Beijingkids Sep 2013 health guide

2013 ~ 2014

Health Guide Featuring information on family health care, maternity, eating and breathing safely, mental health, emergency care and traditional Chinese medicine

下半月随刊赠送

Health Guide

Featuring information on family health care, maternity, eating and breathing safely, mental health, emergency care and traditional Chinese medicine

Contents

2013-2014 BeijingKids Health Guide

10 34

48

50 Breathing

Family Health 12

Fighting off Colds and Flus

40

Coping with Asthma in the Capital

14

A Healthy Vision – Evecare in the Capital

42

Dr Richard Compares Facemasks

16

Dental Care in Beijing

44

Coping with Vitamin D Deficiencies

18

Treat Yourself – Health Tips from Expats

46

Common Houseplants to Help Clean the Air

Maternity and Pregnancy

Health Eating

24

Beijing Maternity Hospitals

50

Beijing’s Growing Market for Organic Foods

34

Prenatal Yoga

54

Green Veggie Guide

36

How I Had my Baby in Beijing

56

Understanding Food Labels in China

58

Food Allergies

60

Clean Drinking Water

62

How to Eat Meat-free in Beijing

Contents

2013-2014 BeijingKids Health Guide

74

80

66 Mental Health 66

Beating Stress in the City

68

Dealing with Depression in Beijing

70

Simple Ways to Improve your Quality of Life

Traditional Chinese Medicine 74

A TCM Primer

76

The Ins and Outs of Foot Reflexology

78

DIY Acupressure for Common Childhood Ailments

Emergency Treatment and Useful Info 81

How to Handle Emergencies in Beijing

84

CPR Training in the Capital

88 86

Finding the Right Health Insurance in China

88

Getting Back on Your Feet after Sports Injuries

91

Chinese-English Health Term Glossary

Directories 95

Directory of Medical Services

ON THE COVER:

Lillian Bolton (7) and Elizabeth Bolton (10) were both born in Beijing to proud parents Zoe Sun, a native Beijinger, and William Bolton (a.k.a. Chef Too), who hails from New York City. Photo by Littleones Kids & Family Portrait Studio.

《中国妇女》英文刊

WOMEN OF CHINA English Monthly Sponsored and administrated by ALL-CHINA WOMEN’S FEDERATION Published by WOMEN’S FOREIGN LANGUAGE PUBLICATIONS OF CHINA Publishing Date: Sep 15, 2013

Adviser 顾 问 中华全国妇女联合会名誉主席

2013 年 9 月（下半月随刊赠送）

WOMEN OF CHINA English Monthly 中华全国妇女联合会主管/主办 中国妇女外文期刊社出版 本期出版时间: 2013年9月15日

彭 云 PENG PEIYUN 全国人大常委会前副委员长

Honorary President of the ACWF and Former Vice-Chairperson of the NPC Standing Committee Adviser 顾 问

顾秀莲 GU XIULIAN 全国人大常委会前副委员长

Former Vice-Chairperson of the NPC Standing Committee Director & Editor-in-Chief 社长 · 总编辑 Chief Editor 主编 Managing Editor

WEI LIANG 位亮 Sijia Chen

Staff Writer

Oscar Holland

Editorial Assistant

Morgan Shang

School Editor

Aisling O’Brien

Web Editor Shunyi Correspondent

Editorial Consultant 编辑顾问 Director of Sales Department 广告发行经营部主任 Tel Legal Adviser 法律顾问 Advertising Agency 广告代理 Advertising Hotlines 广告热线

YUN PENGJU 恽鹏举

Fax 传真 Printing 印刷 Address 本刊地址

Wanjau Wairimu Dana Cosio-Mercado

ROBERT MILLER (Canadian) 罗伯特 · 米勒 (加拿大) XIA WEI 夏巍 6522 5376 LI XUESEN 李雪森 Immersion International Advertising (Beijing) Co., Limited 深度体验国际广告(北京)有限公司 5820 7700 / 5820 7883 58207895 C&C JOINT PRINTING CO., (BEIJING) LTD. 北京华联印刷有限公司 WOMEN OF CHINA English Monthly 《中国妇女》英文月刊 15 Jianguomennei Dajie, Beijing 100730, China 中国北京建国门内大街15号 邮编:100730

国际标准刊号

ISSN1000 9388

国内统一刊号

CN11-1704/C

From the editor

O

ne autumn day ten years ago, my mother told me over the phone that she had discovered a lump in her armpit.

It had just been a few years since my father had passed from stomach cancer – an ordeal from which none of us had fully recovered – and I felt the all-too familiar pangs of dread welling in my gut as my mother described how she had gone in for a test and that the results would not be out for two weeks.

Although she tried her best to downplay things and reassured me not to worry, I sensed the trepidation in my mother’s voice as we moved on to talk about other more mundane topics.

When we received word from her doctor that she did in fact have Stage Two Breast Cancer and that it had already spread to her lymph nodes and caused the lumps to grow under her arms, it felt as though my family was the butt of an incredibly cruel cosmic joke. I spent the rest of the day at work in a daze and the rest of the evening feverishly Googling ‘invasive carcinomas’ and ‘Stage 2 metastatic breast cancer’ until resigning myself to a few hours of restive sleep.

It wasn’t long after that my mother had a complete mastectomy – the first of what would turn out to be an eight-year saga multiple surgeries and seemingly endless rounds of treatments and therapies (pills, injections, radiation, chemo – the whole nine yards).

Things were looking up for a while after that initial surgery. My mother recovered and settled into her new life and began spending most of her time in Beijing to be closer to my wife and me and her new granddaughter. Cancer seemed a distant memory as we were all lulled into our daily routines.

But four years later, during Beijing’s Olympic summer, it came back, screaming in our faces and here to stay.

That summer what we thought was merely bursitis in her hip and leg turned out to be advanced metastasis of her cancer, which had spread into her bones, abdomen and liver.

This horrible revelation set off another round of surgeries and treatments that lasted for the next 2 ½ years. She never fully recovered and in April of 2011 my mother passed away in the middle of the night in Irvine, California at the golden age of 67.

Mom was born in Shanghai and attended nursing school in Taiwan, where she spent the bulk of her childhood. She and my father emigrated to the States in the late 60s, first to Kansas City and then to Austin, Texas, where my father studied for his PhD at the University of Texas at Austin while my mother worked night shifts at a local hospital.

As my sister and I got older our mother stopped nursing and devoted the next period of her life ensuring that we had good educations and a happy, healthy upbringing.

But during my senior year when I went overseas to boarding school after my father was transferred to Dubai, she began suffering from empty nest syndrome and fell into a deep depression.

This adversity turned out to be a blessing in disguise – my mother, seeking treatment for her depression, met a local Chinese émigré who practiced traditional Chinese medicine.

Under his care she underwent a series of acupuncture sessions that helped her to gradually feel better – an experience that not only changed her life, but also gave her a new calling.

In the summer of 1991 my mother came to Beijing to study TCM. It was her first time back to the Mainland since early childhood and she was struck by the dynamic changes taking place in this familiar, yet completely foreign, land.

She returned from her internship completely obsessed with China and insisted that I come to Beijing to study Chinese the following summer.

Had it not been for her prodding, I’d probably still be languishing in a suburb in Houston swatting mosquitoes and grumbling about yard-work. Perhaps someday I’ll go back to this existence, but I have no regrets over leaving it behind for my life and career in Beijing.

My mother taught me many things but the most profound thing I learned from her was to value my health, a lesson that became all the more important as I watched both of she and my father face their illnesses with dignity and grace.

On the day she passed away my mother’s last words to me were the same as she always said to me when I was growing up: “Hao hao zhao gu ni zi ji ” (“ 好好照顾你自己 ,” “Take good care of yourself”).

And so I’d like to share the same advice to you, Dear Reader. Forget g ra d e s , s p o r t s , p e e r p r e s s u r e a n d finances – teaching your kids to value their health above all else is the single most important lesson you can impart to them.

Take good care of them and take good care of yourself.

Jerry Chan, August 2013

About the Contributors A Publication of

Hailing from New Mexico, USA, Kristen Billings is a long-time Beijing resident and mother of two who just completed her 13th year as a teacher at WAB. She is very interested in all things natural and green as well as living a non-toxic life whenever possible.

True Run Media 出版制作

A former restaurateur who pioneered the “farm to fork” concept in the heart of China’s capital, Laura Fanelli has been involved in the organic movement in Beijing since 2009 and loves to create local, seasonal, organic menus using Western and Chinese produce.

Advertising Agency

Immersion International Advertising (Beijing) Co., Limited

Oscar Holland is a British journalist who writes about health, politics and Asian affairs for a variety of English language publications. In the UK he also works as a media consultant for National Health Service and other private and not-for-profit healthcare organizations. He is currently the Deputy Managing Editor of BeijingKids.

广告代理

深度体验国际广告（北京）有限公司

A former lifestyle writer for The Global Times, Clemence Jiang has studied and lived in Beijing for almost eight years and is now Staff Writer for True Run Media. A graduate of the Beijing University of Chinese Medicine with a major in medical English, she has studied basic TCM theory and therapies and continues to learn about its practice through family and friends.

Tel/电话: 5820 7100 / 7700 Fax/传真：5820 7891 Advertising Hotline/广告热线：5820 7700 /5820 7883

Christopher Lay comes from the small town of Ashland, Oregon and is the father to 5-year-old Reina and twins Bryson and Ryder (born in September of 2012). Christopher has worked in Beijing for four years as a writer and freelance photographer. Visit his photoblog at www.chrislay.com.

General Manager Michael Wester Operation Director Toni Ma Editorial Planning Director Jerry Chan

Jess Meider came to Beijing in 1997 from NYC. She is a professional musician, composer, jazz vocalist and teacher, teaching privately and at the Yoga Yard. Visit jessmeider.com for more info.

Marketing Manager Shana Zhang

beijingkids Brand Manager Lia Tjahjodihardjo

Kyle Mullin is a Canadian who has lived in Beijing since 2010, where he has worked as a freelance writer and a high school social studies teacher. Kyle has written extensively about China’s environmental issues and Beijing’s music scene and you can read his stories at kylelawrence.wordpress.com.

Art Director Susu Luo Production Manager Joey Guo Principal Designer and Illustrator Yuki Jia Advertising Designer Helen He

Aisling O’Brien was raised and educated in Cork, Ireland and has been, at various times, a project manager, a counselor, an illustrator, a corporate trainer, a student of history and literature, a backpacker, a farmer, a teacher and a line cook. She is currently School Correspondent for BeijingKids.

Photographers Lova, Mitchell Pe Masilun, Sui Sales Manager Ivy Wang Sales Team Heiko Busch, Maggie Zhang, Sheena Hu, Lynn Cui, Veronica Li, Amy Sun, Sophia Zhou, Anna Rudashko, Wendy Lv

Dr. Richard St. Cyr is a family doctor at Beijing United Family Hospital and the Director of Clinical Marketing and Communications. He also writes about health issues on his blog myhealthbeijing.com and regularly in BeijingKids.

Dr. Nizar Al-Salahat received his medical degree from the University of Aleppo in Syria and has worked in the field of Emergency and Family Medicine for more than 12 years and on three continents.

He has worked in China as Chief Medical Officer at international clinics in several cities in China as well as being expedition physician in a number of remote sites. He is the Medical Director of Puhua International Hospitals, Shuangjing.

Finance Judy Zhao HR & Admin Denise Wang, Cathy Wang, Siyu He Director of Digital Communications Iain Shaw & PR

Steven Schwankert is the founder of SinoRescue, Beijing’s first dedicated emergency and safety training organization. He is also founder of SinoScuba, Beijing’s first professional dive operator. An award-winning reporter and editor with 17 years of experience in Greater China, Steven is the author of the forthcoming Poseidon: China’s Secret Salvage of Britain’s Lost Submarine. He currently serves as the Managing Editor of the Beijinger.

Distribution Cao Yue General Inquiries 5820 7100/7700

Editorial Planning 5820 7100/7700 ext 883 Distribution 5820 7100/7700 ext 870 Fax 5820 7895

Jennifer Thomé is an author, foodie and head of a marketing consultancy that helps foreign businesses understand and engage their Chinese consumers. She has been living on and off in Beijing since 2002 and during this time has learned thousands of methods to cope with the downsides of living in the concrete jungle, many of which she shares in this issue.

Sarah Ting-Ting Hou is a first generation American-born Hakka Chinese from New Jersey who was raised in the family business - the restaurant industry. After moving to Beijing in 2008 she found her true calling as an epicurean enthusiast, world traveler and freelance writer and plans open her own restaurant to continue the family business and take over Anthony Bourdain’s job.

Email: info@beijing-kids.com; editor-kids@beijing-kids.com; sales@beijing-kids.com; distribution@beijing-kids.com; listing@beijing-kids.com; marketing@beijing-kids.com

beijing-kids.com weibo.com/beijingkids

Want to Write for Us?

If you think you can make a valuable contribution to the Beijingkids magazine or website, e-mail editor-kids@beijing-kids.com.

Denis Vaughan first came to Beijing when he was 18 and returned one year later to teach English and complete an exchange program.

Majoring in Business, with Chinese as his minor, Denis has a huge interest in the Chinese language, culture and economy and recently spent several months interning with Agenda and the True Run Media Guides departments.

Introduction

“I

f one’s bowels move, one is happy; and if they don’t move, one is unhappy. That is all there is to it.” – Lin Yutang, The Importance of Living , 1937

If only things were that simple. The great irony of our age is how increasingly difficult it is to stay healthy, even as technology continually makes our lives more comfortable and convenient.

Granted that average life expectancies have dramatically increased over that of bygone eras, but the overall health of humanity has most definitely not. Our sedentary habits, indulgent diets and modern-day worries – all stemming from the “progress” we’ve made – have created an alarming array of new diseases, ailments and pathogens. In just a few generations we’ve gone from 6,000 ways to die to 6 million.

For Beijing residents things can get even more complicated. We are privileged to be living in a place that is experiencing quite possibly the most dynamic and rapid socio-economic transformation the world has ever seen, but in the process it has become painfully clear that all of this change has come at monumental costs – not least of which is the environmental toll on the population’s health.

Taken as a whole, it all seems rather bleak.

But chin up: The very fact that you are reading this means that you are in a position that affords you far more options and opportunities for healthy living

than most people in this city. This is a privilege not to be taken for granted.

China’s health care system is at the beginning of a very long road of institutional reform and its problems and challenges run deep. But Beijing in particular has seen considerable improvements in its medical facilities over the past decade and now offers a number of top-grade public and private medical facilities that are staffed by an ever-growing number of professionals from China and around the world.

There are also steps you can take for yourself: the growing public awareness of food safety and the increasing array of safer food sources has given rise to more options to help you ensure healthier eating for you and your family; and Beijing’s wonderfully diverse and active international community means that there is a large pool of experts to consult with and a growing range of health-minded community organizations to join.

Which brings us to this guide – although it cannot possibly cover every area of concern that you might have, each of its sections – ranging from Family Health and Healthy Eating to Maternity, Traditional Chinese Medicine and Mental Health – contain contacts, ideas and general information that can point you in the right direction on the road to better health in Beijing.

We hope this guide will become a truly useful resource and welcome all feedback, comments and suggestions to help improve future editions.

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2013 BeijingKids Health Guide

Family Health

Wu Hwa and her 3-year-old son Marcello. Photo by Lova Li

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Family Health

L

ife in Beijing is exciting and dynamic, but one area in which you would undoubtedly like to encounter as little drama as possible is your family’s health. Physically adjusting to living in a city of over 20 million people is certainly not easy and every newcomer is bound to have health issues.

Chances are that at some point you and your loved ones will be struck by any number of the bugs and viruses floating around and there are bound to be days when you feel like death warmed over. In this section we introduce some of the ways you can treat those day-to-day ailments and present helpful tips on getting some of your most essential healthcare needs – from eye care to dentistry and more – sorted in Beijing.

Rest assured that with a little knowledge, time and experience you and your family will be able to adjust and cope with whatever nasty ailment Beijing throws your way.

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Fighting off Colds and Flus Shore up your body’s defenses with these natural supplements and simple steps

by Kristen Billing, photo by Sui

B

eijing winters can take their toll on even the toughest of us, but they can be downright brutal on your little ones. If you or your child start feeling sick with the telltale sniffles, aches, runny nose and tickly throat of a cold or flu, it’s time to give your immune systems all the help you can. I personally prefer not to get flu shots, nor do I give them to my kids, but as they say an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure, even if you do choose the jabs. If you’re interested in some natural ways of staving off and treating the Beijing blahs, check out the following preventive measures to help keep you and your kids from feeling under the weather this cold and flu season.

Wash your hands often All you really need is soap and warm water. No toxic triclosan or any other fancy antibacterial soaps are needed. Colds and flu are mostly caused by viruses, not bacteria, so counting on antibacterial soap as a safeguard against colds and flu won’t be effective. Studies have shown that washing your hands with an antibacterial soap is no better at preventing infectious illnesses than scrubbing with plain soap and water. There is also growing evidence that triclosan, the main active ingredient in many antibacterial soaps, may facilitate the growth of resistant bacteria. So wash your hands often.

If you can’t get to a sink, rub an alcohol-based hand sanitizer onto your hands.

is far less likely than your hands to come in contact with people or surfaces. Cold and flu viruses enter your body through the eyes, nose, or mouth. If you refrain from touching your eyes, nose and lips, you drastically reduce the likelihood of a virus entering your body.

Get enough sleep and stay home from work or school when you’re sick

There is nothing worse than sitting next to a person sniffling and coughing all over the place or seeing a sick child in school. First, yuck, they are spraying their germs everywhere and second, they are sick and need to rest. Your body heals itself when it’s resting.

Getting 7 to 9 hours of sleep a night means your body can repair itself and ward off infections. So, do yourself, your child, and everyone else a favor and stay in bed when you’re sick.

Getting the proper amount of the right nutrients and minerals as part of a healthy diet helps to put your body in prime condition to fight the battle

Family Health

Cough and sneeze into your elbow and don’t touch your face Teach your kids to do the same. Because germs and viruses cling to your bare hands, muffling coughs and sneezes with your hands often results in passing along your germs to others. Your elbow, however,

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Get regular exercise

While colder weather may make you want to curl up and hibernate in a cozy blanket, moving your body will actually boost its immune function. Getting your blood pumping regularly can increase the activity of a type of white blood cell that attacks viruses. Even if it’s walking around the office, up stairs, to and from work, playing on the playground – it doesn’t have to be continuous aerobic exercise to do your body good.

Take Zinc Getting the proper amount of the right nutrients and minerals as part of a healthy diet helps to put your body in prime condition to fight the battle. One nutrient that can help you in your fight against colds and flu is zinc. Zinc interferes with viruses gaining full access to our cells. By slowing the multiplication of the virus in the nose and throat, zinc may shorten colds. But don’t overdo it. While even a slight deficiency in zinc, which is needed to produce white blood

cells, can increase your risk of infection, more than 50 mg daily can suppress your immune system and block absorption of other essential minerals.

Drink plenty of water Beijing winters are dry and can wreak havoc on our mucous membranes, the body’s first line of defense when encountering a virus.

Indoor winter air is much drier than our bodies need to trap viruses.

Without sufficient moisture, immune system cells can’t optimally work, so it’s important to stay hydrated. Drink lots of filtered water ... not from plastic bottles. Get an under sink water filter system such as Aquasana (see p60). Use a cool mist humidifier. Putting a few drops of anti-microbial essential oils such as tea tree, eucalyptus or oregano oil in the water can also help congested chests and noses clear out.

Don’t be afraid of garlic breath The “stinky rose” is particularly helpful in warding off colds. Crushing or cutting garlic cloves releases a sulfur compound known as allicin, which has antiviral, antibacterial and anti-fungal properties that seem to block infections. Allicin is available only from raw garlic, however, so choose a preparation that calls for it raw, or add garlic at the end of cooking to tap its full medicinal power. The anti-microbial properties of both garlic, and its cousin, the onion, can fight off certain bacteria and viruses.

Try Astragalus (Astragalus membranaceus) This antiviral, immune-strengthening Chinese root has been a key player in traditional Chinese medicine for ages. It is believed to stimulate the white blood cells that fight infections. Try a daily pot of tea containing 2 to 3 ounces of astragalus root. Or, add astragalus along with garlic as part of an immune-enhancing soup broth. Keep in mind that astragalus may take 6 to 8 weeks to reach its full effect.

