LUIS MANZANO for Santé's Sweet Via

The Philippines sweetest host Luis Manzano just became the face for Sante's Sweet Via. For those who don't know, Santé has been known to manufacture products made from pure Barley grass and has diversified in supplements like Vitamin C, healthy beverage and snacks, bath and intimate care products, oral cleaning and skin care products. People have been raving about the quality of their goods and SWEET VIA is a welcome addition to the roster of their health products.

Luis has been in the industry since his Mom and Star for All Seasons Vilma Santos introduced him on her show decades ago. Shining in his own right, he's noted for his good work in hosting several game shows, entertainment programs and his amiable knack for comedy. His personality outshines stars of his generation, he's very likeable and is the perfect man for the job when you talk about health too. He works out almost everyday and keeps it a point to eat right especially these days when food is just a button away. He knows the value of keeping his body in check and balances it with fun and activity. Luis says "I've got a sweet tooth and it proved nearly impossible at times to enjoy things at home that are sweet and healthy. Now I prepare my own drinks and make desserts with Sweet Via. I also use this because it's all natural, and contains Stevia which is a natural sweetener and Inulin which is a soluble type of fiber. This boosts the immune system and also takes care of my digestive health as it's got probiotics too."

I loved how Luis also talked about his own experiences and shared details of his lifestyle during the event hosted by FTsukie Gomez  on Zoom a few days ago. His attitude towards health and how to make working out a fun experience was awesome as he shared little moments of his life with us online. He also taught us how he incorporates Sweet Via in drinks and food he consumes, to ultimately, make it part of his healthy lifestyle. He did a lot of small jokes in between, but never forget to inspire us, that's why Santé believes in Luis in the first place.

Sweet Via by Santé is available in leading drug stores, groceries, supermarkets, and online via Lazada and Shopee. I have personally used this for my coffee and tea. It has made me enjoy the things I have been loving even before I had diabetes. It's also a nice to know I could have food prepared with this in lieu of sugar which means I'd have options to go and have a healthier alternative than table sugar. It's also low in calories which makes it perfect for those who are maintaining their weight and watching their calorie count. It doesn't hurt to try something this good.

Milk Tea Fix at Sugar Panda Abreeza Mall

It's so hot outside that you just wanna stay indoors and let the hours pass in Davao City. That's exactly why we are here in Sugar Panda, at Abreeza Mall's third floor for our own sanity, and our Milk Tea fix.

There are tons of brands out there but this one seems special because they are serving Taiwan's #1 drink, so we indulged in having some of their best sellers. First off, I like their containers because they seem to be reusable, perhaps you can just wash this off and prepare something hot later on, but since we are a little at the end of summer, and it's very humid in the Philippines, we might as well try this joint out.

Lychee Boba Milk Tea is fruity and more on the sweet side. If you love cold lychees, this would be a nice substitute.

I ordered this Brown Sugar Boba Milk with Cream Mousse. It's not that sweet (although you can ask for sugar levels), and you'll taste more of their products on the milky side rather than tea. They barely have lines in the mid afternoon so you should prolly go there around that time.

This is their Taro Boba Milk Tea. I actually like Taro but again they made this on the milky creamy side and you'll feel a little hint of earthy taro flavor with this one. Don't be afraid to try new stuff, this one is easy.

This is their Wintermelon Boba Milk Tea, which had a more caramely flavor profile. If you don't know what to order, play safe and order this one.

So if you're looking for your Milktea fix and you're trapped in Davao, try Sugar Panda out. It's not overly sweet and VERY affordable. 

You can't go wrong with good Milktea, if you want it on the milky side rather than the tea, they got you covered.

Diabetes in the Philippines

 I live in a household where the word DIABETES is a norm. Sad but true. My lineage seemed to have all concentrated on this vicious chronic and lifestyle ailment; and it has claimed the lives of a lot of my relatives, I could count more than 10 just in my lifetime. It's scary and with my Dad and Mom's genes passed on to me, I could likely be a candidate if I don't take care of what I eat, my activities, and perhaps what I do everyday. There are various reasons on what causes this, but it is primarily a chronic disease. As some say, it is also a lifestyle disease. Just a few days ago, they announced quite disturbing data about it, which seems to confirm that it is happening in the Philippines. Just hearing that made me realize it's much closer than home, because I feel too that it is at an alarming rate. 

