Di Kana N'ya Love? Ayos Lang 'Yan

Season change. Stuvvs happen, ayos lang yan.

Back with a new web-series, Ramon Bautista stars in Tales of the Friend Zone X (#TFTFx) to share the bittersweet love story of Arvin Jimenez (Ramon Bautista) and Teacher Ines (Nikki Veron Cruz). Set as a love story filled with pwetty sunsets and “Love is only real when baduy” moments, #TFTFZx will make any love bird tweet feelings to the max.

Also starring TV personality, Nikki Veron, and the boys of Boy’s Night Out, Sam YG, Tony Toni, and Slick Rick; TFTFZx is the ayos way of welcoming the cold rainy days of June.

But it’s not all weepy feelings for TFTFZx. To reward the fans of TFTFZx and the 2013 release of Tales from the Friend Zone series (http://blog.ayosdito.ph/index.php/tales-from-the-friend-zone-zero-tftfz-tftfzero/), AyosDito.ph is giving away fabulous prizes perfect for mending broken hearts. Starting on June 11 until June 30, you can be one of the lucky winners of Gshock watches, Gshock couple watches and GoPro Hero 3+ Black Edition cameras.

To join, you just have to share why you love AyosDito.ph for buying great deals or selling your pre-loved items. It’s that easy! So if you think you’re not very lucky in love, here in AyosDito.ph, you have all the chance you want to go home a winner!

www.AyosDito.ph, a leading and trusted online buying and selling website in the Philippines, knows how instinct tells you to hold on to things, especially the more sentimental ones. However, there are new stories waiting to be made only if you let go of things and accept that “Stuvvs happen, ayoslangyan.”

By letting go of pre-loved items on AyosDito.ph, you get the closure you need to move on; while also getting the chance to earn a little extra for other exciting things to try. Even more, you get the chance to win exclusive prizes too!

Ayos ‘di ba?

For more info, visit http://blog.ayosdito.ph/index.php/ayoslangyan/

Muranglipad.com signs deal with M Lhuillier Financial Services, Inc. as Cash Payment Acceptance Partner

(In Photo) L to R:  Mr. Patrick Tan, COO of SEAIR International, Ms. Delza Gochoco, President and General Manager of Triplestar Travel and Tours, Mr. Charles L. Lhuillier, MLFSI Executive Vice President and Ms. Clairene C. Umali, MLFSI Insurance & Special Products Division Manager.

Muranglipad.com announces its partnership with M Lhuillier Financial Services, Inc. (MLFSI) to accept cash payments for air ticket issuances. Muranglipad.com, a division of Triplestar Travel and Tours Inc, is an online budget travel portal that provides airfare comparison and real time ticketing for all airlines to all domestic and international destinations. 

With this partnership, clients can now enjoy expert travel advice online from Muranglipad.com’s website or through its pool of Travel Specialists through its reservations hotline at 849-0100, 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM, Mondays to Fridays and 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM Saturdays and Sundays and the convenience of paying their booked air tickets through any of the 1,600 M.Lhuillier locations nationwide with almost 160 locations operating 24/7.

To find out more about the new and exciting services, you may visit muranglipad.com, any of Triplestar’s ticketing offices nationwide and M.Lhuillier’s website at www.mlhuillier.com.
www.facebook/muranglipad.com and /mlhuillierkwartapadala

Teens Strongly Advised to Continue Drinking Milk

Milk is not just for babies and small kids only.

Calcium makes bones and teeth dense and strong. lt also plays a role in blood clotting, muscle contraction and nerve transmission. Ninety-nine percent of the calcium in the body is found in the bones and teeth. Calcium is not only important to infants but also to adolescents and adults, as well. During adolescence the need for calcium is high because 45% of their bone mass is formed during puberty.

Sources of calcium include green leafy vegetables, small fishes with bones that can be eaten, and milk and milk products. Milk is the most important source because it contains highly absorbable calcium. It is usually consumed by infants, toddlers and younger children, but it is not a popular drink among the teenagers.

The 7th National Nutrition Survey (NNS) conducted by the Food and Nutrition Research lnstitute of the Department of Science and Technology (FNRI-DOST) in 2008 revealed that there is a low consumption of milk among the adolescents, only 15% of males and 29% of females are drinking milk. This low milk consumption is accompanied by a high intake of caffeine rich beverages such as coffee and softdrinks.

The 7th NNS listed the top 30 most commonly consumed food items of adolescents aged 13 to 19 years old, were coffee and softdrinks landed in the 6th and 7th spots, respectively. Consumption of milk and milk products, however were not even in the list. Caffeine can lower calcium absorption in the body and as a result, an adolescent can have lower calcium in the body because of low calcium intake and high caffeine intake.

