Friday, August 12, 2011
Angel Hair Pasta with Meatballs
Who doesn’t love spaghetti and meatballs?
Most of us do, yet many of us worry that upon a diagnoses of diabetes we can no longer enjoy this favorite meal. But yes, diabetics can still enjoy a meal of pasta and meatballs!
This recipe is a perfect example using whole-wheat angel hair pasta and low-fat ground beef. Extra fiber, an especially important need for diabetics, is incorporated into the meatballs by using Fiber One Cereal as the filler. This dish with a tasty green salad makes a great, easy meal.
This Angel Hair Pasta with Meatballs is perfect for anyone including diabetics. If you are diabetic, I would suggest leaving off a yummy garlic bread. For others, the garlic bread would be a great idea. And a special note; these fiber-laden meatballs could become your “go-to” meatball recipe!
ANGEL HAIR PASTA AND MEATBALLS
* 1 lb 90% lean ground beef
* 3/4 cup Fiber One cereal
* 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
* 3/4 tsp Italian Seasoning
* 1/4 to 1/2 tsp garlic powder (depending on taste)
* 1 can (8-oz) tomato sauce
* 1 can (14 1/2-oz) diced tomatoes with green pepper and onion (do not drain)
* 1/8 tsp paprika
* 6-oz uncooked whole-wheat angel hair pasta
* chopped fresh parsley for garnish, if desired
* grated Parmesan cheese for garnish, if desired
Finely crush Fiber One cereal in food processor or in a sealed plastic bag by crushing with a rolling pin. Pour crumbs into a large mixing bowl along with the ground beef, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and 1/4 cup of the tomato soup. Blend well and shape into meatballs about 1 1/2-inch in diameter.
Spray a 12-inch nonstick skillet with nonstick cooking spray. Over medium heat, cook the meat balls approximately 10 minutes, turning occasionally to brown on all sides. Drain off excess fat, if necessary. Add the remaining tomato sauce, the canned tomatoes, and the paprika to the skillet; turn meatballs to coat. Cover skillet and cook over medium-low heat for 15 to 20 minutes, stirring occasionally until the meatballs are cooked through.
Meanwhile, cook and drain the angel hair as the package directs.
To serve, place the meatballs with sauce over the pasta.
Top with additional Parmesan and the chopped parsley, if desired.
Yield: 4 servings
Per serving: 460 calories, 54 g carbs, 10 g fiber, 33 g protein, 12 g (5 g sat)fat, 75 mg cholesterol, 950 mg sodium.
Diabetic exchanges: 2 1/2 starch, 1 other carb, 3 1/2 lean meat
Enjoy!
Monday, August 8, 2011
Make it work
The small details of your lives are what really matter in a relationship. It is not the mansion, the car, property, the money in the bank. These create an environment conducive for happiness but cannot give happiness in themselves.
So find time to be your spouse's friend and do those little things for each other that build intimacy.
Do have a real happy marriage!
MARRIAGE
When I got home that night as my wife served dinner, I held her hand and said, I've got something to tell you. She sat down and ate quietly. Again I observed the hurt in her eyes. Suddenly I didn't know how to open my mouth. But I had to let her know what I was thinking. I want a divorce. I raised the topic calmly. She didn't seem to be annoyed by my words, instead she asked me softly, why? I avoided her question.
This made her angry. She threw away the chopsticks and shouted at me, you are not a man! That night, we didn't talk to each other. She was weeping. I knew she wanted to find out what had happened to our marriage. But I could hardly give her a satisfactory answer; she had lost my heart to Jane. I didn't love her anymore. I just pitied her!
With a deep sense of guilt, I drafted a divorce agreement which stated that she could own our house, our car, and 30% stake of my company. She glanced at it and then tore it into pieces. The woman who had spent ten years of her life with me had become a stranger. I felt sorry for her wasted time, resources and energy but I could not take back what I had said for I loved Jane so dearly. Finally she cried loudly in front of me, which was what I had expected to see. To me her cry was actually a kind of release.
The idea of divorce which had obsessed me for several weeks seemed to be firmer and clearer now. The next day, I came back home very late and found her writing something at the table. I didn't have supper but went straight to sleep and fell asleep very fast because I was tired after an eventful day with Jane. When I woke up, she was still there at the table writing. I just did not care so I turned over and was asleep again.
In the morning she presented her divorce conditions: she didn't want anything from me, but needed a month's notice before the divorce. She requested that in that one month we both struggle to live as normal a life as possible. Her reasons were simple: our son had his exams in a month's time and she didn't want to disrupt him with our broken marriage. This was agreeable to me. But she had something more, she asked me to recall how I had carried her into out bridal room on our wedding day. She requested that every day for the month's duration I carry her out of our bedroom to the front door ever morning. I thought she was going crazy.
Just to make our last days together bearable I accepted her odd request. I told Jane about my wife's divorce conditions. . She laughed loudly and thought it was absurd. No matter what tricks she applies, she has to face the divorce, she said scornfully. My wife and I hadn't had any body contact since my divorce intention was explicitly expressed.