According to a study by the International Diabetes Federation, the Philippines is one of the world's emerging diabetes hotspots. Imagine, 4 Million Filipinos are suffering from Diabetes as we speak. That already puts us at the world stage with even a couple of million more that are unreported, or perhaps people that are unaware. IDF also reported 3.51 Filipinos at the age of 20-79 have it, and 51,127 have passed away because of it. Again, that's scary.

This chronic disease occurs when the pancreas does not produce enough insulin or when the body cannot effectively use the insulin it produces. So if it can't properly control the amount of sugar in the blood, you're in big trouble. It doesn't matter if you're male or female, rich or poor, everyone can be a candidate and it all boils down to one thing, you need prevention rather than cure. Data from the Food and Nutrition Research Institute from the Department of Science and Technology's 8th National Nutrition Survey indicates diabetes prevalence has risen from 3.4 percent in 2003 to 5.4 percent in 2013. You can just imagine how much that would be this 2017 if we had current data. 

What's also alarming is that a great number of Filipinos who suffer from it are ages 50 to 69. Most of which are wealthy and also living in urban communities. The Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) on the other hand is both a genetic and a lifestyle disease. It is also linked to old age, unhealthy diets, lack of physical activity, obesity (oh yeah you sit too much on the couch and in front of the computer!) and urbanization, all of which contribute to this disease. To control this, Doctors would recommend insulin to take care of the blood glucose levels. If you take care of that, you can get to have a normal and healthy life. Today, there are available syringes, insulin pens and insulin pumps so people who suffer from it could do what normal people would do. Of course, it all has to be monitored regularly so you and doctors would know if you have risks of developing hypo/hyperglycemia. Make sure you ask your doctor regularly if you are at risk, and do the annual/regular checkup if you can. As they say, knowing is half the battle. Try to live healthy as much as you can, and please trust your body.

Think about it.


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Valor: High Quality Spanish Chocolates Now In The Philippines

Valor Dark Chocolate Mousse with Truffle, Valor Milk Chocolate Chocolat Au Lait, and Sugar Free Neopolitans with Stevia

It looks like we're in for a very sweet year as the number 1 chocolate brand from Spain just landed Philippine shores. Valor, a brand coined by its founder Valeriano Lopez Lloret, had his family of master chocolatiers to passionately create the best chocolate products since 1881. It continued to thrive until it's fifth generation today; and now they're gearing up for introducing it to the world by releasing it internationally and still having the same quality as it comes out fresh from bean to bar as guided by the same principles of the Lloret family business.

Valor's chocolatiers import their cacao beans from only three places. It comes from Ghana (Forastero), Ecuador (Guayaquil) and Panama (Trinitario) all of which are world class sources of this fine product. Valor’s central factory is in Villajoyosa Spain, and this is where every bean goes through a process making it the highest quality possible. It's also made of all natural raw materials and used with even natural sweeteners in order to produce the world's finest chocolates. They also released the latest in their line of products, they now Sugar Free choices! They use the plant called Stevia which comes from South America. It is said to be 15 times sweeter than ordinary sugar but its got zero glycemic index, nothing that other sugar free artificial sweeteners can do in this time and age. It's the right time everybody enjoys these guilt free choices, all of which can be bought in leading supermarkets and stores nationwide!

Oh and before I forget, if you haven't found the perfect hazelnut choco spread yet, Valor has 130 years of experience to concoct the best one I've tasted so far. Plus, it's got NO Sugar Added making it au naturelle and so good in each bite. I am just stopping myself from finishing this whole jar because I want to have more in the next few days. I am not joking.... you should go ahead and find this on the counters and treat your family to something really good. It's even good on bananas which I put inside sandwiches at home.

It's so good and I'm going to enjoy the chocolate bars for dessert, hey don't stop me! It's guilt and sugar free remember?! :)

For more information about their products:

Valor Chocolates Philippines

Like them on Facebook


Visit their official website

http://www.valorchocolates.ph

Glucerna: Ask the Diabetes Experts!

Want good news first? I've been taking the Glucerna meal replacement thing a try and I did lose 2 inches off my waist. I haven't really changed my diet but that's already a good thing because I've been wanting to wear fitter clothes especially because it's summer. We're gonna get there somehow. 