Get on pins and needles

Take Vitamin D This power nutrient may effectively boost immunity and help prevent colds. Adequate amounts of D help produce cathelicidin, a protein with virus-killing qualities. Since it’s tough to get enough from sunlight or diet, especially in Beijing, taking a supplement can help increase your Vitamin D levels. Recent studies have shown that Vitamin D deficiency is linked to an array of acute and chronic health problems including a higher rate of respiratory tract infections. In order to prevent the flu, children and adults need 35 IU of vitamin D per pound of body weight. So, for example, a child weighing 57 pounds would need 2,000 IU a day of vitamin D. Adults typically need an average of 5,000 IU per day. For more information on vitamin D and to check appropriate tests and dosages for children, visit www.VitaminDcouncil.org.

Give Your Kids Multi–Vitamins Try to get one that has optimal levels and easily absorbable forms of these important nutrients: Calcium, Magnesium, Zinc, B vitamins and Ester C. For kids look for an all-natural, organic brand such as Garden of Life, Vitamin Code chewable whole food multivitamin or Hero Nutritional Products, Yummi Bears gummy vitamins.

Fight off the flu with Fish Oil Omega 3s increase the activity of phagocytes, cells that fight flu by eating up bacteria. Other research shows that omega-3s increase airflow and protect lungs from colds and respiratory infections. Avoid fish oils made from cod-liver or shark oil, as these are very high in mercury. Look for a conscientious company that ensures their product is low-mercury, such as Nordic Naturals. For kids, try Carlson Labs or Dr. Mercola Krill Oil.

2013 BeijingKids Health Guide

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Family Health

Acupuncture focuses on balancing the qi (气) in your body. Accord-

ing to Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) theory, when your qi is balanced, your body’s response to external attack is enhanced so it can fight a viral invasion, preventing you from being infected or reducing the severity and the duration of the flu. See p74 for more on TCM.

A Healthy Vision Treating eye care issues in Beijing

by Kyle Mullin, photo by Sui

E

ye care in China is as good as it anywhere else in the world, but the country’s massive population makes treating common eye ailments a distinct challenge.

“China is definitely a country where myopia [short sightedness- is seen frequently,” says Dr. Zhang Xiaosheng, an eye specialist at the Vista Clinic. “One major reason is that it is hereditary, so it can be passed on by genetics. The other reason is the social aspect, meaning that since children are becoming literate at an earlier age, they are using their active reading eyes more and more and exposing themselves to eye exhaustion much more quickly than in previous decades.”

Considering the myopic genes that are so common in the East Asian population and the popularity of computers, smartphones and tablets, it’s small wonder that more kids are suffering from eye conditions at younger ages than ever before.

This past May a BBC story cited that around 90 percent of high school graduates in urban Asia are myopic (nearsighted), a figure that was contrasted with the UK’s 20 to 30 % level of myopia in its

student population. The report traced to root of the problem in Asia to over-worked students missing out on outdoor light because they are pressured to study for hours on end, leaving them with little time for the “exposure to between two and three hours of daylight (that) acts as a counterbalance and helps maintain healthy eyes.”

Kelly Wang, an ophthalmologist at Oasis hospital, says the problem may not be as calamitous as it appears: “The proportion varies in different areas and different age ranges. Myopia is a common condition, affecting one in four adults worldwide.”

But she does concede that it is a growing concern, especially with the popularity of reading from electronic devices: “ P l a c e t h e s c re e n 2 0 - 2 6 inches away from your eyes and a little below eye level,” she advises, adding that reading too closely from our computer monitors is a very damaging factor and how regularly cleaning off dust and fingerprints from the screen can help.

Sherry Chen, an ophthalmologist at the Beijing United Family Hospital (BJU), says she has also noticed an increase in myopic patients at her facility. “iPads are so popular these days, you can see

Family Health

“In China you can definitely have the same quality of eye care that you can have in your home country, so you should not be discouraged and you should see an optometrist regularly”

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almost everyone hold one everywhere. Some parents use it as babysitter to keep their kids quiet. We have seen nearsightedness in preschool children – too much time with iPads and iPhones may be one of the reasons. Parents should control the time that children spend with electric devices and encourage them to be outdoors.”

Wang adds that Beijing’s citizens, and newcomers who have yet to become accustomed to the city’s notorious pollution levels, have another cause for eye health concern: “Foreigners in Beijing should be careful of some damage from the air pollution,” she says, before explaing how squinting through the smog can impact our vision. “Heavy air pollution can make the eye irritated and easy to be affected by the bacteria or viruses. I suggest that everyone should wash their hands frequently.”

Chen concurs, before listing a few other treatments that don’t require a doctor’s appointment, including artificial tears, anti-histamine eye drops, and a humidifier to cut down on the dryness of our living and working environments.

Unfortunately even those occasional bright, clear sunny days can cause eye problems. Wang explains that extensive exposure to UV rays can cause vision damage or even cataracts and suggests that people wear wide brimmed hats and sunglasses (especially those with polarized lenses) to protect their eyes.

Of course a good dose of Vitamin D from the sun is quite healthy on a balmy day, but Wang adds that other vitamins are equally crucial for your eyes: “Certain nutrients, such as antioxidants, omega-3 fatty acids, lutein, and vitamins A, C and E can promote eye health and reduce your risk of developing serious eye problems,” she says. “A healthy diet consisting of fruits, green leafy vegetables, fish and vitamin supplements may support your vision. Maintaining a healthy weight can also be important, as it can help prevent or control diseases such as diabetes, which can cause vision problems like diabetic retinopathy.”

Zhang says the level of consistency and discipline required in a healthy, eye friendly, diet should also be applied to vision tests. He says those of who suffer from regular headaches, but have never been prescribed a pair of glasses, could be experiencing signs of eye exhaustion, leading to a need for an eye exam. Those of us who already own a pair of spectacles still need to see our optometrists regularly, to ensure our prescription is up to date with our eyes’ condition. Dr. Zhang says Beijing has several hospitals that offer such services (including all of the facilities mentioned in this story). But he adds that there is one major discrepancy between vision health here and in other countries.

“The main difference between here and overseas is the awareness of eye problems. Lots of people here in China may go undiagnosed and suffer some side effects without recognizing where they originate from,” he says, adding that lack of awareness makes regular eye exams all the more crucial. “In China you can definitely have the same quality of eye care that you can have in your home country, so you should not be discouraged and you should see an optometrist regularly.”

Vista Medical Center 3/F, Kerry Centre, 1 Guanghua Lu, Chaoyang District (8529 6618) 朝 阳区光华路 1 号嘉里中心 3 vista@vista-china.net www.vista-china.net

Beijing United Family Hospital and Clinics (BJU) 2 Jiangtai Lu, Chaoyang District (5927 7000) 朝阳区将台路 2 号 beijing.ufh.com.cn/en

OASIS International Hospital 9 Jiuxianqiao Beilu, Chaoyang District, Chaoyang District (400 UR OASIS (876 2747)) 朝阳区朝阳区酒仙桥北路 9 号 www.oasishealth.cn

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Treasuring Those Pearly Whites Two experts explain how important it is to keep up with your dental care in Beijing

Family Health

by Denis Vaughan

OASIS International Hospital’s Dr David Lee. Photo by Lova Li

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I

t wasn’t so long ago when dental care was considered more of a luxury than a medical necessity in Beijing. Times have changed, of course, and now the capital has plenty of dental care experts and facilities, including a number catering to the international community. But for expats living in a place as dynamic and exciting and Beijing, it’s all too easy to forget those regular checkups they undergo back home. “Unfortunately we take in a lot of emergency cases, which we are always happy to do but it’s better for patients to take more care of their teeth on a regular basis,” explains Pat Christie, Marketing Manager and Patient Educator at the International Dental Clinic (IDC). “It’s very easy for your dental plan to fall by the wayside when you move to a foreign country.”

So what can you do to avoid neglecting your teeth while you’re living here in Beijing? Dr David Lee, OASIS International Hospital, advises that “the first thing people need to do is find themselves a regular and reputable dentist. At home people have the same dentist that they’ve been going to for years but when they move to Beijing they usually don’t have that consistency. My advice to expats is to find a dentist near you that has a high standard of care, especially if you’re planning on being here for the medium to longterm.”

He also points out the practicality of having the same regular dentist. “Medical records.” he exclaims. “How are you supposed to expect the best care for you and your family if you are moving from one dentist to the next? There’s no record of what kind of treatments you’ve had up until now so it slows down the process and very often leaves the job half-done. Continuity is vital when it comes to dental care.”

In addition to familiarizing yourself with a Beijing based dentist, both Christie and Dr. Lee offer some additional tips for families. “The water in China is not fluoridated,” Christie explains, “and fluoride is absolutely, 100% proven to help strengthen your teeth and cleanse them. I’m not encouraging people to overuse it but an occasional fluoride rinse can work wonders for your teeth and many patients will miss this, especially if they come from the US.” She too, is keen to stress the importance of continuity. “Coming in for cleaning every six months is highly recommended,” she says. “We are constantly trying to reach out and educate the community here at IDC. We do many talks in the international schools in an effort to get the children into good dental habits when they are young.” According to Dr. Lee, it goes back to the age old saying, prevention is better than cure. “Don’t wait until it hurts! That’s the number one thing I tell my patients.”

One of the things to avoid is places that offer mass discounts on treatments, warns Lee. “If you see a place offering a treatment for RMB 2,000 that other places are charging RMB 6,000 then the alarm bells should be ringing. You need to be asking yourself why they can afford to offer it this cheap. They need to be doing at least one of two things, either using poor quality materials or poorly trained staff.

“This is your mouth you’re talking about,” declares Lee. “Do you really want to be putting something of low quality inside of it?”

He goes on to explain that in many cases it is fine to go to local

dentists, but only for what he defined as “non-threatening procedures.” For any kind of surgery or complex procedure (these include crowns, implants, root canals and braces) you should only seek out an international clinic. “There is nothing worse than undergoing a poorly carried out procedure. If a patient comes to me after a root canal gone wrong and asks me to fix it, there’s very little I can do sometimes. It is ten times more difficult to fix an operation gone wrong than to do it right in the first place. If it is a case of doing it half right, it is better to simply do nothing at all.”

“IDC has internationally trained specialists to carry out surgeries and we bring in consultants regularly. That being said, if something is ever beyond or scope we will give a referral,” admitted Christie.

“And that’s very important,” she elaborated. “You need to know your limits and what’s best for the patient. Some local clinics will operate beyond their scope at times which can have an adverse and in some cases, disastrous effect.”

It’s true that if you want good quality, then you have to pay for it. Both IDC and OASIS will charge the same and in some cases more than you would expect to pay at home.

As far as Dr. Lee is concerned if he can offer you the same or even better service at OASIS than you would receive at home then he is “saving you the cost of a round trip.” He added that “when people leave and feel that they’ve gotten the same kind of service that they are used to in their home countries, that’s when I know I am winning.”

Christie also explains that internationally trained and accredited dental care professionals will inevitably charge international prices.

“We offer price discrimination based on what particular professional you want to carry out your treatment but they will all invariably charge prices based on an international standard. If you want to receive an international standard of care then you can expect to pay an international price.”

Both parties cited sourcing materials as their biggest challenge whilst operating in China. Lee also pointed out the fact that there is a huge shortage of internationally trained dentists available. This of course, explains why prices are can vary so much from clinic to clinic and why some charge much more than others. You are paying for the scarce resources i.e. highly trained professionals and high standard materials. When it comes to your teeth however, that may well be a price worth paying.

“My advice to expats is to find a dentist near you that has a high standard of care, especially if you’re planning on being here for the medium to long-term”

International Dental Clinic Rm 209, Bldg 7, Yard 9, Richmond Park Clubhouse, Fangyuan Nanli, Chaoyang District. (6538 8111) info@idcdentalbj.com, www.idcdentalbj.com 朝阳区芳园南里 9 号院 7 号楼 209 室 Daily 9am-6pm (6538 8111)

OASIS Dental Clinic

See Directory, p95 for more dental clinics.

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Family Health

Daily 24hrs (emergency care), Mon-Fri 9am- 6pm, Sun 8.3012.30am. 9 Jiuxianqiao Beilu, Chaoyang District, Chaoyang District.

(400 UR OASIS (876 2747)) www.oasishealth.cn 明德医院 , 朝阳区朝 阳区酒仙桥北路 9 号

Treat Yourself Simple health tips from seasoned Beijing expats

Family Health

by Sarah Ting-Ting Hou, photos by Lova Li

Theresa Ahdieh gets TCM treatments from licensed practitioner Shelly Ochs to improve her sleep

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leep problems, migraines and bad sinuses – the list of common, everyday ailments goes on and on and knowing how to deal with these issues in Beijing can mean the difference between a fantastic or miserable experience living here. We spoke with a group of long-term expats to learn what steps they have taken to help themselves feel, deal and heal better.

Step Up Your Sleep A WHO study back in 2002 estimated about 27 percent of the world suffers from sleep issues – despite how common these problems are, they are not to be taken lightly – consistently bad quality sleep can lead to a host of health problems, ranging from high blood pressure and obesity to heart disease and even cancer. “I didn’t even realize I had sleep issues until my first acupuncture and cupping session,” says Theresa Ahdieh, who has been getting bi-weekly TCM treatments with licensed TCM practitioner Shelly Ochs at the China Culture Center.

Ahdieh started noticing results after just two sessions and says the treatments have also helped improve her eating habits, metabolism and anxiety. “It’s addictive – I’m still waking up but generally sleeping more soundly – I can’t see myself stopping anytime soon.”

If pins and needles aren’t your thing marketing consultant Jennifer Thome recommends sour date plums, nansuanzao (南酸枣).

“When I’m stressed out my sleep definitely suffers. A Chinese doctor friend mentioned the sour date seeds in passing, and I was tempted. So I tried it out and I find I sleep more deeply, without any negative side effects.”

If you want to try it out for yourself Jennifer recommends simmering 20 grams of sour dates in 1-2 cups of water for 20 minutes and drinking it before you go to bed.

Away with those Aching Joints Vilma Busquets has suffered from rheumatoid arthritis for over two decades and relocating to Beijing from the U.S. required her to make many adjustments in the treatment of her condition. Along with her regimen of prescription medications, sleep and exercise, Vilma takes Caltrate, which she gets from the Sino-Japanese Friendship Hospital pharmacy, as a calcium supplement to keep her bones strong. “I take 600mg a day of Caltrate, which contains calcium and Vitamin D3,” she explains, adding that because her body is “constantly fighting pain” she becomes fatigued easily and thus needs to keep her bones strong to help support her muscles.

In order to keep her rheumatoid arthritis manageable Vilma also needs a full eight hours of sleep a night and takes naps during the day if she didn’t get the full eight hours the night before. She also regularly does Pilates everyday. “When you have chronic arthritis, strengthening your muscle mass is important so that they support the bones. I enjoy Pilates and yoga because of its high impact on muscle toning in a short amount of time.”

Breathe Easier Beijing’s notorious air pollution is terrible for people who suffer from sinus problems. For many residents air purifiers and facemasks have become necessities of life but there are other steps you can take to keep yourself breathing freer and easier.

Theresa Ahdieh never had any sinus problems until she moved to Beijing but now swears by her Neti Pot, a nasal irrigation system that dates backs to ancient Hindu times and literally rinses the gunk out of your sinuses. “It clears up my congestion and filters through everything, it’s the only thing that makes sure that my sore throats and chest pains disappear,” she explains. “I fill the pot with body temperature water and saline solution and use it both in the morning when I wake up and before bedtime on really polluted days.”

Ahdieh got her Neti pot prescribed by Beijing United Family Hospital along with the saline solution for RMB 300, but you can also purchase cheaper options on your own along with nasal salts, off Taobao searching under its Chinese name bí hú (鼻壶).

Jennifer Thome also suffers from sinus problems and congestion and recommends using apple cider vinegar for nasal washes. “My nose is triggered by dust in the winter and spring and mold in the winter and fall, and it also gets worse when I drink a lot of dairy,” she says. “I generally hate popping pills but I recommend Huodanwan (霍胆丸), a type of Chinese medicine that does wonders on stuffy noses.”

“It’s addictive – I’m still waking up but generally sleeping more soundly – I can’t see myself stopping anytime soon.”

Help for Your Head

Beat Deficiency with a Dose of Vitamin D Vitamin D helps our bodies with multiple functions and is critical for building stronger bones, protecting against cancer and heart disease, helps with weight loss and even puts us in a better mood. It is mainly derived from certain foods, supplements and the sun. Our bodies make our own vitamin D when the sun shines on bare skin (see p44). But since there are plenty of days where the sun disappears for unknown periods of time in Beijing, it’s important to make sure your body is getting enough vitamin D. Melanie Atkinson has lived in Beijing for more than 13 years, but on a recent trip home in Australia she discovered that she is vitamin D

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Family Health

Like many city dwellers, Chi Fan for Charity founder Michael Crain suffers from pounding headaches – a condition that also runs in his family and gets even worse when the pollution levels go up. To alleviate the pain, he has been taking Imitrex* (a.k.a. Sumatriptan), a beta-blocker that not only helps with migraines but can also treat heart disease, angina, blood circulation problems, uncontrolled high blood pressure and severe liver disease, among other conditions.

Crain obtained a prescription at the Beijing United Family Hospital and has gone from taking it 3-4 times a week to only twice a month after adapting an active exercise regimen that includes frequent trips to the gym and fitness boxing classes.

Before he started taking Imitrex Crain says that he would often feel a tingling sensation in his head before getting a headache, which he usually just “suffered through” in the hopes that it subsided quickly. “There were times when I would need to go into a quiet room to help it dissipate,” he explains. “Now I take Imitrex as soon as I get the tingle and within about 20 minutes the feeling subsides and I’m able to continue my day.” Regular exercise, taking frequent breaks from staring at the computer screen, getting enough rest and wearing sunglasses outside have also helped him deal better with his migraines. *As with all other drugs, Imitrex can result in side effects including chest tightness, weakness and stomach discomfort. Always consult with your doctor before taking any medication.

Family Health

Philip Huang takes Reseveratrol to boost his cardiovascular health. Photo by Sui

deficient through various blood tests. “Cloud coverage and pollution cuts out the ultraviolet ray (UVB) that carries vitamin D. Even though I was regularly taking a multi vitamin I was still vitamin D deficient.

The doctors and I could only put it down to the pollution. People like me who stay in Beijing for many years are prone to be at risk. Vitamin D deficiency can inhibit your immune system so I was prone to catching every cold and infection that was going around,” says Atkinson.

Today, she takes a daily dose of three drops of a liquid D3 supplement that she brings from back home. Other ways to make sure your body is getting the sufficient amount of vitamin D is to take vitamin supplements and eat foods that contain vitamin D. Most foods don’t have naturally occurring vitamin D with the exception of fish such as salmon, swordfish or mackerel. Additional sources include fortified cereals, tofu, soymilk, salami, ham and sausages, eggs and mushrooms.

From (and for) the Heart Cardiovascular diseases are now the leading cause of death in the developing world and the numbers are getting higher, especially in big urban centers like Beijing. When Philip Huang moved to Beijing from California last year he began taking a supplement called Res-

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veratrol (a.k.a. “the red wine pill”) to boost his cardiovascular health.

A strong antioxidant containing extracts that occur naturally in red grape skins and certain plants, resveratrol is believed to have anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer, anti-aging and other disease-combating benefits. Huang says that taking resveratrol, along with Vitamin C supplements for his immune system, has made him feel generally “more energetic,” and research indicates that it may even slow down ageing and can help prevent pre-diabetes.

But a word of caution: A recent study indicates that for older men, taking Resveratrol may actually blunt the effects of exercise, and other studies call into question its purported anti-cancer and cardiovascular benefits (which, in turn, goes against another recent study that seems to confirm its anti-aging benefits). For the layman it’s all rather confusing and bear in mind that Resveratrol supplements are not currently regulated in the US or China, so it’s best to read up for yourself and consult your doctor with any questions or concerns.

Beijing’s environment and fast-paced lifestyle can indeed take its toll on your health if you suffer from these everyday ailments, but know that you’re not alone and there are proven steps you can take to make your life in Beijing healthier and ultimately happier.

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Maternity

Beijing United Family Hospital offers international standard pre and post-natal care.

See p29. Photo courtesy of Beijing United Family Hospital.

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Maternity and Pregnancy

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here was a time when Beijing was considered a “hardship posting” and undertaking such major life commitments as having a baby here was unthinkable for most foreigners in the city.

Times have indeed changed – the number of international families choosing to have their children in the capital has grown over the past few decades and so too have the range of facilities and services catering to their needs. Today there are more places than ever to have your baby, ranging from well-known public hospitals to state-of-the-art private clinics, and more ways and services, including non-traditional “water-births,” prenatal yoga and post-natal counseling, catering to new mothers.

In this section we present our annual updated guide to the most renowned maternity hospitals and clinics in the city. We also look at how you can shape up for your new arrival with prenatal yoga and have a firstperson account from one expat mom about her experience giving birth to her daughter in Beijing.

No amount of information can prepare you for the drama and joy of bringing a new life into this world, but rest assured that when it comes to giving birth in Beijing, you will be in good hands.

