They say that hair is man's crowning glory. Well, that's pretty agreeable as change in our hair style affects our overall appearance in  both positive and negative ways possible. We can not deny the phenomenon about how our generation turned out to be conscious with our hair. Amongst all the many goals circulating the social media world, one of these is obviously the #hairgoals.

Straight-blonde hair? Classic! Dark-Kinky? Stylish! Pink balayage-ocean waves? Trendy! Ash grey-Ombre? Cooool!  Name it! There are so many hair transformation that you can transform your hair into. But of course, because of these hair styling activities that both women and men are hooked up nowadays, hair gets tortured and if it owns a voice it probably have cried for "heeeeelp!"

Some say that hair is a dead cell, so why care anyway?
Scientifically speaking, hair is both alive and dead. The part of the hair found inside the hair follicle is alive. The visible part (shaft of the hair ) doesn’t have any biochemical activity in it is considered dead. Even though a part of your hair is dead, you still need to feed the part that’s alive.

Here are some hair problems and the nutrients needed  to achieve healthy hair:

1. Do you want to prevent dull hair and a dry scalp? This is when vitamin B12, iron, protein and omega-3 fatty acids come to the rescue!
2. If you are experiencing an oily hair day, take your daily grab of dark leafy green vegetables which are rich in vitamins C and A. This will help you achieve the optimum amount of sebum your hair needs.
3. Brittle hair? Hassle!  It also means you’re lacking Biotin. Biotin activates some enzymes involved in the metabolism of carbon dioxide for your hair.
4. Of course, all of us might have experienced hair fall. How embarrassing to see hair strands everywhere! To fight this problem, be sure not to skip your zinc needs. Together with selenium, both nutrients provide a healthy scalp and prevent hair loss.

You will need a healthy diet to keep your hair strong and healthy. But for your instant daily hair regimen, of course shampoo and conditioner are sure must-haves! If you were born with gorgeous hair no matter what you do, then you deserve a big CONGRATULATIONS! Unfortunately though, most of us don't have that. (Sighs.) So choosing the shampoo and conditioner that will suit your hair type and match your hair needs will surely make way to a more vital and lustrous hair.

1. For fine hair, wash it with a ‘volumizing’ shampoo and conditioner to add life and volume.
2. For curly hair, tame flyaway hair and prevent dry, damaged-looking tresses, use shampoo and conditioner specifically for dry or chemically treated hair.
3. Dry hair? No worries. Look for shampoos with intensive moisture replenishment. Coconut oil is one of the best emollients for dry hair too!
4. Say goodbye to oily hair. Use shampoo specifically formulated for oily hair and stay away from shampoo that bills itself as moisturizing or conditioning. You don’t want to add more moisture to oily hair, don’t you?
5. For your colored hair, choose a color-preserving shampoo that won't strip out the highlights you just spent a good cash on at the salon.

Getting lost about where you can get the products that will give you the #hairgoals? Southstar Drug’s Summer Super Savers offers you 50% discount on selected shampoo and conditioner! Hurry promo is still going on!

In this age and time, girls face eating disorder triggered by psychological conditions is a commonplace. Our culture have become image-dominated. About 34% of girls see themselves as “fat” and so use unhealthy dieting to lose weight. Examples are extreme and faulty dieting and binge eating. These things affect most of the girls rather than boys.

Girls especially need to learn healthy eating. Healthy eating is a way of balancing (not ditching and bingeing) the food you eat to keep your body strong, energized, and well nourished.

Now let’s put your health consciousness a notch higher! It’s always good to know the basics:

Healthy eating is a great way to:

• Have energy all day long

• Get the vitamins and minerals your body needs

• Stay strong for sports or other activities

• Reach your maximum height (if you are still growing)

• Maintain a healthy weight

• Prevent unhealthy eating habits, like skipping meals and feeling overly hungry at the next meal

For girls, science shows that there are foods that could offer the extra edge. Here are some of them.

Tomatoes

Ripe and juicy, heirloom and cherry tomatoes are an easy food to love. Boston researchers conclude lycopene or other phytochemicals eaten as oil-based tomato products may protect against cardiovascular disease.

