A healthy balanced diet that comprises the 5 main food groups will provide most of the nutrients needed for optimum health. However, in this modern era, one may find it difficult to have nutritious meals daily. This situation leads to dependence on fast foods and processed foods for convenience. Unhealthy diet and lifestyle, undoubtedly can affect the body’s immune system and over time, it will expose us to various health problems.

Supplements are an alternative way of getting the necessary nutrients and it is meant to address deficiencies which may result from unhealthy diet or lifestyle. Different individuals require different nutrients depending on diet, lifestyle and health conditions. Spirulina and fish oil are good supplements to start with. Organic spirulina contains various essential nutrients needed by the body namely protein, B vitamins, minerals, chlorophyll and enzymes. The soft and easily digested cell walls make it suitable for elderly who are unable to absorb, assimilate and utilise nutrients efficiently.

On the other hand, fish oil provides omega-3 fatty acid derivatives namely eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaneoic acid (DHA) important for regulating blood pressure, muscle contractions, blood clotting and inflammation as well as heart health. Last but not least, regular exercise also improves the state of health and quality of life.

Stress is defined as a response to conditions and events, both routine and out of the ordinary. No one can completely escape the effects of stress. Stress depletes the flow of oxygen, which cells need for maintenance and health. It might be the main culprit of hair loss and insomnia in this case.

Make time for leisure activities and plan a day out with family to relax the body and mind. A good laughter is an excellent way to help relieve stress. Diet also plays a vital role in stress management. Low-fat, high-fiber and carbohydrate-rich meals with plenty of fruits and vegetables may be helpful due to increased production of serotonin, a neurotransmitter that helps regulate mood. Avoid caffeine, tea and alcohol several hours before bedtime as these beverages are stimulants that may disrupt and affect the quality of sleep. Relax before bed – reading or simply enjoying relaxing routines can make it easier to fall asleep.

Your husband may consider supplementing his diet with vitamin B complex that aids in nervous system function, reduces anxiety and immune system damage as well as improves brain function. Other nutrients of value are magnesium and zinc. Magnesium may help promote sleep quality by relaxing the muscles and soothing the nervous system. As for zinc, it strengthens the root of hair, thus beneficial in preventing hair loss. These important minerals (magnesium and zinc) are best combined with calcium, vitamin D and manganese for maintenance of healthy bones, hair and nails.

First of all, you will need to know the root cause of your problem. Bad breath may arise from dry mouth, inflammation of the gum, poor oral healthcare, improper cleaning of dentures and in small percentages, from systemic disorders such as respiratory tract condition. Tooth decay or decaying food particles lodged between the teeth and indigestion can affect your breath while tobacco products and certain foods such as garlic and onion may also contribute to an unpleasant breath odour. Garlic, onion and other odourous foods are absorbed into the bloodstream and it is transferred into the lungs where it is expelled and odour will continue until the body eliminates the food.

Visit your dentist to determine the cause of your bad breath problem and if it is due to an oral condition, develop a treatment plan to eliminate it. In addition to brushing, it is also important to clean between the teeth once a day using dental floss. If you wear removable dentures, take them out at night and clean them thoroughly before using it. Avoid the use of alcohol-based mouthwashes as the alcohol dries the mouth and slows down saliva production that helps to keep mouth fresh.

You are advised to drink at least 8 glasses of water daily to help prevent dry mouth and fruit juices are also good. It helps stimulate saliva secretion that controls the multiplication of oral bacteria. Consume more fiber from fruits and vegetables to improve digestion and bowel movement. On top of that, probiotics (friendly bacteria) that contain Lactobacilli and Bifidobacteria can help improve the digestive system and eradicate bad breath.

Low energy and muscle weakness could be due to coenzyme Q-10 (CoQ-10) deficiency, vitamin B deficiencies, age, poor nutrition, prolonged exercise and emotional stress. CoQ-10 deficiency occurs with age. This is probably due to a dietary deficiency in the substrates required to produce CoQ-10 or an overall dysfunction of the biochemical mechanisms responsible for CoQ-10 synthesis. Thus, CoQ-10 supplementation may be beneficial.

 

CoQ-10 is one of the essential powerhouse nutrients for the body. It is involved in several key enzymatic steps in the production of energy and also functions as an antioxidant. Increasing your vitamin B intake may be helpful too. The B vitamins aid in energy production by participating in carbohydrate, protein and fat metabolisms. B vitamins are water-soluble vitamins that are not stored in the body, therefore it must be replaced daily through dietary source or supplementation.

 

Have a well-balanced diet comprising fruits, vegetables, whole grains, seeds and nuts. These quality foods supply nutrients that renew energy. Do avoid chocolate, carbonated drinks, caffeine and highly processed foods. Apart from that, moderate exercise is also advisable. Deep breathing exercises in particular are recommended.