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Tender Loving Care An Overview of Beijing Maternity Hospitals

D

Maternity

eciding on which hospital to have your baby can feel almost as nerve-wracking as giving birth itself. Beijing has many facilities but there never seem to be quite enough to handle its massive population of expecting families – space in the public hospitals is extremely limited, hence the rising popularity of private healthcare facilities. With this in mind we have selected the following maternity hospitals, both public and private, based on reader recommendations, our own experiences and their general reputations. Please note that prices and other terms are subject to change and it is best to check directly with the hospitals for the latest information.

BAODAO Healthcare’s newborn unit. See p26

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AmCare Women and Children’s Hospital. Photo by Lova Li

Amcare Women’s and Children’s Hospital 北京美中宜和妇儿医院

American-Sino OB/GYN/Pediatrics Services 北京东方美华妇儿医院 Founded in Shanghai in 2003, the new Beijing branch of AmericanSino (ASOG) provides an array of on-site services for women and children by certified specialists from China, America, Australia, Sweden, Poland, Israeli and Taiwan. They provide “value-added and 2013 BeijingKids Health Guide

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Maternity

Amcare Women’s and Children’s hospital provides families international medical services in Chinese cultural background. Services include obstetrics, gynecology, pediatrics, family planning, and psychological consulting. The new 6,000 sqm Yayuncun branch has 50 wards, private gynecological clinic and a neonatal intensive care unit.

Facilities: Lido branch has 36 home-style private suites, three operation rooms, two surgery rooms, and six UICU beds, recreation center, gym, and courtyard garden. Yayuncun branch has 50 suites, maternity clinic, integrated LDR ward, two operating rooms and VIP wards.

English-speaking staff? Yes. Prenatal services: Clinical consultations from 12 weeks, highrisk pregnancy management, tailor-made maternity plans, delivery rehearsal and planning, and prenatal education, exercises, nutrition, and psychology.

Delivery services: LDR birth services, labor pain management, doula services, C-sections, and forceps or vacuum delivery, neonatal services.

Postnatal services: Postpartum uterus recovery, health examinations up to 42 days, breastfeeding consultation and training, newborn care, baby massage, and postpartum psychology, nutrition and exercise.

Optional services: Outpatient appointments, night service, transportation, house calls, and body-shaping services.

Cost: RMB 15,935 for prenatal package (13 visits); RMB 37,895 for natural vaginal delivery (three nights); RMB 53,060 for C-sections (five nights). All packages include meals, delivery routine charges, an extra bed for an overnight guest, baby care items, vaccines, cord blood screening (if required), and screening for metabolic diseases.

Patients who book at least four months in advance are eligible for a 12 percent discount on all packages.

Direct billing? Direct billing with over 20 insurance providers.

Daily 8am-4.30pm. 1.) 9 Fangyuan Xilu, Chaoyang District (6434 2388, 800 610 6200, contact@amcare.com.cn) 2.) Anhui Beili Yiyuan 5, Chaoyang District (400 100 0016) contact@amcare.com.cn, www.amcare. com.cn 1.) 朝阳区芳园西路 9 号 ; 2.) 朝阳区安慧北里逸园 5 号楼

BAODAO Healthcare’s maternity ward

custom-tailored women and children’s health care” … “in cooperation with Harvard University” and boast comfortable, state-of-the-art facilities and technology as well as DNV NIAHO Accreditation, which assures quality and reliability in performances, processes and organizations through certification, assessment and training services.

Facilities: State-of-the-art medical equipment and technology, including 4D Ultrasound Diagnostic Equipment, photography etc.

English-speaking staff? Yes OB/GYN Services: Annual women’s check up; breast exam, breast ultrasound, mammogram; cervical cancer screening (PAP-smear); prenatal care and delivery; ante-partum fetal. monitoring; 4D ultrasound imaging; Prenatal and postpartum psychological counseling etc.

Services: Pediatric immunization programs; diagnosis and treatment of pediatric diseases; hearing & vision screening; health screening and surveillance; physical growth assessment; children’s nutrition etc.

Cost: RMB 20,000 for a prenatal package; RMB 35,000 for natural vaginal birth (four nights); RMB 55,000 for a scheduled C-section (seven nights). Patients who have a membership card are eligible for a discount.

Direct billing? Yes. Clinic Location. 18 Anyuan Lu, Chaoyang District. (8443 9666) 朝阳 区安苑 路 18 号 Hospital Location. 218 Anwai Xiaoguan Beili. (8443 9595) 朝阳区安外小关北里 218 号 www.meihua365.com

Maternity

BAODAO Healthcare 宝岛妇产医院 The first Mainland-Taiwan joint hospital registered in Beijing, BAODAO Healthcare combines four components – research, healthcare, education and clinical assessment – into its services, which include obstetrics, gynecology, pediatrics, infertility, assisted reproductive and a maternity center. Inpatient and outpatient, surgery and ICU are available, along with a 24-hour telephone service.

Facilities: Newborn intensive care unit, infertility clinic, “Taiwanstyle” maternity center, obstetrics and gynecology center, LDR Suites, Elite Club.

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English-speaking staff? Yes Prenatal services: Birth defect screening, “Mommy Week” courses, prenatal health counseling and education, special testing (TORCH etc).

Delivery services: “Painless Childbirth” and C-Section birth packages.

Postnatal services: Pelvic Floor Rehabilitation, Postnatal Month Care Services (坐月子服务) Cost: RMB 10,192 for a prenatal package; RMB 58,888 for a natural vaginal birth (four nights); RMB 78,888 for a scheduled C-section (seven nights). Patients who have a membership card are eligible for a discount.

Direct billing? Yes. 1 Xinjiekouwai Dajie, Haidian District. (6200 6666) www.bjbaodao. com.cn 海淀区新街口外大街 1 号

Beijing Antai Maternity Hospital 北京安太妇产医院 Founded in 2003, Beijing Antai Maternity Hospital bills itself as the first hospital in China to meet World Health Organization (WHO) standards. In addition to obstetrics and gynecology departments, Antai also offers internal medicine, surgery, and urology services.

Noted for providing water births, the hospital has overseen over 400 such births since 2004.

Facilities: Water birthing pools, private rooms and suites with bathroom and shower.

English-speaking staff? Some doctors speak English and the website has a live chat function that allows potential patients to ask basic questions in English.

Prenatal services: Ultrasounds, blood tests, remote fetal heart monitoring, and premature birth prognosis.

Delivery services: Water births, doulas, natural vaginal births, C-sections.

Postnatal services: Breastfeeding consultation, personalized baby care, post-natal care facilities.

Cost: Prenatal care costs approximately RMB 6,000. Delivery cost depends on your accommodations, not the method of birth. It costs RMB 10,000 for a standard room; RMB 15,000 for a one-bedroom

Beijing HarMoNiCare Women and Children’s Hospital. Photo by Sui

suite; RMB 20,000 for a two-bedroom suite; and RMB 25,000 for a three-bedroom suite. All prices reflect a five-day stay.

Direct billing? Yes, but limited. Antai only offers direct billing for three insurance providers: Vanbreda International, Allianz, and Assistance Online.

Bldg 18, 1 Xinghecheng, Jiayuan Lu, Fengtai District (6753 7758/7768 antaihospital@yahoo.com) www.antaihospital.com 丰 台 区嘉园路星河城 1 号院 18 号楼

Beijing Mary’s Hospital 北京玛丽妇婴医院

Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, established in 1959, is a high-level special hospital affiliated with the Capital Medical University and a WHO Collaborating Center for Research and Training in Maternal and Infant Health and Women’s Health. The eastern section of the hospital is located on Yaojiayuan Lu in Chaoyang District and includes Obstetrics, Neonatal, Gynecology and Reproductive Medicine departments. The western section is located on Qihelou in Dongcheng District includes Gynecological Oncology Department, Gynecological Minimal Invasive Center, and Family Planning Department.

Beijing Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital is the largest of its kind in the country offering a full range of health care services for women and children as well as family planning services.

Facilities: Over 660 beds with family and VIP rooms, state of the art diagnostic equipment, high-risk ward.

English-speaking staff? No. Prenatal services: Prenatal diagnosis clinic, pregnancy nutrition clinics, TCM treatments.

Delivery services: Natural delivery, C-Section, Postnatal services: Breastfeeding counseling, TCM treatments.

Cost: RMB 10,000 (prenatal package, including 14 inspections. Onetime purchase packages available for a discount. Normal Delivery Package RMB 25,000 (with standard room). C-Section package RMB 35,000-40,000.

Direct billing? No. 251 Yaojiayuan Lu, Chaoyang District. (5227 6666 ext 3166) www.bjogh.com.cn 朝阳区姚家园路 251 号

Beijing HarMoniCare Women and Children’s Hospital 北京和美妇儿医院

Abiding by JCI (Joint Commission International) standards, Beijing HarMoniCare Women and Children’s Hospital (HMC) offers customeroriented services by select physicians from China’s 3A hospitals.

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Maternity

Beijing Mary’s Hospital offers international-standard gynecology and obstetrics services, including prenatal packages, minimally-invasive procedures, high-risk pregnancy management, and support for firsttime mothers. In addition, the pediatrics department offers an early education program that is open to newborns.

Facilities: ISO9000 and ISO14000 standard facilities, including modern diagnostic equipment and private rooms with a sofa and baby cot.

English-speaking staff? No, but translators are available upon request.

Prenatal services: Color Doppler ultrasounds, syphilis serum, hepatitis C antigen, gynecology consultations and clinical examinations, leucorrhea routine + BV, high-risk pregnancy management, nutrition consulting, and more.

Delivery services: Doula, vaginal births, C-sections, musical analgesia for natural births.

Postnatal services: Postnatal rehabilitation centers, educational support for first-time mothers.

Optional services: Private doctors. Classes for new parents. Musical therapy.

Cost: RMB 12,065 for a prenatal checkup package; RMB 29,860 for vaginal birth package (three nights); RMB 39,860 for a C-section package (five nights).

Direct billing? No, but the hospital plans to offer this in the future.

5 Hepingli Beijie, Chaoyang District (6421 6666) www.mary.net.cn 朝阳区和平里北街 5 号

Beijing Maternity Hospital (Eastern Section) 北京妇产医院

Maternity

Beijing New Century Women’s and Children’s Hospital. Photo by Lova Li

it is one of the largest hospitals of its kind in Beijing and features gynecology, obstetrics, pediatrics, postpartum recovery and stomatology departments.

Facilities: Comfortable maternity wards, digital diagnostic technologies, 4-D ultrasounds, state-of-the-art operating rooms.

English-speaking staff? Yes. Prenatal services: Maternity classes, prenatal checkup and pregnancy healthcare, high-risk pregnancy management, delivery planning, non-invasive test for Down’s Syndrome.

Delivery services: Integrated labor-delivery-recovery room, pain relief, doula delivery, NICU wards.

Postnatal services: Postpartum uterus recovery, wound recovery and nursing, postpartum checkup, pelvic muscle restoration, postpartum recovery planning, neo-natal massage and swimming, imported vaccine, infant phimosis screening and treatment.

Optional services: Pregnancy mentality, diet and exercises, postpartum mentality, diet and exercises.

Cost: Three Nights Natural Delivery – RMB 38,800 (Standard Ward), RMB 41,500 (VIP Ward), RMB 55,800 (Deluxe Ward); Five Nights Planned C-Section – RMB 53,800 (Standard Ward), RMB 60,300 (VIP Ward), RMB 95,900 (Deluxe Ward).

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Direct billing? Yes. Daily 8am-5pm. A2, Xiaoguan Beili, Beiyuan Road, Chaoyang District, Beijing. (6499 0000) en.hmcare.net 朝阳区北苑路小关北里甲 2 号

Beijing New Century Women’s and Children’s Hospital 北京北京新世纪妇儿医院

Opened in June of 2012 and located in Wangjing, New Century offers international-standard pediatrics, obstetrics, and gynecology services. The facility covers approximately 10,000sqm of space and is the sister hospital of Beijing New Century International Hospital for Children in Fuxingmen and Beijing New Century Harmony Pediatric Clinic in Shunyi.

Facilities: Modern diagnostic equipment, and private post-delivery rooms and suites with bathroom and shower.

English-speaking staff? Yes, English-speaking doctors and some of the staff speak basic English.

Prenatal services: Urine analysis, ultrasounds, blood tests, screening for genetic abnormalities, fetal heart monitoring and more.

Delivery services: Scheduled and unscheduled C-sections, vaginal birth, and pain management.

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Beijing United Family Hospital

Maternity

Postnatal services: Breastfeeding help, and individualized care for mother and baby Cost: RMB 12,900 for a prenatal package; RMB 30,000 for a natural vaginal birth (three nights); RMB 40,000 for an unscheduled C-section (five nights); RMB 48,000 for an emergency or scheduled C-section (five nights). Patients who pay for the prenatal package in full ahead of time are eligible for a 10 percent discount. Single prenatal checkups cost RMB 100-300 depending on the doctor’s experience and types of tests done.

Direct billing? Yes, New Century offers direct billing for a dozen of insurance providers.

Daily 24hrs. 5/F, 51 Wangjing Beilu (inside Wanghu Park South Gate), Chaoyang District (5178 3366) www.ncich.com.cn 朝阳区望京 北路 51 号院 望湖公园南门 5 层

Beijing United Family Hospital and Clinics 北京和睦家医院 An expat favorite for maternity services, BJU offers comprehensive medical services, including a Western-style LRDP (labor, delivery, recovery, and postpartum) birthing suite and a multi-national team of doctors, nurses, and midwives.

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Facilities: Adjacent operating rooms for caesarean births, neonatal intensive care unit with advanced neonatal emergency equipment, neonatologists, a College of American Pathologists (CAP)-accredited Blood Bank, and a CAP-accredited laboratory for on-site testing.

English-speaking staff? Yes, both doctors and nurses speak English.

Prenatal services: “Well-woman” care, pregnancy, postpartum, childbirth classes and prenatal yoga.

Delivery services: International-standard LDRP birthing suite, family-centered birthing services, childbirth and prenatal packages, vaginal birth after caesarean, labor pain management (including 24-hour anesthetic services).

Postnatal services: Free postpartum workshops, postpartum recovery services, breastfeeding support services, voucher for various combinations of baby items from gift shop.

Optional services: For expecting moms, there’s afternoon tea, candlelight dinners, nail treatments, and other auxiliary services.

Cost: RMB 12,600 for a prenatal package; RMB 56,000 for vaginal delivery; RMB 101,875 for a C-section delivery.

Direct billing? Yes Daily 9am-5pm. 2 Jiangtai Lu, Chaoyang District (5927 7000, 5927 7120 emergency line) www.ufh.com.cn 朝阳区将台路 2 号

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GlobalCare Women’s and Children’s Hospital

Maternity

GlobalCare Women’s and Children’s Hospital 北京五洲妇儿医院 Formerly known as Beijing Wuzhou Women’s Hospital, this private birthing clinic is affiliated with Peking University People’s Hospital Medical Group. It offers gynecology and obstetrics treatments in addition to a wide range of other services for women, men and children in a modern and comfortable environment.

Facilities: 12,000sqm facilities with 100 inpatient beds English-speaking staff? Yes. Translators also available.

Prenatal services: Pregnancy classes and club, remote fetal heart monitoring, premature birth prognosis, ultrasounds, birthing rehearsal and pre-admission preparation (VIP members).

Delivery services: Water births, C-sections, natural vaginal births, pain management and doula service.

Postnatal services: Postpartum rehabilitation, direct rooming-in (DRI), and breastfeeding help.

Optional services: Doulas, newborn swimming, and touch therapy.

Also offers options ranging from economy to luxury rooms.

Cost: RMB 10,000-15,000 for a prenatal care package; RMB 30,00030K+ (depending on option) for natural vaginal birth package (three nights); RMB 39,000 for C-section or water birth package (five nights).

Direct billing? Yes, GlobalCare has a direct billing relationship with over 70 insurance providers.

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24 Xi Dawang Lu (south of Shuangjing Carrefour), Chaoyang District. (400 8900 789, 6770 5558 for appointments) 朝阳区西大望路 23 号 双井家乐福南

Huaxin Hospital (First Hospital of Tsinghua University) 北京华信医院（清华大学第一附属医院）

Founded in 1958, Huaxin Hospital is affiliated with Tsinghua University’s School of Medicine. In 2007, the hospital was appointed as the only “high-risk pregnancy and perinatal intrauterine treatment center” in Chaoyang District. As a result, hundreds of high-risk pregnancy cases are admitted to Huaxin every year. The hospital also features an excellent gynecology department with modern equipment and minimally-invasive surgical procedures.

Facilities: Imported medical equipment by Siemens and Phillips, 30 post-delivery bed spaces.

English-speaking staff? No. Prenatal services: Color Doppler ultrasounds, blood tests, urine analysis and more.

Delivery services: C-sections and natural vaginal births.

Postnatal services: Regular health checks for mother and baby.

Cost: Around RMB 4,500 for prenatal care; RMB 2,500 for a vaginal delivery.

Direct billing? No. 6 Jiuxian Qiao Yijie, Chaoyang District (6436 9999, bjhxyy@sina. com) www.tufh.com.cn 朝阳区酒仙桥一街坊 6 号

OASIS International Hospital. Photo by Lova Li

Oasis International Hospital 明德医院

Peking Union Medial College Hospital (PUMCH) 北京协和医院 Peking Union Medial College Hospital (Xiehe) has two locations: one in Dongcheng District and another in Xicheng District. The Dongcheng location has an international department, but it is limited to 50 deliveries per month and it’s best to contact them eight months in advance.

For a consultation in the “Special Needs Unit” (tequ menzhen , 特区门 诊) for foreigners, the hospital requires a registration fee (guahao, 挂号) of RMB 300. Once your due date is determined, book a bed and decide on a date for the delivery. While their service is up to par, expecting parents shouldn’t hold out for Western bed manners here.

Facilities: In-house laboratory, high-risk maternal intensive care unit, and neonatal intensive care unit.

English-speaking staff? Yes, but it tends to be hit or miss.

Prenatal services: Blood testing, ultrasounds, urine analysis, screening for genetic abnormalities, and more.

Delivery services: C-sections, natural vaginal deliveries, pain management.

Postnatal services: Regular health checks for mother and baby, breastfeeding help, nutrition counseling.

Cost: RMB 60,000 for a complete prenatal check-up and delivery package (RMB 5,000 less if a C-section is not performed).

Direct billing? No. 1) 1 Shuaifuyuan, Dongcheng District (6529 6699) 东城区帅府园 1 号 ; 2) 41 Damucang Hutong, Xicheng District (6529 6699 for inquiry, 6529 5284 for emergency) obgyn.pumch.cn 西城区大木仓胡同 41 号 2013 BeijingKids Health Guide

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One of Beijing’s newest full-service private hospitals, Oasis is staffed with an international team of medical professionals working out of a state-of-the-art 15,000 sqm facility in Dashanzi replete with 60 inpatient rooms and modern maternity suites. Their gynecology and obstetrics department is led by Dr Stefan Schneyer and attending physician Dr Chen Fei and services offered include prenatal care and screening as well as surgical and natural delivery.

Facilities: 15,000 sqm campus with 60 inpatient rooms; high-resolution MRI and CT scanning equipment.

English-speaking staff? Yes. Prenatal services: Includes 14 consultations, 5 ultrasounds, Downs Syndrome screening.

Delivery services: Homelike maternity suites in OASIS support labor, delivery, and post-partum in the same room (LDRP).

Postnatal services: Midwives available 24-7. Breastfeeding classes, pelvic floor training and counseling.

Cost: Pre-natal packages - RMB 10,800 for ten consultations, RMB 12,800 for 14 consultations. Delivery packages - RMB 42,800 for natural delivery; RMB 68,800 for c-section. Combined pre-natal and delivery packages are good for a 10% discount.

Direct billing? Yes. Daily 24hrs (emergency care), Mon-Fri 9am- 6pm, Sun 8.3012.30am. 9 Jiuxianqiao Beilu, Chaoyang District. (400 876 2747) www.oasishealth.cn/en/ www.oasishealth.cn/en/ 朝阳区朝阳区酒仙 桥北路 9 号

Pregnancy Poses How prenatal yoga helps your body prepare for the big day

by Kyle Mullin, Photo by Lova Li

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Maternity

ost people take up yoga to boost flexibility or tone their torsos, but for mothers-to-be there’s a practical, albeit less common, reason to stretch out on a matt – it can help women have healthier pregnancies.

A yoga teacher since 1998, owner Robyn Wexler opened Yoga Yard with fellow yoga expert Mimi Kuo-Deemer in a renovated courtyard near Dongsi in 2002. Business was brisk from the start and the Yoga Yard soon moved to a larger location and eventually settled in it current location in the Bodhi Spa complex across from the north gate of the Workers’ Stadium. Today it is one of the most popular yoga studios in the international community.