Based on the 7th NNS, calcium is the least consumed nutrient by adolescents with only 0.33% meeting the 80% of the dietary requirements for calcium. It is important for adolescents to continue drinking milk because at this stage, the body is continually undergoing bone building until about the age of 30 years.

What are the consequences of not getting enough calcium by this age?

As people age, bone loss exceeds bone-building. Thus, older people are more at risk to osteoporosis, a condition in which bones become brittle and more prone to fractures. Milk should be a part of the daily diet from childhood to old age to prevent weak bones and frequent fractures later in life.

Milk drinking should also be vigorously promoted among teenagers because it is during this time that they learn to drink other beverages such as softdrinks and coffee, which often replaces milk in their diet.

If milk drinking is not practiced, it is equally important to consume calcium-rich foods as advocated by the 2012 Nutrition Guidelines for Filipinos (NGF).

Let us follow message number five of the NGF which states: "Consume milk, milk products and other calcium-rich foods, such as small fish and shellfish, everyday for healthy bones and teeth."

For more information on food and nutrition, contact: 

Dr. Mario V. Capanzana

Director, Food and Nutrition Research Institute

Department of Science and Technology

General Santos Avenue, Bicutan, Taguig City

E-mail: mvc@fnri.dost.gov.ph

Telefax: 837-2934 and 827-3164

Telephone No.:8372071 local 2296

http://www.fnri.dost.gov.ph

FNRI-DOST S&T Media Service PR– CELINA ANN Z. JAVIER

Jollibee Family Bee Day at Nuvali

It had been a great day. The sun was set up high as me and my little boy headed to Nuvali grounds in Sta. Rosa, Laguna to celebrate with other families for the Jollibee Family Bee Day Grand Picnic.

Same with us, thousands of others converged in five different venues across the country and enjoyed a fun-filled afternoon.

This event was held simultaneously at the Quirino Grandstand in Manila; Bayanihan Park in Pampanga; Plaza Independencia in Cebu; Crocodile Park in Davao and here at Nuvali Fooball Grounds in Sta. Rosa, Laguna.

“We are very excited to mount an event of this magnitude that celebrates the Filipinos’ love for bonding over good food. We are very happy with the turn-out and pleased to see everyone enjoying the company of other people whom they treat like family. Talagang dito sa Jollibee, ang sarap maging pamilya,” said Jollibee Vice-President for Marketing Harvey Ong.

Famous celebrity Ms. Marian dela Riva thrilled the crowd with her giggling song and dance performance. Pop prince Erik Santos and Moonstar88 band also crazed everyone.

Stilt walkers, jugglers and a musical band paraded around the grounds along with the different Jollibee mascots that was a sure delight especially for the kids. My little boy Ivan had a real grand time queueing up several times at the giant inflatable slide and at the basketball shoot out. Each kid was given a special toy treat if he got that shoot correctly. There was also a giant picnic basket and a special photo frame installations to capture those wonderful moments.

By turning an ordinary summer afternoon into a fun-filled celebration with exciting entertainment from some of the country’s leading celebrities and bands, outdoor fun and games and great-tasting food, the country’s number one family fast-food chain truly enabled thousands of families to celebrate the grandest picnic ever.

Thank you again Jollibee for making us part of this truly memorable event.

Crocs' Epic Sale Dates

As low as P199.00!!! wow!!!

Crocs fans, you are in for a treat this summer! The world’s favorite comfort shoe brand is set to have an Epic Sale Event from May 16 to 18, 2014 at the Filinvest Tent in Alabang, Muntinlupa City. It’s a Crocs sale unlike any other and more than what you’ve experienced before! The anticipated sale of the season will surely bring smiles to loyal fans as it offers up to 90% off on a wide selection of styles.

Citibank cardholders are invited to join the exclusive preview sale on May 15, 2014.

Crocs is making this event more special with a contest on Facebook where fans will be given the chance to win VIP Passes as a way of saying thank you for the support they’ve shown in the past seven years.

Aside from the Alabang sale, you can also head down to SM Dasmariñas and Studio of Riverbanks Center in Marikina on May 29-June 1 to enjoy even more markdowns. Stay tuned as Crocs announces more dates!

For more information on the contest, other promos, and announcements, simply like Crocs Philippines on Facebook and follow @crocsph on Instagram and Twitter.

American Eye Center Rewards OFW Heroes

To reward all their efforts and hard-work, American Eye Center came up with the OFW Privilege Card, which can be obtained from its Shangri-La and Greenbelt branches. With the OFW Privilege Card, kababayans can now secure eye health for themselves and for their dependents from anywhere in the world through discounts on diagnostics and treatments.

