WELCOME TO THE MAPLE LEAF TIMES BLOG

A couple of articles are added each month with many more articles provided in the CAS's Maple Leaf Times (eMLT) magazine. To receive your eMLT magazine sent directly to your inbox (8 issues per year), become a member of the Canadian Association of Singapore. Visit the CAS website to register -- www.canadians.org.sg

Saturday, December 1, 2018

A Christmas arts party for you and your little ones!

Celebrate Christmas at CIS! We are hosting a magical Christmas arts party at our Lakeside campus. Everyone who loves Christmas and the arts are welcome!

🎄 When:    Thursday, 6 December, 2018

🎄 Time:     9am - 11am

🎄 Why:     To spend a magical morning singing Christmas carols, making decorations and watching a scene from Aladdin performed by our grade 5 students. We even hear Santa will be dropping by! The event is also the perfect opportunity to observe first hand our vibrant Arts programme in the kindergarten and primary years. 

🎄 Cost:    Free

🎄 How:     Register at https://www.cis.edu.sg/events/christmas-at-cis-2018 

About CIS’ primary school Arts programmeOur Arts programme plays a vital role in our primary school curriculum. It incorporates music, drama and visual arts in the classroom and as an extracurricular activity for students who wish to advance their learning through music ensembles, choral groups and drama productions. We’ve got modern drama and dance studios, a 500-seat theatre at our Lakeside campus, a black-box theatre, practice rooms and an audio-visual suite. We teach students specific skills about performing and listening, including how to be good audience members. There are opportunities for students of all abilities; we don’t just focus on those with exceptional talents.

What sets our programme apart. We really want our students to understand the history and culture behind their learning. For example, our Grade 4 music students are currently learning to sing two traditional songs – one in Hindi and another in Thai – for their holiday concert in December. This includes learning about the Thai and Hindi languages, customs and traditions.

Our programme also focuses on developing important life skills, like independence, self-discipline, concentration, perseverance and teamwork. These are critical for every student’s success regardless of what career they choose. For example, activities such as band, choir, and theatre require students to work together. Performing live on stage in front of an audience teaches them that regardless of what happens – making a mistake or stage fright – the show must go on.

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For more information about CIS’ arts programme visit www.cis.edu.sg/learning/arts

Bleeding Gums

Q: I brush daily, why do I still have bleeding gums?


A: Bleeding gums are caused by plaque that are not removed. They attack the gums, causing them to be inflamed and bleed when being brushed or flossed. This is the first stage of gum disease, and is also called gingivitis. At this stage, gingivitis can be reversed and treated. If left untreated, you may experience persistent bad breath, swollen gums, receding gums and ultimately, tooth loss. Hence you are advised to visit your dentist/Periodontist as soon as possible.

At the same time, it is important to review your oral care routine to ensure the following:
  • Brush your teeth at least twice a day for at least two minutes each
  • Use a soft toothbrush with a small head and avoid brushing too hard
  • Floss at least once a day to remove plaque from areas that are hard to reach
  • Visit your dentist/Periodontist for at least once every six months for a professional cleaning so that accumulated plaque and tartar can be removed
Bleeding gums has been linked to more serious health issues such as diabetes, heart disease, stroke and cancer. Do take bleeding gums seriously and speak to your dentist/Periodontist.




Dr Ben Wang is a Dental Surgeon with Postgraduate Training in Periodontics with Specialist Dental Group. He received his training in Periodontics from the Eastman Dental Institute, University of London. Dr Wang has a special interest in the critical appraisal of research, regeneration, bone, soft tissue grafting around teeth and implants www.specialistdentalgroup.com / 6733 7883




Specialist Dental Group® is a corporate sponsor of the Canadian Association of Singapore (CAS). CAS members enjoy a special rate for dental services.

Magic Circle

Why is the Pilates circle also known as the "Magic circle"? What can it do for you?

By Jessica Gan




A.  It strengthens your core and incorporates gentle movements without having to stress out on comparatively riskier programs, such as weight lifting.

B. It can be a form of rehab as it offers a low maximum resistance threshold.

C. It improves your body alignment and balance. Why? Because when you press the ring from both sides, you will be challenged to remain in your posture. The ring will assist in finding your center.