So when I carried her out on the first day, we both appeared clumsy. Our son clapped behind us, daddy is holding mommy in his arms. His words brought me a sense of pain. From the bedroom to the sitting room, then to the door, I walked over ten meters with her in my arms. She closed her eyes and said softly; don't tell our son about the divorce. I nodded, feeling somewhat upset. I put her down outside the door. She went to wait for the bus to work. I drove alone to the office. On the second day, both of us acted much more easily. She leaned on my chest. I could smell the fragrance of her blouse. I realized that I hadn't looked at this woman carefully for a long time. I realized she was not young any more. There were fine wrinkles on her face, her hair was graying! Our marriage had taken its toll on her. For a minute I wondered what I had done to her.
On the fourth day, when I lifted her up, I felt a sense of intimacy returning. This was the woman who had given ten years of her life to me. On the fifth and sixth day, I realized that our sense of intimacy was growing again. I didn't tell Jane about this.
It became easier to carry her as the month slipped by. Perhaps the everyday workout made me stronger. She was choosing what to wear one morning. She tried on quite a few dresses but could not find a suitable one. Then she sighed, all my dresses have grown bigger. I suddenly realized that she had grown so thin, that was the reason why I could carry her more easily.
Suddenly it hit me... she had buried so much pain and bitterness in her heart. Subconsciously I reached out and touched her head. Our son came in at the moment and said, Dad, it's time to carry mom out. To him, seeing his father carrying his mother out had become an essential part of his life. My wife gestured to our son to come closer and hugged him tightly. I turned my face away because I was afraid I might change my mind at this last minute. I then held her in my arms, walking from the bedroom, through the sitting room, to the hallway. Her hand surrounded my neck softly and naturally. I held her body tightly; it was just like our wedding day. But her much lighter weight made me sad.
On the last day, when I held her in my arms I could hardly move a step. Our son had gone to school. I held her tightly and said, "I hadn't noticed that our life lacked intimacy".
I drove to office.... jumped out of the car swiftly without locking the door. I was afraid any delay would make me change my mind...I walked upstairs. Jane opened the door and I said to her, Sorry, Jane, I do not want the divorce anymore. She looked at me, astonished, and then touched my forehead. Do you have a fever? She said. I moved her hand off my head. Sorry, Jane, I said, I won't divorce. My marriage life was boring probably because she and I didn't value the details of our lives, not because we didn't love each other anymore. Now I realize that since I carried her into my home on our wedding day I am supposed to hold her until death do us apart.
Jane seemed to suddenly wake up. She gave me a loud slap and then slammed the door and burst into tears. I walked downstairs and drove away.
At the floral shop on the way, I ordered a bouquet of flowers for my wife. The salesgirl asked me what to write on the card. I smiled and wrote, I'll carry you out every morning until death do us apart. That evening I arrived home, flowers in my hands, a smile on my face, I run up stairs, only to find my wife in the bed - dead.
My wife had been fighting CANCER for months and I was so busy with Jane to even notice. She knew that she would die soon and she wanted to save me from the whatever negative reaction from our son, in case we push thru with the divorce.-- At least, in the eyes of our son--- I'm a loving husband....
The small details of your lives are what really matter in a relationship. It is not the mansion, the car, property, the money in the bank. These create an environment conducive for happiness but cannot give happiness in themselves. So find time to be your spouse's friend and do those little things for each other that build intimacy.
Do have a real happy marriage!
8 tips to help you learn more efficiently
8 tips to help you learn more efficiently
In a rapidly changing business world where trends and technology are in constant evolution, staying abreast of evolving professional knowledge is essential if you are to build a successful, ongoing career. But finding time to study can be hard, and your methods may not be as effective as they once were. To help you learn more efficiently – and make climbing the career ladder easier – follow these eight expert tips:
1. Study less, but do it more often
It’s the night before your professional training exam. You fire up the coffee pot and prepare to study from dusk to dawn. But the next morning your mind is blank – despite a pounding heart high on caffeine. Experienced this? Lesson one is simple: don’t try and learn everything in extended last-minute sessions. Your brain prefers regular repetition. Studying for one hour a day for ten days is better than ten hours the night before the test.
2. Learn actively
Studying is much more effective when you force yourself to learn actively. Join a group where each member must share a topic. Also, be active in discussions and ask questions of your lecturers. The questioning process will help you retain information better.
3. Relate learning to your life
When reading, try to turn theory into your daily practice. If your study topic is leadership, consider how different management approaches would work in your particular work environment.
4. Read it, write it
Make sure that you take notes. This is essential for memory retention. Write down chapter headings and briefly summarise the key points as they appear. Jot down any questions that arise, or disagreements you have with the author. This is another way to make your learning active.
5. Be realistic
Before embarking on new learning, set a realistic target, then create a manageable study plan. For example, set aside two hours twice a week to learn a 20-hour unit. Give yourself six weeks to complete this. Factor in some extra time to help you cope with busy work periods or potential delays.
6. Use technology
Devices like an IPAD, Galaxy Tab, in fact any of today's smart phone devices can help you learn on the road. This is especially handy if you have to commute from home to work, or travel between jobs. You can upload digital learning files onto handheld MP3 players and listen to them when convenient. Remember to take notes.