“The American Eye Center has always admired the OFWs, and would like to honor them in our own way. These modern day Filipino heroes deserve much recognition and we do that by offering quality eye care for them and the rest of their families through our exclusive OFW Privilege Card,” says American Eye Center’s COO Dr. Benjamin Cabrera.

American Eye Center offers the OFW Privilege Card to all overseas Filipino workers and their qualified dependents. The card is absolutely free and entitles the bearer to a 50 percent discount on comprehensive eye examinations and 15 percent discount for their dependents. The card also allows special 20 percent discount on cataract surgery, 15 percent discount on All Laser or Bladeless LASIK, and 10 percent off on diagnostic procedures.

The card also offers exclusive discounts at American Eye Center partner SPEX Optical. All OFW’s need to do is set an appointment and present valid overseas employment documents to avail of these unlimited discounts until May 2014.

Excellence in Ophthalmic Care

American Eye Center has been breaking new ground in ophthalmic care since its establishment in 1995. American Eye Center’s level of excellence is backed by the Associated Eye Specialists, the most experienced and longest-running EyeMD group practice in the country, composed of 17 doctors extensively trained in various ophthalmic subspecialties. The Center is also staffed with highly qualified optometrists, nurses and counselors to provide patients with personalized quality eye care.

American Eye Center is a full-service diagnostic, therapeutic and surgical eye facility fully accredited with the Department of Health and the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation. It houses the latest diagnostic equipment for the early detection and monitoring of all eye diseases such as Glaucoma, Diabetic Retinopathy and Cataract.

Its location in Greenbelt 5 in Makati City has a laser suite, an operating room, a recovery room, examining rooms, and a spacious reception area. Clients can also choose from a wide array of elegant eyewear from SPEX, a world-class eyewear center adjacent to the American Eye Center and managed by The Optical Shop.

The company’s main office is located at the level 5, Shangri-La Plaza, EDSA cor. Shaw Blvd., Ortigas Center, Mandaluyong City. For inquiries and details, call tel. nos. 636-0762 or 729-EYES (3937) or email us at info@americaneye.com.ph. You may also visit www.americaneye.com.ph for more information about the OFW Privilege Card.

Avail of American Eye Center’s OFW Privilege card and ensure a clear future for the entire family. Set an appointment today via phone or e-mail or through American Eye Center’s appointment planner available at their website. Always stay in the know by downloading the American Eye Center App available on iPhone, iPad, and on Android.

A Mind Blowing Music Experience for Today’s Generation: Colgate Fresh Jam

Summertime is almost near which also means lots of free time because most of our kids will be out of school. Wo why not make them busy and let them engaged in something worthwhile.

For the first time ever, budding songwriters will be given a chance to collaborate with today’s hottest OPM artists. Colgate Fresh Confidence will allow the youth to say their piece on love and relationships, empowering their fellow youth, having great confidence and achieving their dreams, together with their music idols all through social media.   

This fresh way of composing song lyrics is in tune with this generation’s penchant for social media. The campaign kicked off with a call for aspiring artists to register on Facebook, where participants from Manila, Cebu and Davao were selected for a songwriting workshop.

The lucky young artists enjoyed a mind blowing experience that not all aspiring songwriters get to experience: to be mentored by some of the biggest names in OPM music today, which included Kean Cipriano and Lem Belaro of Callalily, Miggy Chavez and Mong Alcaraz of Chicosci, Eunice Jorge of Gracenote, and flip-top rap artist Abra. They also applied what they learned by composing a song with their mentors, and performing the song in front of the other participants in less than 2 hours! A total of 17 unique and catchy songs were created in the 3 workshops. All of these songs are showcased in the official YouTube Channel of Colgate Philippines.

“Ang galing nung nangyari kasi kahit sila yung mine-mentor namin, kami rin natuto sa kanila in the process. Na-inspire uli akong mag-compose ng songs” says mentor Lem Belaro.

It only got more fun from there. The second phase encouraged the entire nation to collaborate on a song. To kick things off, Callalily, Chicosci, Gracenote and Abra composed and released a melody and a chorus that tackled topics of particular interest to the youth: love and relationships, youth empowerment, and achieving their dreams. The participants sent their lyrics with the hashtag #ColgateFreshJam to create the next big hit song of the youth. The artists then let the magic unfold as the different voices from the crowd-sourced lyrics are put together to complete the songs and ultimately become the anthem of the youth. The completed songs will not only be heard nationwide over the radio, but it will also be launched in a series of concerts.  

Kean Cipriano, lead singer of Callalily, is excited about this project, “Sa totoo lang, ang daming gustong sabihin ng mga kabataan ngayon. Ngayon lang din nangyari na we have a unique chance to make music with them. We would like to hear their voice, and this is the best way to do it--by engaging them through music.”

