**   Note for Chinese New Year 2025:   ***

Dear valued customers,

Please help to take note that:

Our office will be closed for Chinese New Year between 27 January to 31 January 2025 and we will resume normal operation on 3 February 2025.

All orders received after 21 January 2025, will be processed after 3 February 2025 and will be delivered on the week of 10 February 2025.

Delivery is usually 5 to 7 working days but will be longer due to this CNY peak period.

BeaconsHealth wishes all a Happy and Prosperous Chinese New Year!

Overview

Non-stop crying in babies could be a sign of colic. Colic in babies is characterised by crying for over 3 hours a day, more than 3 days a week, for more than 3 weeks, in an otherwise well-fed, healthy baby. The crying can occur suddenly for no apparent reason.

Colic normally starts a few weeks after birth and usually improves when your baby is about 3 months old.

Symptoms

Some common symptoms of colic include :

• Cries at about the same time every day, often in the evening
• Intense crying which is often difficult to pacify
• Posture changes: newborns with colic often curl up their legs, clench their fists and stiffen their abdominal muscles during colic episodes
• Babies with colic may experience bowel movements or pass gas near the end of a colic episode

Causes

The causes of colic in babies are not exactly known. Doctors believe certain factors might contribute to colic in babies :

• Immature digestive system
• Inefficient or insufficient burping after meals
• Milk intolerances
• Allergies
• Lack of sleep
• Discomfort arising from soiled diapers, extreme temperatures or sudden stimulation of noise or light

How to relieve colic in babies

Here are some tips on how to soothe a colicky baby :

• Give your baby small frequent feeds, and make sure to burp him/her after feeds.
• Hold your baby close to you as cuddling may help some babies to calm down.
• Try gently rocking your baby in your arms as this could soothe him /her
• Sing to your baby or play some lullaby music as this could calm your baby down
• If your baby is bottle fed, try a different teat that minimises the amount of air introduced while feeding, which can cause a build-up of painful gas.
• Review what you feed your baby. If your baby is fussy after consuming certain types of milk, try changing it and see if it helps. 

Treatment

While colic can be distressing for babies, as well as parents, it is not a disease. Colic usually resolves on its own, often when your baby is around 3 months old.

However, it is only natural for parents to look for remedies in order to try and soothe a colicky baby.

Some treatment options that could be tried include :

• Probiotics (Help maintain the natural balance of ‘good bacteria’ in the digestive tract)
• Gripe water

You can find our product here :

https://www.beaconshealth.com/products/gripe-water?_pos=1&_sid=c7bcf3fad&_ss=r

When to see a doctor

You should take your baby to see the doctor if you observe the following symptoms:

• Diarrhoea
• Fever
• Rashes
• Vomiting

Rest assured, your baby will eventually outgrow colic, and the constant crying won't last forever. These challenging times will pass. If you have any concerns, do not hesitate to consult a doctor or paediatrician. They can help rule out any underlying conditions and provide guidance on managing colic.

References

https://www.healthhub.sg/a-z/diseases-and-conditions/colic

https://www.mountelizabeth.com.sg/health-plus/article/colic-babies

http://www.smj.org.sg/article/approach-infantile-colic-primary-care

Constipation

Overview

Constipation is difficulty passing stools (pooing) or infrequent bowel movements. It's common in both adults and children. About 80 percent of people suffer from Constipation at some time during their lives and brief periods of constipation are normal.

The definition of Constipation varies from person to person. For most people, it is normal for bowel movements to occur from three times a day to three times a week.

Normal bowel habits are affected by diet. The average diet includes 12 to 15 grams of fibre per day, although 25 to 30 grams of fibre and about 60 to 80 ounces of fluid daily are recommended for proper bowel function. Exercise is also beneficial to proper function of the colon.