7. Check with an expert
You studied long and hard for weeks before an important exam. You’ve never studied so comprehensively and you are sure you will have performed well. But then your results arrive and you are disappointed. It appears that your understanding of the course was off track… It happens. To make sure that you are grasping concepts correctly, check with an expert before your test.
8. Study yourself
Learning sometimes feels like a burden. But without it you may find yourself under equipped to shine in your office. All of the above tips can help you learn more effectively. However, it’s also important to consider what works best for you.
In a rapidly changing business world where trends and technology are in constant evolution, staying abreast of evolving professional knowledge is essential if you are to build a successful, ongoing career. But finding time to study can be hard, and your methods may not be as effective as they once were. To help you learn more efficiently – and make climbing the career ladder easier – follow these eight expert tips:
1. Study less, but do it more often
It’s the night before your professional training exam. You fire up the coffee pot and prepare to study from dusk to dawn. But the next morning your mind is blank – despite a pounding heart high on caffeine. Experienced this? Lesson one is simple: don’t try and learn everything in extended last-minute sessions. Your brain prefers regular repetition. Studying for one hour a day for ten days is better than ten hours the night before the test.
2. Learn actively
Studying is much more effective when you force yourself to learn actively. Join a group where each member must share a topic. Also, be active in discussions and ask questions of your lecturers. The questioning process will help you retain information better.
3. Relate learning to your life
When reading, try to turn theory into your daily practice. If your study topic is leadership, consider how different management approaches would work in your particular work environment.
4. Read it, write it
Make sure that you take notes. This is essential for memory retention. Write down chapter headings and briefly summarise the key points as they appear. Jot down any questions that arise, or disagreements you have with the author. This is another way to make your learning active.
5. Be realistic
Before embarking on new learning, set a realistic target, then create a manageable study plan. For example, set aside two hours twice a week to learn a 20-hour unit. Give yourself six weeks to complete this. Factor in some extra time to help you cope with busy work periods or potential delays.
6. Use technology
Devices like an IPAD, Galaxy Tab, in fact any of today's smart phone devices can help you learn on the road. This is especially handy if you have to commute from home to work, or travel between jobs. You can upload digital learning files onto handheld MP3 players and listen to them when convenient. Remember to take notes.
7. Check with an expert
You studied long and hard for weeks before an important exam. You’ve never studied so comprehensively and you are sure you will have performed well. But then your results arrive and you are disappointed. It appears that your understanding of the course was off track… It happens. To make sure that you are grasping concepts correctly, check with an expert before your test.
8. Study yourself
Learning sometimes feels like a burden. But without it you may find yourself under equipped to shine in your office. All of the above tips can help you learn more effectively. However, it’s also important to consider what works best for you.
take some time out
Salam
I got this in my inbox this morning and thought may be in our Monday, we need some reminder on what we are actually going to do for the work week.
Life isn't about how to survive the storm, but how to dance in the rain!
It was a busy morning, about 8:30, when an elderly gentleman in his 80s arrived to have stitches removed from his thumb. He said he was in a hurry, as he had an appointment at 9:00 am. I took his vital signs and had him take a seat, knowing it would be over an hour before someone would be able to see him.
I saw him looking at his watch, and decided, since I was not busy with another patient, I would evaluate his wound. On examination, it was well healed, so I talked to one of the doctors, got the needed supplies to remove his sutures and redress his wound.
While taking care of his wound, I asked him if he had another doctor's appointment this morning, as he was in such a hurry. The gentleman told me no, that he needed to go to the nursing home to eat breakfast with his wife.
I inquired as to her health; he told me that she had been there for a while and that she was a victim of Alzheimer's Disease. As we talked, I asked if she would be upset if he was a bit late. He replied that she no longer knew who he was, that she had not recognized him in five years now. I was surprised, and asked him, 'And you still go every morning, even though she doesn't know who you are'?
He smiled as he patted my hand and said, ''She doesn't know me, but I still know who she is.'
I had to hold back tears as he left. I had goose bumps on my arms and thought, 'That is the kind of love I want in my life'.
True love is neither physical nor romantic.
True love is acceptance of all that is, has been, will be, and will not be.
With all the jokes and fun that are in e-mails, sometimes there is one that comes along that has an important message.
This one I thought I could share with you.
The happiest people don't necessarily have the best of everything; they just make the best of everything they have. I hope you share this with someone you care about. I just did.
'Life isn't about how to survive the storm, but how to dance in the rain!
See all the ways you can stay connected to friends and family.
I got this in my inbox this morning and thought may be in our Monday, we need some reminder on what we are actually going to do for the work week.
Life isn't about how to survive the storm, but how to dance in the rain!
It was a busy morning, about 8:30, when an elderly gentleman in his 80s arrived to have stitches removed from his thumb. He said he was in a hurry, as he had an appointment at 9:00 am. I took his vital signs and had him take a seat, knowing it would be over an hour before someone would be able to see him.
I saw him looking at his watch, and decided, since I was not busy with another patient, I would evaluate his wound. On examination, it was well healed, so I talked to one of the doctors, got the needed supplies to remove his sutures and redress his wound.