The songs will be officially launched on March 28 at the Colgate Fresh Jam Concert Tour, which will feature performances by the aforementioned artists, and will be hosted by Nikki Gil at the SM North Edsa Skydome. The night will be a celebration of not just the local music scene, but also the youth’s achievement in creating a song that best embodies the voice of their generation. Colgate Fresh Jam will also hold provincial concerts with performances by Callalily and local bands in Matina Town Square, Davao on March 7 and Mango Square, Cebu on March 14. Fans can enjoy the night by simply purchasing any Colgate Fresh Confidence 145 ml variant and presenting an official receipt at any SM Tickets branches.

So what else are you waiting for? Start writing and posting to make the whole world sing only with Colgate Fresh Jam.

JOLLITOWN CARAVAN EVENT in CALAMBA

My little boy woke up early today. Yes! Its not his usual late morning wake up time. He is about to have a great day because it’s the Jollitown Caravan Event here in Calamba City, Laguna.

When we reached LCC Auditorium (event venue), there was already a long queue but in a matter of minutes we were ushered inside the hall by Jollibee crews. The auditorium was already filled with lots of people, still we were able to find seat at the side bleachers near the stage area. There was a huge crowd and according to a store manager, this year’s event has a big turn-out, about twice the number of those who attended last year. And it was really overwhelming for them.

To be able to participate in the event you have to purchase a ticket which costs 175 pesos. It is inclusive of entrance to the event for one kid and one companion; a Jollibee meal ( 1pc chickenjoy with plain rice, 1pc regular yum, 1pc tetra juice drink); and a souvenir Jollibee plastic tumbler. It also earns you a raffle ticket where they gave out Chickenjoy buckets to lucky participants. Oh! I love that so much but today seems not so lucky for us because we didn’t won in the raffle, ha!ha!

The program began with a prayer and the singing of the national anthem. Afterwhich a retro dance presentation by some Jollibee crews. It’s a treat for all the moms and dads who were there and who would not feel like dancing to the tunes of "Buttercup", "Just Got Lucky", "Rico Mambo" and other new wave hits.

There was also a modern dance presentation, a ballet dance and song renditions from some young Calamba talented young girls and JKC members. But nothing more excites the kids and everyone when the Jollibee mascots appear on the stage. So there’s Jollibee, Popo, Hetty, Twirlie and Yum. It seems everybody’s cheering and so excited just like my little boy Ivan did.

There were also different activity booths like the photo booth, face painting and the Jollibee store where they sell various and exclusive merchandise and registration for the Happy Plus Card.

The Jollitown Caravan is being organized by Jollibee Foods Corporation, in its quest to reach-out to its many customers they bring the musical caravan to various areas in the Philippines especially the provinces. The caravan program features some of the segments that are included in the Jollitown Kids Show. The main idea is to bring the magic of Jollitown to more kids nationwide and through this musical and story-telling, they hope to convey to everyone that Jollibee is a perfect place to have fun and make friends. As the magic of Jollitown reached more children across the country, Jollibee continued to spread positive values, lessons and experiences to help them live a brighter, jollier life.

It was our very first time to attend this caravan event and as my little boy Ivan, my nephew and my niece said, we are looking forward for next year’s schedule.

 

Thank you Jollibee for meeting you today and bringing your magic to us.

About Jollibee:
Jollibee is the largest fast food chain in the Philippines, operating a nationwide network of over 750 stores. A dominant market leader in the Philippines, Jollibee enjoys the lion’s share of the local market that is more than all the other multinational brands combined. The company has also embarked on an aggressive international expansion plan in the USA, Vietnam,Hong Kong, Saudi Arabia, Qatar and Brunei, firmly establishing itself as a growing international QSR player.

Introducing AVON Life Kids

AVON, a brand that is a leader in cosmetics, fashion and home has now come up with one of its newest line of products. Introducing the new AVON Life Kids nutritional supplements.

Just like any other mom, our children's health is a top priority thus we always seek for the best.

Avon Life Kids VITA-GROW is a multivitamin support for growing kids, it contains 8 vitamins and 8 minerals plus:

• CGF (Chlorella Growth Factor) that's high in nutritional value and rich in amino acid and protein that enhances cell growth and increases body mass to promote healthy growth in children

• Colostrum, a milky fluid that comes from mammals and is rich in proteins, carbohydrates, fats, vitamins, minerals and antibodies that fight bacteria and viruses. Research shows that antibody levels in colostrums can be 100 times higher than levels in regular cow's milk.