It is quite magical. Have fun with the Pilates magic circle!

Chilled Cucumber, Mint & Pea soup

Serves 4

Ingredients:

  • ½ yellow onion, chopped
  • ½ teaspoon sugar
  • 2 cloves garlic, finely chopped
  • 2 cups frozen green peas 
  • 1½ cup vegetable stock
  • A few mint leaves
  • 1¼ cucumber, diced (reserve some for garnish)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • 4 tablespoon sour cream
  • Sea salt and black pepper to taste


Here’s what to do:


  1. Sauté onion for a few minutes until translucent, adding a bit of sugar to help it caramelise.
  1. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant.
  1. Add peas and mix well for 1-2 minutes.
  1. Add vegetable stock, cover and let simmer for about 15 minutes on low heat.
  1. Let cool and transfer to a blender.
  1. Add cucumber and a few mint leaves and puree until smooth.
  1. Add olive oil, lemon juice and 3 tablespoons sour cream and puree again.
  1. Season with salt and pepper.
  1. Transfer to fridge and chill.
  1. Serve soup with a swirl of sour cream and a garnish of diced cucumber and mint leaves.
     
     

     


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    Receive 10% off at Expat Kitchen -  Basic, Intermediate and Baking Helper Cooking Courses & Focus Classes. Quote CAS10 when booking.
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Thursday, November 1, 2018

Missing Tooth

Q: I have a missing molar, should I replace it?


A: Some patients I’ve seen had put off replacing their molars (the ones at the back of the mouth) as they are not highly visible. However, other than aesthetics, there are other important reasons for replacing a missing tooth.

Drifting of teeth
Once a tooth is missing, your adjacent teeth will not have adequate support and start to move/drift towards the gap. This results in the rest of your teeth being out of position, making them harder to clean and more prone to gum disease and tooth decay.

Difficulty chewing
Functionally, the loss of a back tooth can affect the bite, affecting your ability to eat well. It will be more difficult to chew effectively, and you may find yourself opting to eat “softer” foods. In some cases, the extra force on the front teeth may result in chipped or cracked teeth.

Bone resorption
Missing teeth also results in bone resorption, especially when multiple missing teeth are left un-replaced. That causes the jaw to shrink and one to look older. The absence of teeth means that our jaw bone does not receive the necessary stimulation to maintain the bone volume.

A denture is an affordable way to replace a missing tooth, while restoring function and appearance. Nonetheless, a dental implant is the only option to help stop bone loss. Consult your Prosthodontist/dentist for missing teeth replacement treatment options. 

  

Dr Steven Soo is a Dental Specialist in Prosthodontics with Specialist Dental Group®. He was formerly a Clinical Lecturer at the Eastman Dental Institute and Clinical Teacher at the GKY Dental Institute, both of which are affiliated with the University of London. Dr Soo has a special interest in prosthetic and implant restorative dentistry.

(65) 6734 9393 | www.specialistdentalgroup.com



  Specialist Dental Group® is a corporate sponsor of the Canadian Association of Singapore (CAS). CAS members enjoy a special rate for dental services. 

Passionfruit Syrup Cake


Serves 8


Ingredients:

  • 1 cup passionfruit pulp
  • ½ cup water
  • ½ cup caster sugar
  • 150g butter, softened
  • 1 cup caster sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 3 eggs
  • 1 cup thick Greek natural yoghurt
  • 2 cups self-raising flour, sifted

Here’s what to do:


  1. Pre-heat the oven to 160˚C and lightly grease cake tin.
  2. To make the syrup, place passionfruit pulp, water and sugar in a small saucepan over medium heat and stir until sugar is dissolved. Bring to the boil, reduce the heat to low and cook for 10-15 minutes. Set aside.
  3. To make the cake, place the butter, sugar and vanilla extract in a large bowl and beat with an electric mixer for 10-15 minutes until pale and creamy.
  4. Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition.
  5. Add yoghurt and beat until well combined.
  6. Fold through the flour and spoon into cake tin. Bake for 35 minutes.
  7. Allow to cool in tin for 5 minutes. Turn out onto serving plate. Spike all over with thin skewer. Drizzle cake with syrup and serve while still warm.