Symptoms

You may have constipation if you experience the following symptoms:

• fewer than three bowel movements a week
• passing lumpy, hard, or dry stools
• straining or pain during bowel movements
• a feeling of fullness, even after having a bowel movement

Causes

Constipation is usually caused by:

• Inadequate fluid intake
• Inadequate fibre intake
• Inadequate physical activity
• Ignoring the urge to defecate
• Stress or change in environment

You can also get constipation when you:

• are pregnant
• take certain medicines, such as some pain killers or iron tablets
• have a medical condition such as thyroid problem, Parkinson's disease, multiple sclerosis or depression
• have a problem with your digestive tract, such as irritable bowel syndrome, coeliac disease or diverticulitis

Treatment

Diet and Lifestyle Changes:

• Drink plenty of water and unsweetened fluids. Limit consumption of alcohol and caffeinated drinks, which cause dehydration.
• Add fiber-rich foods to your diet, including fruits and vegetables, whole grains, beans and prunes. Fiber adds bulk to stool and helps the stool hold fluids. 25 to 34 grams of fiber a day is usually recommended.
• Ensure to incorporate regular physical activity in your routine. This helps to improve the movement of stool through the colon. 30 minutes per day five times per week is usually recommended. Try walking, swimming or biking.
• Good bowel habits are important. Don’t avoid the urge to pass stool. Try to pass stool 15 to 45 minutes after a meal as digestion helps to move stool through the colon.

Over-the-Counter Medications:

If diet and lifestyle changes alone doesn’t help, you may try an over-the counter laxative. Laxative are medicines that help to move stool through the colon. There are several different types. Consult your healthcare professional about which laxative may be best for your constipation. Do not use laxatives for more than 2 weeks, as your body can develop a dependence on them.

You can find our range of products here:

https://www.beaconshealth.com/products/liquid-paraffin-emulsion

When to see a doctor:

See a doctor if you experienced the following:

• Constipation symptoms last for more than 2 weeks without relief
• Bleeding from your rectum or blood in stools
• Significant stomach pain
• Sudden changes in your bowel habits
• Lost weight without trying

References

https://www.healthhub.sg/a-z/diseases-and-conditions/constipation-adults

https://www.healthline.com/health/constipation

https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/constipation

 https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/constipation/symptoms-causes/syc-20354253

Burns and scalds

Overview

Burns and scalds are injuries to the skin normally caused by heat. A burn is caused by dry heat (eg. iron or fire), while a scald is caused by something wet (eg. hot water or steam). Both can be treated the same way.

Symptoms

Burns can be very painful and can cause

• Red or peeling skin
• Blisters
• Swelling
• White or charred skin

There are different degrees of burns, from first-degree (least serious) to third-degree (most serious). Sunburn can also be a first-degree burn. Most first-degree burns can be treated at home, however, it is important to treat burns properly.

Treatment

To treat a burn, follow the first aid advice below:

• Immediately get the person away from the heat source
• Remove any clothing or jewellery near the burnt area. If clothing is stuck to the wound, cut around it, but do not remove any stuck fabric forcefully.
• Cool the burn with cool running water for at least 10 minutes or until the pain subsides. Do not use ice, iced water, butter or other greasy substances.
• After cooling the burn, cover the area with a sterile gauze bandage or cling wrap. Do not touch the burn or burst any blisters.
• Use painkillers such as paracetamol or ibuprofen to treat any pain.
• Raise the affected area if possible, this helps to reduce swelling.
• Once the burn heals, protect the area from the sun by seeking shade, wearing protective clothing or applying a broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen. This will help to minimise scarring.

You can find our range of products here:

https://www.beaconshealth.com/products/panamol-tablets-500mg

https://www.beaconshealth.com/products/antiseptic-cream-15gm?_pos=1&_sid=428599f3b&_ss=r

If your first-degree burn covers a large area, or if the victim is an infant or elderly person, or if you think your burn is more severe, seek medical help immediately.

You should go to a hospital A&E department for :

• All chemicals and electrical burns
• Large (i.e. bigger than your hand) or deep burns
• Burns causing white, leathery or charred skin
• Burns in the mouth, throat, eyes, ears or genital area

Preventing Burns and Scalds

• Keeping your child out of the kitchen whenever possible
• Keeping matches, lighters, and lit candles out of young children’s sight and reach
• Keeping hot drinks well away from young children
• Testing the temperature of bath water using your elbow before putting your baby / toddler in the bath
• Put your iron, straighteners or curling tongs out of reach while they cool down

References

https://www.aad.org/public/everyday-care/injured-skin/burns/treat-minor-burns

https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/burns-and-scalds/prevention/

https://www.singhealth.com.sg/rhs/get-well/gpfirst/mild-burns-and-scalds

IMPORTANT, PLEASE NOTE !