Avon Life Kids Vita-Grow is the very first kid's nutritional supplements that is in chewable choco flavor. One bottle contains 60 tablet and sells at 499 pesos.

AVON Life Kids SMARTAMINS contains nutrients that help enhance your child's brain development. It has:

• DHA (Docosahexaenoic acid) an omega-3 fatty acid that is the primary components of the brain. Diet rich in DHA improves mental development, learning ability, and eye vision.

• Taurine is an amino acid that helps brain development and enhances memory.

• Zinc helps increase mental performance and cognitive function.

Smartamins sells at 399 pesos with 30 soft gel capsules per bottle.

All of these products are FDA approved.

VITA-GROW and SMARTAMINS are available beginning today at all AVON branches, see your favorite Avon Lady now. You may also like Avon on Facebook and follow them on Twitter for more product updates.

About Avon:

Avon, the company for women, is a leading global beauty company, with over $10 billion in annual revenue. As the world's largest direct seller, Avon markets to women in more than 100 countries through approximately 6.5 million active independent Avon Sales Representatives. Avon's product line includes beauty products, as well as fashion and home products, and features such well-recognized brand names as Avon Color, ANEW, Solutions, Skin-So-Soft, Advance Techniques and Avon Naturals.

In the Philippines, Avon has been in operations since 1978 when it entered the beauty market with the purchase of local beauty company Beautifont. The company name officially changed from Beautifont by Avon to Avon Cosmetics, Inc in 1983. Now Avon Philippines celebrates more than 30 years of making women’s dreams come true through its beauty products, earning opportunities and advocacies.

Chic Driven Empowerment Expo: Bloggers Event

Today I went down early to the metro to attend a Brunch event for bloggers. It was something exciting for me because its all about women empowerment and its happening at the newly opened Azumi Hotel in Alabang. I seldom go to events because I am province-based, the metro traffic is something frightening and exhausting for me. But sometimes there are things that I can' resist.

The event was a Bloggers Brunch for the upcoming Chic Driven Empowerment Expo to be held at Alabang Town Center on March 28 - 30, 2014. It was hosted by the dashing Ms. Issa Litton and the beautiful preggy Jeanette Tuason. Ms. Issa I knew is a theater actress and Jeanette is a column writer of the Philippine Daily Inquirer (PDI). Yeah! quite women power they are.

So the Chic Driven Expo actually is an off-shoot of her PDI ChicDriven column which is all about motoring. You got it right, Jeanette is an expert when it comes to motoring, quite enthusiastic because it seems motoring used to be a man's world.

In celebration of International Women¹s Month, Zest Asia Inc. has organized the Chicdriven Women Empowerment Expo happening in Alabang Town Center Atrium on March 28-30, 2014.  This community development event aims to arm women with the different tools, information and skills to help them achieve having it all, the Chicdriven way.

Inspired by the overwhelming response to the Chicdriven Column in Philippine Daily Inquirer Motoring section, this celebration of women empowerment is supported by Alabang Town Center, Bridgestone Tires, Toyota Motor Philippines.  The expo offers free seminars and workshops on topics such as road safety, auto maintenance, fashion, beauty, parenting, life balance, health and wellness.  Other highlights include the Electrolux cooking demo By Chef Bruce Lim, and a Makeover station by BYS cosmetics.  Partners including Standard Insurance, Marie France, Brabantia, Garden barn and Tuason Racing School will offer exciting booth demos and workshops during the expo.

“We wanted to make an event that will bring together different women’s group and advocacies in one celebration.  We want the community to be engaged as active participants and not just passive spectators," explains Jeanette Ipapo-Tuason, author of the Chicdriven and organizer of the expo. “Each seminar represents an advocacy and is co-hosted by a civic or advocacy group such as Zonta Club Alabang, Mommy Mundo, and parent’s associations of the different schools in the south,” she added.

The Chicdriven Women Empowerment Expo will run from March 28-30, 2014 at the Alabang Town Center Atrium and will be open during mall hours. The event is also supported by Fringe Salon, Fitness First, Melissa and Doug, Ogalala, Safety 1st, Pigeon, and Gluta White, Has Travel.com.  Media Partners are Metro, Working Mom, Chalk, Lifestyle Chanel, E! and Motioncars.com.  For Seminar Schedules, please visit ChicDriven on Facebook for updates and promos or email them at jnt@chicdriven.com.

We had a hearty lunch with matching delightful desserts at the event and a tour of the new Azumi Hotel. Read my other blog post here.

Search for Mrs. Philippines-Globe 2014

The search for the country's most empowered married woman or single mother will once again honor Filipina women of substance who play an important role in the society.

