As the Chinese New Year approaches, many people are busy preparing for the festivities—cleaning their homes, shopping for new clothes, and planning menus for their family feasts. However, not everyone will celebrate in the usual way. For 54-year-old Sharon Yap, this Lunar New Year will be far from traditional. Instead of enjoying the lively atmosphere of a family gathering, complete with the scent of bak kwa or the warmth of a hot pot meal, she’ll spend the holiday in a hospital room. Sharon has been admitted to Yishun Community Hospital for the past three months, and her recovery progress suggests she won’t be discharged in time to celebrate as she has in previous years. A Health Crisis Unfolds: What began as a simple fever one night last year quickly spiraled into a major health ordeal for Sharon. Initially dismissing it as nothing serious, she visited a polyclinic the next morning, where a doctor urged her to seek immediate hospital care. Expecting a short stay for what she thought was a mild fever, Sharon was stunned to learn she had gallbladder disease and required surgery. "Why did this happen to me? My life used to be so full of joy and excitement," she reflected. A Different Kind of New Year: Before her illness, Sharon’s Lunar New Year celebrations were filled with family traditions. As a divorcee living apart from her children, she would often join her older brother’s family for the festivities. From indulging in festive treats to late-night card games, it was a routine she enjoyed every year. However, Sharon admits to feeling a sense of detachment from familial bonds, which stemmed from her parents' health struggles during her childhood. "I never really had a strong connection with them," she shared. What Sharon misses most this year isn’t the celebrations—it’s her beloved dog, Baobei. The nine-year-old dog, who has been her constant companion in her two-room flat, was like family to her. "I don’t really miss the New Year activities. I just miss my dog. My dog is enough," she said, her voice filled with longing. Since her hospitalization, Baobei has been cared for by a friend, and the separation has been particularly difficult for Sharon. The hospital staff had planned a visit to reunite her with Baobei, but her worsening health has postponed those plans for now. Support and Care: Sharon’s care team at Yishun Community Hospital has taken a holistic approach to her recovery. Staff members like assistant nurse clinician Penny Chen, senior physiotherapist Halim Zul Fahmi, and medical social worker Kathryn Tan have built close relationships with her. They believe that small, meaningful gestures—like a visit from Baobei—can motivate patients to adhere to their treatment plans and recover faster. During festive periods like Chinese New Year, the hospital sees an increase in family visits. Patients who are well enough may be allowed home leave to spend time with loved ones or meet them in designated areas on the hospital premises. The wards at the hospital have also been decorated for the occasion, with lanterns, plum blossoms, and signs of good fortune adorning the spaces. On New Year’s Eve, patients will be served a festive meal featuring healthier versions of traditional dishes like Prosperity Braised Cabbage and Orange Mousse. Looking Ahead: Despite her circumstances, Sharon is hopeful for the future. Her children have promised to take her traveling once she recovers. "I’m looking forward to traveling overseas. I’ll go wherever they take me," she said with a smile. For now, she’s focusing on getting better, supported by the care of hospital staff and the hope of reuniting with her furry best friend, Baobei. Disclaimer: This image is taken from AsiaOne/Amierul Rashid