Dear Valued Customers,

Our company will be having our annual stock take between 28/10/2024 to 1/11/2024.

We are unable to process all orders within the above period.

Order processing and deliveries will be resume on the following week.

The usual delivery lead time is 5-7 working days from the date of order confirmation; which is excluding Saturday, Sunday and public holiday. You may like to refer to our "Terms & Conditions" under our home page for more information.

We apologise for any inconvenience caused.

Neem Oil

Neem has long been renowned for its healing properties. Today, the most established and widely recognized uses are based on its antiseptic effects. Neem preparations are reportedly beneficial in a plethora of skin diseases, septic sores and infected burns.

Neem oil is derived from the fruits and seeds of the neem tree. These trees grow mainly in the Indian subcontinent. Neem oil is abundant in fatty acids like palmitic, linoleic, and oleic acids, which promote healthy skin. As a result, it is a common ingredient in skincare products.

Neem oil has 8 times the linoleic acid of coconut oil and is higher in the softening oleic acid than both coconut and rosehip oils. Neem oil has cleansing properties and helps to soothe sensitive skin. It can help to ease the uncomfortable itching and swelling associated with eczema and psoriasis. Neem also plays a role in inhibiting the growth of numerous microbes such as viruses, bacteria and pathogenic fungi.

You can find our product (eg. Neem Oil) here:

https://www.beaconshealth.com/products/botanika-neem-oil

Specially formulated and cold pressed, pure fresh Neem Leaf Oil in Virgin Organic Coconut Oil makes an excellent topical application for sensitive itchy skin. 

It is 100% Organic & Natural, with no additional preservatives, chemicals or flavours.

Neem oil can be applied twice or more daily to the affected areas. First-time users can test it on a small patch of skin before applying Neem oil more extensively.

References :

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK234637/

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4791507/

Vitamins for Children

If you are a parent, you would probably remind your children many times, “Don’t forget to take your vitamins” or “Eat your vegetables, they are packed with vitamins” What exactly are vitamins?

Vitamins are essential to your children’s health. They help our children to stay healthy and develop strong bodies. We are usually able to derive our daily requirement from a balanced diet that meets our nutritional needs. However, sometimes supplements can be helpful. Here are some key vitamins and minerals that are important for children's growth and development:

• Vitamin A: Essential for vision, immune function, and skin health. Found in foods like carrots, sweet potatoes, and spinach.
• Vitamin C: Important for the immune system, skin health, and wound healing. Found in citrus fruits, strawberries, and bell peppers.
• Vitamin D: Crucial for bone health and immune function. It can be obtained from sunlight exposure, fortified foods, and supplements. Foods like fatty fish and fortified milk are good sources.
• Vitamin E: Acts as an antioxidant and supports immune function. Found in nuts, seeds, and green leafy vegetables.
• Vitamin K: Necessary for blood clotting and bone health. Found in green leafy vegetables like kale and spinach.
• B Vitamins: Important for energy production, brain function, and red blood cell formation. Found in whole grains, meats, eggs, and dairy products. Key B vitamins include B6, B12, and folate.
• Calcium: Essential for strong bones and teeth. Found in dairy products, fortified plant-based milks, and green leafy vegetables.
• Iron: Important for healthy blood and energy levels. Found in meats, beans, and fortified cereals.
• Zinc: Supports immune function and growth. Found in meats, dairy products, and nuts.

Do remember that supplements should not be used as a substitute for a healthy and balanced diet. The rule of thumb is to first ensure that your child gets his nutrients through food sources. Parents may refer to the Health Promotion Board’s Recommended Daily Allowances (RDAs) to ensure that your child is getting the right amount of nutrients through vitamin supplements.