Cooking tomatoes, and adding oil, makes lycopene and other antioxidants more readily available.

Flaxseed

Flax has a plant based omega 3 fats, fiber, and disease-fighting compounds called lignans. A Mayo Clinic study finds 40 grams of crushed flaxseed can cut down on hot flashes, and several reports suggest flax can lower "bad" or LDL cholesterol and triglycerides.

1-2 tablespoons of ground flaxseed per day since whole seeds aren't readily digested.

Kale

Antioxidants like lutein and zeaxanthin protect the eye are present in Kale. It’s also rich in Vitamin K which lowers the risk of hip fracture. It also provides your daily dose of vitamin C and small amounts of calcium.

Salmon

Tagged us one of the healthiest food in the world, salmon is an excellent source of vitamin B12, vitamin D and selenium. It is a good source of niacin, omega-3 fatty acids, protein, phosphorus and vitamin B6. It is also a good source of choline, pantothenic acid, biotin and potassium. It also provides important amounts of the antioxidant amino acid taurine.

Two servings (about 4 ounces) of salmon, or other fatty fish, per week.

Cranberry Juice

Women's urinary tract infections can helped be treated by cranberry juice because of the antioxidants called proanthocyanidins. These tannins prevent bacteria from adhering to the walls of the bladder where they can multiply and cause, or intensify, an infection.

Drink unsweetened 100% cranberry juice (60 calories per cup) to avoid excess sugar.

For more healthy eating and lifestyle pointers, do not forget to read our articles in this section!

Throughout the years, "pasma" has been a very hot health topic in the Philippines. To begin with, this illness originated here in our country that is why it has no English equivalent. I bet you have heard your grandmother's reminder: "Apo, wag kang maligo pagkatapos mo mag basketball. Pasma ang aabutin mo!" (Child, do not take a bath right after you played basketball. You'll get pasma!) Like I said, there's no English equivalent for this word. Although, "pasma" originated from the Spanish word espasmo which means "spasm". Spasm is the sudden involuntary contraction of a muscle or a group of muscles. That definition is far different from what pasma is believed to be.

“Pasma” is said to be the interaction of hot and cold.
When someone has been constantly under heat pressure or has been overworking all day long, their muscles are therefore in state of "init" (heat). Once these muscles are abruptly brought in contact with "lamig" (cold) water or air, it will result to pasma.  Another examples are when a person has been reading, facing the computer, and sleeping while hair  is still wet. When all these factors are repeatedly done, it might cause death (that's what they say).

Pasma has been blamed for numerous incidents of people who suddenly died or  became mentally dysfunctional. The contemporary medical science is strongly against with this belief. According to the doctors, it should die a very fast death. In contrary, one Anthropologist from the University of the Philippines pointed out that even if this belief is not recognized by mainstream medicine, the ailments are very real as far as people are concerned, causing suffering and may even be cited as the cause of death.  Whatever it is, still majority of the Filipinos believes to that thing called pasma.

 
There are several beliefs regarding how to prevent or avoid “pasma.”  These include avoiding tiresome, repetitive movements of the upper extremities, showering and bathing in the morning, and avoiding washing clothes after ironing. In short, just don’t go into water when you’re so tired or has been exposed to heat. Relax, and take an hour or so of rest before doing so. Folkloric treatments for “pasma” include massages using ginger, coconut oil, alcohol, garlic, and camphor oil. Soaking in lukewarm salted water or rice water is also believed to cure “pasma.”

There are many Filipinos who claimed to have experienced pasma recommend the effectivity of one herbal medicine approved by the Food and Drug Administration of the Philippines. Southstar Drug’s Summer Super Savers is giving away free tablets of this herbal medicine so stay tuned on what more we have in store just for you!

Going to the gym should never be a boring routine. Part of it is looking forward to a great playlist! Good work out songs should have lively and catchy beats that motivate you in getting your sweat on. 