 
    Receive 10% off at Expat Kitchen
    Basic, Intermediate and Baking Helper Cooking Courses & Focus Classes. Quote CAS10 when booking.

    CIS Teacher Publishes Exclusive Chinese Storybook For Young Children



    CIS recently celebrated the publication of a unique Children’s storybook in Chinese by Wendy Tian, a grade 1 Chinese teacher in their Chinese/English bilingual programme. Titled 三只小猪不为人知的新生活” or “Three Little Pigs: the untold story” , the book tells the story of what happened to the three little pigs after the big bad wolf fell into a huge pot of boiling water….. Rich in IB concepts, the book is perfect for grade 1 IB PYP students to use as reflections and topics of discussion.

    When asked what inspired her to write the book, Wendy replied “ There aren’t many Chinese books written to support the IB PYP units of inquiry (UOI). Most books are written in English, or are foreign titles translated from other languages. These books are not completely suitable for grade 1 students learning Chinese.”

    The entire process from conceptualisation to printing took Wendy over a year. She also sought the advice of other teachers to improve the overall concept and use of English words at the end of the book. Olivia Mortlock, a grade 7 CIS student who had published a children’s storybook with her family, did the illustrations.

    Although Wendy has no concrete plans to put her book up for sale, many schools and libraries have already placed a book order with her. She has also donated copies to charity organisations and churches. Having added a feather to her cap with the publication of her book, does she intend to write a second or even a third book?

    I find the phrase不为人知”, which means “untold”, rather interesting so I’m thinking of doing an ‘untold’ series of classical stories like Little Red Riding Hood,” Wendy explained, “and using such stories as teaching material for IB concepts and UOIs in class.”

    We’re looking forward to hearing more about Wendy’s future plans. In the meantime, to order a copy of “Three Little Pigs: the untold story” contact CIS’ TK campus on +65 6345 1573. Happy reading! 



    How to prevent "text neck"?


    By Jessica Gam  


    Do you feel shoulder strain and general stiffness around the neck that could possibly be linked to "text neck".

    Let's be mindful and make small changes that will have big impact in our posture.



    If you are standing, these are some steps: 
    1. Hold the phone in front of you at eye level.
    2. Rest one elbow (even if it is intermittently) on the other hand as you type.
    I am doing this as I type out this fitbit... and it works!


    More tips email:  jessica.gan@alumni.utoronto.ca 



    Tuesday, October 2, 2018

    Grade 6 students shine at Lakeside’s PYP exhibition

     At CIS we celebrate empowered and action-oriented learners on a daily basis, but the International Baccalaureate Primary Years Programme (IB PYP) exhibition is a culmination of all that and more. It’s a ‘rite of passage’ on the grade 6 learning journey where students get to express their beliefs, ideas, and courses of action on issues they are passionate about.

    This year our Lakeside PYP exhibition was held at the end of May. To spur students into action, we first launched a ‘grand kick off” day at the end of February. Social entre-preneurs, activists, TedX speakers and community experts such as professors and business owners, were invited to conduct talks, seminars and mini workshops with the students.

    Acting upon the knowledge they had been given, the students then chose an issue they themselves were passionate about. For eight weeks they researched their chosen issue collaboratively in small groups, using thinking, self-management and communication skills to build and refine their knowledge. At the end of May, they then exhibited their learning with a spectacular evening gala.

    The event kicked off in the atrium with a heartwarming musical performance by all grade 6 students. It was super to watch all the parents enjoying themselves as they swayed to the beautiful group song and crooning performance by our grade 6 acapella group. Afterwards, it was time to explore the exhibition stalls. The confidence, depth of knowledge and expertise the students showed as they talked about their inquiries was truly inspiring. Witnessing how much they had developed as empowered learners during this important learning journey was a very proud moment for the entire CIS community.

