorption of fats in the small intestines. cholesterol-lowering effect – EFSA Journal.
support your heart health journey, substantially found in the oat bran which Lower uptake of cholesterol from the gut **Diets that are low in glycaemic index
keeping your cholesterol level in check is the outer layer of the grain. However, combined with more bodily cholesterol and high in dietary fibre are protective –
is the key. You can start by following these not all oat beta-glucan is the same. used for bile acid production results in WHO Europe Diabetes.
reduced blood cholesterol levels.
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8 Healthy Heart THE STAR, FRIDAY 29 SEPTEMBER 2023

Rowing like
WORLD Heart Day is a reminder to
everyone around the world to take
care of their hearts. Cardiovascular
disease (CVD) is the world’s

never before
number one killer. Combined,
conditions affecting the heart or
blood vessels such as heart attack,
stroke and heart failure kill more
than 20.5 million every year.
By making small changes to our
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