Pump up your work out with these popular songs:

1. “Worth it” by Fifth harmony feat. Kid Ink

2. “Dazed and Confused” by Jake Miller

3. “Bang Bang” by Jessie J, Ariana Grande and Nicki Minaj

4. “Sorry” by Justin Bieber

5. “Hands to Myself” by Selena Gomez

Naga City - Southstar Drug celebrates 81 years with Run for Wellness 9: The Color your Run which is now on the 9th installment!

Register for 3k or 5k in select Southstar Drug branches in Bicol and get 10% off until August 31, 2018. Run for Wellness 9 will be held at Plaza Quezon in Naga City on September 9.

The Coloryour run with two categories that you will surely enjoy, 3K and 5K Color Run. With the combination of different colors with shades plus giveaways. RUN FOR WELLNESS will truly be remarkable and you can just FEEL THE WELLNESS in the route.

After all the breathtaking and color your run, there will be a Zumbawith the finale of color blast.

REGISTRATION FEE
Php 300 FOR 3K / 5K
Inclusive of Racebib, Singlet and Finisher Medal

REGISTRATION VENUES
Select Southstar Drug branches:
NAGA
- Crown Hotel Bldg., Cor E. Angeles St. & P. Burgos St. San Francisco Naga City Camarines Sur
- #77 Concepcion Pequeña, Naga City, Camarines Sur
DAET
- Elevated Plaza Vinzons Ave., Daet, Camarines Norte
IRIGA
- Alfelor St., Cor. Rotary Road, Iriga City, Camarines Sur
LEGAZPI
- Rizal St., Legazpi City, Alba

For More Information:
Visit: www.southstardrug.com.ph
Call: Tel. No. +63 (2) 643-3137

Poster

FFinisher Medal

Racebibs

Route Map

If you have never encountered the word “Zumba” in your life, it’s time to wake up, maybe you’ve been in comatose all these years! Nah, kidding aside,  Zumba has been invading the world of fitness program real quick. Many are being added on the list of “affected people” in this so-called “fitness craze”.

“Zumba” was discovered “accidentally” in the mid-90s when a Colombian trainer named Alberto Perez, who was said to be the “root” of this dance fitness, forgot to bring his regular aerobics-style music tape for his aerobics class. He then improvised the props to be used for the exercise and used the only tape that he brought that day which is composed of Latin dance music and then that’s it!

Zumba is a combination of exercise and dance. Of course, who wouldn’t want to get fit while dancing on a very lively music with great people around, right? Zumba is not just for the young and fit people because as a matter of fact, it actually attracts more older adults today.

If you haven’t join a Zumba program yet, check this out. These are some of the benefits you could get that could change your mind and might make you consider in joining a Zumba group soon.

• Improves cardiovascular health. Research shows that in order to improve the condition of your cardiovascular system, you should get engaged in physical activities and yes, Zumba has it.
• Weight loss. This is actually the common reason why people join Zumba program. Such physical activities help in burning fat that makes you feel uneasy.
• Boosts self-confidence. Survey says that participants of Zumba program feel better of themselves after being part of it. So if you’re looking for your “long-lost self-confidence”, why won’t you give this a try?  Maybe it’s time for you to be reunited again.
• Releases stress hormones. It’s a usual sight in Zumba classes wherein participants are laughing and smiling while dancing their body because basically, Zumba is fun!
• Total body workout. Regular sessions of Zumba dance have the power to refresh all your body parts, such as your hips, your arms, your heart, and most especially your mind.
• Easy learning environment. In Zumba class, you don’t actually have to move exactly like what the instructor is doing. All you have to do is move big and give it all so that everything would be worth it. In other words, there is nothing to be intimidated about because the place is judgment-free.

Zumba program has no limit in age. Younger ones, older ones, everyone is welcome and encouraged to join. It’s not just that Zumba would make you achieve being fit but also the amazing truth that this could actually help you have a better mindset and principles in life. As long as you have the guts and the power to do the moves and to dance your way up, then, Zumba is definitely for you!

