Articles

The Christmas season is upon us—a time filled with joy, togetherness, and celebration. As we exchange gifts, share meals, and create lasting memories with our loved ones, it’s also a time to reflect on the gift of good health. At SM Health Care, we believe that the holidays should be as much about wellness as they are about warmth and cheer. To help you make the most of this festive season, here are some simple yet effective ways to stay healthy while enjoying the magic of Christmas: 1. Mindful Eating During the FestivitiesChristmas feasts often come with indulgent treats, from...

The holiday season is here—a time filled with laughter, warmth, and, of course, the cherished tradition of gift-giving. But how did this custom become such an important part of Christmas? The origins of exchanging gifts during the holidays go back centuries, rooted in ancient traditions of generosity and celebration. In pre-Christian Europe, winter solstice festivals were a time for communities to come together and share food, drinks, and tokens of appreciation as they prepared for the colder months. These small gestures of kindness evolved into more formalized gift-giving as the holiday season grew in cultural importance. By the Victorian era,...

Diabetes can feel overwhelming at first, especially when you’re newly diagnosed. However, with support, the right strategies, and real-life inspiration, managing diabetes becomes a journey toward better health rather than a burden. In Malaysia, where diabetes affects 15.6% of the adult population, many individuals are making strides in managing their condition through lifestyle changes, community support, and innovative programs.Ainaa Munirah Pang: A Chef’s Journey to Better HealthAt 27, Ainaa, a chef surrounded by sugary temptations, was diagnosed with type 2 diabetes. Initially, balancing her career and managing her condition felt daunting. Ainaa joined the Glucerna Lifestyle Change Program (GLCP), a...

Strokes impact millions of people worldwide, often without warning. Today, on World Stroke Day, we’re shedding light on this serious condition—its causes, symptoms, and, most importantly, how you can protect yourself and others.What is a Stroke?A stroke occurs when blood flow to the brain is interrupted, either due to a blocked blood vessel (ischemic stroke) or a ruptured blood vessel (hemorrhagic stroke). This disruption causes brain cells to begin dying within minutes, potentially leading to serious disabilities or death if not treated immediately.Recognizing a Stroke: The F.A.S.T. SignsThe faster a stroke is recognized and treated, the better the chances for...

World Mental Health Day is an important reminder of the ongoing conversation around mental health, especially in a diverse and vibrant country like Malaysia. To truly understand the impact of mental health issues, it’s essential to hear from those who have lived through these experiences. Here are the stories of three Malaysians who have bravely shared their journeys with mental health, shedding light on the challenges they faced and the hope they found.Nadia’s Journey: From Isolation to AdvocacyNadia, a 28-year-old graphic designer from Kuala Lumpur, began experiencing anxiety in her teenage years. Initially, she thought her feelings were just a...