    Vegetarian Mee Goreng

    Serves 4


     

    Ingredients:


    • 250g dry noodles
    • 3 tbsp cooking oil
    • 8 shallots, chopped
    • 3 cloves of garlic, chopped roughly
    • 1 cup carrot, cut into strips
    • 2 cups cabbage, shredded
    • 100g bok choy
    • 1 tsp white pepper
    • 1 tbsp Kechap Manis (Indonesian sweet soya sauce)
    • 1 tbsp light soy sauce
    • 1 tbsp oyster sauce
    • ¼ cup scallions, chopped
    • Calamansi lime


    Here’s what to do:

     

    1. Bring a pan of water to boil and cook the dry noodles until ‘al dente’. Plunge the noodles into  cold water, drain and set aside.

    2. Heat the cooking oil in a wok and fry the shallots and garlic.

    3. When they start to brown, add the carrots.

    4. Cook for a few minutes and add the cabbage and bok choy.

    5. Add the white pepper, Kechap Manis, light soy sauce, oyster sauce and noodles.

    6. Mix well and cook until heated through.

    7. Garnish with scallions and calamansi





    10% off Basic, Intermediate and Baking Helper Cooking Courses & Focus Classes. Quote CAS10 when booking .-  www.expat-kitchen.com

    FITBIT: How to Make the Best Use of Gym Classes

    By Jessica Gan

     
    With the recent entry of Classpass App to Singapore, consumers are spoilt for choice! Amongst other apps such as KFIT and GuavaPass, free trials etc, what are some savvy ways to maximize and plan your workout ?

    Some suggestions:

    Class Type focus vs Class hopping
    Some educators will advocate sticking to a class type for a week. This way, your body gets to enjoy the variations the classes offer. Condition your muscles and intensify the similar workout can be a good way to learn what your body is trying to teach you. E.g., Mat Pilates, Reformer, Athletic conditioning with apparatus, Barre Pilates. Thereafter, definitely try to mix it up for variety, for instance Dance and Yoga.

    Communication
    Always tell the instructor if you have any conditions or pain they should be aware of. Do it before class! During class, if you feel pain, stop. 

    Feedback
    In a world of social media, we are encouraged to give feedback. It can be done both offline privately or online openly, as long as it is for mutual improvement.

    Class ettiquette
    Wiping down mats and equipment, bringing a towel (for hygenic factors),  also including open channels of communications with owners and instructors.

    Hope you enjoy the smorgasbord of fitness classes our sunny island has to offer in today's consumer haven!

    Wisdom Tooth

    Q: When do I need to remove my wisdom tooth? 



    A: Generally, a wisdom tooth need not be removed if it erupts normally, functions well and do not cause any issues. However, in most cases, there is not enough space in the mouth for them to grow normally. This is because by the time our wisdom teeth grow through the gums, it is only after the other 28 adult teeth are in place. Therefore, most wisdom teeth erupts at an angle or is partially erupted.

    When a wisdom tooth is partially erupted, it is a breeding ground for bacteria, resulting in:
    • tooth decay, including damage to adjacent tooth
    • pericoronitis (inflammation of the tissue around the crown of the wisdom tooth)
    • gum disease
    • abscess (pus around the wisdom tooth due to bacterial infection)
    When any of the above takes place, pain and swelling may be felt and also are the indicators for removal. It is recommended that you visit an oral surgeon/dentist for a thorough check up and he/she will advise accordingly.

    When a wisdom tooth is completely buried, some patients may prefer to not remove it. However, there is a small risk of infection and development of a cyst or tumour around it. Therefore, for any wisdom teeth that are retained, it is important for them to be monitored regularly by your oral surgeon/dentist. 

    ********************
    Dr Ho Kok Sen is an Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeon with Specialist Dental Group®. Dr Ho is a mentor, lecturer and examiner to students in the Graduate Diploma in Dental Implantology course at the National University of Singapore. He is a fellow of the Royal Australasian College of Dental Surgeons and the Academy of Medicine Singapore. He has a special interest in dental implants, jaw surgery, bone grafting and complex extractions.

     *********************
    Specialist Dental Group® is a corporate sponsor of the Canadian Association of Singapore (CAS). CAS members enjoy a special rate for dental services.