From starting and taking care of your new family, to making sure the house does not burn down, to keeping up with your 9-5 job, sometimes it feels like you’re the only new mom out there who’s been Google-ing “how to lose pounds” or “how to gain back weight after giving birth” every night before getting your usual 2-3 hour sleep. But don’t let the social media world fool you. You’re not the only one, Mommy.

A lot of new moms are into mommy fitness nowadays no matter how busy the day-to-day life is. That’s why we’ve got these tips to help you stay fit like the Super Mom that you truly are!

1. Listen to your doctor

Although we understand that you want to get back on track as soon as possible, it’s important to listen to your doctor’s recommendation. If your physician suggests to start working out 6 weeks post-natal, then start your workout 6 weeks after — not any time earlier than that. Doing your exercise earlier than suggested may cause a longer recovery period.

2. Prioritize exercise

Always remind yourself that squeezing in even at least 15 minutes of exercise every day is essential in taking care of your family — because we all know that is at the top of your list of priorities. If you make time to stay active, you have more energy to focus on your family.

3. Develop your own routine

If you can’t squeeze in a full 30-45 minute workout into your everyday mom schedule, they key is breaking it up. Hit two birds with one stone by playing around with your kids for some 20 minutes, going for a 15 minute walk during lunch or while doing errands, and doing stretches for 10 minutes while you wait for the laundry to finish. With that, you’ve successfully completed a 45 minute workout.

4. Let the junk food go

Stay fit doesn’t just involve working out. It has a lot to do with lifestyle choices as well. Instead of sticking with chicken fingers and mac and cheese, go with fresh fruits and lean protein. This will not only benefit you, but the whole family as well as it promotes healthy eating within the entire household.

5. Breastfeed for weight loss

Yes, you read that right! Breastfeeding can speed up weight loss. So while you’re ensuring your baby gets the nutrients he or she needs from you, you are also helping your body burn up to 500 calories per day and your uterus contract to help your stomach flatten faster!

6.  Celebrate every victory

It’s not going to be easy, Mommy, but once you put in the work, you’ll reap the results. So keep at it and watch your confidence build up as you notice even the smallest changes in your body. Give yourself a pat on the back after every achievement and remind yourself that you can take your time because you’re doing this mostly for your own fitness and wellbeing!

These tips can not only help you achieve your ultimate mommy fitness goals, but they can help you create the mind and body you need to provide for and nurture your family. You’ve got this, Mommy! We believe in you!

Today, women not only handle home and a career but manage a complete overall personal growth. That’s how empowered women of today’s generation are! However, research shows that many women are facing health difficulties due to their busy lifestyle. Due to the lack of exercise and balanced diet, obesity and poor overall fitness strike in.

We understand that it could be challenging to juggle between personal and professional life that’s why today, we round up these smart and practical tips. We hope you’ll find them helpful!

1. Not a morning person? Become one! Get up as early as you can, eat your home-cooked breakfast, prepare your food for the entire day, and spare a good 20 minutes before hitting the shower and do some yoga practices.

2. Make it social: If you're concerned about falling off with friends you see regularly, get them involved in your new healthy habits! Invite them for night jogging or simply a walk to the restaurant where you plan to eat your lunch out.

3. Place a vision board at home or in the office where it is visible so you can see it time to time. Vision board is no bogus; it really does help you as it inspires and reminds you of the goals you have on your list. So get all those magazine or book excerpts that inspire you and pin it on your vision board. Do not forget to include the #bodygoals!

4. Remember that even in the office, you can stay active all throughout the day! For example: Walk and talk, stand up maybe during meetings, or keep standing while working if you do not have much typing work to do. Take a short walk during your lunch break, take short breaks every half hour where you walk around to get a cup of water or coffee from your office’s pantry and then get back to your desk.

5. Constant snacking is one of the easiest ways to blow your calorie count for the entire day. So if you can’t help it and you really do snacks, try to make them healthy instead. Stock up with all the healthy snacks to steer clear from various lifestyle diseases.