While taking care of his wound, I asked him if he had another doctor's appointment this morning, as he was in such a hurry. The gentleman told me no, that he needed to go to the nursing home to eat breakfast with his wife.
I inquired as to her health; he told me that she had been there for a while and that she was a victim of Alzheimer's Disease. As we talked, I asked if she would be upset if he was a bit late. He replied that she no longer knew who he was, that she had not recognized him in five years now. I was surprised, and asked him, 'And you still go every morning, even though she doesn't know who you are'?
He smiled as he patted my hand and said, ''She doesn't know me, but I still know who she is.'
I had to hold back tears as he left. I had goose bumps on my arms and thought, 'That is the kind of love I want in my life'.
True love is neither physical nor romantic.
True love is acceptance of all that is, has been, will be, and will not be.
With all the jokes and fun that are in e-mails, sometimes there is one that comes along that has an important message.
This one I thought I could share with you.
The happiest people don't necessarily have the best of everything; they just make the best of everything they have. I hope you share this with someone you care about. I just did.
'Life isn't about how to survive the storm, but how to dance in the rain!
See all the ways you can stay connected to friends and family.
Sunday, August 7, 2011
AN OPPORTUNITY NOT TO BE MISSED
You have been given an opportunity of a lifetime. A business operates twenty four hours a day. The owner wishes to take a holiday and has requested you to run the business for one month. The arrangement is that for every second that you will personally man the business, you will get paid Ringgit Malaysia Two Hundred. If you have to leave the business for any necessity, the person who relieves you will get the money for the duration of time that you are out! You have obviously grabbed the opportunity with open arms.
OVER TIME
First, let the above scenario settle in the mind. Now imagine that the month of running the business has just commenced. A close friend phones to invite you to a lavish function. “You must come,” he urges. Your almost spontaneous reply would perhaps be: “I am sorry but I am very busy and will not be able to attend.”
The first weekend comes. Your children want to “go out for a drive.” “Not today. I am very busy,” says their father. The children’s mother also wholeheartedly agrees. After all she is also dreaming every night about what she will do with the Ringgit Malaysia Two Hundred per second that her husband is earning. Hence she does not ask to be taken anywhere. How can she even think of it? Ringgit Malaysia Two Hundred per second — and just for one month only! And you … well obviously you are working beyond the limits of overtime. No time to eat in peace. Only the minimal amount of sleep. No shopping. No “drives.” No time to sit around with friends over coffee. And entertainment? Whatever is that? The very word sounds unfamiliar. All this due to the once in a lifetime opportunity of earning Ringgit Malaysia Two Hundred per second for one month.
ANSWER ON DAY OF JUDGMENT
Yet, if the person who slogged for the entire month to earn Ringgit Malaysia Two Hundred per second … passes away on the thirtieth day, the wealth he earned will be of no use to him. He cannot take it along to his grave. If he does live to use it, the tax-man will be there to first take his share. He will have to worry about how to protect his wealth. Besides this, he will have to answer on the Day of Judgment about how he earned it and where he spent it. Generally, despite the abovementioned problems we will grab the opportunity of running the business for one month.
PETTY CASH
Allah Ta’ala is also granting us a lifetime’s opportunity. The month of Ramadhan with its unlimited blessings is here. One month in earnings at the rate of Ringgit Malaysia Two Hundred per second cannot even be called petty cash in comparison to the rewards that Allah Ta’ala grants and the blessings and mercy that He showers in the month of Ramadhan. Every Ramadhan must be treated as a once in a lifetime opportunity since we have no idea whether we will live till the next Ramadhan.
What are the rewards of good deeds in the month of Ramadhan? The reward of every Fardu (compulsory) act is multiplied seventy times while every Sunat (optional) act earns the reward of one Fardu out of Ramadhan. It is important to understand the latter aspect in its proper perspective. Tahajjud Salat (in the last third of the night) is an extremely great ibadah. Great virtues have been narrated for this Salat. However, a lifetime of Tahajjud cannot equal one Fardu of Salat Fajr! Yet in the month of Ramadhan Allah Ta’ala grants us the reward of a Fardu action for every Sunat performed.
ENTERTAINMENT?
Thus, can we afford to waste this time? Can we still have time for “drives?” Is it possible for a person who values Ramadhan in a similar manner that he values Ringgit Malaysia Two Hundred a second, to spend hours “eating out” at after taraweh feasts, or have time for other idle pursuits? Can we afford to spend valuable time glued to the airwaves listening to the “opinions” and “views” of all and sundry in Din matters whereas that time could have been used to at least recite Al Fatihah? And entertainment? Have we heard that word before??? Thus the last thing that any Muslim who values Ramadhan will bother about is who somewhere in the world is whacking a little red ball all over a field or who is kicking a ball between two posts!!!