Wexler, a mother of two boys, explains the back pain, stiffness, headaches, swollen extremities, and other ailments that pregnant women commonly endure can all be eased by prenatal yoga. But those sessions are carried out in a different fashion than one might expect.

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“A lot of people, when they think of prenatal yoga, imagine a lot of stretching,” she says. “There’s definitely some of that in our classes to maintain flexibility. But we also do a lot of poses to maintain body balance and strength, because a lot of joint pains during pregnancy come from having no stability.”

She also says those off kilter issues occur as bellies grow during pregnancies, shifting women’s center of gravity.

“Position and posture of the body can do a lot to prevent pain that is otherwise very common,” Wexler says. “On a physical level it helps to alleviate problems and discomforts. But it also gives people a better awareness of their bodies.”

But some women have trouble wrapping their minds around the notion of trying such poses, or any physical activity in general as they fret about the risks to the babies they’re carrying.

Zhang Yuchun, founder of the pregnant mother’s club at FORKISS yoga studio, says prenatal sessions aren’t dangerous. In fact, he feels that such classes prevent risks.

“Prenatal yoga encourages the pregnant mothers to maintain good posture,” he says. “That, in turn, promotes blood circulation, and improves oxygen supply to the placenta’s blood supply, aiding in the baby’s nutrition.”

Dr. Stefan Schneyer, Chief of Obstetrics and Gynecology at Oasis International Hospital, also touts prenatal yoga’s attributes. “Prenatal yoga is a perfect marriage between relaxation of the body and mind,” says Dr. Schneyer. “It helps with physical preparation for one of the most wonderful, but stressful, moments in the life of a woman, which is giving birth.”

While those benefits may seem more than enticing, Zhang concedes that many mothers still may be wary of the risks that yoga may pose to their unborn babies. He says those concerns can be especially common among Chinese women, a notion that may stem from generations’ old traditions that demand women live gingerly for the duration of their pregnancies.

“For many people, Chinese traditional concepts still often play a really important role in pregnancy,” he says. “First of all, people traditionally believed that it was much safer to rest than do activities.

Secondly, yoga’s prominence in China came relatively late and pregnant yoga has only been accepted in recent years.”

While those concerns may be warranted, Wexler says professional prenatal yoga instructors go to great lengths to ensure their students are safe and comfortable.

“It can be as simple as, while standing up in mountain pose, changing the classical narrow stance into a wider stance so that you have more support,” she says of the subtle shifts that make prenatal yoga more comfortable, before describing the aspects that make it safer: “Some postures are not appropriate during pregnancy. There are no big back bends, and none of the contracting twists which that are a very common part of other types of yoga. And obviously we don’t include any poses that involve lying on your belly.”

Aside from those general rules of thumb, Wexler says prenatal yoga teachers also tailor their instructions to each student. This crucial component is what leads each class off— instructors have the students gather, say their names and how many weeks they are on in the course of their pregnancy, along with mentioning any areas of discomfort like lower back pain, recent dizziness, or disruptions in their sleep patterns.

“It’s important that the teacher understands the fragility of pregnancy, along with what’s happening at different stages,” Wexler

says of the details that students disclosure before each class starts.

She also emphasizes how crucial it is for instructors to know about any alarming ailments or irritations. “Some students might have common discomforts – their pubic bone might really be hurting, or their groins are really sensitive when they walk or get out of a car.

We’d recommend students with problems like that not take part in poses that others can do. It’s important that the teacher knows which poses are appropriate for which students and how to adjust.”

But regardless of irritations or stages of pregnancy, Wexler says all prenatal yoga students need to gently ease into the poses and rhythms of the class. A key example is that, during pregnancy, a hormone called relaxin increases in the body, and tissues are softened as a result. Wexler says those more tender tissues are very helpful during childbirth, because the pelvis then literally has more wiggle room.

But it also leads to several common pregnancy tribulations like lower back pain, because of the degree to which the tissues are loosened.

And that lax flesh and muscle also prohibits students from attempting pretzel-like, hyper complex poses, at least with any degree of safety.

“During pregnancy, it’s really important to not go to the absolute extreme. It’s not the idea of exploring your boundaries and pushing your limits, because it’s much easier to strain a ligament or pull a muscle,” she says of the limits that relaxin softened tissue imposes on prenatal yoga students.

That eased approach not only makes prenatal yoga safer for the body, it also offers plenty of non-physical benefits that become extremely handy during such an emotional, hormonally ricocheting period.

“Prenatal yoga is a slow, mindful practice. It puts a lot of focus on breaths, being aware of your breaths and learning slow breathing to calm your nervous system … People find it useful and soothing during pregnancy and child birth, or afterward when you have a crying child and you’re trying to remain calm yourself,” she says with a laugh.

Gaining an understanding of breathing pales in comparison to what Wexler sees as prenatal yoga’s biggest emotional benefit – its ability to help pregnant women become better acquainted with themselves.

“Having the opportunity to explore your body and make friends with it during pregnancy is fantastic, in my mind,” she says. “Some people enjoy the process of pregnancy, but other people feel really sick the whole time. But being there in a class, and having time dedicated to these poses, can make you feel like ‘this is for me – I’m doing this for myself and my baby.’ On an emotional level, I think that’s really nice.”

… Being there in a class, and having time dedicated to these poses, can make you feel like ‘this is for me – I’m doing this for myself and my baby.’

Yoga Yard 6/F, 17 Gongti Beilu (across from the north gate of Workers’ Stadium), Chaoyang District. (6413 0774) 朝阳区工体北路 17 号 6 层工人 体育场北门对面 info@yogayard.com, www.yogayard.com

FORKISS Pregnancy Club

OASIS International Hospital See listing on p95.

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F102 Phoenix City Arcade Street, Chaoyang District. (5866 7799) 朝 阳区三元桥凤凰城商业街底商 F102. BeijingBreastfeeding@gmail.com, www.forkiss.com.cn

Dragon Tale How I had my baby in Beijing

Maternity

by Jessica Meider, Photo by Lova Li

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got pregnant at the beginning of last year, the Year of the Dragon. In China, having a “Dragon Baby” is a big deal – many couples plan their pregnancies to coincide with this auspicious year of the Chinese zodiac.

I was not entirely sure what to expect with pregnancy and birthing, but I knew it had to be natural. I wanted to feel safe and relaxed, to give myself the most ideal setting to give birth.

Having worked nine years in healthcare here in Beijing – first at International SOS and then at Beijing United Family Hospital – I felt extremely fortunate knowing what options were available, this proved to be incredibly helpful during our search.

I had a few necessary conditions for my birth: For starters I needed my husband and doula’s presence during labor. Most local hospitals do not allow the fathers into the delivery room, but I had heard that some places could accommodate this request given the right “enticement” to the right person. My husband and I had gone to check out a few local hospitals, but they all had similar rules: C h i n e s e l a n g u a g e o n l y, n o accompanying spouse or doula, labor in a roomful of other laboring moms, scary c-section rates.

I also knew that I needed to have some English-speaking staff present as there was no way I could swing Chinese during contractions. I couldn’t shake the mental image of a Chinese doctor and nurses squawking at me about cervixes and pain in Chinese while I was going through this very intense experience. I was afraid I’d misunderstand and agree to a c-section without knowing it. I also needed to have privacy and have my birth plan wishes respected.

All of these conditions left us with only a few private hospital options.

To book a local hospital birth, a mother-to-be is required enroll in the prenatal program at that hospital before her thirteenth week.

Because it was a particularly auspicious year the renowned Beijing hospitals, particularly Peking Medical Union Hospital (Xie He Yiyuan, see p33) and the Beijing Maternity Hospital (Beijing Fuchan Yiyuan, see p27), were already booking up fast by the time we started looking. We considered a few private “women’s hospitals” but discovered that if something major were to happen, I’d have to be taken by ambulance to the nearest “good” hospital.

I finally decided to give birth at the Beijing United Family Hospital (BJU). Having worked there for five years I felt very comfortable with the staff, some of whom still remembered me. BJU is deluxe and has new equipment, five-star patient rooms and a desire to provide excellent, caring healthcare. It started as a birthing hospital and this legacy of compassionate care continues even after it branched out into other services.

I really loved that BJU allowed my husband and my doula – people that I specified – in the room. I also appreciated the fact that there wasn’t a circus crowd of hospital staff coming in as I gave birth – the midwife and OB delivered me, with only three nurses in the room.

My birth was fast and natural – I was in labor and delivered within five hours. It was all quite intense, but pleasant (though by no means a walk in the park). In the end I realized how right I was

to choose to pay a little more for the wonderful experience I had with BJU. I also learned that during such a momentous, intimate and sometimes out-of-mind experience, your state of mind and comfort are the keys to getting through it all. Know thyself, and your choice will be obvious. And never estimate the power of your thoughts. A mantra such as, “I trust my body, I trust in this natural process,” really helps to allay the worrying mind in pregnancy and labor. About an hour into my intensifying contractions, I just said to myself, “Okay – I’d rather this be intense and quick...” and it really was. Before I knew it, I was howling like a large cat (I’m a vocalist so it was LOUD) and the midwife came running in to check me. I explained to her that if this is what it’s going to be like for the next ten hours, I wanted an epidural. She said “No time for epidural! You’re almost fully dilated. Let’s get ready.”

Yowza! It was all so sudden, but it was great – after all, our bodies are designed for this. My beautiful dragon daughter was born on the first day of snow in November of 2012. The staff was fantastic, kind, caring, unobtrusive and respectful; and gave us the time and space to get to know our newborn daughter.

The maternity nurses were amazing and we were very comfortable in our deluxe rooms – it was nice to stay for a few days so that we could transition back to our home with confidence and ease.

Other than enjoying our hospital stay itself my birth experience also underscored a few other things. For one, it’s important to keep an open mind – if you’re uptight and anxious, then local Chinese hospitals will most definitely freak you out. The appearance of old dingy floors and dim hallways, patients walking to the floor’s public bathroom, the sight of several people being treated in the same room or even the staff’s bedside manner may very well put you off.

And in a country with such a massive population there’s virtually no such thing as a patient’s privacy – you’ll often hear the doctor discussing patients’ conditions in front of others.

After living here for 15 years these things no longer phase me (much). The mantra “so what?” is a very handy balm for these kinds of cultural ‘bee stings,’ so if you’re laid-back, adventurous and interested in new experiences, then a local hospital might be the way to go. They may not have the most luxurious of environments, but you can be sure that the best local hospitals are at the very least medically safe.

My friend gave birth at a local hospital and delivered her baby in a room full of other women in labor. She told me that contrary to the notion that China has too many c-sections the midwives were continually shushing women who were complaining of the pain and begging for a c-section, and instead encouraging them to give birth naturally because there was nothing wrong with their bodies.

So whether you go local and gritty, private and upscale, or something in between, it all boils down to what you, Dear Reader (and Mommy-to-Be), feel most at ease with. Thankfully, Beijing’s fantastically open international community has plenty of people who you can speak with about their experiences – I’ve always found this to be the most helpful thing of all.

“During such a momentous, intimate and sometimes out-of-mind experience, your state of mind and comfort are the keys to getting through it all. Know thyself, and your choice will be obvious”

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Breathing

3-year-old Edda Biörck-Molina enjoying a “blue sky day” in Beijing. Photo by Sui.

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N

owadays Beijingers talk about the air quality more than the actual weather – unfortunately enduring the capital’s notorious air pollution is quite literally not for the faint of heart, and those who have been driven away for cleaner pastures have done so for good reason.

Despite the bad air Beijing still offers just many good reasons to stick it out – for those of us who have chosen to do so, breathe on we must. If you’ve just arrived and are only now getting acquainted with the less-than-stellar air, we will most certainly not deceive you into thinking that the air quality is going to dramatically improve anytime soon.

However, what we can say is that contrary to what impressions you might get from all the negative news reports, it’s not always polluted. It may be hard to believe on those super hazy days, but Beijing does have “Blue Sky” days when you can peer out all the way to the northern hills and wander through shade of a breezy hutong – it’s on days like these when you’ll remember why you moved here in the first place.

But, yes, it can, and does, get awfully polluted – a lot – and the government is well aware of the how much work remains to be done. The recent official announcements of a spate of aggressive new pollution-prevention measures are encouraging, but how effective they ultimately prove very much remains to be seen. Beijing must follow the example of other notoriously polluted parts of the world that have had the socio-political will and the means to improve their air quality.

In the meantime it is important for you to know that there are some concrete steps, which we share in the following section, that can reduce you and your family’s exposure to air pollution.

Armed with a little of this knowledge and guidance, you should be breathing a bit easier in due time.

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Breathless in Beijing Coping with Asthma in the Capital

by Denis Vaughan, photos by Mitchell Pe Masilun and Sui

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Breathing

recent study from The Chinese Society for Environmental Sciences revealed that the average incidence of asthma amongst children in China is a staggering 6.8% and rising.

With asthma now being stated as the leading cause of hospitalization amongst infants in China, expats need to be well prepared for the pollution that they and their families are inevitably going to be exposed to in Beijing.

Dealing with Beijing’s pollution can be a big enough challenge for anyone. A dry cough, congested throat and feeling short of breath are common complaints for Beijing residents. But how does one cope when you add asthma to all of these problems? Dr. Pauline Tan, Chief of Pediatrics at Vista Medical Clinic, believes asthma is becoming increasingly common here in the capital. “It’s definitely gotten worse over time,” she announces. “Even in the seven years I’ve been at Vista, I can see a larger number of children coming to the clinic seeking treatment for asthma or related breathing issues.”

For families looking to protect their kid(s) from the Beijing smog she offers the following tips: “The first thing to be aware of is the triggers of asthma,” she advises. “Contrary to popular belief, exercising is not actually the biggest trigger for children. Nor are emotionally stressful situations,” she adds. “As they move into adulthood, exercise becomes more and more of a factor, but for very young children it has minimal impact,” she points out, adding that “Viral infections are what parents should watch out for the most as these can very often induce asthma in children. If your child is sick you should be keep him as far away as possible from places harboring a lot of bacteria, do not send him into school and most importantly, do not smoke in his presence.

Studies have shown that children whose parents smoke are at a particularly heightened risk to developing asthma.”

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Dean Phelan is 23 year old Irishman living in Beijing who suffers from asthma. He describes his asthma as quiet severe at home in Ireland but says that it has been a lot worse since coming to Beijing. “As an English teacher I have to avoid running around with the children during playtime completely if it’s a very polluted day. I can’t do it without gasping for breath,” he says. “Even running for a bus or climbing a flight of stairs was completely out of the question for me this winter when the pollution was at an all time high.” Phelan also stated that during the winter over 1/3 of his class was absent because of the pollution. “A lot of the parents actually took their children out of Beijing and back to their hometowns just to get them away from the pollution.” he says.

Dr. Tan explains that pollution levels are generally higher in the winter because there is more coal being burned, especially indoors.

“People are actually exposed to the majority of pollutants indoors,” she explains. “If you think about it logically it’s where people spend most of their time.”

Dr. Tan advises Beijing resident to buy air purifiers and make sure their houses are properly ventilated. “Many homes in Beijing use gas cookers so this is particularly important. You should also avoid carpets, stuffed toys and any other items that can contain hypo allergens, and I would advise patients to shower in the evenings before they go to bed, especially girls with long hair,” she adds. “You collect so much debris and pollutants throughout the day and it can cling to your skin and hair. It’s better to wash it away before you go to bed so that you aren’t being exposed to it in your sleep.”

And although masks can help reduce pollution intake, they can be somewhat impractical because people just aren’t committed to wearing them. “Of the 24 children in my class, only one wears a mask on a daily basis and these will include many children that come in coughing and wheezing on a regular basis,” says Dean.

Wheezing is cited as one of the main symptoms of asthma and will often become more predominant during the onset of an asthma attack. Abdominal restriction (which can cause chest pain) is another telltale sign, as the abdomen contracts in an effort to draw in more oxygen. According to Dr. Tan, in these types of situations “everyone should have an asthma action plan.”

Asthma can be divided into either intermittent or persistent cases.

“For the intermittent cases we provide patients with what we call intercontrol medication,” she explains. “The most common thing prescribed for these patients is Salbutamol which taken by an inhaler.”

Persistent cases, the more serious of the two, are defined as a patient having two or more hospitalizations as a result of asthma in one month. “Maintenance meds are prescribed for these types of patients,” Tan elaborated. “A course of steroids is what is mostly used. The word “steroids” will often scare patients and parents,” she says, “but trust me they are necessary severe cases.”

In cases where the patients prescribed medication isn’t effective enough, patients should be brought to the hospital ASAP. “In some cases I’ve seen patients take two or three rounds of a nebulizer before being responsive,” Dr. Tan explains. “I know some parents who bring their child to a clinic everyday to get a dose of a nebulizer,” she adds. “If a child really needs it that much, you can rent the nebulizer from a hospital. Check with your local clinic.”

Dean says that aside from his doctor in Ireland telling him it was a bad idea to go to Beijing in the first place, he prescribed him with steroids before he left, in anticipation of the pollution affecting him

badly. “It is actually worse than I was expecting” he confesses. “I take my reliever a lot more over here than I did at home and I have a supply of steroids at the ready just in case.”

Phelan said that for him it’s about knowing what his own personal triggers were and what works best for him. “For me, Vicks Vaporub helps a lot,” he says. “It’s best to just stock up on what you need before you come over because you won’t always be able to find it over here. I’ve had friends bring over at least three tubs of Vicks for me since I got here.”

He also cites the lack of smoking ban in China as a problem for him. “Shisha pipes are definitely a personal trigger of mine. When I’m going out I would actually take the smoke levels of a bar into consideration, especially if they sell shisha pipes. Any incidents I have had over here have occurred after being exposed to smoke from shisha pipes. I just can’t be around them,” he says.

When asked if she had ever advised any patients to leave Beijing, Dr. Tan responds by saying that “she would give them the option.

You can’t say it to a patient outright,” she said, “and it depends on their priorities because many parents have very high-paid jobs here.

I would however, present the facts to them and tell them what it would mean for them and their family’s health if they were to stay in Beijing.”

Dean says that he “could never live in Beijing permanently. I can already see how badly it has affected my health,” he declares.

Every city has its ups and downs, but in Beijing’s case there is little one say to downplay the severity of its air pollution. It can be bad as people say it is and is a serious consideration for people who suffer from breathing problems. No matter how long you are committed staying in Beijing you should be proactive and practical about protecting your lungs while you’re here.

“Even running for a bus or climbing a flight of stairs was completely out of the question for me this winter when the pollution was at an all time high”

Daily 24hrs. 3/F, Kerry Centre, 1 Guanghua Lu, Chaoyang District.

(8529 6618, fax 8529 6615, vista@vista-china.net) www.vista-china. net 维世达诊所, 朝阳区光华路1号嘉里中心3层 2013 BeijingKids Health Guide

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Vista Medical Center

Airing it All Out Dr Richard picks his favorite brands of facemasks

by Dr Richard St Cyr

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hat’s the best air pollution mask for China? There are quite a few brands out there, and you now can find them at convenience stores and pharmacies. But which ones really work? Many masks have proven that their material is over 99% effective in blocking PM2.5, which is an important first step. But this test is not nearly as important as real world test results, called quantitative fit tests. Even a great fabric is useless if the mask’s fit isn’t snug on your face, and any air leaking around the edges makes your mask worthless, no matter how expensive or trendy it is. Since air pollution is a truly serious problem here in China, you really shouldn’t mess around with inadequate masks when there are a handful that have proven both 99% fabric effectiveness and 95% or higher efficiency in fit tests. This article offers my personal and professional opinions of the four best reviewed masks, all with proven results: 3M, Totobobo, Vogmask, and I Can Breathe.

Breathing

3M N95 Masks The 3M company has a large range of disposable N95 certified masks that they have made for decades as protective gear for construction and heavy industries worldwide. These 3M masks are considered the gold standard of masks as they have the longest track record by far, and all major research studies have used these in their testing of air pollution. Quite a few models are available here, and some have special exhalation valves, useful during sports or preventing fogging up of eyeglasses.

Comfort: These are usually very comfortable on the face. But their straps go behind the head and not around the ears, which is less practical for many users.

Air Leaking: There is very little leaking if the metal nose bridge is pinched together just right.

Exercising: I found it very comfortable to breathe while biking, especially if the model has an exhalation valve.

Fog Factor: I had very little fogging of my glasses with a good seal around the nose.

Stinky Factor: After a few days these do tend to look grey and haggard.

Hipness: Not very consumer-friendly, usually with big black writing, bright yellow elastic strap and an imposing exhalation valve.

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Reusable filters: These don’t take replacement filters; each mask can be used for at least a few days until they get dirty or you can’t breathe as easily through it.