    Monday, August 27, 2018

    Recipe: Chicken and Sundried Tomato Meatballs with Mustard Sauce


    Serves 4

    Ingredients:

    • 60g butter
    • 500g minced chicken
    • ¼ cup sundried tomatoes in oil, drained and finely  chopped
    • 1/3 cup parsley, finely chopped
    • ¼ cup finely grated parmesan cheese
    • ¼ cup toasted pine nuts
    • ½ cup dry breadcrumbs
    • 1 egg
    • 2 cloves garlic, crushed
    • ¼ cup water
    • 1 tablespoon olive oil
    • 1 teaspoon plain flour
    • ½ cup white wine
    • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
    • salt and freshly ground black pepper 

     

    Here’s what to do:

    1. Combine mince, sundried tomatoes, ¼ cup parsley, pine nuts, parmesan, breadcrumbs, egg and1 clove garlic. Season with salt and pepper. Knead the mixture with clean hands, slowly adding water and kneading between additions until incorporated. Form mixture into small balls.
    2. Heat 40g butter and oil in a large non-stick frypan, panfry meatballs until browned and cooked through. Keep warm.
    3. Wipe excess fat from pan, add remaining butter and garlic, fry for 30 seconds, add flour and cook for another minute, add white wine and mustard, bring to the boil for 1 minute until thickened slightly then stir through remaining parsley.
    4. Serve meatballs with steamed vegetables and mashed potatoes, drizzled with the mustard sauce. 
     


    10% off Basic, Intermediate and Baking Helper Cooking Courses & Focus Classes. Quote CAS10 when booking.

    FitBit: Weight training vs weight-free training

    In our fast paced society with a lack of time to hit the gym, do you often wonder what programs can help achieve optimal results? The last thing we want is suffer a negative effect from workout plans that do not complement. On the topic of weights vs weight-free training, for instance, gym heavy lifting vs yoga pilates mat workout, what can be an optimal plan? 

    A ratio of 2:1can be a possible option, with 4 gym sessions vs 2 mat classes per week.

    Example of pilates core strengthening exercise to complement a dead-lift rep at the gym:

    A. Hold the circle for awareness
    B. Activate your core
    C. Retract and pack your shoulders
    D. Exhale to lean back 
    E. Stop when your back starts to curve. Always keep a neutral spine or flat back
    F. Imagine a string being pulled from your belly and come back up to starting position. 

    In this example, the benefits that can compliment your deadlift rep:
    • More focus on breath as you will pay more attention on diaphragmatic breathing and apply it to intra abdominal pressure for the heavy lifts;
    • Increases mobility and flexibility as you learn to lean back without curving the spine. This gives you more ROM (range of motion) which benefits your deadlift reps too.
    Although both workouts appear to be on different end of the spectrum, when combined properly, it can achieve so much for your mind and body. Enjoy!

    More tips email:  jessica.gan@alumni.utoronto.ca

    Note: A shorter version appears in the MLT September issue due to the lack of space provided on the page.

    Root Canal Treatment

    Q: How do I know if my root canal treatment has failed?

    A: Signs and symptoms of a failed root canal treatment (RCT) are usually what prompted you to seek treatment in the first place. They include tenderness or swelling of the gums surrounding the tooth, pain when biting, pus or abscess near the tooth and/or a shaky tooth.

    Immediately after a root canal treatment, it is normal for the surrounding area to be tender or sore. Hence, there is no cause for alarm during this period. The discomfort should go away eventually. However, if the discomfort persists or the pain returns after the tooth had recovered previously, you are advised to visit your dentist/endodontist so that they can carry out a thorough check for you.

    Causes of a failed root canal treatment

    A treated tooth may fail due to bacteria remaining in the root canal or bacteria re-entering the tooth after treatment. These can be caused by:
    • A filling that is defective and leaking or a crown that has dislodged
    • A cracked tooth
    • Gum disease or tooth decay
    • Presence of persistent bacteria remaining in the root canal which may be impossible to eradicate due to the complexity of the root canal system
    Therefore, it is important to take good care of your treated tooth. Patients are encouraged to brush at least twice a day, for at least two minutes each. It is also advisable to visit your dentist two times a year and floss daily.