SHORTEST TARAWEH
Thus it also does not behoove of people who value Ramadhan to try to “save time” from the performance of ibadah. Many people “work out” the shortest taraweh — where they will be able to leave in the shortest possible time and head for the food outlets where ample time will be whiled away. Think of the Ringgit Malaysia Two Hundred per second. We would break the records for over-time work. Thus in Ramadhan we should break the record for the amount of time spent in Salat, tilaawah (recitation of the Qur’an), zikr, dua, etc. Ramadhan is not a month to “save” time from the performance of these acts. Rather it is a month to engage every moment possible in these acts. Apart from Salat, tilawat, etc., Rasulullah (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) has himself stressed upon us to excessively engage in some practices. Rasulullah (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) is reported to have said: “And in this month you should endeavor to perform four things in great number, two of which shall be to please your Rabb, while the other two shall be those without which you cannot make do. Those which shall be to please your Rabb are that you should in great abundance recite the “Kalima Tayyiba” (Laa ilaaha il’lallah) and make much istighfaar (beg Allah’s forgiveness with Astaghfirullah). And as for those two without which you cannot make do, you should beg Allah for entry into paradise and seek refuge with him from the fire of Jahannam.”
ONE MONTH
While one should engage to the maximum in the above good deeds, the purpose of Ramadhan must be kept foremost in mind, which is to acquire Taqwa (Allah-awareness and piety). Thus together with the maximum amount of righteous actions one must totally refrain from all sins. One month of strictly conducting oneself in this manner will Insha-Allah have the effect of enabling one to live the next eleven months in a similar manner — in the complete obedience of Allah Ta’ala.
May Allah Ta’ala enable us to appreciate and value the month of Ramadhan — more than what we value Ringgit Malaysia Two Hundred per second.
OVER TIME
First, let the above scenario settle in the mind. Now imagine that the month of running the business has just commenced. A close friend phones to invite you to a lavish function. “You must come,” he urges. Your almost spontaneous reply would perhaps be: “I am sorry but I am very busy and will not be able to attend.”
The first weekend comes. Your children want to “go out for a drive.” “Not today. I am very busy,” says their father. The children’s mother also wholeheartedly agrees. After all she is also dreaming every night about what she will do with the Ringgit Malaysia Two Hundred per second that her husband is earning. Hence she does not ask to be taken anywhere. How can she even think of it? Ringgit Malaysia Two Hundred per second — and just for one month only! And you … well obviously you are working beyond the limits of overtime. No time to eat in peace. Only the minimal amount of sleep. No shopping. No “drives.” No time to sit around with friends over coffee. And entertainment? Whatever is that? The very word sounds unfamiliar. All this due to the once in a lifetime opportunity of earning Ringgit Malaysia Two Hundred per second for one month.
ANSWER ON DAY OF JUDGMENT
Yet, if the person who slogged for the entire month to earn Ringgit Malaysia Two Hundred per second … passes away on the thirtieth day, the wealth he earned will be of no use to him. He cannot take it along to his grave. If he does live to use it, the tax-man will be there to first take his share. He will have to worry about how to protect his wealth. Besides this, he will have to answer on the Day of Judgment about how he earned it and where he spent it. Generally, despite the abovementioned problems we will grab the opportunity of running the business for one month.
PETTY CASH
Allah Ta’ala is also granting us a lifetime’s opportunity. The month of Ramadhan with its unlimited blessings is here. One month in earnings at the rate of Ringgit Malaysia Two Hundred per second cannot even be called petty cash in comparison to the rewards that Allah Ta’ala grants and the blessings and mercy that He showers in the month of Ramadhan. Every Ramadhan must be treated as a once in a lifetime opportunity since we have no idea whether we will live till the next Ramadhan.
What are the rewards of good deeds in the month of Ramadhan? The reward of every Fardu (compulsory) act is multiplied seventy times while every Sunat (optional) act earns the reward of one Fardu out of Ramadhan. It is important to understand the latter aspect in its proper perspective. Tahajjud Salat (in the last third of the night) is an extremely great ibadah. Great virtues have been narrated for this Salat. However, a lifetime of Tahajjud cannot equal one Fardu of Salat Fajr! Yet in the month of Ramadhan Allah Ta’ala grants us the reward of a Fardu action for every Sunat performed.
ENTERTAINMENT?
Thus, can we afford to waste this time? Can we still have time for “drives?” Is it possible for a person who values Ramadhan in a similar manner that he values Ringgit Malaysia Two Hundred a second, to spend hours “eating out” at after taraweh feasts, or have time for other idle pursuits? Can we afford to spend valuable time glued to the airwaves listening to the “opinions” and “views” of all and sundry in Din matters whereas that time could have been used to at least recite Al Fatihah? And entertainment? Have we heard that word before??? Thus the last thing that any Muslim who values Ramadhan will bother about is who somewhere in the world is whacking a little red ball all over a field or who is kicking a ball between two posts!!!
SHORTEST TARAWEH
Thus it also does not behoove of people who value Ramadhan to try to “save time” from the performance of ibadah. Many people “work out” the shortest taraweh — where they will be able to leave in the shortest possible time and head for the food outlets where ample time will be whiled away. Think of the Ringgit Malaysia Two Hundred per second. We would break the records for over-time work. Thus in Ramadhan we should break the record for the amount of time spent in Salat, tilaawah (recitation of the Qur’an), zikr, dua, etc. Ramadhan is not a month to “save” time from the performance of these acts. Rather it is a month to engage every moment possible in these acts. Apart from Salat, tilawat, etc., Rasulullah (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) has himself stressed upon us to excessively engage in some practices. Rasulullah (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) is reported to have said: “And in this month you should endeavor to perform four things in great number, two of which shall be to please your Rabb, while the other two shall be those without which you cannot make do. Those which shall be to please your Rabb are that you should in great abundance recite the “Kalima Tayyiba” (Laa ilaaha il’lallah) and make much istighfaar (beg Allah’s forgiveness with Astaghfirullah). And as for those two without which you cannot make do, you should beg Allah for entry into paradise and seek refuge with him from the fire of Jahannam.”
