Wednesday, July 17, 2024

Ethical and health impacts of dietary supplements: Critical analysis

Author

Ms. Krishnan N, a Zen entrepreneur in her 60s, founded Nava's Zen at 58. With 22 years as a lecturer, including 13 years in the Curtin University of Technology Perth, Australia Degree Twinning Program, she is now a certified yoga instructor, coach, and counselor. Her expertise enriches her current work.

Abstract
This article examines the complex landscape of the dietary supplement market, highlighting the significant roles played by healthcare professionals and the ethical concerns that arise from their involvement. It explores the misleading marketing practices, particularly the use of "natural ingredients" claims, and the lack of transparency in labeling that poses risks to consumers.

The article underscores the need for stringent regulatory oversight to ensure the safety and efficacy of supplements. It advocates for consumer education on the potential long-term effects of supplement use and emphasizes the importance of holistic wellness practices, such as balanced diets, physical activities, and urban gardening, as sustainable health solutions.

The article calls for greater scrutiny of the qualifications and practices of those marketing supplements and stresses the role of regulatory bodies in verifying product claims. Through a critical evaluation of current trends and practices, the article aims to inform and empower consumers to make well-informed health decisions.

Saturday, July 13, 2024

Masoor Dal Recipe (Red Lentil Curry)

red lentil cooked with indian spices, turmeric powder, ghee, coriander leaves and red dried chilies.
Truly a bowl of comforting Indian food. Red lentils, or masoor dal, cooked in spices and ghee. A simple red lentil curry, loved across the world (CHICKPEA CURRY).

Imagine dipping naan or toast into the dal and taking a mouthful. Or pairing it with rice and sides. Masoor dal works well as a vegetarian meal, or with chicken or mutton curry.

 

Spices elevate this Indian dal curry, making it a classic Indian dish, with the fragrance of fresh coriander leaves (SPINACH DAL). The cooking is simple, as masoor dal softens quickly without soaking.

Friday, July 12, 2024

Butter Cake Recipe

Butter cake, made with flour, butter, vanilla essence, sugar and eggs.
Every classic, every beloved. The buttery, moist, crumbly, vanilla-scented butter cake recipe. Simple, yet magical (MOIST BANANA CHOCOLATE CAKE). 

The ingredients for butter cake are easy to find and affordable. You can use a ready-made cake mixture or prepare a hand-made butter cake.

 

It takes patience. Do not overbeat or overfold when preparing a butter cake recipe. Avoid opening and closing the oven too often, as a drop in temperature may spoil the cake (SEMOLINA/SUGEE CAKE).

 

Otherwise, you are all set for baking butter cake. In fact, butter cake is the best recipe for beginners to start baking.

Thursday, July 11, 2024

Understanding Mental Well-being: A Personal Perspective


Author

Ms. Krishnan N, a Zen entrepreneur in her 60s, founded Nava's Zen at 58. With 22 years as a lecturer, including 13 years in the Curtin University of Technology Perth, Australia Degree Twinning Program, she is now a certified yoga instructor, coach, and counselor. Her expertise enriches her current work.

Abstract
This article explores the complexities of mental well-being, particularly through the lens of personal experiences and the practice of yoga. Despite increasing awareness, the practical application of actions to improve mental well-being remains insufficient, often hindered by societal and cultural factors. The author delves into the personal impact of career changes and societal pressures on mental health, highlighting how negative social interactions and gossip can deteriorate mental well-being.

Through a detailed case study, the author recounts the journey from a challenging work environment and societal expectations to finding solace and resilience through yoga. Emphasizing the profound benefits of yoga beyond physical health, the article argues that consistent practice can lead to lasting mental well-being by fostering self-awareness and mindfulness.

Saturday, July 6, 2024

Cantonese Yee Mee

Cantonese Yee Mee is an authentic Chinese noodle dish and an easy recipe. It is made with Yee Mee (or Yi Mein) noodles, a Cantonese egg noodle made from wheat flour and deep-fried for a slightly chewy, spongy texture. If you’re using kuey teow or bee hoon instead of Yee Mee, lightly fry them before cooking for this dish.


The thick, gooey soup relies on a flavorful stock, which is important for the deliciousness of Cantonese Yee Mee. You can use prawn (PRAWN FRIED MEE) or chicken stock for a Halal version, or pork broth if preferred (PORK CHOPS).


The noodles and soup form the core taste of this Chinese noodle dish. Other ingredients depend on your choice of vegetables, usually cabbage or leafy greens, and proteins like seafood, chicken, or pork.

Friday, July 5, 2024

Best Things To Do in Penang

Indian lady standing and holding the stand machine gun, located in a lower center path, Penang War Museum, Malaysia.
There are countless things to do in Penang, but what stands out for visitors is the food scene and sightseeing. When it comes to sightseeing in Penang, people prefer the top things to do or must-visit places. These are often listed on travel sites, shared on social media, or recommended by others who’ve experienced them.

The attractions you can cover depend on how long you stay in Penang. As attractions are spread out across different parts of the island, covering all at one go may not be possible. Therefore, you’ll probably return to Penang once or twice again to include the rest of the sightseeing spots.

Wednesday, July 3, 2024

Semolina Cake (Sugee Cake Recipe)

Semolina Cake, made with semolina flour, milk eggs, butter, sugar, rose essence,  crushed almonds and plain flour.
Buttery and soft, with a mild fragrance of rose essence and a gentle crunch from almonds. This is Semolina Cake, a buttery semolina flour cake loved by many. One of the most popular cakes worldwide, made with semolina flour or sujee flour, it goes by different names across regions.

In South Asia and India, it is called Suji Cake (semolina cake). In the Middle East and North Africa, it becomes Basbousa or Hareeseh, a syrup-soaked delight. In Greece and Turkey, it is known as Revani (traditional semolina cake), often flavoured with citrus.

 

In Sri Lanka, on the other hand, it is the Love Cake, made with spices and cashews.

Papaya Salad Recipe

Crunchy, fresh, crisp, spicy, and tangy papaya salad. Truly an appetizing dish that wakes up your taste buds instantly. Whether as a healthy...