     

    Dr Irene Sim is a Dental Specialist in Endodontics with Specialist Dental Group®. She received her specialty training in Endodontics from the National University of Singapore. Dr Sim has a special interest in dental traumatology, revascularisation, apexification, non-vital bleaching & cracked teeth management. (65) 6734 9393 | www.specialistdentalgroup.com




    Specialist Dental Group® is a corporate sponsor of the Canadian Association of Singapore (CAS). CAS members enjoy a special rate for dental services.

    French-English bilingual programme

    CIS is delighted to announce the opening of a new French-English bilingual programme in August 2018, to children in grades 1 and 2. Available at our Lakeside campus, The programme is perfect for families who want their children to become bilingual, biliterate and bicultural in both English and French.

    Key features of the programme include inquiry based instruction fully aligned to the international Baccalaureate Primary Years Programme ( IB PYP), two qualified teachers per class (one English speaker and one French speaker) and equal exposure to both languages (classes are in English one day and French the next). Teachers will also be utilizing authentic materials (storybooks, songs, TV, websites), placing a strong focus on creating experiences where learning mirrors real life activities, and engaging students in active, hands-on activities like acting out plays, cooking and participating in quizzes.

    The decision to launch the new programme follows the successful opening of our pioneering Chinese-English bilingual programme five years ago. Originally launched only for kindergarten students, today the programme includes students up to grade 6 and has expanded from 13 classes to over 30 classes.



    For more information about CIS’ French-English bilingual programme visit www.cis.edu.sg/learning/french-english-programme or contact their admissions team on +65 6734 8088

    Thursday, May 3, 2018

    Summer pregnancy & Teeth



    Q: Will my teeth become weaker during and after I am pregnant due to the lack of calcium?

    A: Congratulations on your pregnancy! Your teeth will not become weaker during your pregnancy if there is inadequate calcium intake as a mother’s bones – not her teeth – provide calcium for the baby. The calcium loss is then quickly made up after breastfeeding is stopped.
    Nonetheless, pregnancy can cause other dental problems for some women.

    Due to an increase in hormones which can affect your body's response to plaque, some women will find that their gums are swollen and bleed more easily during pregnancy. If there are already pre-existing conditions of gum disease, then it may even worsen and result in tooth loss.
    Therefore, tell your dentist about your pregnancy and any gum problems that you may have. Continue to keep good oral hygiene habits such as brushing your teeth at least two times a day, for two minutes each time and flossing once a day.

    Other causes of dental health problems during pregnancy include frequent food consumption (due to food cravings) and vomiting. As food consumed may be acidic and vomiting can coat your teeth with stomach acids, rinse your mouth with water immediately and wait for 30 to 45 minutes before brushing your teeth to prevent the erosion of tooth enamel.

    **********************

    Dr Daylene Leong is Dental Specialist in Periodontics with Specialist Dental Group®, Singapore. She received her training in the specialty area of Periodontology from the University of Michigan, USA. Dr Leong is a Diplomate of the American Board of Periodontology and a Fellow of the Academy of Medicine, Singapore. She has a special interest in periodontal regeneration, gingival aesthetic and plastic surgery and dental implants. 






    Tel: (65) 6734 9393

    Tuesday, May 1, 2018

    Innovative Designers Camp: Preparing Students for the Future


    Recently more than 70 CIS students in grades 4 to 10 participated in an engaging, two-day Innovative Designers camp. This hands-on camp gave students an excellent opportunity to problem solve, be creative and think critically - key 21st century skills delivered through our STEAM (science, technology, entrepreneurship, arts and mathematics) programme, an integral part of every student’s education at CIS.

    The positive reaction from students participating in the camp was huge. Many were especially excited when they saw their efforts and ideas lead to an actual product that had genuine value for real people. “It was amazing to see that it’s possible to make ‘great things’ on your own, even in a short time,” said grade 7 students Greg and Sasha who created a computer ball game inspired by tag.

    Other students said they enjoyed having to think creatively, learn new skills and make connections. One of the best things grade 8 student Vladislav Den said he learnt during the camp was that Scratch can be used as a calculator to solve complex equations. “I realised that this could potentially help me with my math class,” he said.

    At CIS we always try to engage students in STEAM activities like Innovative Designers Camp, where they have the opportunity to solve real-life, authentic problems. This not only keeps them motivated to learn more, but also understand that the skills they learn can be used throughout their life regardless of where their passions or interests lie.