ONE MONTH
While one should engage to the maximum in the above good deeds, the purpose of Ramadhan must be kept foremost in mind, which is to acquire Taqwa (Allah-awareness and piety). Thus together with the maximum amount of righteous actions one must totally refrain from all sins. One month of strictly conducting oneself in this manner will Insha-Allah have the effect of enabling one to live the next eleven months in a similar manner — in the complete obedience of Allah Ta’ala.
May Allah Ta’ala enable us to appreciate and value the month of Ramadhan — more than what we value Ringgit Malaysia Two Hundred per second.
Friday, August 5, 2011
Diabetes News
Many people with Type 2 diabetes use plants, or plant parts, for the self-management of their medical problems. This is what most people refer to as herbal medicine, botanical medicine, or phytomedicine. In the United States more than one-third of people with diabetes use herbal or traditional and alternative medicine alone, or in combination with their prescribed anti-diabetic medication, according to the Johns Hopkins Point-of-Care Information Technology Center (Johns Hopkins POC-IT Center).
There are many types of herbal preparations used for the treatment of Type 2 diabetes. In fact, in almost every culture there is one herbal medicine intended for the management of increased blood sugar levels. However, there are only a few tested and evaluated systematically and scientifically for this purpose.
Here is a list of the most commonly used herbal and medicinal plants for the management of Type 2 diabetes:
- Ginseng: Ginseng is one of the most popular medicinal herbs globally. There are two major types of this herb:
- Asian ginseng, the Panax ginseng
- American ginseng, the Panax quinquefolius.
The active compounds in the ginseng herbs that makes them useful are the ginsenosides. According to one particular study, information from the Johns Hopkins POC-IT Center states ginsenosides can potentially improve insulin resistance. Ginseng can be safely used at a dosage of 1 to 3 grams per day. However, the adverse effects of using this herbal medicine include:
- hypertension,
- headache,
- insomnia,
- nervousness and palpitations, and
- nausea.
Ginseng is also known to interact with the action of warfarin, an anticoagulant (more commonly referred to as a blood thinner). Ginseng unfortunately causes warfarin to be less effective.
Cinnamon: There is new evidence cinnamon can be helpful in regulating blood sugar. Cinnamon is not just another spice that can be used for cooking and baking. According to Johns Hopkins POC-IT Center, cinnamon can increase the effectiveness of insulin therefore improve your blood sugar level. Human trials indicate that taking between 1/4 and one teaspoon of cinnamon every day helps control blood sugar levels. However, various results from other studies contradict these findings. The safety profile of cinnamon is clean and there are no drug interactions noted with the use of cinnamon.
Bitter melon: Different cultures and traditions used bitter melon (Momordica charantia) for the management of diabetes. Many people believe it can decrease insulin resistance… bitter melon is composed of several compounds with confirmed blood sugar lowering properties. It must be pointed out though, clinical trials regarding this herb show contradicting results. Although taking as little as 2 ounces of the juice has shown good results in clinical trials, adverse effects with the use of bitter melon include:
- gastrointestinal symptoms, and
- favism, or bursting of red blood cells,
with the ingestion of seeds in certain G6PD deficient diabetics.
Fenugreek: The herb fenugreek is one of the most impressive natural substances helpful for people with diabetes. Fenugreek is a traditional spice often used in curry in Asia and the Mediterranean countries. Fenugreek is believed to contain 4-hydroxyisoleucine, a chemical that can enhance insulin production and secretion by the pancreas. Some clinical studies claim its effectiveness in the treatment of Type 2 diabetes. It lowers blood sugar much the same way that drugs in the class of sulfonylureas (such as glyburide) do. Adverse reactions related to fenugreek use include:
- dizziness,
- flatulence, and
- diarrhea.
However, no herb to drug interaction has been observed.
Fenugreek helps you lose weight because the seeds of fenugreek are rich in dietary fiber, so it delays stomach emptying and after-eating sugar spikes. As the seeds are bitter, taking supplements may be the better choice. As lowered blood sugar is an expected effect of using fenugreek, if you combine it with medications and do not monitor yourself properly, you could find yourself with very low blood sugar. Make sure you see your doctor regularly to supervise your regimen.
Beverleigh Piepers RN… the Diabetes Detective.
There are many types of herbal preparations used for the treatment of Type 2 diabetes. In fact, in almost every culture there is one herbal medicine intended for the management of increased blood sugar levels. However, there are only a few tested and evaluated systematically and scientifically for this purpose.
Here is a list of the most commonly used herbal and medicinal plants for the management of Type 2 diabetes:
- Ginseng: Ginseng is one of the most popular medicinal herbs globally. There are two major types of this herb:
- Asian ginseng, the Panax ginseng
- American ginseng, the Panax quinquefolius.