6. At this moment, you probably know what clothes look best on you. The rule is to wear clothes for your body type. Simple as that. So while you’re still burning the extra muffin top, be smart and find attractive clothes that fit your current size. Be confident, it’s just a matter of highlighting the best features, you know. . .

Be positive, be happy, be the best you! No matter what, believe in yourself and remember the most important lesson of all: “A positive outlook is a choice that you can always make.” Don’t hinder the release of your feel good hormones. Laugh as you can. Think happy thoughts. After all, it’s all in the mind. The outside reflects what’s inside. So when you leave the comfort of your home everyday, chin up, smile and look the best you can be. Have confidence as you walk and stand tall. Your body will have a much different look this way!

Source:

Top fitness tips for working women. http://goo.gl/0OMeR0 

Woman, YOU NEED A BREAK!

Have you ever wondered how multitasking seems to be a talent that every women possess?

From being a mom to taking on jobs from the corporate and industrial world. They seem to always be on the go and are determined to get the job done. Women are wired to keep going and be on their best self.

Getting the job done is never a problem for them, but most of the time being empowered and on the go is a thing that keeps our mind and body occupied. We forget about self-care and health.

 A tired mind and a lifeless body will never be as productive and creative as a sound one. To continue being the unstoppable women that they are these things must be considered.

Taking a break is not a crime, boost yourself up woman and continue being an advocate of change with these tips;

Never skip a spoonful. Skipping breakfast is never the best way to start your day. Working on an empty stomach makes any individual distressed.

Take that long walk. Spend time on peaceful places that can relax both your mind and body. It is essential that these aspects take break and recharge.

NAP. Do not underestimate the power of taking naps. Getting enough sleep is a tedious task but your body needs it. Naps can add to the hours of sleep you miss at night.

Go on a vacation. Plan that trip you’ve been wanting. Go with your family or spend some time alone. Experience new things and revitalize yourself.

Spoil yourself. Some me time won’t hurt. Spend time refreshing your body. Go to a spa, relax, take yoga session, meditation or just binge watch your favorite series and do nothing.

Downtimes are important; it replenishes your brain and improves productivity and attention span. It is essential in achieving our highest level of performance and in forming memories of our daily life.

Women may be seen as unstoppable but your bodies are not built like Wonder woman. Always keep in mind that even super heroes need rest. 

“There is virtue in work and there is virtue in rest. Use both and overlook neither.” – Alan Cohen

References:

http://www.nytimes.com/2012/06/17/jobs/take-breaks-regularly-to-stay-on-schedule-workstation.html?emc=eta1

https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/mental-downtime/

Everyone nowadays knows about other forms of exercise that go beyond lifting weights. Crossfit, parkour, running… But one of the more popular ways to exercise is through yoga. It’s known for how it trains one’s flexibility and core muscles, as well as how it requires little to no equipment and can be done indoors. But do people really know what it means to practice yoga?

Origins of Yoga

Yoga originated from ancient India around fifth century BCE. It comes from the Sanskrit word yuj, which means “to add” or “to unite.” It shows in how it wasn’t only done for physical discipline, but also for mental and spiritual discipline. It’s associated with different religions, such as Hinduism, Buddhism, and Jainism.[1]

More Than Meets The Eye

Still think yoga is just an exercise? Serious yoga practitioners may disagree.

Yoga is a holistic way of life, focusing on sharpening every aspect of the human person. Hardcore practitioners consider it a way of life, a means to an end. Yoga has an ultimate goal: moksha, or liberation from worldly suffering.[2] There are yoga masters who describe this goal as being ‘consciously conscious,’ where the body, mind, and spirit become one.

Yoga itself is more than just doing poses on a mat, and includes calming the mind and living a nonviolent and righteous life. It’s more than just an exercise, it’s a way of life.

Photo from: https://pixabay.com/en/yoga-beach-sunset-relax-meditation-1996209/

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[1] "Yoga." Wikipedia. Wikimedia Foundation, 05 July 2017. Web. 06 July 2017.

[2] "The Ultimate Goal of Yoga." Yoga.com. Snapside Ltd., 18 Feb. 2014. Web. 06 July 2017.