    To learn more about CIS’ STEAM programme sign up for their next open house at ww.cis.edu.sg/openhouse or call +65 6734 8088.



    Fit Bit: Ready for your Bikini Beach Body?

    By Jessica Gan

    Health over aesthetics of course. That said, we all do not mind having a new fit and toned body by summer!

    If you hold busy schedules but have light equipment at home, you may find this  “cheat sheet” handy to insert into your calendar, for planning purposes. Using the undulating perioadization method, you may alternate your work out intensity and weights, as opposed to a linear method.

    Remember to be disciplined about recovery days too, as over training may backfire. Get adequate rest and ensure water intake is sufficient. Wear your sunblock and have fun with your new beach body!


      More tips email:  jessica.gan@alumni.utoronto.ca

    Smoked Salmon and Feta Rolls


    Makes 15

    Ingredients:

    • 200g Feta
    • 200g Ricotta
    • ½ Small red onion, finely chopped
    • 2 teaspoons finely grated lemon zest
    • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
    • 2 tablespoons fresh dill, finely chopped
    • ¼ cup pine nuts, dry roasted then 
    • roughly chopped
    • 50g Arugula/rocket
    • 15 x 16cm rice paper rounds
    • 100g smoked salmon
    • Lemon wedges to garnish

    Here’s what to do:


    1.  Make a paste with feta, ricotta, pine nuts, onion, lemon zest, lemon juice and dill
    2. Soak one sheet of rice paper round in bowl of lukewarm water until soft.  
    3. Place 1-2 tablespoons of feta mixture on rice paper, top with Arugula/Rocket and sliced salmon, roll and fold in side to enclose the filing.  
    4. Repeat with the remaining rice paper, salmon and feta mixture.  
    5. Serve with lemon wedges.












    Sunday, April 1, 2018

    CIS PIANISTS PERFORM AT THE NATIONAL MUSEUM OF SINGAPORE




    At the end of last year, CIS students served as CIS ambassadors at a reception co-sponsored by the Canadian High Commission, Embassy of Finland, and the Embassy of Singapore. The event called ‘Ice in the Tropics’ was part of a series of Arctic-themed events at the National Museum of Singapore to celebrate Canada’s 150th and Finland’s 100 birthdays.

    For the inaugural event, DP music students Agnes Widjaja, Kaelen Anderson, Pei Jie Lim, Tyler Koh and grade 7 music student Mindy Huang, played live music on the Singapore National Museum’s nine-foot Steinway concert grand piano.

    Supported by CIS faculty Ann Zellhoefer and Tom Anderson, students selected and performed their own repertoire. They rose superbly to the occasion demonstrating excellence, responsibility, poise and polish, as their classical and contemporary selections entertained reception dignitaries and guests.

    The striking red Steinway concert grand piano used by the students, was the same one that Chinese classical star Lang Lang played on at the Sing50 mega concert at Singapore’s 50th anniversary celebration. The opportunity to play this stunning, one-of-a-kind concert grand piano, was an experience our students will not soon forget!

    Saturday, March 31, 2018

    Chocolate Croissant Pudding


     Serves 8

    Ingredients:


    • 4 Croissants
    • 250g 65% Dark Chocolate, 
    • grated
    • 3 eggs
    • 125g caster sugar
    • 250ml full cream milk
    • 120ml thickened cream
    • 1 teaspoon vanilla essence


    Here’s what to do:


    1. Preheat oven to 170°C
    2. Beat eggs in a large bowl
    3. Add  sugar, milk, vanilla and cream and beat until smooth
    4. Split croissants lengthways in half, and layer in
    an oven proof dish
    5. Pour egg milk mixture over croissants
    6. Gently press croissants to absorb liquid
    7. Sprinkle chocolate over the liquid
    8. Bake for 30 – 45 minutes


    Receive 10% off at Expat Kitchen 


    http://expat-kitchen.com
     


    Fit Bit: Training Volume

    By Jessica Gan


    Should I be doing 3 sets of 10 reps or should I be doing 5 sets of 6 reps of these bicep curls? When should I increase or decrease if I want to achieve higher endurance?