Kid Friendly: They only have one model for younger faces, the 1860S child size. But this isn’t easily found in China (but is available on Taobao for anywhere between RMB 10-14, depending on the seller).

Longevity: Each mask can last at least a few days of use before losing effectiveness.

Cost: Each mask should be around 7-15 RMB each, depending on volume.

Bottom Line: 3M will always be the gold standard, is available everywhere, and is useful at all times. You should always have a few available in a pinch. But it’s not the most user-friendly or attractive, and you may prefer reusable ones to cut down on waste.

Available on taobao.com and at April Gourmet.

Totobobo Totobobo (pictured above) is well-known for their reusable, consumer friendly masks and they have been around for a few years.

Originally from Singapore, they have a few models for adults and kids, with differing levels of filtration from 92 to 96%, the latter of which is better suited for China.

Comfort: This is usually very comfortable but the plastic edges can leave skin indentations which last longer than other softer masks.

Straps can go either around the head or just the ears, depending on the model.

Air Leaking: The general fit is usually excellent, and you can cut edges off for an even better fit.

Exercising: I had no problems during biking or jogging and still felt able to catch a breath.

Fog Factor: Sometimes the nose fit isn’t perfect and my eyeglasses fog up, but this is rare.

Stinky Factor: It’s easy to steam up inside the plastic and takes a while to dry. Otherwise, cleaning off is easy.

Hipness: The mask is clear and the small white filters are very unobtrusive. But it only comes in one style.

Filters: It’s very easy to replace their small filters.

Kid Friendly: Many, but not all, parents have had success cutting the masks down for children’s size. And some kids don’t mind this style compared to others.

Reusability: The mask itself can last for years, and you just pop in a new filter every few days. The thin straps slowly stretch out and may eventually need replacing.

Cost: RMB 200 for the mask frame and RMB 25 for each pair of replacement 96% filters.

Bottom Line: Totobobo is an excellent choice with a growing track record, and also can be used for older kids if you cut it down properly.

Available at ijustwannabuy.com.

Cost: 120-150 RMB, depending on the size.

Bottom Line: Vogmask is extremely comfortable and has a wide selection of patterns, and they are first on the market with children’s sizes which actually are proven to work. It’s not my first choice when exercising.

Available at airbusters.org.

Vogmask

I Can Breathe!

Vogmask was started by a group in the super-green enclave of Santa Cruz, California. They carry two types of fabrics, with their flagship models made of a high-tech non-woven microfiber. They are making a big splash this summer with the first consumer line of pollution masks specifically designed for children’s faces.

Comfort: Their mask is extremely comfortable for most users.

Air Leaking: It’s not quite as snug as some others and I did occasionally smell street odors.

Exercising: The fabric gets soggy during exercise, as it rests on the lips. I also found it harder to take deeper breaths.

Fog Factor: It sometimes takes a bit of fine tuning the metal nose clip for a good seal, but overall wasn’t a big deal.

Stinky Factor: This rests on the lips so gets soggy very quickly, which may be uncomfortable for some.

Hipness: They have a wide assortment of colors and patterns. Also, since they look exactly like the winter kouzhao facemasks that many Beijingers use, you can blend in without getting stares.

Filters: No need, as the fabric itself is the filter.

Kid Friendly: Yes, they offer two sizes for children from all ages, including infants.

Longevity: Each mask is washable many times with no loss of filtration effectiveness.

The I Can Breathe! reusable masks come from the USA. They have many models and styles available, and their Active Sports Mask has the best proof of effectiveness.

Comfort: Their mesh fabric is very comfortable, and their adjustable straps go around the ears.

Air Leaking: There is a bit of leaking and odor from the streets.

Exercising: It was generally fine but not the best I’ve tried. Breathing rates were adequate. The exhalation valve helps prevent steaming up.

Fog Factor: I had very little fogging of my glasses.

Stinky Factor: They did well here; it dries quickly and your mouth isn’t resting on the fabric.

Hipness: Not bad at all, as they have many different colors and models.

Filters: The replaceable filter is a bit difficult to switch out, but it’s not a serious problem.

Kid Friendly: They do not have specific children’s sizes.

Longevity: The outer mesh is washable many times, and you buy filter inserts.

Cost: RMB 245 for the mask, and RMB 50 for the replaceable filter.

Bottom Line: This is a very good, comfortable mask for adults during leisure and sports.

Available on Taobao at bjlive.taobao.com.

Since air pollution is a truly serious problem here in China, you really shouldn’t mess around with inadequate masks when there are a handful that have proven both 99% fabric effectiveness and 95% or higher efficiency in fit tests

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Breathing

Dr Richard St Cyr is a family doctor at Beijing United Family Hospital

‘Aint No Sunshine …

The overlooked cost of Beijing’s air pollution

by Dr Nizar al Salahat, photo by Mitchell Pe Masilun

O

ne of the first things questions my patients ask me is how the environment might affect their overall health, particularly when it comes to food safety and pollution.

Last winter, when the air quality was at its worst, many of my patients complained of respiratory issues and increased rates of illness, which came as no surprise. But what I was surprised to find out were the secondary effects of this pollution – because of the air pollution I’ve noticed a sharp increase in the number of expat children with vitamin D deficiency.

In Beijing the air pollution acts as a natural umbrella, hiding us from the sunlight, thus making vitamin D deficiency a real problem, especially for children.

Vitamin D is essential in developing bodies as it is required for the body to absorb calcium and phosphorous and use it in the formation of bones. While most people know that milk is key for healthy bones and teeth, what they do not know is that without vitamin D, the calcium and phosphorous that is retained will be flushed out of one’s system.

What is vitamin D?

While data on vitamin D deficiency for expat children in Beijing is not readily available, a recent study by the Medical College of Georgia has found that this situation is prevalent e ve n i n d e ve l o p e d c o u n tries like the U.S. According to the study of 559 14 to 18-year-olds researchers found that 56.4% had insufficient levels with 28.8% classed as deficient.

“Vitamin D is often called the ‘Sunshine Vitamin’ because our primary source is from the sun … [it] is essential in developing bodies as it is required for the body to absorb calcium and phosphorous and use it in the formation of bones”

Breathing

Vitamin D is often called the “Sunshine Vitamin” because our primary source is from the sun, which anyone who has been in Beijing over the last six months will tell you can be a rare sight in this city. In recent years more and more is being understood about the importance of this vitamin and the effects of not getting enough.

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Should I worry?

It is surprising to think that potentially over a quarter of teens are not getting the vitamins that they need in order to develop into healthy adults.

be obese than other children. It is unknown what causes this link but it is important to ensure that a child’s diet is balanced, quantity aside.

What happens if we do not get enough?

Fatigue and Depression

Vitamin D deficiency has been linked to a number of disorders of not only the bones and skeletal structure but also weight and emotional state.

Depression and teenagers: This is not a novel concept and may be just be a phase, but symptoms can be exacerbated by not getting enough of the “sunshine vitamin.” In Beijing where the sun is often scarce, it is important to take advantage of days where the heavens open and have your child go outside and make the most of it.

Rickets The most commonly associated result of vitamin D deficiency is rickets, a condition where bones become soft, fragile and often malformed. This is considered a serious issue in children and should be screened for and addressed quickly.

Bone Breaks and Pain Even though a child/teens’ bones may be fully formed, insufficient vitamin D still leads to overall weakness in the skeletal structure making them prone to fractures and breaks. Additionally, aches and pains caused by simple activities are common in people with vitamin D deficiency.

Obesity

What can I do?

While the sun is the most common source, vitamin D can also be obtained naturally through certain types of oily fish such as salmon, tuna, and mackerel, beef liver and eggs. Additionally, many low fat yogurts have added this vitamin artificially.

If you are concerned that your child may be suffering from vitamin D deficiency, you may choose to have them screened. An orthopedic specialist will be able to advise you on the best cause of action in this case.

Dr Nizar al Salahat is the Medical Director and Chief OrthopedicTrauma surgeon at Puhua International Hospital – Shuangjing

Studies done by John Hopkins University in the U.S have found that children with vitamin D deficiency are five times more likely to

Breathing

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Clean and Green These common houseplants can help you breathe easier at home

by Jerry Chan

I

t’s a sign of our times that clean, breathable air has become a commodity. But enjoying a healthy home environment does not have to be solely an indulgence for those who can afford pricey purifiers – research has shown that there are numerous plants that can make a considerable improvement on the air quality in your home. Here are some of the most effective and readily available varieties around town.

Aloe 芦荟 (ru(2) hui(4)) Not only is Aloe great for your skin, it is also highly effective when it comes to filtering out formaldehyde and benzene (a byproduct of paints, cleaning agents and cigarettes).

Leave it in a sunny spot near a window.

Azaleas 杜 鹃花 (du(4) juan(1) hua(1))

Breathing

Azaleas can purify the air from irritants present in insulation, as well as in foam carpet pads. They grow well in cool areas so keep them away from your heater.

Areca Palm 风尾竹 (feng(4) wei(3) zhu(2))

Boston Fern 波斯顿蕨 (bo(1) si(1) dun(4) jue(2))

These upright perennials are good for just about any room in the house (shoulder high plants are recommended) and are good for filtering out formaldehyde and xylene. They also efficiently convert CO2 to oxygen.

This tropical plant grows quickly and loves bright, sunlit rooms (with indirect light) and can not only remove common indoor pollutants but also humidifies the air (a musthave for Beijing).

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Chinese Evergreen 广东万年青 (guang(3) dong(1) wan(4) nian(2) qing(1)) A native of southern China, this plant is thought to not only bring good luck, but also to be great for purifying indoor air. They are extremely easy to grow and do well in low light environments.

Chrysanthemum 菊花 (ju(2) hua(1)) As well as making a tasty tea, chrysanthemums filter out benzene molecules released in the air by plastics, detergents and tobacco smoke.

Marginata 马尾铁树 (ma(3) wei(3) tie(3) shu(4)) Alternately known as “Janet Craig” and the “Striped Dracaena,” these plants can grow up to fifteen feet and need medium light.

They are effective at filtering out formaldehyde, benzene and xylene – but take care with your pooch, as they are poisonous to dogs.

Money Plant 绿萝 (lu(4) luo(2)) Also known as “Golden Pothos” and “Devil’s Ivy,” this common houseplant is in the top three formaldehyde filters. Be sure to water it less frequently in cold weather.

Another tropical plant well-suited for apartments, the rubber plant removes formaldehyde and looks great with its sleek and shiny leaves.

Spider Plant 吊兰 (diao(4) lan(2))

Mother-in-Law Tongue 虎皮兰 (hu(3) pi(2) lan(2)) Also known as “Snake Plants,” Mother-inLaw Tongue is the perfect bedroom plant as it converts CO2 to oxygen at night. Around six waist-high plants per person are recommended.

Rubber Plant 橡胶树 (xiang(4) pi(2) shu(4))

Peace Lily 百合花 (bai(3) he(2) hua(1)) If there were ever a plant designed for Beijing winters, this is it. Peace Lilies are tolerant of cold and humidify the air. They are also excellent at removing contaminants and pollutants like benzene, formaldehyde and acetone. But keep them out of the reach of pets and small children; the plant is poisonous if ingested.

A native of South America, Spider Plants are extremely easy to grow and great for removing carbon dioxide and can also filter out formaldehyde and xylene. They are especially effective around kitchen gas stoves.

Believe it or not, the lowly sprout is fantastic at producing oxygen. Buckwheat, sweet pea and sunflower sprouts can all do the trick and are tasty to boot.

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Breathing

Sprouts 芽 (ya (2))

Healthy Eating

Zachary Yang (3) and Ethan Yang (5) share healthy eating habits at home with their mom, Robyn Wexler (see p34) Photo by Lova Li

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Healthy Eating

C

ome to Beijing with an open mind and palate and you’ll find it’s a food lover’s paradise – the number of restaurants, cuisines and the selection of food items in the capital have exploded over the past twenty-odd years. But this burgeoning scene has come at a cost: As Beijing’s hungry population grows, so too has the number of food safety scandals and with it the public’s wariness of what, exactly, they are ingesting and feeding their loved ones. Small wonder, then, that food safety now consistently tops polls as the general public’s number-one concern.

Fathoming the sheer scale of this problem can bring out the cynic in anyone, but there are glimmers of hope. The growing public awareness of these problems are exerting very real pressure on authorities to act, and bit-by-bit they are – the vey fact that these alarming food safety stories are continually getting reported in state-run media attests to this evolving official attitude.

Unfortunately there is no way to ensure that 100% of the food you eat in China (or anywhere, for that matter) is safe, but there are big steps you can take to make at least the fundamentals are. Take the water you drink at home, for example – father-of-three Christopher Lay’s piece about his experience installing and using an under-the-sink purifier at his home may make you think twice about drinking daily out of a plastic BPA-laden barrel.

Elsewhere former Jennifer Thome shows us how to interpret the different labels that demarcate your food, and Kyle Mullin gives us a roundup of organic farms, shops and distributors as well as information on dealing with food allergies in Beijing.

There remain many other ways to manage the quality and safety of your family’s daily diet, but we hope that the information in this section will get you geared towards the right path to eating healthily and safer in Beijing.

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The Natural Solution Beijing’s market for organic foods is growing, but there are still hurdles to overcome

Healthy Eating

by Kyle Mullin

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S

imon Gauthier says Beijingers are more than willing to chow down on organic food—he’s just not so sure that the scope of such healthier produce has ripened enough for a bigger clientele.

“I feel like this is the moment where not only foreigners, but also Chinese people, are fed up with all the food scandals in this country, with trying to find sources they can trust,” Gauthier, the founder of A Food Affaire Deli and Catering (located in the April Gourmet grocery) says. ”I’ve seen strawberries the size of your fist here, and they don’t rot, they just liquefy. That’s just one of the many things about some foods that can be strange and disturbing here.”

Gauthier has looked into catering organic food, but despite the growing interest, he says the supply is not yet sustainable.

“I discussed it with a few organic food outlets, like LohaoCity. They do a great job, but they are just too small scale. We go through a lot of food, thousands of kilos a month. I’d love to get into the organic food business, but I need a consistent source.”

Klaus Griesbach, who works at the TooToo Organic Farm and delivery company, concurs that while interest has spiked as of late, Beijing hasn’t yet reached its organic food tipping point.

“Organic food is not mainstream yet in China, less than 0.1 percent of all food consumed in China is organic,” he says, before adding: “I doubt that most grocers or caterers could sell thousands of kilograms of organic food monthly, at least not yet.”

“(Organic foods) contain a variety of nutrients the human body needs and can easily absorb… Processed foods have chemicals that are not easily absorbed, and some are even harmful to the human body”

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Healthy Eating

Nancy Song, who works at the LohaoCity health store and organic food provider that Gauthier gave kudos to, agrees that she would like to see organic food become more popular. But she adds that its current status as a niche product does have advantages, especially over mainstream alternatives like supermarkets.

“We don’t see ourselves as a supermarket. Supermarkets specialize in ‘convenient products,’ which end up being unhealthy. Outside of China, people are most worried about whether their food is healthy. In China, most consumers are worried about food safety, which is a trickier problem to solve. We wish not only to have a reputation for selling healthy food, but also to be known for selling safe food products. We want to occupy the same position in China as, for example, Trader Joe’s does in America” Griesbach says that organic food’s popularity will likely continue its steady rise, because it is so much more nutritious than the alternatives.

“Whether you live in Beijing or any other place, if your health is important to you, you should eat organic food,” he says, before rattling off a list of unnatural additives and chemicals in most other foods that he, and other organic proponents, have deemed to be harmful. “Organic foods are free of health endangering preservatives, coloring, pesticides, herbicides, and hormones. I think young parents, who want to make sure that their children get the best and safest food available, should especially keep this in mind.”

Healthy Eating

While the number of Beijing’s organic food fans may be steadily growing, Griesbach says there are several reasons why they are still a minority. “One of the challenges Beijing poses for organic food growers and vendors is the long distance between the farms and the vendors, which require packing at night and cooled transport. But this is true for any big city.”

Gauthier agrees, saying that those expenditures will lead to hurdles that may prove to be too daunting for distributors, vendors and customers.

“Once you decide to go full on organic, it costs more,” he says, before admitting that the vast majority of organic proponents have no issue with paying more for their beloved grub. But while that price difference may be widely accepted by some consumers, most vendors don’t think it’s so easy to swallow. “Changing your business model to go completely organic doesn’t mean that all clients are going to be willing to pay something like double the price. It’s a bit of a risk for now, at least until organic food becomes more common.”

Griesbach agrees that the price difference is considerable, before elaborating on why that gap happens.

“The higher price of organic food is mainly due to the much higher cost of distributing small amounts of goods,” he says. “Our farm sell its products directly to families or single persons, not to shops. The more organic food is consumed, the more its price will go down.”

Gauthier is looking forward to that day when organic food becomes the norm. But in the meantime, he says too many outlets of these niche products make too many compromises — not with the food itself, but in the strategies they use to sell it.

“Some organic outlets that I’ve been to have plenty of nonorganic products. It’ll be all interspersed between the two types, or there will be an organic section and then another section with cornflakes,” he says. “To me, it makes more sense go all the way if you’re going to go organic.”

Taking such steps, and taking on the resulting swollen prices, can be intimidating for business owners. But while many customers

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may be skeptical about the costliness of organic products, Song says many of the outlets that provide this more holistic food take pains to ensure they’re worth every penny.

“We take more responsibility in order to make more guarantees about our products. We spend more time and effort on the safety and health of our products, that’s reflected in our price. When you buy any of our products, you are buying our guarantee. If you have any problem with any Lohao products you buy, we will take responsibility for it. We won’t pass the buck onto anyone else.”

Song says that Gauthier’s earlier point, about some outlets having a seeming half hearted commitment to organic products, is by no means the worst example of the hurdles plaguing this budding food variety.

“It can be a challenge to build trust between us and our customers,” she says. “There are several organic labeling systems in China, some of which are abused to the point that they hardly mean anything anymore to the consumer.”

Song deems such deceptive advertising to be deplorable, leaving consumers wary of which foods may or may not be organic. And she says the best way to combat that soured image is to provide the public with a fresh alternative— a chance to see the real deal, the leafy greens and juicy fruits, up and close and in person.

“In order to resolve this challenge, we create a lot of opportunities for people to visit our farm and to observe our growing processes firsthand,” she says. “They can therefore understand how we go about this business, and when that happens, customers end up trusting all the products we carry.”

That could be a promising proposal to people like Gauthier, who are enticed by all the promise that organic food holds, why still being wary by the potential pitfalls ahead. He says one of the issues could stem from the complacency that has settled in among a portion of Beijing’s expat consumers.

“I feel like living in China, for the longest time, made many people just settle, or even be timid, when it comes to looking for what they want from their food,” he says, before elaborating: “Some

expats, who aren’t bilingual, got really used to going to stores where no one can speak English. Asking for an apple could be a challenge, let alone looking into complex terms and details like nutritional values and whether or not something is organic.”

He adds that many expats are extremely firm when it comes to the standards of what they eat, and that that group is growing in number and self assurance in Beijing. But he says that the true key to organic food’s success lies at a much more local angle.

“My business started out having 90 percent foreign customers.

Now I’m 60/40 between expats and Chinese clients as my business has grown bigger,” he says, before adding that organic food’s Beijing breakthrough needs to happen in the same fashion. “If stores are going to sell more organic foods, then it needs to not come from the 100,000 foreigners in Beijing, but the 20 million Chinese living here.

They’re becoming more aware of what goes into their food, especially when it’s processed, and they’re going to be expecting higher and higher standards as time goes on.”

FOR MORE ORGANIC OPTIONS, CHECK OUT… Beijing Organic and Beyond Corporation Rm. 1103,Tower B, Tian Yuan Gang Center, C2 East 3rd Ring North Rd, Chaoyang District, 100027 (400 630 1001, 6460 8999) 办公地址:北京市朝阳区东三环北路丙2号天元港中心B座1103、1001室 info oabc.cc service oabc.cc www.oabc.cc

Beijing Organic Farmers Market For more information, email: farmersmarketbj@gmail.com

Crab Island (resort with organic restaurants) 1 Xiedao Lu (take the Weigou exit off the Airport Expressway and follow the signs), Chaoyang District (8433 5566/5588) 朝阳区蟹岛路 1 号 Tel: 010-84335566/5588 www.xiedao.com

Derunwu Organic Farm

LohaoCity Organic Food Store

Strawberry Fields, Xinzhuang, Xingshou Town, Changping District (8459 0809) 昌平区兴寿镇辛庄草莓园 jiyunliang@vip.163.com

10A, Bldg 5, 76 Naner Lu, Baiziwan (8459-4332) 百子湾南二路 76 号 院 5 号楼 10A www.lohaocity.com

Green Cow Organic Farm

Tootoo Organic Farm Home Delivery Service 22/F, Building #A, Ninetowns Group, No. 20, Gongti East Road, Chaoyang Dist. (135-5214-2991, 8610- 6589 9833 ) 北京市朝阳区工体东 路 20 号 A 座九城集团大厦 22 层 100020 lijun@ninetowns.com

A Food Affaire Deli and Catering

OASIS International Hospital 9 Jiuxianqiao Beilu, Chaoyang District, Chaoyang District (400 UR OASIS (876 2747)) 朝阳区朝阳区酒仙桥北路 9 号 www.oasishealth.cn

Beijing Organic Consumers Association Sign up for this organization’s email newsletter, for more up to date info about our city’s organic food happenings: http://health.groups.yahoo.com/group/beijing_organic_consumers/

See p62 for more on Organic food in Beijing.