I haven't really checked with a real doctor about having diabetes but I have a hunch that I'll probably have it soon as I've been doomed getting it from Mom and Dad. I learned though that my assumption had basis but of course I could actually prolong or also not have it, there's always a chance. Dr. Sjoberg Kho of the Philippine Society of Endocrinology and Metabolism who hails from UST's Faculty of Medicine and Surgery says the way to go is lifestyle intervention. This includes special nutrition which could later delay or even prevent the onset of prediabetes and your being at risk. Clinical trials have already shown that Gluccerna Triple Care has helped manage weight and reduce the risk of cardiovascular risk in diabetes. This coincides with a certified diabetes management plan that includes proper diet and physical exercise.

 

Dr. Jose Dimaano Jr., the current Medical Director of Abbot Nutrition Philippines adds that Glucerna Triple Care offers the unparalleled combination of managing blood sugar levels, supporting heart health and weight management. I've seen and felt how this happens, in my case I think my sugar absorption is lessened or totally blocked when taking Glucerna. This shows in excretions, but I'm not sure if that is actually caused by taking Glucerna during replacement periods. Although, it makes perfect sense if that is the effect. If you would like to take advantage of the Glucerna 1-2-3 challenge, download the apps from the App Store or Google Play or visit the website https://www.glucerna123challenge.com.ph. It's also going to hook you up with a loyalty rewards program every time you update your health profile and include your physical activities online. 

I've already taken some steps to follow the plan, how about you?!

P.S. Most people love the Chocolate flavor but I dig the Vanilla more! Make sure you have both at home so you can take whatever you want for that day!

For more information about their products:

Glucerna 123 Challenge

Like us on Facebook


Visit their official website

https://www.glucerna123challenge.com.ph

Glucerna 1-2-3 Challenge Update

I've been able to replace one meal per day using Glucerna SR. As with some of the usual high blood pressure and  heightened sugar levels, yes it did make a difference. I also lost a couple of pounds. Initially I had problems coping because I usually eat a ton during dinner when I only have a glass of Glucerna SR for lunch. I adjusted and tried to eat less after a while. Sugar levels as used in strips go around 130-180 but I remember having 240+ before I did this, so in that regard I did make some improvements.

A few weeks ago, I ran out of it so I kinda had to go back with the usual lunch. I haven't checked yet with the doctor what my current levels were after the series of Glucerna replacement meals. Though I'm sure it was in the normal levels because I've never felt so good even if I was losing a little weight. I wasn't even grumpy at all after a few days which means I've probably adjusted already.

This new batch of boxes arrived just today and I am excited to flood my self with Vanilla. It's not too sweet, it's just right. The chocolate is actually the favorite of a lot of people I know that take Glucerna SR too and I can't blame them because it's also really good. Plus if they have cravings for Chocolate, that word alone would really get them going. 

As for me, I'm having this gigantic mug of Glucerna SR with lots of ice. It dissolves really well in cold water and it tastes just as good when I last had it. Hopefully this time, I'll lose more weight in the process. I must say that 1. It works, 2. It doesn't raise blood sugar levels and would be perfect for those who are having issues with diabetes. I strongly suggest though that in any diet, you must first consult a doctor that would exactly recommend your regimen. 

I'd like to take this bit and thank the good people of Glucerna SR who's taking their time to take this journey with me. Thank you also to my friends who also help me NOT crave for lunch every time we go out. I'll do my best to stick to the plan and further normalize my sugar levels. Blessed be.

P.S.

If you would like to try the it with me, please see this post about the Glucerna 1-2-3 Challenge here.

Note: I was chosen to be given samples by Glucerna. Opinions stated on this post are my own. This is not a paid post and honestly, I still love it! :)

For more information about their product:

Glucerna SR

Visit their official website

https://www.glucerna123challenge.com.ph/

I'm on the Glucerna 1-2-3 Challenge!

I have to get you in on this one. I've been having some problems with heightened sugar levels and it's been bothering me for quite some time now. I haven't been a good boy when it comes to softdrinks, juices and desserts. Add to that my hard headed lifestyle of not drinking too much water too. Plus I've got a whole clan afflicted with a lineage of diabetes. Hope springs eternal as they say. Well, I just downloaded the Glucerna PH App on the App Store this morning and tried out the Glucerna 1-2-3 challenge. They gave me a few boxes of Glucerna SR Vanilla and Chocolate a few days ago to get this started, thanks to the great people at Abbott Laboratories. Together with my goal to shed a few pounds, I'll be replacing one of my meals with Glucerna SR and see if it does wonders to my sculptured German physique and washboard abs LOL.