The active compounds in the ginseng herbs that makes them useful are the ginsenosides. According to one particular study, information from the Johns Hopkins POC-IT Center states ginsenosides can potentially improve insulin resistance. Ginseng can be safely used at a dosage of 1 to 3 grams per day. However, the adverse effects of using this herbal medicine include:
- hypertension,
- headache,
- insomnia,
- nervousness and palpitations, and
- nausea.
Ginseng is also known to interact with the action of warfarin, an anticoagulant (more commonly referred to as a blood thinner). Ginseng unfortunately causes warfarin to be less effective.
Cinnamon: There is new evidence cinnamon can be helpful in regulating blood sugar. Cinnamon is not just another spice that can be used for cooking and baking. According to Johns Hopkins POC-IT Center, cinnamon can increase the effectiveness of insulin therefore improve your blood sugar level. Human trials indicate that taking between 1/4 and one teaspoon of cinnamon every day helps control blood sugar levels. However, various results from other studies contradict these findings. The safety profile of cinnamon is clean and there are no drug interactions noted with the use of cinnamon.
Bitter melon: Different cultures and traditions used bitter melon (Momordica charantia) for the management of diabetes. Many people believe it can decrease insulin resistance… bitter melon is composed of several compounds with confirmed blood sugar lowering properties. It must be pointed out though, clinical trials regarding this herb show contradicting results. Although taking as little as 2 ounces of the juice has shown good results in clinical trials, adverse effects with the use of bitter melon include:
- gastrointestinal symptoms, and
- favism, or bursting of red blood cells,
with the ingestion of seeds in certain G6PD deficient diabetics.
Fenugreek: The herb fenugreek is one of the most impressive natural substances helpful for people with diabetes. Fenugreek is a traditional spice often used in curry in Asia and the Mediterranean countries. Fenugreek is believed to contain 4-hydroxyisoleucine, a chemical that can enhance insulin production and secretion by the pancreas. Some clinical studies claim its effectiveness in the treatment of Type 2 diabetes. It lowers blood sugar much the same way that drugs in the class of sulfonylureas (such as glyburide) do. Adverse reactions related to fenugreek use include:
- dizziness,
- flatulence, and
- diarrhea.
However, no herb to drug interaction has been observed.
Fenugreek helps you lose weight because the seeds of fenugreek are rich in dietary fiber, so it delays stomach emptying and after-eating sugar spikes. As the seeds are bitter, taking supplements may be the better choice. As lowered blood sugar is an expected effect of using fenugreek, if you combine it with medications and do not monitor yourself properly, you could find yourself with very low blood sugar. Make sure you see your doctor regularly to supervise your regimen.
Beverleigh Piepers RN… the Diabetes Detective.
Thursday, August 4, 2011
Ramadhan Al Mubarak
Assalamu’alaikum Warahmatullahi Wabarakatuh,
Salam 1 Malaysia, Salam Perak Amanjaya
Saudara dan saudari sekalian,
1. Salam Ramadhan saya hulurkan kepada semua umat Islam dan semoga Allah mempermudahkan serta menyempurnakan Ramadhan tahun ini tanpa sebarang halangan. Sesungguhnya, Ramadhan adalah bulan yang amat istimewa kerana ia adalah satu-satunya bulan yang disebutkan namanya secara khusus di dalam al-Quran.
Menambahkan lagi kemuliaannya, Allah SWT telah mengikat bulan ini dengan Rukun Islam yang ketiga, yakni ibadah puasa. Ramadhan benar-benar salah satu daripada syiar-syiar agung agama Islam. Sambutan dan penghormatan kita kepada Ramadhan adalah tanda ketakwaan sebagaimana firman Allah SWT dalam surah al-Hajj ayat 32 yang bermaksud :-
“Demikianlah (ajaran Allah) dan sesiapa yang menghormati syiar-syiar agama Allah, maka (dialah orang yang bertakwa) kerana sesungguhnya perbuatan itu satu kesan dari sifat-sifat takwa hati orang mukmin.”
2. Justeru, kehadiran Ramadhan al-Mubarak ini, merupakan satu rahmat besar yang telah disediakan oleh Allah SWT sebagai satu medan untuk kita semua membina kualiti keimanan dan ketakwaan. Sememangnya, Ramadhan akan kita hiasi siang dan malamnya dengan segala rupa bentuk ibadah dan amalan soleh seperti berpuasa, bertarawih, bertadarus dan mentilawahkan al-Quran, berzikir dan bermunajat. Sudah tentu, antara hikmah segala ibadah ini ialah untuk membangunkan segala sifat dan kualiti terpuji di dalam diri kita.
3. Hakikatnya, bulan ini menggalakkan kita untuk saling bersedekah dan berkongsi juadah. Bulan di mana kita menzahirkan keprihatinan kita kepada jiran dan handai taulan kita tanpa mengira batas kaum dan agama. Inilah masanya juga kita sama-sama berdiri di dalam satu saf untuk solat berjemaah dan bertarawih. Bulan ini juga menganjurkan kita mengukuhkan tali persaudaraan dan perpaduan sesama kita. Pendek kata, suntikan perasaan kerahmatan ini amat sesuai untuk membugarkan Gagasan 1Malaysia. Malah ianya membentuk konsep ‘Penerimaan’ sepenuhnya di kalangan masyarakat berbilang kaum di negara ini.