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Healthy Eating

1/F, 5 Xingfuyicunxili (on the ground floor of Lianbao Apartments next to Yu Xin restaurant), Chaoyang District (135 0107 1114) 朝阳 区绿叶子食品店 , 幸福一村西里 5 号一层

Shunyi North 顺义北 Donggezhuang (10 min north of the International Exhibition Center), Houshayu Zhen, Shunyi District (8046 4301, 135 0113 6920), For directions in Chinese and English, visit: http://www.greencowfarm.com/find-us.html thelovelygreencow@gmail.com http://www.greencowfarm.com/

A Green Veggie Guide Beijing’s leafy greens deciphered

by Diana Dai and Winnie Wang; photos by Judy Zhou

W

hen arriving in China, foreigners are often pleasantly surprised about the treasure trove of the loveliest leafy greens available in shops and markets.

These healthy vegetables are also the easiest items to prepare. Radishes can be eaten raw, and cooking most green vegetables requires only some boiling and a drizzle of olive oil with a pinch of salt. Have fun exploring your local market and discovering new flavors in your kitchen.

Radish 萝卜 In season: Available yearround, but its peak season is in the spring and winter.

This root vegetable is very low in calories. It contains only 16 calories per 100g. It is also a good source of antioxidants, dietary fiber and vitamins (especially vitamin C). In addition, it contains vitamin B 6, riboflavin, thiamin and minerals such as iron, magnesium, copper and calcium.

Cauliflower 花椰菜 In season: Available year-round, but its peak season is fall.

A cruciferous vegetable, cauliflower is high in vitamin C and dietary fiber. It helps give the body a steady stream of energy and cooked cauliflower has only 25 calories per cup.

Healthy Eating

Spinach 菠菜 In season: Year-round One of the most beneficial and healthiest vegetables, spinach is filled with vitamins, proteins, antioxidants and essential nutrients.

A great source of vitamins C and K, spinach has been used as an anti-inflammatory agent against stomach ulcers.

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Youmaicai 油麦菜 In season: Year-round It is a great source of vitamin A and is low in calories. It helps lower cholesterol and helps fight memory loss.

Needle Mushroom 金针菇 In season: Winter and spring The needle mushroom is high in zinc, which promotes a child’s mental development. It can also effectively enhance a body’s metabolism and help with food absorption.

Ginger 姜 In season: Spring Ginger is an herb that originated in China.

It helps boost the immune system naturally and helps cure ailments, such as migraines, nausea, heartburn and has been known to prevent cancer.

White Radish 白萝卜 In season: Fall White radish is rich in vitamin C and zinc. It helps enhance the body’s immune system. In addition, it contains a variety of enzymes to fight cancer.

Chrysanthemum Greens 茼蒿 In season: Spring It’s rich in vitamins and amino acids. The stem of tonghao contains special essential oil and other substances, which can lower blood pressure.

Chinese Chives 韭菜 In season: Mid-fall A good source of vitamin A and beta-carotene, Chinese chives are beneficial for eye health and help fight off viral infections. It also helps aid the immune and reproductive systems.

Choy Sum 菜心 In season: Summer It is high in protein and low in fat.

Per kilogram, it only has 1 to 3 grams of fat.

Chinese Broccoli 芥兰

Celtuce 莴笋 In season: Spring It can increase a person’s appetite and its dietary fiber content can help with digestion. It is aptly named celtuce, as it is a cross between celery and lettuce.

In season: September It is a good source of vitamin E, vitamin B6, iron, zinc and copper.

As a good source of dietary fiber, it can prevent constipation. It is low in sodium, as well as cholesterol.

Taro 芋头

Juhua Cai 菊花菜

In season: Fall It is 70 percent starch and works as a tonic. It is rich in protein, calcium, phosphorus, iron, potassium, magnesium. It can assist in the treatments of insect bites and bee stings.

In season: May It’s rich in protein and vitamin C. In general, it is good for detoxifying, lowering blood pressure, and headache relief.

Bok Choy 油菜

Garland Chrysanthemum 蒿子秆

In season: Year-round Bok choy contains minerals to promote bone growth and accelerate the body’s metabolism. It contains beta-carotene and vitamin B.

In season: Spring It’s rich in vitamin A and minerals, but relatively high in sodium. It aids in digestion, helping the body speed up its metabolism.

Key Vocabulary I want that one.

I want one kilo.

这个，我要两百克。 Zhègè, wǒ yào liǎng bǎi kè.

我要那个。 Wǒ yào nàgè.

我要两斤。 Wǒ yào liǎng jīn.

I’d like RMB 20 worth.

How much is this (cost)?

Thank you.

我要20块钱的。 Wǒ yào èrshí kuài qián de.

这个多少钱?

谢谢。 Xiè xiè.

Zhègè duō shǎo qián?

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Healthy Eating

For this one, I’d like 200 grams.

Love your Labels Got sticker shock? Clip these lists for a quick cure

by Jennifer Thome

F

ood labels were created to make our lives easier, but let’s be honest: does looking at the labels in your local supermarket send you into sticker shock? Don’t worry, you’re not alone, which is why we’ve put together this handy list of labels, common ingredients you should (and can easily) avoid, and gotten some top shopping recommendations from Beijing organic chef Laura Fanelli (see p62).

It’s no secret that food safety is a big concern in China, and there are endless articles about the latest scandal – so much so that it might all seem rather hopeless. But the scandals in recent years have actually driven the labeling of safe foods, says social media activist Kong Batian, who regularly returns to her hometown of Kunming to take on polluters and drive them out of town. “Grocery

Common Additives

Nitrates and Nitrites 硝酸盐 What it is: Synthetically produced food preservatives and fertilizer.

Can Cause: Aggravation for asthmatics, cancer, heart problems, and dead in people with Alzheimer’s and Type 2 Diabetes.

Where you’ll find it: Preserved meats, dried nuts and fruits.

Paraben 对羟苯甲酸酯 What it is: An additive used to prevent mold, but is also commonly found in cosmetics.

Can cause: Hormonal disruptions inferring with testosterone. Can also build up in breast tissue and studies have shown it found in breast cancer tissue.

Commonly found in: Ice creams, sweets, and instant noodles.

Sodium Benzoate 苯甲酸钠 What it is: A common food preservative found in acidic foods.

Can cause: allergic reactions and cancer.

Commonly found in: Sodas, juices, sauces, and pickled veggies

Healthy Eating

MSG 味精 What it is: The salt of the amino acid glutamic acid, used to enhance the savory quality of foods.

Can cause: Nausea, headaches, chest pains, and weakness.

Commonly found in: Dried nuts, Chinese sauces, and most restaurant foods.

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stores never thought it was important to label products, and it’s usually after a scandal that products get a seal of approval. NonGMO oil is generally labeled because there was a stink about GMO corn, whereas the actual corn may not be labeled. We’ll get there – although it will be slowly and one scandal at a time.”

Here in Beijing organic and natural foods are readily available, and major grocery chains like Carrefour and Metro are steadily improving their supply chains to ensure food safety. The internet has also made it more convenient than ever to order safe, natural and organic supplies online. But for the things you’re going to buy locally, keep this list in mind. Cutting out a handful of food additives will improve the health of your family so that the impact of other foods isn’t quite as large.

Caramel Coloring 焦糖色

Potassium Bromate 溴酸钾

What it is: An artificial pigment created by heating sugars, often with ammonia, at which point it becomes a carcinogen.

Can cause: Cancer.

Commonly found in: Sodas, soy sauce, baked goods.

What it is: A common baking additive that requires a cancer warning in California, and is banned in many places around the world.

Can cause: Thyroid and kidney tumors.

Commonly found in: In fluffy bakery items and breads.

Sulfites 亚硫酸盐

Butylated Hydroxyanisole (BHA) 丁基化羟基茴香醚 Butylated Hydroxytoluene (BHT) 丁基化羟基甲苯

What it is: Food preservative that maintains color and prevents bacteria by releasing sulfur dioxide.

Can cause: Serious breathing problems and asthma attacks if overused.

Commonly found in: wine, mixed fruits, and fruit bars, but be mostly concerned bout corner shops who preserve their own fruits and may not pay attention to the guidelines.

Saccharin 糖精 What it is: An artificial sweetener.

Can cause: Bladder cancer and weight gain.

Commonly found in: Sweet ‘N Low and ‘sugar-free’ and reduced drinks and sweets.

Aspartame 天门冬氨醯苯丙氨酸甲酯 , 阿斯巴特 What it is: Artificial sweetener.

Can cause: Neurological symptoms such as headaches dizziness, memory loss, and, in rare cases, epileptic seizures. Some studies have linked it co cancers such as lymphomas, leukemia and more.

Commonly found in: Nutra-Sweet, Equal, Diet Coke, Diet Pepsi.

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What it is: A petroleum-derived preservative.

Can cause: Cancer, or at least the reasonable anticipation thereof, according the US Department of Health and Human Services.

Commonly found in: Preserved oils, lard and margarine, cereal, Orbit chewing gum.

Azodicarbonamide 偶氮二羰酰胺 What it is: A synthetic yellow-orange dough conditioner.

Can cause: Asthma attacks in sensitive populations.

Commonly found in: Bagels, hamburger buns and other baked goods.

Carrageenan 卡拉胶 , 角叉藻聚糖 What it is: An emulsifier made from seaweed biproduct.

Can Cause: Cancer, colon trouble, and ulcers.

Commonly found in: Low-fat dairy products, especially diet ice creams.

Organic Food Labels

Safe Shopping

It’s easy to stick the word “Organic” on a food label, but it’s hard to keep all the different labels straight. Either way, buying organic is always a safer bet than buying convention here in China, so clip this list and ask your ayi to shop for them. You can read about the history of these labels at Beijing-kids.com

Want to play it safe? Organic advocate Laura Fanelli (see p62) shares her list of top shops for organic and natural products. See p53 for more information.

Organic Farms

TooToo Organic Shop 拖拖公社 Online marketplace for natural and organic local products, as well as organic imported goods. www.tootoo.cn

iHerb (online only) Fangyuan Organic Food Certification Center (FOFCC) 辽宁方园有机食品认证有限公司 Certification and Accreditation Administration of the People’s Republic of China (CNCA) 中国有机产品 *Visit their website Food.cnca.cn to verify your organic products.

China National Accreditation Service for Conformit y A s s e s sment (CNAS) 中国合格评定国 家认可委员会 *This logo is strictly controlled, and while the size of the logo can be changed according to the needs of users, the shape and color cannot be changed.

China Organic Food Cer tif ic ation Center (COFCC) 中绿华夏有机 食品认证中心

Beijing Wuyue Huaxia Management and Te c h n o l o g y C e n t e r (CHC) 北京五岳华夏管 理技术 中心 ( 中国有机 产品认证机构 )

Lohao City 乐活城 (Many locations) (Only major organic shop with a storefront for the moment, some non-organic products too.) 1-19# Lucky Street (Haoyun Jie), 1 Chaoyang Gongyuan Lu, Chaoyang District.

(Multiple locations throughout the city) 朝阳 公园路 1 号好运街 1-19 号 Tel: 8459 2900, 5867 0265 806, www.lohaocity.com/eshow.asp (English page)

Green Dot Dot 点点绿 (Hong Kong Brand, dry goods available in the basement of many shopping malls) B/12. Oriental Kenzo Department Store, 48 Dongzhimenwai Dajie, Chaoyang District. 东 直门外大街 48 号银座百货 B-12 号 ( 东直门桥 东南侧 ) Tel: 8454 9297, 8454 9289, www.greendotdot.com.cn

World Health Store 维衡生 (Downtown Location)

Jiangcun village, Liangxiang,Fangshan district, Beijing 北京市房山区良乡江村 www.youjinongzhuang.com/english.htm, tfyjlb@sina.com

Derunwu 北京德润屋 Xinzhuang, Xingshou Town, Changping District, Beijing 昌平区兴寿镇辛庄草莓园 Tel: 8459 0809, jiyunliang@vip.163.com

Run Tian 润田 北京市昌平区小汤山镇西官庄村北 Tel: 5715 5168, www.runtianfarm.com

Natural (but not local) Tony’s Farm (farms in Shanghai and Beijing) 北京市朝阳区东三环北路 38 号院安联大厦 1212 室 Tel: 8587 9398, shop.tonysfarm.com/index. htm?

Hao Bao Qing (produce from Yunnan) 北京市朝阳区东三环北路甲 19 号 SOHO 嘉盛 中心 Tel: 5698 0333, 400 890 9666, www.haobaoqing.com

Coffee and Tea

Shangrila Farms (coffee, honey and soap): Tel: 8451 0613, www.shangrilafarms.com/en/

Rickshaw Roasters Coffee Tel: 8532 1863, www.rickshawroasters.com

(Supplements and vitamins as well as some imported food and personal care items) R 2152, North Tower, SOHO Shangdu, 8 Dongdaqiao Lu, Chaoyang District. 北 京 市 朝阳区东大桥路 8 号 SOHO 尚都 , 北塔首层 2152 Tel: 5900 2209, www.worldhealthstore.com. cn

Beyond Organic 博扬网 (online only) (large selection of imported and domestic dry goods, personal care products, etc.)

Tel: 400 766 7718, www.ofood.cn (website in Chinese only)

Heng Rong Organic 衡荣生态农场 (online only) (Domestic grains, flour, vinegar, etc) Tel: 400 010 0070, www.hengrong.com.cn (website in Chinese only)

Tranquil Tuesdays Tea 71 Fangjia Hutong, Dongcheng District 中国北京市东城区方家胡同 71 号 Tel: 6407 1938, www.tranquiltuesdays.com

Hu Shi Ka Den (Organic Japanese and Chinese Tea) 36 Liangmaqiao Lu, Liangmamingju Building C, 10D 风姿花传文化交流中心, 朝阳区亮马桥 路36号, 亮马名居C座10D Tel: 6468 3910 (Chinese Only)

Organizations

Beijing Organic Consumers Association (B.O.C.A.) This Yahoo group is comprised of Beijing residents interested in organic foods, responsible consumption and healthy living.

Subscribe by e-mailing beijing_organic_ consumers-subscribe@yahoogroups.com, health.groups.yahoo.com/group/beijing_ organic_consumers/

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Conversion Organic 中 国有机转换产品 *used in the three years it takes to convert to organic.

(They ship to China and seem to have every grocery item you could imagine!) www.iherb.com (Website in English, Chinese, and many other languages)

God’ s Grace Garden 天福园

Be Wary of What You Eat Often misunderstood in China, food allergies are nothing to sneeze at

by Kyle Mullin, photo by Sui

I

n the West food allergies are treated with extreme caution — most supermarkets stock a vast array of grocery products aimed at people suffering from various allergies and many schools offer peanut and even gluten-free lunches to students. But here in China public awareness of food allergies, especially in children, is nowhere near as widespread.

“Food allergies, for some unexplained reason, are still not a big health issue in China,” says Jayne San Jose Ziermann, a pediatrician at Beijing United Family Hospital and Clinics (BJU). “Judging by the fact that epinephrines pen are not sold in the local Chinese market, we can infer that their usage for anaphylaxis [a serious allergic reaction that could lead to death] is still not as common, compared to their Western counterparts.”

Jean Hopkins, a Canadian social worker who interned at a Chinese high school in Tongzhou in 2011, says she was concerned about the levels of allergic awareness at local restaurants when her partner paid her a visit during her stay here.

“I was super aware of allergies, and where to go (in an emergency), because my partner is deathly allergic to walnuts,” Hopkins says, adding that they luckily avoided any issues while dining out in Beijing. As a precaution, she did ask a few students to translate a note detailing

his walnut allergy, and requesting that no dishes with that contentious ingredient be served to him. The couple showed that note to every waiter who served them.

Hopkins adds: “We also had another card saying ‘I am dying from an allergic reaction, take me to a hospital now.’ Thankfully we didn’t have to use that one.”

Despite the Hopkins’ good fortune, the language barrier, lack of warning labels, and relative unfamiliarity with allergies in China all add up to an unsettling recipe for many foreigners who suffer from such afflictions.

Dr. Ziermann can attest to this point, especially when it comes to deadly allergies.

She adds: “Anaphylaxis is still a foreign concept. There is very little understanding of why some ‘laowai ’ would like to know if there are peanuts in the sauce.”

“There is little data on food allergies in China,” Ziermann adds, before saying that she has read recent findings that show common Western peanut and tree nut allergies are very minimal in Asian countries, while seafood allergies are more predominating. “Investigations are still ongoing to explain the difference.”

Tang Lixin, the senior acupuncturist at Oasis hospital, agrees that the reason for that disparity is unknown. But she adds that allergies are becoming more frequent, if

Healthy Eating

“Anaphylaxis is still a foreign concept. There is very little understanding of why some ‘laowai ’ would like to know if there are peanuts in the sauce”

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not yet mainstream, amongst her Chinese patients. Tang says changes in their diets, general food standards, or environmental issues could all be causes – but she’s still unsure. All the while, most local restaurants and grocers have yet to put warning labels on certain foods. They seem to be unaware of this small but growing group of allergy victims.

It is an area where China has yet to catch up to the modern standards of other nations. And yet, one of its oldest traditions may hold the key to alleviating some of the allergies plaguing the country’s visitors.

Dr. Tang says she once treated a five-year-old girl from an expat family in Beijing who was suffering from asthmatic like symptoms every time she ate foods containing flour. Rather than cut those products out of her diet entirely, Tang suggested a few Traditional Chinese Medicine techniques to quell the youngster’s symptoms.

“I gave her some small, quick acupuncture points on her ear. We also have a special TCM massage therapist who specializes in therapeutic children’s massages,” Dr. Tang says. “After giving that treatment regularly for three months, the girl can now eat flour, and she really likes to eat bread. She must come four times a month to get the acupuncture again, and that keeps her symptoms from returning.”

While many allergies may be unknown in China, Dr. Tang does frequently deal with one food affliction that is rampant amongst local patients.

“Many Chinese people become sick after drinking milk,” Tang says. “I recently had one woman, who was just over 40 years old, come visit me. Anytime she had milk, it gave her severe diarrhea. So I gave her acupuncture and also some herbs to drink, and that helped her feel better.”

“We can help lots of people with allergies,” Tang adds. “Because, according to Chinese Medicine, when the body has these problems it’s because of a weak spleen or stomach, or sometimes other organs like lung problems.”

Dr. Tang says she has many patients who come to her with rashes thanks to mushroom or flour allergies.

In those cases, she will apply moxibuston therapy, a technique involving a small tool that looks like a candle, with herbs being burned instead of wax (see p75).

Upon being heated the herbs seep into the skin and

are believed to treat the deficient organ that is reacting poorly to the particular food that has been consumed.

Tang adds that this aspect gives Chinese medicine an advantage over Western treatments.

“A TCM doctor will know that a patient has an allergy for some food, but the treatment will depend on the diagnosis, because it could be a different organ in a different case, “adds Dr. Tang, “Unlike Western medicine, we don’t give the same treatment or medicine for the same allergy symptoms. It depends on the patient.”

But she admits that while TCM is useful with less serious allergies that lead to digestive issues, skin irritation, or cold-like symptoms, it is less effective when it comes to more serious allergies, especially those that lead to anaphylactic shock. In those cases, Dr. Tang says an EpiPen and a modern ambulance are required.

Dr. Zierman agrees, adding those dire cases lead to similar scenarios in the West, in China, or nearly anywhere else. She adds: “Patient education is a standard part of allergy management. More often than not, patients who are diagnosed with severe allergic reactions are equipped with the knowledge on how to manage their situation. As with any other emergency, people should just stay calm and make sure that they alert or ask for any medical help.”

Still, she says, some foreigners may be playing it “too safe.” “I’ve had a lot of families, foreign and locals alike, that are avoiding a lot of food because of perceived food allergies,” she says, adding that this issue can be fixed with a quick visit to a doctor at an international hospital. “Proper diagnosis is still the key for understanding and managing food allergies. With proper patient education, unnecessary food avoidance and food aversion leading to nutritional imbalance can be prevented.”