In the age of the internet, health advice is everywhere. While some of it is backed by science, a significant amount is rooted in misconceptions and myths. Believing these myths can not only lead to unnecessary stress but also negatively impact your well-being. Let’s set the record straight by debunking some of the most common health myths. Myth 1: You Should Drink Eight Glasses of Water a Day This myth likely stems from a misinterpretation of a recommendation from the 1940s, which stated that adults need about 2.5 liters of water daily. However, the original guideline also mentioned that much of this water comes from food and other beverages. In reality, your hydration needs vary depending on your activity level, climate, and diet. The best indicator? Trust your thirst. Myth 2: Carbs Are Bad for You Carbohydrates have gained a bad reputation, especially with the popularity of low-carb diets like keto. However, not all carbs are created equal. While refined carbs (like white bread and sugary snacks) can lead to health issues, complex carbs (found in whole grains, fruits, and vegetables) are essential for energy and overall health. Cutting out all carbs can deprive your body of crucial nutrients. Myth 3: Eating Fat Makes You Fat For decades, dietary fat was demonized as the primary cause of weight gain and heart disease. Today, research shows that healthy fats, such as those found in avocados, nuts, and olive oil, are vital for brain function, hormone regulation, and heart health. It’s excessive calorie consumptio not fat alone that leads to weight gain. Myth 4: Vaccines Can Cause Autism This myth originated from a now-discredited study published in 1998, which falsely linked the MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) vaccine to autism. Numerous large-scale studies since then have found no connection between vaccines and autism. Vaccines are safe, rigorously tested, and critical for preventing life-threatening diseases. Myth 5: You Need to Detox Your Body with Cleanses Detox teas, juice cleanses, and other detox products promise to rid your body of toxins, but they’re largely unnecessary. Your liver and kidneys are incredibly efficient at eliminating waste and toxins from your body. Instead of spending money on cleanses, focus on maintaining a balanced diet, staying hydrated, and getting regular exercise. Myth 6: You Can Catch a Cold from Cold Weather Many people believe that being exposed to cold weather can make you sick. However, colds are caused by viruses, not the temperature. The reason colds are more common in winter is that people spend more time indoors in close proximity to others, increasing the likelihood of virus transmission. Myth 7: Natural Means Safe The term “natural” is often equated with safety, but this isn’t always the case. Many natural substances can be harmful or even deadly—think of poisonous plants like belladonna. Similarly, natural supplements are not always rigorously tested, and some can interact dangerously with medications or have side effects. Myth 8: Spot-Reducing Fat Is Possible Many fitness enthusiasts believe that doing exercises targeting specific areas, like crunches for belly fat, will reduce fat in those areas. Unfortunately, spot-reducing fat isn’t possible. Fat loss occurs throughout the body based on genetics and overall calorie expenditure, not from targeting specific muscle groups. Myth 9: Microwaving Food Destroys Nutrients Microwaves often get a bad reputation, but they’re actually one of the best cooking methods for preserving nutrients. Since microwaving cooks food quickly and with minimal water, it helps retain more vitamins and minerals compared to boiling or frying. Myth 10: Breakfast Is the Most Important Meal of the Day While breakfast can be important for some, especially children and those with specific health conditions, it isn’t universally critical. Intermittent fasting and other eating patterns have shown that skipping breakfast can be perfectly healthy for many people. Listen to your body and eat when you’re hungry. Final Thoughts Misinformation can be as harmful as poor health habits. By debunking these myths, we can make more informed decisions about our health. Always consult credible sources and healthcare professionals when in doubt. Remember, staying informed is the first step to staying healthy.