    These are questions pertaining to training volume.


    The next time you head to the Gym or your next workout location, do also be aware of your rest interval timings... especially if the phone or TV is a distraction in between sets. You would not want to alter the rest intervals and defeat the purpose of your workout!

    Enjoy and wish you success for your 2018 Fitness goals.

    TEETH & AGING


    Q. I am getting older and I am worried about losing my teeth, what should I do?

    A: It is possible to have strong and sparkly teeth even if you’re advanced in years. One of the biggest misconception is that losing our teeth is inevitable as we age. Here are some things you can do to keep your teeth healthy for a lifetime:

    Watch out for sugary and starchy food

    Avoid frequent consumption of sugar and starch especially in between meals. When carbohydrates are broken down, it causes bacteria in the mouth to produce acids that cause tooth decay.

    Take care of your oral hygiene

    Remember to brush your teeth twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste and floss daily to prevent dental plaque from accumulating within the interdental gaps. If you wear dentures remove and brush them as you would your own teeth. It is best to remove them at night.

    Quit smoking

    Besides putting yourself at higher risk of oral, oral-pharyngeal, lung cancer and other systemic diseases, smoking also increases your risk of developing serious gum disease and tooth loss.

    Visit your dentist regularly

    Many wait until it is painful before they visit the dentist. This usually means bigger problems for your teeth and costlier for your finances. Therefore, remember to visit your dentist regularly for a complete check-up. A standard recommended time is 6 months but this may vary depending on your risk status.


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    Dr Ben Wang is a Dental Surgeon with Postgraduate Training in Periodontics with Specialist Dental Group. He received his training in Periodontics from the Eastman Dental Institute, University of London. Dr Wang has a special interest in the critical appraisal of research, regeneration, bone, soft tissue grafting around teeth and implants www.specialistdentalgroup.com / 6733 7883
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    Specialist Dental Group® is a corporate sponsor of the Canadian Association of Singapore (CAS). CAS members enjoy a special rate for dental services.


    Friday, March 2, 2018

    Chipped Tooth

    Q: I chipped my tooth, what can be done to fix it?

    Depending on the extent of the damage done to the tooth, there are various treatment options available. You are encouraged to visit your dentist so that he/she can advise the most suitable treatment for you.

    Dental Bonding


    If the chip only affects the outer layer of the tooth and the shape of the tooth needs to be restored, composite bonding can be done to fix it. It is a tooth-coloured material that bonds to the tooth so that it looks like the original. It is generally a long lasting solution and can be easily repaired (if required).


    Veneers


    Another option would be veneers – thin custom made porcelain shells that are bonded to your teeth’s surface. You get to choose the size, shade and shape. In order to ensure that your tooth’s thickness is consistent after the veneer is bonded on, a thin layer of your original tooth structure would be removed during the procedure. One important thing to take note when you have veneers: you need to avoid using them to bite on hard foods to prevent the veneers from chipping.

    Crowns


    If the extent of the chip is more severe, then you may need a dental crown. It completely covers the original tooth, restoring it to its natural size, shape and colour. It also restores the function of a damaged tooth as without a crown, a damaged tooth would not be able to withstand the pressure of chewing. This is also a long term solution as long as you practice good oral home care and visit your dentist for regular professional cleaning.

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    Dr Steven Soo is a Dental Specialist in Prosthodontics with Specialist Dental Group®. He was formerly a Clinical Lecturer at the Eastman Dental Institute and Clinical Teacher at the GKY Dental Institute, both of which are affiliated with the University of London. Dr Soo has a special interest in prosthetic and implant restorative dentistry. 

    www.specialistdentalgroup.com | (65) 6734 9393


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    Do you have questions related to your teeth, mouth or oral health? 

    Drop us a note with the subject titled  “Ask The Dentist” at info@specialistdentalgroup.com to have them answered by the team at Specialist Dental Group®. 


    If your question is featured, we will send you a pair of movie tickets! 


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    Specialist Dental Group ® is a corporate sponsor of the Canadian Association of Singapore (CAS). 
    CAS members enjoy a special rate for dental services.