Beijing United Family Hospital and Clinics (BJU) 2 Jiangtai Lu, Chaoyang District (5927 7000) 朝阳区将台 路 2 号 beijing.ufh.com.cn/en

OASIS International Hospital 9 Jiuxianqiao Beilu, Chaoyang District, Chaoyang District (400 UR OASIS (876 2747)) 朝阳区朝阳区酒仙桥北路 9 号 www.oasishealth.cn

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Getting On Tap How I “kicked the bottle” and got my family access to clean, safe drinking water

Healthy Eating

by Christopher Lay, photo by Lova Li

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A

kitchen sink. Of these, the carafes (or pitchers if you prefer) are the easiest to choose from and most people I know who use them have gone with Brita. Their carbon filter removes some chemicals, like chlorine, and improves taste, but the filters need frequent changing and are not designed to handle the sediment and volatile organic chemicals (VOCs) that plague Beijing’s water supply.

If you walk into an appliance store, you will see a variety of counter-top water filters along with the type that attach directly to the kitchen sink. Unfortunately determining how reputable the Chinese manufactures of these brands are and knowing for sure that the filtration can adequately handle VOCs and more standard chemicals like chlorine and mercury can be nearly impossible. Even friends who had purchased a Berkey brand filter from North America ended up opting for an under-the-sink filter due to their concerns over how often to change the filter and doubts over whether the device actually filtered out VOCs since the brand lacks third party verification.

Like many expat families in Beijing, we decided to purchase an Aquasana filter direct from the distributor based here in Beijing, Charlie Thomson. Charlie has a passion for China and a conviction that things are improving in Beijing. His contribution to improving water quality in people’s homes shows in his work with Aquasana to develop a filter that deals with the VOCs and heavy sediment in the local water supply.

Consequently, the filters sold for China actually filter out more things than the ones sold in the USA or Europe. For my family, the minute Charlie and his associate arrived at our door to install our under-the-counter water filter, we knew we had made the right choice. The installation was relatively quick and afterwards, Charlie was able to run tests on our bottled, tap, and Aquasana filtered water to show us the results for the presence of chlorine, mineral content, and the pH balance (other tests would require lab work).

Additionally, Charlie patiently answered the barrage of questions I fired at him about water quality in Beijing and educated me on the reasons why quality varies dramatically from compound to compound within the city. By chance, our compound in Wangjing has a filter in place to remove sediment from the system, so we have some of the cleanest water in Beijing when it comes to sediment and we use fewer pre-filters in our home system.

Although the Aquasana filters need to be changed about every six months, the system is designed to actually clog as the filters become saturated, thus ensuring that the filters are not used beyond the system’s capacity to supply clean, safe drinking water. We ran our first filters for seven months before getting them changed and we could clearly see the difference in water pressure once the new filters were installed.

After nearly a year of using Aquasana water filters, we could not be happier with our decision and I have never once regretted ridding our home of plastic bottles once and for all. To learn more about or to order Aquasana water filters for your home, visit www.aquasana-china.com.

Drinking Water Options

Pros

Cons

Boiled water

Cheap, kills bacteria

Doesn’t remove VOCs, sediment, or chlorine, must keep a supply on hand if you don’t like drinking hot water

Bottled water

Delivery, many brands

Questionable quality, dispenser needs frequent cleaning and takes up space

Carafe/pitcher filter

Simple, fits in fridge

Frequent filter replacement, inadequate filtration for Beijing

Counter-top filter

Gravity powered, many brands

Takes up counter space, may not remove all VOCs, difficult to know which brand to trust

Reverse Osmosis

Soft water, long filter life

Takes up cupboard space, wastes water, removes minerals, system needs cleaning

Under the sink (Aquasana)

Out of site, Third Party Verification, removes VOCs, leaves minerals

Takes up cupboard space, filters are imported with additional tax

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s a stranger in a strange land, there is much to consider before and after relocating. Somewhere on the list between choosing the right schools for kids, and finding your favorite brand of peanut butter, is the challenge of securing clean drinking water. Lord knows if you are like me you probably didn’t even give it any thought until you arrived in Beijing and felt your first hankering for a drink.

In the beginning we simply bought bottles of water until I grew tired of hauling water up to our new apartment. Since the landlord had kindly provided a floor-standing water dispenser, we employed the neighborhood market to deliver 5-gallon (19 litter) water jugs to our door. We selected Wahaha, a brand that we liked the taste of (not to mention because it is so much fun to say) and which is middle of the road pricewise at RMB15 per bottle. Thus, we had clean water delivered to our door and life was good … or so we thought.

But the longer we stayed here the more we heard about the concerns over bottled water: the plastic used to make the containers is not properly treated, bottles do not get sterilized, bottled water brands often get faked, most brands (if not all) are simply filtered tap water and the filtering process is unknown. Then there’s the lack of industry standards and oversight, and the fact that bottles are often stored in direct sunlight.

Some of these concerns are hard to confirm, but I have seen how small shops store bottles outside or in windows facing the sun (bad for the integrity of the containers and the water). Occasionally we got bad-tasting bottles of water (for which the service was always quick to bring a free replacement) and we even once found plastic floating in an unopened container.

There was also the constant challenge of keeping the dispenser clean – in my experience most people do not clean them often enough, if at all, and this leads to bacteria growth, not to mention the precious kitchen space that the dispenser takes up. And despite the convenience of delivery, the vendor would sometimes be late or would fail to deliver for one reason or another (too busy, heavy rain, act of God, who knows).

After learning so much about the “hazards” of bottled water in China (and the USA for that matter), we began to look at alternative solutions. Like many of our neighbors we could have simply boiled water, which would take care of any microbes in the water, but would fail to rid the water of any toxins and heavy metals that might be running in the taps or eliminate sediment (i.e. the white calcium flakes you often encounter in tap water in Northern China). This quickly led us to the conclusion that what we really needed was our own water filtration solution. Simple, right? Wrong.

When it comes to purchasing a home water filtration system, consumers are faced with about as many options as Beijing has for a child’s education. Broadly speaking, they break down into three categories: carafes, counter top filters, and filters attached to the

Living Meat-free in Beijing Tips on how to go vegan in the capital

by Laura Fanelli, photo by Mitchell Pe Masilun

T

here’s an old saying about the Chinese: They’ll eat anything with legs that isn’t a table, and everything with wings that isn’t an airplane. Local expats are spoiled for choice at the Chinese dinner table, but somehow the same questions keep on coming up: Is it hard being a vegetarian in China? Not at all.

Being a vegetarian, or even a vegan, in China is really easy – much easier than in all any other part of the world, which I know for a fact. I stopped eating meat 20 years ago and have traveled extensively in those years, and I have to say: China offers the greatest, and tastiest, variety of vegan options.

But I understand where people are coming from. Most expats are coming from a country where there is at least a basic knowledge about the existence of vegetarians. Places where, when you say you don’t eat meat, the server will not ask you if you would like beef instead, or perhaps seafood or chicken. In the north of China, there is not much vegetarian food culture outside of Buddhist fare and even that is hardly pervasive. So admittedly, it is hard to be a perfect vegan in Beijing. But know that it’s hard to be perfect at anything anywhere.

Perhaps the biggest challenge is the social awkwardness one has to overcome, when a well-meaning host, themselves raised on a vegan diet due to the extreme poverty China endured in the 1960s and 70s, places the juiciest, meatiest morsel in your bowl, and you have to explain why you can’t eat it. Or why you are simply picking around when so much food has been offered to you. The key is learning key communication skills, which I’ll get to in a bit – a handful of useful phrases that can defuse the tensest of situations, as well as the most well-intended culinary intrusions.

And then of course there are the nutritional naysayers who will try to convince you that a little meat is good for you. Morality aside, factory-farmed meat (and keep in mind that Beijing serves 20 million customers a day….) is bad for you. But that aside, something magical happens when you combine beans and rice – a perfect amino acid is formed – and you no longer have to worry about protein. So my secret formula is always: a tofu, a veg and a bowl of rice. And if you’re a vegan, take some B12. You’ll feel great.

But overall, there are some basic tricks that will help you evade meat bombs, which is important, especially if you’re Chinese is limited or you’re just starting out in veganism.

One of my all-time favorite trips is to go to Chinese Muslim restaurants (清真) which take dietary requests much more seriously than your average Chinese place. Believe it or not, hot pot joints, such as Shabu Shabu or Haidilao, are also a good option. Just be sure to ask for a vegetarian broth, or even just hot water with and all the dry ingredients that normally go into the stock: ginger, garlic,

leeks, hot pepper, onions, salt, soy sauce, oil, etc. Let’s face it: The sesame sauce is the best part anyways. Some vegetarians live in fear of lard. Don’t. It’s not actually that common, because it’s more expensive than cooking oil. One Beijing dish that is classically made with lard is 麻豆腐, but you can ask for it without.

Smaller restaurants (炒菜馆), and bigger restaurants during nonrush times are also more flexible, and you can easily ask the chef for special orders, like Kungpao Chicken (宫保鸡丁), but with tofu.

The possibilities are endless, and most Chinese bases sauces are vegetarian. A lot of restaurants even use vegetarian oyster sauce, because it’s a lot cheaper than regular oyster sauce. The possibilities are endless. Plus, if you live hear a restaurant that seems to get it, become their regular and get friendly with the staff. They will make sure you’re being taken care of.

This ordering takes some time to get used to, and you will learn to communicate your needs in a way they can understand. But remember: if you do happen to get meat in your food once or twice, change your ordering tactic, not your diet.

Your food has been contaminated, but you have not, even if you accidentally consumed some meat. Remember that a big part of not eating meat is avoiding cruelty to animals, so why be so cruel with yourself when you slip up.

Avoid an all-or-nothing approach to veganism and to life. Keep yourself in the right direction and be forgiving of yourself, your friends, local restaurant employees. You can do it.

For more advice on how to survive as a vegan in a vegetablefriendly, but not necessarily vegetarian-friendly country, e-mail me at beijingvegan@gmail.com.

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“I stopped eating meat 20 years ago and have traveled extensively in those years, and I have to say: China offers the greatest, and tastiest, variety of vegan options”

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Laura’s Favorites Bites 拍黄瓜 (pāi huáng guā) – “Mashed” cucumber with garlic. 老虎菜 (lăo hǔ cài) – A salad made from pepper, onions and garlic. 烤麸 (kăo fū) – Shanghai specialty made from mushroom, bamboo and gluten. 炝炒圆白菜 (qiàng chăo yuán bái cài) - Parboiled and stir-fried cabbage—with a minimum of oil. 地三鲜 (dì sān xiān) - Eggplants, green pepper, potato--A classic northern dish. 干煸豆角/干煸土豆丝 (gān biān dòu jiăo, gān biān tǔ dòu sī) - Spicy fried string beans / spicy fried shredded potato. 红烧茄子 (hóng shāo qié zì) - Braised eggplants. 红烧豆腐 (hóng shāo dòu fù) - Braised tofu. 酸辣土豆丝 (má là tǔ dòu sī) - Hot and sour shredded potatoes. 清炒青菜 (qīng chāo qīng cài) - Plain stir-fried greens—you can specify which greens you like. Servers will tell you what is seasonal.

蒜蓉青菜 (suàn róng qīng cài) - Greens stir-fried with minced garlic. 香菇油菜 (xiāng gū yóu cài) - Shiitake mushrooms with bok choy. 虎皮青椒 (hǔ pí qīng jiāo) - “Tiger skin” green peppers, fried until the skin separates from the flesh. Usually with doubanjiang. 蒜茸豆苗、豆尖 (suàn róng dòu miáo / dòu jiān) (Pea shoots stirfried with minced garlic) 面疙瘩 (miàn gē de’r) - Spatzle noodle soup with greens, tomato, and egg (can ask for no eggs). Beijing comfort food. 素炒饼 (sù chăo bĭng) - Beijing flatbread cut into strips and stir-fried with cabbage. 拔丝 [insert name of starchy fruit or vegetable]: (bá sī ___) Sugarcoated fritters—Half-dessert, half-side dish, 拔丝 is battered, candied pieces of fruit or vegetable that are dipped in hot water to cool and harden the candy shell. A must try for those new to Chinese food!

Some possibilities include banana, apple, potato, sweet potato and water chestnut.

The following dishes are delicious, but be sure to say “不要放肉，包 括肉末” (“bù yào fàng ròu, bāo kuò ròu mò”) : 家常豆腐 (jiā cháng dòu fù) Homestyle Tofu, this dish is easiest to order without meat. 麻婆豆腐 (Mápó dòu fù) – Spicy tofu that usually has ground pork, so insist emphatically. 麻辣豆腐 (Málà dòu fù) – Numbingly spicy tofu 酸辣粉丝 (suān là fěn sī) Hot and sour bean thread noodles.

Laura’s Favorite Restaurants Samadhi Vegetarian Teahouse

2/F Shifanghaoting, 16 Xinyuan Nanlu, Chaoyang District. (8453 1644) 朝阳区新源南路 16 号世方豪庭 2 层

Vegan Hut Stall 0912, 2/F, Bldg 9, Jianwai Soho, 39 Dongsanhuan Zhonglu, Chaoyang District. (5869 9856, 139 1172 9610) 朝阳区东三环中路 39 号建外 Soho9 号楼 2 层 0912

Baihe Vegetarian 23A Caoyun Hutong, Dongzhimennei Beixiaojie, Dongcheng District.

(6405 2082) 东城区东直门内北小街 , 草园胡同甲 23 号

Tianchumiaoxiang 1/F, 0110T Chuangye Dasha, Tsinghua University East Gate, Wudaokou, Haidian District. (6279 7078) 海淀区清华东门创业大厦 1 楼 110 室 ( 清华科技园内 )

Vegetarian Grocery Stores

Zheng Long Zhai Vegetarian Goods

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3 Xin Wenhua Jie, Xicheng District 正隆斋全素食品西单店 西城区新文化街 3 号 Sells mock meat products of all kinds. For shock-value, try the vegan fried egg. For snacks, veggie jerky always hits the spot. The most useful product is the TVP texturized vegetable protein (a.k.a . dried soy chunks). At 8 kuai per pack, they are a great value. Just soak in water and use for texture and protein in soups, stews, stir-frys, casseroles, etc.

88 Baochao Hutong, Dongcheng District. (6603 1053) 宝钞胡同 88 号

Mental Health

Maika Endo, owner of Kocoon Spa (see p66). Photo by Sui

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raditionally misunderstood, the notion of mental health and illness as treatable conditions has only really taken root in Chinese society over the past two decades. Today, with an estimated 70 million Chinese citizens struggling with mental health issues, a considerable amount of progress has been made in this field in China and there are now more resources than ever, especially in the first-tier cities of Beijing and Shanghai, to help patients cope and recover.

Locals, of course, are not the only who suffer – every foreigner, regardless of age, income, ethnicity, nationality or length of time here – will experience some culture shock and have issues adjusting to life in Beijing.

You’ve likely heard (and read) the term “Bad China Day” (“BCD”) to describe those days when everything seems to go wrong in a distinctly “local” sort of way. These days can stem from things as mundane as dealing with queue cutters or bureaucracy at the bank to more serious issues like falling seriously ill, getting cheated by an unscrupulous business partner or even getting thrown in jail or deported.

As with any big city, living in Beijing can indeed get frustrating – for locals and foreigners alike – but it is neither fair or wise to presume that all “Bad China Days” are inherently due to China (or Chinese culture, society, politics etc.). A little nuanced self-reflection is always healthy in these situations.

Many longer-term expats also take pride in their ability to “just deal with things” and feel relatively impervious to the travails of culture shock. But for better or worse, it is important to understand that anyone can have trouble coping in this crazy city we call home.

If you are truly in need of someone to reach out to, rest assured that there are people and organizations out there that can help – you will find but a few in the following section.

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Stress in the City Beat back the blues through healthy eating and lifestyle habits

by Jennifer Thome, Photo by Sui

Mental Health

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V shows and movies have a way of making big city life look sexy. You live and breathe next to celebrities and criminals, the streets are filled with wonder and adventure, and every overpriced meal you have is faaaabulous and always served with a side of dazzling conversation. Well, real life can be far different.

The hard reality is that the modern age and its conveniences have outgrown our primate brains, and nearly every aspect of our modern environment is stressing it out, causing a slew of physical, mental, and emotional problems.

Leading the gang of environmental stressors is technology.

Recent studies have revealed that time in front of the screen, be it iPad or computer, reduces your brain’s ability or produce melatonin, which helps you get a sound night’s sleep. Simply trying to get enough sleep alone is enough to stress people out, and this is only exacerbated by the fact that their performance will definitely suffer and spiral us into more stress.

Then there is this crazy city itself. Dr. Mark Hyman, the author of the Ultramind Diet , actually attributes his time in Beijing to the mental and physical decline that eventually led him to write his book.

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Air pollution is one of the main culprits. This is not just because every breath we take is quite possibly shaving nanoseconds off our lives (or 5½ years, as a recent study of people living in Northern China revealed), but also due to the stress caused by a limited oxygen intake, which can lead to an overburdening of the system that contributes to heart attacks.

Oh, and there’s the water too – Beijing’s tap water is loaded with heavy metals, and if you look into it, you’ll quickly find that the government tends to be a little lax about testing.

With such a litany of unsavory elements, staying un-stressed in Beijing might seem a like an impossible task, but it is doable. There are, in fact, people in this city who seem to radiate health and relaxation. But dig a little deeper you’ll find that they had to work towards being completely at peace with themselves and their surroundings.

Two years ago Maika Endo, founder and owner of the Kocoon Wellness Spa, became extremely worried about the safety of her food during a trip back to her home country of France. This fear led her to become an extremely picky and nervous vegetarian, and she often chose to skip meals rather than risk eating something that might be contaminated.

There are people in this city who seem to radiate health and relaxation. But dig a little deeper you’ll find that they had to work towards being completely at peace with themselves and their surroundings

Stick it to stress Sure-fire way to beat this silent killer Eat and sleep regularly – your body answers to Mother Nature, not your boss. Eat well, sleep well, and do it regularly.

Move – our ancestors walked up to 12 km a day and our brain evolved to have a steady flow of oxygen to function properly.

Reconnect with your inner primate – do yourself a favor and watch Amy Cuddy’s TEDX talk on how posture affects the body, and put it into action.

Get sunshine – 15 minutes a day will boost Vitamin D, a critical component to happiness (see p44).

Be aware – know where your stress is coming from and then eliminate the sources.

Put yourself first – Once you deal with your stress, you’ll be able to handle everyone else’s business. Until then, you have to put yourself first.

Common signs of stress include Hair loss Rashes Pale and Dry Skin Weight Gain Infertility Acne Accelerated Aging Brittle Nails Stomach Ache

Long-Term Implications of Stress Stroke Heart Attack Chronic Migraines Decreased Liver Function Dementia

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Her skipping became all-too frequent as she worked long hours and often skimped on sleep to make sure everything was getting done. Before too long, Maika’s immune system threw in the towel and she fell ill with repeated colds, bouts of the flu, food poisoning, migraines and eventually a hospitalization for a kidney infection.

“After [being hospitalized] I changed everything. I began to rebuild my immune system by creating a healthy routine for my body. I started to eat lunch every day in a more mindful manner and to leave the office at 6 or 7pm at the latest, as well as getting at least 15 minutes of sunlight a day,” she says. “It’s important to keep in mind that our bodies don’t think of time the same way we do: our bodies operate according to natural rhythms, and the modern lifestyle often throws those out of balance.”

But Maika didn’t just stop there. She also started reading a lot about Chinese medicine, dietary herbs and nutrition that could support her body in such a demanding environment. After reading Sally Fallon’s Nourishing Traditions , she began to cook and freeze her own chicken stock and lacto-fermenting pickles and chutneys, all of which strengthened and balanced her body.

But more so than just changing her life and getting into a healthy routine, Maika also chose to add some active relaxation and luxury to her life. She created her own aromatherapy blend to help prevent any remaining migraines, as well as using an Echinacea tincture to her boost immune system and a chamomile one to promote deep sleep, and used sea salt with rosemary for therapeutically foot soaks, which she did religiously between 5-7pm (the time when the kidney meridian – which handles elimination – is the most active).

Medicinal cuisine and lifestyle aside, Maika made one other big change: she made time for herself. ‘I really recommend people to

make time for fun and play. No plan, no internet – you just go where your energy takes you. Stop over-committing and take time to listen to your body. Make time to learn and grow in a way that’s meaningful to you. For me it’s cooking, gardening, journaling, sharing positive feedback to people around you, and practicing thankfulness.

So if you’re stressed, where should you start? Maika suggest there is one really important place, and that is that you have to look inside and be honest with yourself; “You have to learn from your disease and your stress. Where do they come from, how do they feel, and what can they teach you? And most importantly, how can you transform it into a positive experience? For example: my hospitalization was a stressful period but it taught me a big lesson, and for that I am grateful.”