We recently tested the Mercedes-Benz CLE 200 Coupe, which impressed with its sleek design but left us wishing for more performance from its 2.0-litre engine. For those looking for more power, the new CLE 53 AMG takes things up a notch, offering a more aggressive and performance-oriented version of the original coupe. What Makes the CLE 53 AMG Special: The first thing you’ll notice about the CLE 53 AMG is its muscular appearance. It’s wider than the standard CLE, thanks to flared wheel arches and thicker tyres at the front and rear. The car features bold design elements, including a vertical-slat grille and a sporty lower front bumper. At the rear, prominent quad exhaust pipes and a black rear diffuser add to its menacing stance. Inside, the cabin has a more subtle sporty feel compared to the exterior. While it shares similarities with the regular CLE, AMG-specific touches set it apart. The sports bucket seats are snug, with yellow trimming adding a touch of flair. The digital instrument cluster and touchscreen infotainment system feature AMG-specific graphics, serving as constant reminders of the car's performance potential. Performance: Power with Refinement: The CLE 53 AMG doesn’t fall short on performance. Equipped with a 3.0-litre turbocharged inline-six engine, it delivers 443hp and 560Nm of torque. With the 4Matic all-wheel-drive system, it can accelerate from 0-100km/h in just 4.2 seconds. The engine is a mild hybrid, incorporating an electric motor that adds an additional 22hp to the total power output. This hybrid setup helps with efficiency, particularly during acceleration, but it also makes the driving experience feel less dramatic than you might expect from an AMG. While quick, the CLE 53 AMG feels more composed and controlled than outright thrilling. It accelerates smoothly and confidently, with a ride quality that leans towards comfort rather than aggressive sportiness. Despite its impressive performance features—such as adaptive dampers, rear-wheel steering, and selectable drive modes that adjust throttle response and suspension stiffness—the car’s performance remains smooth and predictable, without the excitement that typically defines an AMG. Its weight of nearly 1.8 tonnes means that while the CLE 53 AMG handles corners with confidence, it doesn’t offer the agility of smaller, lighter vehicles. Is the CLE 53 AMG Worth the Price: At a starting price of $466,888 with COE (as of January 2025), the Mercedes-AMG CLE 53 is a well-rounded and high-performing vehicle. It’s fast, comfortable, and a capable sports coupe. However, it’s not the type of AMG that enthusiasts may expect. Traditionally, AMGs are known for their loud, dramatic personalities, but the CLE 53 AMG takes a more refined approach. It’s a performance vehicle with a gentlemanly charm, rather than the wild, aggressive nature associated with the brand. For those seeking the classic, raucous AMG experience, this might not be the right choice. But for drivers who want a powerful yet refined daily driver with a bit more performance than the standard CLE, the CLE 53 AMG delivers. Disclaimer: This image is taken from AsiaOne/Ben Chia

Krithi Shetty’s love for long, dramatic eyelashes has struck a chord with beauty enthusiasts across the globe. In a recent Vogue Beauty Secrets video, the Telugu actor shared that she keeps an eyelash curler within arm’s reach on her bedside table. She also revealed that curling her lashes is an essential part of her routine, ensuring she never steps out without adding that extra flair to her look. Eyelash curlers are undeniably a game-changer for creating a striking, wide-eyed effect. However, could their regular use pose risks to your eyes or lashes? To delve deeper into the potential hazards of this beauty tool. Disclaimer:This image is taken from Instagram/Kirthi shetty.

A recent accident in Tampines that claimed two lives has sparked concerns about Singapore's driving habits. Persistent issues like speeding, running red lights, and drink driving remain significant challenges. Bernard Tay, Chairman of the Singapore Road Safety Council, and Julian Kho, General Manager at Sgcarmart, share their insights with Steven Chia and Crispina Robert on the changes needed to improve road safety. Disclaimer: This podcast is taken from CNA.

Some instances of parent-child estrangement arise from a difficult or traumatic upbringing. However, for some parents, it comes as a painful surprise, as they believed they did their best. Gaby Hinsliff explores stories from both sides of these family divides. Disclaimer: This podcats is taken from The Guardian.

Daniel Martin engages in a discussion with Dr. Leong Hoe Nam, an Infectious Diseases Physician at Rophi Clinic, located in Mount Elizabeth Novena Specialist Centre, about human metapneumovirus and measures you can take to avoid infection. Disclaimer:This podcast is taken from CNA.

For those who drink regularly, studies suggesting that moderate alcohol consumption leads to a longer life than complete abstinence can be reassuring. However, a new analysis disputes this idea, arguing that it is rooted in flawed research comparing drinkers to individuals who are abstinent due to health issues. In an August episode, Madeleine Finlay speaks with Tim Stockwell, the lead author of the analysis and a scientist at the Canadian Institute for Substance Use Research at the University of Victoria, to explore why researchers, including himself, previously believed in this notion and to uncover the true risks associated with alcohol consumption. Disclaimer: This podcast is taken from The Guardian.