health

The SIN Tax

January 17, 2013 / Filed Under: health

The SIN Tax took effect at the beginning of the year, January 01, 2013. For those of you who doesn’t have an idea what Sin Tax is, here’s a short description.

Sin Tax is a sumptuary tax specifically levied on certain generally socially proscribed goods and services, for example alcohol and tobacco, candies, soft drinks, fast foods, coffee, and gambling.

Sumptuary taxes are ostensibly used for reducing transactions involving something that society considers undesirable like smoking. So a sin tax is added to make it more expensive so people would limit their consumption. So what used to be cheap bundle cigars are now a bit expensive having 20% or more added to its cost.

I’m not affected by the Sin Tax at all because I don’t smoke and I rarely drink. I could imagine my cousin Rome and peanutbutter♥ being affected by it, as well as my FIL and my aunt.

But if it includes coffee, then I’m most certainly affected….

Fres-C® Supports DepEd in Fighting Malnutrition

November 21, 2012 / Filed Under: health

Once again, Fres-C ®, the powdered juice brand of Ajinomoto Philippines Corporation (APC), teamed up with the Department of Education (DepEd) in staging the 2^nd Batang Fres-C^® Hataw School Caravan.

This campaign was launched last year to promote proper diet and physical activities and help reduce the growing number of Filipino school children suffering from malnutrition. Statistics from the DepEd Health and Nutrition Section show that among the 12.9 million elementary pupils weighed in school year 2010 – 2011, more than 2 million of them, or about 16% are undernourished; while more than 356,000 of them, or nearly 3%, are over-nourished.

“We want to bring together faculty members and parents to support students in their battle against the double burden of malnutrition.” said Usec. Ethelyn P. Nieto MD MPH CESO III, Technical Working Group Chairman of the Batang Fres-C^® Campaign. In the first run of the Batang Fres-C^® campaign, it has successfully engaged 36 public schools reaching 62,000 pupils and 8,000 mothers across the country. More public schools will gain access to this worthwhile activity this year. The School Caravan includes interactive lectures and fun activities, designed to raise awareness in addressing nutrition issues of students. The highlight of the event is the pupils’ performance of the “Batang Fres-C^® Hataw Exercise”. This is a mix of cardiovascular exercises and calisthenics developed by the team of Professor Hercules Callanta of the UP College of Human Kinetics, which can be regularly performed in school grounds.

Batang Fres-C^® Cheer Dance competition and Drink Up & Ride Project will also be launched in previously tapped public schools to sustain the interests of school kids in staying fit and healthy. Mr. Altair Penetrante, APC’s Category Manager for Sweeteners, explains, “We want to help teach our school children that maintaining a healthy lifestyle is an enjoyable and fulfilling endeavor. Just like Fres-C^®, kids can enjoy a refreshing and delicious juice with the taste of natural fruit juice low in calories and packed with Vitamin C.”

Destination Picnics – Pack Healthy and Delicious Food

October 17, 2012 / Filed Under: health

If you’re looking to make memories in a truly unique way, why not consider a destination picnic? There are plenty of local and national spots where tourists are welcome to spread a blanket, kick back, and relax. Parks are a lovely go-to, but if you think outside the box you can find a spot that’s truly special. Historic sites and national landmarks are a perfect alternative. Even private sites like The Biltmore Estate are usually okay with you bringing a bag and relaxing on the lawn as long as you pay for a ticket. Sometimes, the picnic can even be impromptu. Larger venues have food and beverage available for sale on site and gladly offer you the opportunity to explore their grounds. Rather than staying home this weekend, why not venture out into the world with your picnic basket and healthy food in tow?

Of course, it’s easy to get caught up in eating unhealthy food during your picnic, such as pizza, so stock up on healthy foods like fruits, veggies, and fresh sandwiches. Your kids will stay healthier this way and the food will taste delicious. Plus, you’ll feel refreshed after a hearty meal. Don’t forget to take your multivitamins later that evening after your marvelous picnic to pump your body full of even more nutrition and vital nutrients! It’s time to hit the road and enjoy delicious and healthy food while enjoying the sites.

It’s Not Just About the Destination:

When trying to create a memorable experience, it’s good to remember that the journey is just as important as the destination. Driving directly to a designated spot and parking feet away from where you plan to eat is about as much fun as walking from your kitchen to the dining room; imagine how much better it would be to relive the stress from your week by walking or touring a magnificent property before arriving at the perfect spot. For a good starting point, start scouting out places locally.

You Don’t Have to Travel Far to Go on a Journey:

A spontaneous afternoon picnic can be fun, but if you have young children, pets, or the thought of going on a picnic with no preparation makes you more nervous than relaxed, find an area you are familiar with. Community parks seem like the obvious choice, but there are more places right off the beaten trail. A great resource when treasure hunting for the perfect picnic spot is your city or town’s website. Even if the prime location is close to home, picking a spot and planning your meal and activities will be a part of the adventure. You’ll be surprised to find out what’s in your back yard… or just beyond.

When adventure strikes, a road trip may be in order; it’s always good to have a list of activities in your back pocket in case the impulsive urge for a getaway or vacation hits. Find new places to explore in your hometown or city and keep your picnic basket on hand. When you need an afternoon out, pack your basket and car and prepare to explore a new destination so your picnic is more than just a walk in the park. Don’t forget to pack some healthy food because you may need a banana or granola bar when you’re hitting the road, or the trail!

Paige One loves picnic adventures, but understands it is important to bring healthy snacks and multivitamins along the way!