Mrs. Philippines-Globe 2014 salutes Filipino women who possess that rare combination of beauty and substance. This pageant celebrates women who do not let age and civil status get in the way of fulfilling their dreams, and whose achievements, life stories and charitable acts serve as inspiration to others.

On its third year, the pageant's special screenings will be held on March 15 for Cebu/Davao screening at Teatro Casino, PAGCOR Cebu, Waterfront Hotel, Lahug, Cebu City. GMA/Luzon screening will be on March 22 at Citrus Snap Studio, 8/F RCI Bldg., Rada St., Makati City. Deadline of entries is on March 1, 2014.

Only 20 official candidates will be chosen to compete for the coveted crown during the national pageant night set on May 17, 2014 at SMX Aura Premiere in Bonifacio Global City. More importantly, the winning candidate will represent the Philippines in the Mrs. Globe 2015 World Finals at Shenzhen, China on November 2014.

Mrs. Philippines-Globe is the local franchise of Mrs. Globe USA, an organization strongly affiliated with the Women in Need Foundation, which aims to help abused women and children recover their self-esteem. The pageant emphasizes that women have the right to be heard, loved and respected.

Interested parties may download the application forms at www.mrsphilippinesglobe.com. for more inforamtion about Mrs. Philippines-Globe you may also visit the pageant's official Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/MrsPhilippinesGlobeOfficial.

The Wonder of Eggplant (Talong)

We had this for lunch today. I call this menu as "pinasosyal na talong" - actually its just fried eggplant topped with spaghetti sauce. I cooked macaroni yesterday for Ivan's afternoon snack and kept the leftover sauce. And here it is > > >

Facts about eggplant:

Eggplant (Solanum melongena) is a species of nightshade commonly known in British English as aubergine and also known asmelongene, garden egg, or guinea squash

image from the web

The eggplant is a delicate, tropical perennial often cultivated as a tender or half-hardy annual in temperate climates. It grows 40 to 150 cm tall, with large, coarsely lobed broad leaves. The stem is often spiny. The flower is white to purple, with a five-lobed corolla and yellow stamens. The egg-shaped glossy black fruit has white flesh with a meaty texture. 

The fruit is botanically classified as a berry and contains numerous small, soft seeds which are edible, but have a bitter taste because they contain nicotinoid alkaloids(it is a close relative of tobacco.

Source: wikipedia

While eggplants don't have an overwhelming supply of any one nutrient, they do contain an impressive array across the board of many vitamins and minerals, such as excellent amounts of fiber, folate, potassium and manganese, as well as vitamins C, K, and B6, phosphorus, copper, thiamin, niacin, magnesium, and pantothenic acid.

Studies indicate that eggplant has a number of health benefits from all these ingredients, as well as traditional uses. Sometimes, the leaves and roots are juiced or boiled to make a tonic for throat and stomach troubles, asthma, skin diseases, rheumatism, inflammation, intestinal hemorrhages, foot pain, coughs, anorexia, toothache, or as a general stimulant.

Modern-day scientists found that the Black Magic variety of eggplant contains nearly three times the amount of antioxidant phenolics they found in other eggplant types. Phenols are known to be one of the most powerful free radical scavengers, which can prevent cancer development and heart disease, but it's these very attributes that give eggplants a slight bitter taste.

Another study found that anthocyanin phytonutrients in the skin of eggplants, called nasunin, is a potent antioxidant that zaps free radicals and protects the lipids (fats) in brain cell membranes from damage.

One interesting aspect of eggplant is its shady connections, since it's a member of the nightshade family of plants with tomatoes, potatoes, and bell peppers, as well as chili peppers, habeneros, jalapenos, and paprika. Many nutritionists caution that too many servings of eggplant might cause problems. In fact, ancient Mediterranean people reportedly nicknamed it “mad apple,” believing that eating eggplant every day for a month would cause insanity.

source: http://foodfacts.mercola.com/eggplant.html

FILA SUPPORTS THEATER AND ARTS

What happens when a young gay man falls in love with a woman? That’s the central concept behind Red Turnip Theater’s second offering, COCK by Mike Bartlett. A sold-out hit when it first premiered in London in 2009 and subsequently during its off-Broadway run a year later, COCK revolves around a gay couple whose rocky relationship derails when one of them sleeps (and falls in love) with a woman. Debates over one’s sexual identity explode when all three decide to sit down and “duke it out” over dinner. Hilarity ensues when another unexpected guest turns up and loyalties are put to the test. As one character puts it, “It’s the ultimate bitch fight”.

The New York Times calls COCK “a terrific, tense little comedy” while The Huffington Post hails it as “a terrific contemporary play that puts much of other theater to shame”. This critical darling is the perfect bookend to Red Turnip’s maiden season.