This isn't magic so I would need a couple of things done like managing my diet and a little exercise. Since I quit gym a few months ago, it'll be a little hard. I know people will tell me things and call me names but I don't care. If it's going to get my schedules, meals and activity fixed I don't mind going through this Glucerna 1-2-3 Challenge. I'm a warrior and I don't really back out of challenges. Plus, who doesn't want rewards right? Yeap you heard that right, there's a whole catalog dedicated to rewards when you follow the program to a T. Take the first step to your Glucerna 1-2-3 Challenge at https://www.glucerna123challenge.com.ph/.

I'll tell you if it works or not soon. I'm warning you though that I might be a little crazy or cranky at times. Me without food is going to be difficult, but if this is for my health I've got to swallow the bitter pill and do this! Click here for the app download in GOOGLE PLAY STORE or the Apple App Store here.

Note: I was chosen to be given samples by Glucerna. Opinions stated on this post are my own. This is not a paid post and honestly, I'm loving the Vanilla! :)

For more information about their product:

Glucerna SR

Visit their official website

https://www.glucerna123challenge.com.ph/

Healthy Lifestyle Starts with Splenda!

If you have been frequenting coffee shops these days, you probably know that there are low sugar options available right? Don't tell me you haven't asked!? Well, here's the thing... they've got Splenda available now and you can actually have it blended with your frappes and hot coffees. At least in one coffee shop I went to did that. I'm not a regular there mind you but just tell them what want to happen with your coffee and poof they make it a whole lot better for you.

It's small things like these that matter. In some way, it's like living a healthy life. It starts from healthy choices and seeing your food intake or the sweets you use for your coffee. It might be a small thing to some but just think about the days you'll live longer when you manage your sugar levels. It's the same concept when you stop smoking. Doctors have researched you get to keep 5 minutes of your life for each stick. So make sure you take time and have the smartness to choose things you take wisely. Imagine how long you could keep your life and spend most of it having fun with friends and family.  

Make it a habit to use Splenda. It's got zero calories and takes just a small amount to sweeten your cup. It's something we've had since then, I don't know what would stop us now. Good thing it's available at most big groceries and stores nationwide. Life can really be sweeter... with Splenda!

For more ideas how to prepare food with Splenda

Visit their site at

http://splenda.tastebook.com

Healthy Splenda Pinoy Spaghetti!

We all have that day where everything doesn't happen to what we wish it would be. Mine just happened recently. There is always one person though who knows something is wrong with me, my Mom. She always prepares the best whenever I'm home because everybody knows my favorite... Spaghetti!

She's been doing legwork for it since I have ever known; so this time I want her to take a rest and let me do the cooking. Problem is my Mom and Dad are diabetic and when they want Filipino spaghetti I usually take out some of the ingredients but it won't feel the same if it didn't have that sweetness. Good thing there's Splenda!

I got the ingredients here!

Pinoy Spaghetti

1 Kg Pasta
1 large onion
2 cloves garlic
3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
2 teaspoons capers
1/2 cup black olives
1 Kg Lean Ground Beef
1 bottle of banana ketchup
10 pieces of hotdogs
4 cups tomato sauce
1/2 cup tomato paste
1 tbsp Splenda
2 cups water
2 tbsp all purpose flour
Salt and Pepper to taste
1 big block cheese (You can't have enough of it!)

Boil a few liters of water enough to cover the pasta. Drop in the spaghetti and wait for 8-10 minutes or according to package instructions. Leave just a little bit on the pasta because I'm sure you'll have some let to be mixed with your sauce later.

Separate a half a kilogram of beef and put salt and pepper, onions, garlic on it to make small meatballs. Roll on flour and fry until golden brown. Saute in a pan a heap of onions, garlic and evoo then wait for it to become translucent. Throw in the other half kilogram of beef and brown it. Pour in tomato sauce, the bottle of ketchup and water. Wait for it to boil then simmer for a few minutes. Slice the hotdog diagonally and throw it in, simmer another 5 minutes. Throw in the capers and olives then turn off the stove. Put in salt and pepper to taste. Put back the meatballs and let them simmer for around 2 minutes. Then serve.