4. Saya ingin mengingatkan agar kita tidak melakukan pembaziran dan berbelanjalah secara berhemah pada bulan ini, sesuai dengan semangat yang dianjurkan oleh Ramadhan, bersamalah kita melaksanakan transformasi minda dan jiwa agar Ramadhan kali ini bukanlah Ramadhan yang sekadar rutinan semata-mata. Bahkan inilah Ramadhan yang akan meningkatkan dan mengubah kehidupan kita selepas ini dengan menjadi hambaNya yang lebih hebat takwanya berbanding sebelumnya.
6. Dengan ini, saya dan seisi keluarga mengucapkan Selamat Menyambut Ramadhan al-Mubarak dan Selamat Berpuasa kepada semua umat Islam di negara ini disamping mensyukuri nikmat kemerdekaan yang kita kecapi. Marilah kita bersama-sama mengimarahkan Ramadhan ini dengan segala amal kebajikan dan ibadah. Semoga Allah SWT melimpahkan kepada kita dengan seribu rahmatNya. Amin Ya Rabbal-‘Alamin.
Wabillahi Taufik Walhidayah Wassalamu’alaikum Warahmatullahi Wabarakatuh
Salam 1 Malaysia, Salam Perak Amanjaya
Saudara dan saudari sekalian,
1. Salam Ramadhan saya hulurkan kepada semua umat Islam dan semoga Allah mempermudahkan serta menyempurnakan Ramadhan tahun ini tanpa sebarang halangan. Sesungguhnya, Ramadhan adalah bulan yang amat istimewa kerana ia adalah satu-satunya bulan yang disebutkan namanya secara khusus di dalam al-Quran.
Menambahkan lagi kemuliaannya, Allah SWT telah mengikat bulan ini dengan Rukun Islam yang ketiga, yakni ibadah puasa. Ramadhan benar-benar salah satu daripada syiar-syiar agung agama Islam. Sambutan dan penghormatan kita kepada Ramadhan adalah tanda ketakwaan sebagaimana firman Allah SWT dalam surah al-Hajj ayat 32 yang bermaksud :-
“Demikianlah (ajaran Allah) dan sesiapa yang menghormati syiar-syiar agama Allah, maka (dialah orang yang bertakwa) kerana sesungguhnya perbuatan itu satu kesan dari sifat-sifat takwa hati orang mukmin.”
2. Justeru, kehadiran Ramadhan al-Mubarak ini, merupakan satu rahmat besar yang telah disediakan oleh Allah SWT sebagai satu medan untuk kita semua membina kualiti keimanan dan ketakwaan. Sememangnya, Ramadhan akan kita hiasi siang dan malamnya dengan segala rupa bentuk ibadah dan amalan soleh seperti berpuasa, bertarawih, bertadarus dan mentilawahkan al-Quran, berzikir dan bermunajat. Sudah tentu, antara hikmah segala ibadah ini ialah untuk membangunkan segala sifat dan kualiti terpuji di dalam diri kita.
3. Hakikatnya, bulan ini menggalakkan kita untuk saling bersedekah dan berkongsi juadah. Bulan di mana kita menzahirkan keprihatinan kita kepada jiran dan handai taulan kita tanpa mengira batas kaum dan agama. Inilah masanya juga kita sama-sama berdiri di dalam satu saf untuk solat berjemaah dan bertarawih. Bulan ini juga menganjurkan kita mengukuhkan tali persaudaraan dan perpaduan sesama kita. Pendek kata, suntikan perasaan kerahmatan ini amat sesuai untuk membugarkan Gagasan 1Malaysia. Malah ianya membentuk konsep ‘Penerimaan’ sepenuhnya di kalangan masyarakat berbilang kaum di negara ini.
4. Saya ingin mengingatkan agar kita tidak melakukan pembaziran dan berbelanjalah secara berhemah pada bulan ini, sesuai dengan semangat yang dianjurkan oleh Ramadhan, bersamalah kita melaksanakan transformasi minda dan jiwa agar Ramadhan kali ini bukanlah Ramadhan yang sekadar rutinan semata-mata. Bahkan inilah Ramadhan yang akan meningkatkan dan mengubah kehidupan kita selepas ini dengan menjadi hambaNya yang lebih hebat takwanya berbanding sebelumnya.
6. Dengan ini, saya dan seisi keluarga mengucapkan Selamat Menyambut Ramadhan al-Mubarak dan Selamat Berpuasa kepada semua umat Islam di negara ini disamping mensyukuri nikmat kemerdekaan yang kita kecapi. Marilah kita bersama-sama mengimarahkan Ramadhan ini dengan segala amal kebajikan dan ibadah. Semoga Allah SWT melimpahkan kepada kita dengan seribu rahmatNya. Amin Ya Rabbal-‘Alamin.
Wabillahi Taufik Walhidayah Wassalamu’alaikum Warahmatullahi Wabarakatuh
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