Fresh from the success of their critically-acclaimed CLOSER last October at Whitespace, Red Turnip promises another unique, in your face theatrical experience with COCK. The vision of five established actors (Ana Abad Santos, Topper Fabregas, Jenny Jamora, Cris Villonco and Rem Zamora), Red Turnip aims to engage theater goers with the sort of material that seems to be in short supply in the country—the straight play.

Rem Zamora makes his directorial debut with COCK.“We’re excited to be back in Whitespace. A lot of people who came to CLOSER said they enjoyed the intimacy of the experience and the space. That was in Hall B. We’re going even more intimate this time in the smaller Hall A. COCK also plays in the round so it feels like you’re watching a fight in an arena—no frills: just words and pure conflict in the ring, and an intense involvement in the audience.”

Zamora has assembled a tight cast of theatrical heavyweights for COCK’s Manila premier: Topper Fabregas (Boeing Boeing, The Producers), Niccolo Manahan (Next Fall, Doubt), Jenny Jamora (Mind’s Eye, A Little Night Music), Audie Gemora (Sweeney Todd, Les Miserables) Fabregas is John, a young man caught between his gay lover and his growing attraction to another woman- W, played by Jamora.

Niccolo Manahan makes a theatrical comeback as M, John’s lover who isn’t about to let him go without a fight. “I feel ‘Cock’ will be a great experiment for me; an experiment in balancing my life with the things I enjoy doing, and an experiment in pushing my range. I don’t know where this experiment will lead but its an incredible opportunity that I’m thankful for.”

Rounding off this impressive cast is theater stalwart Audie Gemora as F, M’s well-meaning father whose sudden appearance at dinner throws everyone for a loop. “The birth of a theater group is always exciting and eventful with fresh artistic vision and passion. I am thrilled to be part of Red Turnips 2nd offering, ‘Cock’. This is Rem Zamora's directorial debut and my first time to be acting opposite brilliant young actors Niccolo Manahan and Jenny Jamora, while Topper Fabregas takes on his most complex character yet. Together we jump into a crackling cock fight of personalities, emotions and words.”

COCK is a comedy… with bite. No props, scenery or furniture. Just actors, sharp dialogue and some clever staging. All essential. Absolutely Red Turnip.

COCK is supported by FILA through the kindness of its President and owner Cris Albert. Supporting the arts has become one of her numerous advocacies, a true testament to her generous spirit and her commitment to giving back to the community.

Direction by Rem Zamora, technical direction and lighting design by John Batalla, set design by Denis Lagdameo and sound design by Jethro Joaquin.

Cock will be staged at Whitespace — 2314 Chino Roces Ave. Extension (formerly Pasong Tamo Extension), Makati — on March 7, 14, 21, 28 and April 4 (Friday, 9 p.m.); March 8, 15, 29 and April 5 (Saturday, 8 p.m.); April 5, Saturday at 4 p.m.; March 9, 16, 23 and April 6 (Sunday, 4 p.m.) and special closing gala on April 6, Sunday, 8 p.m. Tickets are available through TicketWorld (891-9999 orwww.ticketworld.com.ph) Or Red Turnip Theater (redturniptheater@gmail.com or https://www.facebook.com/RedTurnipTheater)

Bloggers FREE Sign-up: Magic Bullet Giveaway

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Are you at Risk of Osteoporosis?

Found this among my old files, its the result of my bone scan more than a year ago. But anyway,here's something I just would like to share.

The bone scan method is a procedure via a nuclear imaging test wherein it can be possibly detected if you are at-risk of osteoporosis or any possible bone disease.

The procedure I had was done using a mobile foot scan machine and it was during one of those supermarket health campaigns by a local milk brand.

But what is Osteoporosis?

Osteoporsis is a medical condition in which the bones become brittle and fragile from loss of tissue, typically as a result of hormonal changes, or deficiency of calcium or vitamin D.

What are the causes and symptoms of Osteoporosis?

• Age. Osteoporosis is more likely as people grow older and their bones lose tissue.

• Gender. Women are smaller and start out with less bone. They also lose bone tissue more rapidly as they age. While women commonly lose 30-50% of their bone mass over their lifetimes, men lose only 20-33%.

• Race. Caucasian and Asian women are most at risk for the disease, but African American and Hispanic women can get it too.

• Figure type. Women with small bones and those who are thin are more liable to have osteoporosis.

• Early menopause. Women who stop menstruating early because of heredity, surgery or lots of physical exercise may lose large amounts of bone tissue early in life. Conditions such as anorexia and bulimia also may lead to early menopause and osteoporosis.

• Lifestyle. People who smoke or drink too much, or do not get enough exercise have an increased chance of osteoporosis.