Serving, just put a hefty amount of pasta on a bowl. Pour in the meat sauce on top and put in as much cheese that they can take, melt it under a salamander or your oven. You really can't have enough of that! You can even put ribonettes of basil if you want to make it a little classy for your taste.

My Mom loved it and it doesn't have sugar. My Dad almost ate half of it LOL. It's the time to share with friends and family. Health wise you don't have to worry because there's Splenda taking care of that. Oh, which reminds me a box of these even had Quaker Oats on it which we'll have tomorrow for breakfast! Merry Christmas guys! :) Get one on stores now!

Splenda and My Secret Mango Cheesecake Recipe

It looks like it's Christmas time already and I think I'm going to have a grand time whipping up something for my family since in this part of the world December 25 is indeed a special occasion. I'm thinking of cheesecakes all of a sudden and I want to plan ahead so I'm modifying some ingredients from an American cook book because I want a healthier alternative to the old New York Cheesecake. Yes, I do bake and just do this when I feel like it. Since my Mom is diabetic, I'll be choosing Splenda instead of processed sugar. Let me share my secret recipe:

1 and a half cup Grounded Graham Crackers

2 tablespoons full of Splenda (for the crust)

3 tablespoons of butter

3 whole packs of Cream Cheese

3/4 cup Splenda (mixed with Cream Cheese while whipping)

2 whole eggs
2 extra egg whites
2 tablespoons cornstarch dissolved in water
1 cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon of vanilla or a few sprigs of vanilla bean in water

3 whole golden ripe mangoes sliced for toppings
1 extra mango for sauce

Mix the crust, the few tablespoons of sugar and butter then bake until firm. Usually, it takes around 8 minutes at 325 degrees. Place in the cooling rack until its cold. Whip the cream cheese, sugar, eggs and cornstarch. Add in the vanilla and cream too. Make sure there are no lumps whatsoever to the mixture. Pour it over the crust. Bake around 45 to 50 minutes at around 325 degrees again and wait until the center cooks all the way through. Use a toothpick to test it. Remember to set the temperature not to high so it won't crack the cheesecake too much when it cools. After it gets cold, put it in the fridge then slice some mangoes and place it on top like a fan. After slicing, add more Mango sauce and powdered sugar. Mango sauce is just simple syrup and grounded mangoes, you can do that.

I tried this recipe before but tweaked it a little so I can use Splenda. Now my Mum will surely love this new Mango New York Cheesecake that I'm making for our Noche Buena. After all, she deserves to enjoy dessert too!

Grab one now on your leading Supermarkets nationwide! ☺

For more information and recipes about Splenda

Please visit their website

http://recipes.splenda.com/

Imagine Life Sweeter With Splenda!

Being in a family living with Diabetes I was exposed to a culture driven to rid of this disabling condition since a very young age. Living on millions of acres in sugar cane farmlands was always part of the equation so just think about how doubly hard it was for us to shy away from the very same thing that was putting food on the table. We were like Vampires ostracized from the society. We always watched how much sugar intake we make and only limit ourselves to food and drinks that are prepared and end up tasteless not to mention quite boring. Since sugar use is limited we had to find ways to enjoy life like normal people. We can't prepare food at home just for us, it was always cooked for everybody. 70 percent have problems with it and the minority (us kids) are left having to bare the same thing that are prepared for those who have type 1 and type 2 of this condition.

Life has been good to us obviously. Taking care and watching what we eat became very beneficial. Aside from that, there's Splenda. I remember that time we were all sourcing these things from the US, we often ran out of it because we had to wait for someone to come home to get some. Good thing it's actually available now locally. Almost all major supermarkets and stores carry it and that ended up as something regularly used in our home. My brother who's an Executive Chef in Ireland taught us to use it in baking too. It's quite a healthy alternative than the regular processed sugar. His Carrot Cake is to die for. Now we're even sharing the healthy things we're doing to other people. Now that's a smart thing to do. We used to sell them to family and friends but now only do it on special occasions. Our coffee breaks and cake time just got even better because we don't have to worry so much. Splenda made us live life like normal people. Isn't that something to be happy about?! And yes we do, now we do! Our lives are now even sweeter with Splenda!=)

For more information about Splenda and the wonderful things you could do with it:

Please visit their website

 http://splenda.tastebook.com/