In instances where certain vitamins are lacking from the diet, we can then look to supplements. Beacons carries a range of vitamins and supplements for your selection. For example, our children’s multivitamin supplement, Lyprovite, consists of ingredients such as:

Each 5 ml contains: Vitamin A 1500 IU; Vitamin B1 2.2 mg; Vitamin B2 1.2 mg; Vitamin B6 1.5 mg; Vitamin B12 3 mcg; Nicotinamide 10 mg; Vitamin C 30 mg; Vitamin D 200 IU; L-Lysine 100 mg

We also have children’s multivitamin supplement in tablet form, as well as, vitamin C gummies. You can find our range of products via this link: https://www.beaconshealth.com/collections/vitamins-supplements?page=1

If in doubt, consult a dietician or paediatrician regarding recommendation for a suitable supplement for your growing child.

After all, good health is a rainbow—eat all the colors of vitamins to make our children bright!

References:

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/best-vitamins-for-kids#how-we-chose

https://www.healthhub.sg/a-z/diseases-and-conditions/vitamin-supplements-for-children

https://kidshealth.org/en/kids/vitamin.html

Overview

Osteoarthritis is a condition where joints become painful and stiff. It is caused by the breakdown of protective cartilage on the ends of your bones. Osteoarthritis can affect any joints but it is most common in the knees, hips and small joints of the hands. Globally, osteoarthritis is the most common joint disorder, and WHO estimated that as much as 40% of the people over the age of 70 years suffer from osteoarthritis of the knee.

Some factors that can increase the risk of osteoarthritis

• Joint injury
• Increasing age (risk increases as you get older)
• Family history
• Obesity (Being overweight increases strain on the joints)
• Females have higher risk of developing this condition

Symptoms

Osteoarthritis is characterized by symptoms such as joint pain and stiffness, and problems moving the joint.

Other symptoms include:

• Swelling
• Tenderness
• Grating or crackling sound when moving the joints

The severity of these symptoms can vary from person to person. For some patients, the symptoms can be mild and may come and go. Others can experience more continuous and severe symptoms that can make it difficult to carry out everyday activities.

Treatment

Osteoarthritis is a long-term condition. A number of treatments are available to manage the symptoms.

• Paracetamol should be considered as the first line treatment in relieving pain and improving physical function due to lower risk of side effects.

You can find our product (eg. Panamol Tablet) here:

https://www.beaconshealth.com/products/panamol-tablets-500mg

• Topical Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs eg. Diclofenac gel can be considered for short term symptomatic relief
• Oral Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs eg. Ibuprofen and Naproxen tablets, should only be used for short periods of time.
• Cold packs can be helpful to provide short-term relief from pain, swelling and inflammation

Patients can also try various supplements to improve their symptoms, eg.

• Glucosamine sulfate (Pharmacological studies suggest that maximum benefit is achieved at a dose of 1500mg daily)
• Chrondoitin sulfate sodium
• MSM (Methylsulfonylmethane)
• Turmeric

You can find our range of products here:

https://www.beaconshealth.com/search?q=glucosamine

https://www.beaconshealth.com/products/curqlife-400mg-150s-made-in-usa?_pos=1&_sid=a2d20cd4d&_ss=r

If your symptoms are more severe, you may need to consult your GP for further treatments and a structured exercise plan with a physiotherapist.

Lifestyle Management

These are the steps you can take to manage symptoms of osteoarthritis:

• Regular knee strengthening and aerobic exercises can improve functional ability and reduce knee pain (regular water-based exercise or exercises in the pool is recommended)
• Light / moderate physical activity protects joints by strengthening the muscles around joints, increasing blood flow to the joints and promotes normal joint regeneration
• Losing weight if you are overweight
• Wearing suitable footwear
• Knee braces and knee sleeves may be used

References

https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/osteoarthritis/

https://www.moh.gov.sg/docs/librariesprovider4/guidelines/cpg_oa-kness_booklet.pdf

https://arthritis.ca/about-arthritis/arthritis-types-(a-z)/types/osteoarthritis/osteoarthritis-self-management