• Diet. Those who do not get enough calcium or protein may be more likely to have osteoporosis. That is why people who constantly diet are more prone to the disease.

Is Osteoporosis preventable?

The prevention of osteoporosis is a lifetime process but bone mass start breaking down at age 35. Once you are at-risk of osteoporosis the condition is irreversible. It is therefore important to consume adequate amount of calcium and vitamin D along with physical activity and it should begin with children such to ensure good development of the bones.

A healthy lifestyle without smoking and excessive intake of alcohol will also be helpful.

How to Keep Your Child Absolutely Safe at all Times

You may call me a mom freak, but there's nothing that scares me at all times but just to think how I can make my only little boy safe and free from any danger or harm.

Part of being a mom is worrying about your children at all times. While most moms think they can never stop worrying about their kids, there are simple ways to overcome it. Equipping your children with the right knowledge about the world around them is the best way for them to stay safe - no matter where they are.

Stay Away from Strangers – Both in the Playground and Online
We’ve heard it all before, “don’t talk to strangers.” While statement is true, it is important to define to your children what you mean by “stranger”.[1] Tell your children that a stranger is anyone they don’t know, even if they’re dressed well or if they are polite. Even familiar faces can be strangers if your children feel uncomfortable around them. Kids should know that they shouldn’t take anything from people they are not comfortable with, like treats, or even a ride home. Also, teach your children to not believe stories strangers tell them about their parents, especially ones involving accidents.

image from the web

With the advent of the internet, it’s important to monitor your children’s online social activity. Remind your children that not everyone they meet on the internet is a “friend.” Install kid-friendly software and ensure that they have access to online sites within your reach. Remind your children to tell you immediately if anything on the internet makes them feel uncomfortable, especially if they are being bullied by friends or classmates online.

Have a Safe List for Your Kids
Kids work well when boundaries are set. It is important to sit down with your children to further discuss your safe list with them. A safe list contains everything they can go home with, places they can play in and outside of your home and a general idea of what’s appropriate or not (whether from a stranger or a family member). Even a safe word within the family, to be used only during emergencies, can be implemented. Being involved in your children’s lives is a good way to keep them safe, whether you are with them or not.

Learn Self Defense 
Let your children gain confidence by knowing they can take care of themselves. Enroll them in self-defense classes such as Muay Thai, Karate, and Taekwondo, not only will they learn how to protect themselves but they would also be able to gain new friends, pick up a new sport, and build their self-esteem.

Another way to keep safe is by making sure that you serve your children only the best. Moms have long trusted Absolute Pure Distilled Drinking Water. Certified by the National Sanitation Foundation, moms who use Absolute are assured with the five-step, state-of-the-art distillation process, ensuring that they are serving nothing but the purest for the ones they love the most.

The Goldilocks Heart-Shaped Mamon

My little boy Ivan saw this on TV ad and he bothered me for the endless times telling me we need to go to Goldilocks and buy one for him.

Its the newest craze in town, the Goldilocks heart-shaped "mamon".

Sometimes, we Filipinos are connoted as soft-hearted or "pusong mamon" because we are sentimental, we easily cries over soap opera, just mere sad stories make us shed tears. Maybe its because we are culturally family-oriented and we will always have a soft heart not just for our families but for other people as well.

So we wasted no time and rushed to the nearest Goldilocks outlet and grabbed some "mamon. True to its claim, the Goldilocks heart-shaped mamon has a very light texture and tastes so good. Ivan finished one even before we left the store ha!ha!

Just in time for the love month, since its heart-shaped the Goldilocks mamon is a perfect gift for your loved ones. What I also like most about it, is the creamy caramel filling inside.

A Blurb on the Met’s Abueva: The Power of Form Exhibition

Following the success of the first “Abueva: The Power of Form” lecture series last month, the Metropolitan Museum of Manila brings to the public two more Abueva lectures this February! Art critic and historian, Cid Reyes will give a talk on “Pioneering Modern Philippine Sculpture” while artist and sculptor Jun Yee will be giving homage to his mentor on his talk entitled, “Abueva: Through the Eyes of an Artist.” Lectures will be held on February 15, 2014 and February 22, 2014 respectively at 3PM at the Metropolitan Museum of Manila, BSP Complex, Roxas Blvd., Manila. Museum entrance fee is inclusive of the admission for the talks.

To reserve your seats, please contact Sabrina at (02) 708-7828 or email info@metmuseum.ph. Museum hours are from Mondays-Saturdays, 10:00 AM-5:30 PM. Seeyou at the Met!

Wordless Wednesday: Family Get Together

Yeah! I miss those few times that we are together as one family. Its because daddy works overseas and away from us most often.