Sad City Dealing with depression in Beijing

by Jennifer Thomé, photo by Lova Li

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tories of teenage suicides are all too common in the press, bringing to light the fact that despite our modern comforts, many people still struggle with depression.

Many win the battle, some fight it for a lifetime, and some loose at an early age – but if you can recognize the symptoms in yourself and others you can get help, and the sooner you do that, the lesser the risk of something serious happening will be.

Children are no less suspect to depression than adults are, but sometimes they don’t just exhibit the moral symptoms of depression, but might lash out at others, break things, or try to aggravate others. “If you notice these kinds of behaviors or other unprovoked changes in personality, it’s time to take your children to see someone.” Says Doctor Yuezhu Liang, a child psychologist at New Century International Children’s Hospital who has treated tens of thousands of cases over the past 13 years.

Some children are predisposed to depression, and they might need to seek treatment their whole lives. Others might need some time to adapt to new situations, like a move abroad. And in this situation, says Dr. Liang, it is crucial for parents to have an honest look at themselves. “If your child is having a hard time adjusting to his or her new environment, take a good look at yourself and see how you are handling the situation. If you are unhappy, your child will follow suit, and in this situation the best thing the parent can do is to pull themselves together and remind themselves and their children that every person has the power to create a good life, and then create that life together.”

But of course there are other causes that can trigger depression in adults such as abuse, trauma, or even accumulated stress at work or at home, and these can be exasperated by environmental factors such as pollution, noise, and nutrition.

For Matt Schrader, long-term Beijing resident, depression set in after a bad breakup, which he admits he handled poorly. “I knew that my actions were self-destructive, but I couldn’t see any way to make things better. In retrospect my own actions made it far more traumatic for me than it needed to be.”

“This kind of awareness of the situation is often very common,” remarks his ex-girlfriend Marissa* “and from the outside others think that if you know the source of your problem, you should be able to contain it. But you can’t. And that adds a lot of pressure and makes you feel so much worse about yourself, throwing you further into a spiral of depression and self-loathing.”

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So when do you know it’s time to get help? “You just know,” says Marissa. “There was one day where I just couldn’t stand being alive anymore. You feel disconnected and hollow.” I was so scared to burden those around me with my struggles, but at that moment, I knew I had to open up and get help.”

Self-awareness is also often the first step to recovery, as is reaching out for professional support, and support from family and friends. Schrader gives a lot of credit for his recovery to his network. “I was very lucky that I had so many people that were able to see good in me when I wasn’t able to see it myself.

There was no “aha!” moment where one person said something that fixed everything; rather, there were dozens, maybe hundreds, of points along the way where someone who cared about me did or said something that nudged me in the right direction.”

And then, of course, there is professional help, which for some might come in the form of group counseling, or private counseling for others. Schrader, for one, sought help and found it at International SOS, while Marissa sought help in support groups. But both agree that going it alone isn’t the answer, and that part of recovery is being selfish, and investing the time and money it takes to help you recover.

But how do you spot depression in others? “In retrospect,” admits one of Schrader’s friends, “I noticed a few months earlier that he was becoming increasingly hard on himself, complaining about how he wasn’t doing a good enough job, and just generally seemed off and tense. Then he started getting sad.”

And indeed – people suffering from depression often feel worthless, carry guilt or feel helpless, but often can only express it in socially acceptable ways. “Everyone in Beijing is really busy, and often we don’t see people regularly, so it’s really important to pay closer attention to those friends who seem off or as though they are struggling.” Says Marissa.

Schrader also suggests connecting with your creative self as part of the recovery. “Being depressed really brings out one’s creative side. The best art is the kind that connects with other people on an emotional level, and you’re never going to be more emotional than when you’re depressed. So if you’ve got any poems, novels, short stories, or songs that you’ve had kicking in your brain, now’s the time to work on them. If you can find the energy, doing so can be quite therapeutic!”

Common Symptoms of Depression Feelings of helplessness and hopelessness Loss of interest in daily activities.

Appetite or weight changes.

Loss of Taste.

Sleep changes.

Insomnia.

Anger or irritability.

Short Temper.

Loss of energy.

Self-loathing.

Reckless behavior.

Concentration problems.

Unexplained aches and pains.

Continuous feelings of sadness and hopelessness.

Vocal outbursts.

Reduced ability to function during events and activities at home or with friends, in school, extracurricular activities, and in other hobbies or interests.

Feelings of worthlessness or guilt.

Impaired thinking or concentration.

Thoughts of death or suicide.

How to Get Help Beijing might be the cause of your depression, but it’s a big city with a lot of people who care, and community support is just a phone call away.

Small Steps Coaching A coaching organization that provides high quality coaching and consulting to individuals passionate about learning and growth. www.small-steps-coaching.com

A safe environment for women to express themselves, explore and share life experi-

Beijing Couple Counselling Helps couples come to terms with relocation difficulties, recover from an affair, reduce arguments, adjust to a new baby in the family, and achieve better communication and listening. Call 138 1048 8569 for a short, no-obligation chat to see if Couple Counseling is the right thing for you. www.chriswilliamscounselling.com

Agape Counseling and Training Center 爱在人间 The Agape counseling team offers professional counseling services to help deal with difficulties in life. Cross-cultural adjustment, relationship struggles (such as parenting, communication, confrontation, trust, betrayal issues), interpersonal struggles (personal development, stress, depression, grief, addictions).

Daily 9am-5pm. C906, Dongfang Du Jinxiang Dasha, 216 Tangli Lu, Chaoyang District. (150 1013 5804) 朝阳区北京市朝阳区 汤立路 216 号院 东方郁金香大厦 C 座 906 室 www.aizairenjian.com

Parent Support Group An opportunity to meet with other parents

of children with special needs to share experiences and knowledge. psg_beijing@yahoo.co.uk

Beijing Mamas Yahoo Group Yahoo support group where you can “share resources, ask questions and grow as women and moms. http://groups. yahoo.com/group/Beijing_Mamas/

Kocoon Spa This spa offers a number of health, wellbeing and relaxing workshops at their new space in Taiyue Mansions. Head to www. kocoonspa.com to sign up today. See p66.

Expressions Within Arts Therapy Studio Provides psychotherapy services focused on personal growth and spiritual healing through self-exploration, self-expression, awakening creativity and self-discovery for groups/individuals facing difficulties such as mental/physical illness, depression or just interested in self-discovery. Individuals and groups are welcome. artstudio@expressionswithin.org, www.expressionswithin.org

Marriage and Family Counseling Center Provides individual, couple and family therapy for the expat community. All therapists are qualified therapists, psychologists and clinical members of the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy.

4-1207, Hua Teng Yuan, 54 Dongsanhuan Nanlu, Chaoyang District. (8779 3716, 135 5203 7480) 朝阳区东三环南路 54 号华腾园 4-1207 familytherapy8@yahoo.com, www.geicn.net

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Small Steps Women’s Support Group

ences and deal with blockages and negative patterns. If you are a woman experiencing relationship issues, low self-esteem and sense of self-worth; a hard time adjusting to a new reality; feelings of anxiety, depression, stress, grief and loss; and/or feeling disconnected from yourself or others, come and join the group. RMB 250/session or RMB 2,000 for 11 sessions.

Small Steps Coaching, Wed 7-8.30pm. 15/F, 1402 Xingfu Gongyu, 16 Gongti Beilu, Chaoyang District. (138 0100 9830) magda@small-steps-coaching.com

Zhang Yang, Sarah Vossler and their children Ollie and Ella

Live it Up Ten simple ways to improve the quality of your life in Beijing

Mental Health

by Aisling O’Brien

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veryone has their own individual needs and motivations to ensure their quality of life. But regardless of how extravagant your vision of a well-lived life may be, it’s important not to forget the simple, local and everyday things that make life in this city so interesting. We got tips from ten of Beijing’s most contented expats on the people, places and things that help them survive and thrive in the capital.

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Anna Sophie Loewenberg, American, Filmmaker and Video Producer, GoldMines Film

“Raising a baby is challenging enough in the first year, but it’s especially challenging in Beijing because of the pollution. Sometimes we’re sequestered in our homes for days with our little ones. In the first few months of caring for my daughter Ella, I quickly learned how much energy she has and how much stimulation she needs.

Rather than just keeping her occupied, I wanted to find a way to have genuine fun together. Like all babies, Ella loves music and dancing. When I found a way to share that together, it completely changed my relationship with my baby. That’s why I love our Baby Mama Dance class with Diana Hu. There’s such wonderful energy and it brings all of our spirits together in play.”

Baby Mama Dance Class, led by Diana Hu on Friday’s, 3pm at East Lake. (6467 8221 ext. 3600) www.eastlake.com.cn

Randy Abel, American, frontman of Beijing Americana band The Randy Abel Stable

“To keep sane in Beijing, I recommend getting creative, particularly participating in one of the city’s open mic nights. Beijing is a loud, rambunctious sprawl, and we’re enthralled by its clamours and commotions. Singing gives you a space to halt the incoming noise and create a pleasant, outgoing one instead. Performing music for a warm, receptive crowd has tangible creative, emotional and social benefits. I met my ‘Stablemates’ and made many artistic connections at open mics and jams around the city. Performing live is fun, releases pent up energy, and expands your horizons.”

VA Open Mic Night Wednesdays, VA Bar, 13 Wudaoying Hutong, Dongcheng District. (5844 3638) 东城区五道营胡同13号

Cannia Susanto, Indonesian, Account Manager, UniGroup Relocation

“Beijing can be an especially challenging city culturally and logistically. It’s normal for us laowai to crave the comforts of home and gravitate toward other foreigners in a foreign land. To slake this hunger for companionship and familiarity, I organize a monthly food gathering, based by turns on the national cuisine of each of our members. Everyone showcases their cooking and tastes a selection of authentic dishes. Plus there’s the added bonus of making new friends! Together we eat our way around the world, all from the comfort of our Beijing dining rooms.”

To simultaneously eat and socialize (in the name of worthy causes), check out www.chifanforcharity.org/beijing/ and beijingcommunitydinner.org/

Yonnie Fung, Australian, founder and instructor at Yoga with Yonnie

“However the day turns out, practising yoga gives me a sane start to the day. Between 5.30 and 6.30am on most days, I pedal through the Gulou hutongs to Houhai. I unroll my yoga mat next to the bronze statue of the tai chi master and face the lake to begin.

During my practice, I stand outside of myself and pay attention to my breath and the sensations in my body as I move from posture to posture. Yoga helps me develop a non-judgemental, self-observation which is crucial to my sanity. It helps me decide how to behave throughout the rest of my day. ” www.yonniefung.com

Charlene Wang, American, founder and director of Tranquil Tuesdays Teas and Teaware Gifts

“I get value and purpose from my work with the rescued animals at the Little Adoption Shop in Shunyi. When stressed one of the best ways to take one’s mind off of self-centred worries is to do something both physically engaging and helpful to others. There’s always something worthwhile to do at the Little Adoption Shop, whether walking a dog, helping transport a cat to her new home, or handing out fliers to reach future adopters for lots of furry homeless friends. Seeing happy families and happy animals united is the ultimate reward.” www.facebook.com/LittleAdoptionShop

Elke Jonassen, German, organizer of The Beijing Guild “Knitting keeps me grounded, active and social. It’s not just in Beijing that knitting has kept me sane – craft has been a continuous thread throughout my life. Whenever I am waiting, whether I am sitting on the runway at Capital Airport, or stuck in traffic on the Expressway, I knit. In those moments, knitting is a kind of meditation. Time gets away from us in Beijing, but for me there is no time wasted because I can create everywhere and anytime. Knitting is also a great social activity, and as a group we can accomplish bigger projects like providing dozens of hats for orphaned children in Xi’an.”

The Beijing Guild meets twice a week. www.beijingguild.com

Todd Gonzales, American, teacher at Harrow International School

“On blue sky days, I recommend getting out for a walk to enjoy some fresh air, exercise and people watching. My favourite urban route is along Beiheyan Dajie. This lush, linear park follows the path of the former Imperial City Wall. Given more time, I head for the hills around Beijing. It’s possible to find appropriate local hikes at any level, but if you’re a beginner, it’s best to go with a guided group such as Stretch-a-Leg Travel or Beijing Hikers. Hiking has a myriad of benefits for both body and mind. It exercises almost every muscle group, so you’ll sleep soundly after a daylong ramble.”

Visit www.stretchalegtravel.com, www.beijinghikers.com and the ‘Hiking around Beijing’ group on Facebook www.facebook.com/ groups/216930678409519

Sarah Vossler, American, proprietor of Sweets by Sarah

“In the past year when smog cooped us up more and more, I needed new ways to keep my toddler Ollie, 3, and baby Ella, 9 months, amused. When skies are dreary, indoor picnics are an evergreen crowd pleaser in our home. First I get them busy helping to make healthy treats, and then we travel around the house to choose a perfect picnic spot. Finally, I settle them and their toys and snacks on a picnic blanket or around their play table. This smoggy day tradition is a great way to bring summer into your home, whatever the conditions outdoors.”

Irina Glushkova, Russian, life coach and founder of Vedic Style Life

“I recommend friendship as the perfect antidote to Beijing stresses.

Enjoying a coffee with friends is my simplest and most restorative pleasure. As a busy mom it can be hard to carve out time to socialize. Family life tends to take over. So I’ve built my social calendar around my morning coffees, usually at Comptoirs de France. I’m grateful that I have the ability to take this precious time out, sipping on a latte, munching on a palmier and chatting for an hour. Spending time with other people always helps to lift my mood on grey days.”

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“There were many days this summer when we were housebound due to pollution and intemperate weather, and our hutong courtyard house was my haven. Even though we are smack-dab in the middle of this city of millions, inside this sanctuary it feels slow, quiet – almost bucolic. My advice to my fellow Beijingers is to create a sense of restfulness and ease in their homes. To offset cabin fever, indulge in small domestic luxuries that cultivate happiness and tranquillity a photo montage, fragrant candles, soft pillows, relaxing music - all serve to foster feelings of refuge.” www.tranquiltuesdays.com

Chris Barden, American, Founder, The Little Adoption Shop

Traditional Chinese Medicine

Dr. Tang Lixin, senior acupuncturist at Oasis Hospital. Photo by Mitchell Pe Masilun

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Traditional Chinese Medicine

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raditional Chinese Medicine (TCM or Zhong Yi , 中医) dates back over 2,000 years but it is still a very integral part of Chinese culture and society. Walk through any retail strip here in Beijing and you’re bound to find a foot massage place (or two), and a trip to your local pharmacy will reveal shelves of herbal compounds alongside modern medicines.

In the summer those large purple bruises you spot on people’s backs are not from a beating or hickeys from a wild night, but rather the tell-tale marks of a cupping (ba guan 拔罐) session. You’ll also discover that almost every local hospital has a TCM department while every park in the morning has healthconscious retirees pummeling pressure points on their limbs or pounding their backs against trees.

Although every ancient culture has its own form of traditional medicine, there is something quite distinct about the way people conceive of Zhong Yi here in China. Take the term ‘shang huo ’ (上火, roughly meaning “inflamed,” or “out of balance”） for example – although there is no way to directly translate this term into English, this physiological state is considered by most Chinese to be as integral to human health as blood and water. When it comes to determining which foods are “shang huo ” everyone’s an expert (although there seem to be just as many conflicting opinions on which foods actually result in more “huo ” in your system and which ones reduce it).

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For some foreigners – and even quite a few Chinese – the needles, herbs, and yin and yang symbolism associated with TCM may all seem hokey and in the absence of further scientific research, it is difficult to say just how effective many of these treatments can really be. We cannot advocate the exclusive use of TCM in lieu of Western medicine, but we hope that the information in the following section will pique your curiosity enough to find out more about Chinese medicine in Beijing and decide if you want to try it for yourself.

The Healing Art An introduction to Traditional Chinese Medicine, one treatment at a time

by Clemence Jiang, photo by Mitchell Pe Masilun, illustration by Sun Zheng

Traditional Chinese Medicine

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or many newcomers Traditional Chinese Medicine can seem as inaccessible as it is exotic, but at its core is a very simple tenet: it’s all about balance.

TCM views the body as a whole and within this system, positive and negative elements – the ”yin and yang ” (阴阳) – should be balanced in order to maintain good health. It is when the body is attacked by environmental factors like wind, heat, cold and dampness that this balance can be destroyed and illness sets in.

By following the rules and rhythm of nature, the body can not only avoid illness but also cure itself – this explains why TCM practitioners prefer natural treatments (i.e. medicinal foods) rather than manufactured pills.

With this in mind TCM doctors diagnose illnesses through the careful examination of factors ranging from the coating on the tongue and the rhythm of the pulse to the sound of their breathing and speaking and through making inquiries into the patient’s symptoms, diet and medical history. In so doing, it is believed that a good doctor can treat illnesses before their onset, while bad doctors will merely treat the illness itself.

The following is a primer of some of the most common TCM treatments:

Food therapy TCM believes that medicine and food are derived from the same natural sources, which can all be used to treat illnesses. Ancient TCM practitioners classified food based on their bodily effects. For

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example in order to help maintain balance in the body of factors like coldness and warmth, as well as moisture and dryness, TCM contends that it is better to drink green tea (which has “cold” properties) in the summer and black tea (with its “warm” properties) in winter. Usually food that takes a longer period to grow has warmer nature as opposed to “colder” (han , 寒) foods that require less growing time. Most root vegetables, including potatoes, ginger, garlic and carrots, are considered “warm” (“wen ,” 温) while foods with a cooling nature include cucumber, eggplant, apple and watermelons, which area all good to eat in the summer. Eating both kinds of foods in balance is the key to good health.

Acupressure Acupressure (Tuina 推拿) is as relaxing as it is therapeutic and even a completely healthy person will benefit from this ancient healing art.

This massage technique can help rid the body of it accumulated toxins and any associated blockages. TCM believes that most every day aches and pains are caused by such blockages, which can indicate illness, disease or injury. By constantly adding pressure to meridians and

pressure points, a tuina expert can eliminate blockages and speed up the body’s ability to circulate, metabolize and heal. Tuina is also used to treat such chronic ailments as neck pain and sports injuries including tennis elbow and bear in mind that it is more intense than your average spa massage and can result in a bit of pain and discomfort.

Acupuncture and Moxibustion Acupuncture (zhen , 针) is probably the most renowned of TCM practices and was included on UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage list in 2010.

Consisting of inserting needles into the skin along meridians and pressure points, it is largely used for the relief of acute pain and chronic ailments, and becoming increasingly popular for treating insomnia and obesity.

But if the needles put you off, you can consider moxibustion (jiu, 灸). Rather than sticking in pins, moxibustion stimulates acupuncture points and meridians with a natural herb called moxa that is dried and processed into sticks like cigars and burnt above the skin. The generated heat stimulates these pressure points and warms the meridians to boost qi (energy, 气) flow and blood circulation. Due to its warming properties, moxibustion is often used in the winter to treat ailments such as arthritis, poor digestion and menstruation pain.

Ear Acupressure If needles look a bit scary and moxa does not smell that pleasant, then give ear acupressure a try. You might spotted passersby with tiny squares of sticky plasters in their ears and wondered why on earth they were there. These plasters are, in fact, filled with small pellets that are stuck on the ears at certain points to relieve the symptoms from the internal organs that correspond to the meridian points found in the ear.

For example, the middle ear corresponds to internal organs, and the earlobe to the mouth and face. The pellets often consist of millet, green bean or cowherb seed, and are usually kept applied on the ear and for a few days. Ear acupressure functions well in treating many problems associated with functional change, such as headache and insomnia, menstruation pain and kidney disease.

Cupping and scraping

Chinese herbal medicine usually tastes pretty awful – a sentiment echoed in the Chinese saying “good medicine tastes bitter” (liang yao ku kou , 良药苦口). But at least these days most can be taken powdered up and in pill form, as opposed to in the past when herbal remedies were almost exclusively consumed in liquid “soup” form. Many of these ancient compounds, Liuwei dihuang wan (六味地黄丸), made of six nourishing herbs and used to treat back pain, fatigue, low energy and hair loss caused by kidney deficiencies in men, are now readily available overthe-counter. If you suffer from the common cold, 999 Ganmaoling (999 感冒灵), based on another traditional herbal remedy, is available in most neighborhood pharmacies – just mix the power with boiling water and drink. Most hospitals and clinics will now also boil and separate herbal tonics into small ready-to-drink packages for your convenience.

Guo Yi Tang 国医堂 Registration fee RMB 10-300. No English service, but most doctors speak some English. The renowned local TCM hospital offers all kinds of TCM treatments from moxibustion to herb medicine. Complicated and chronic diseases are likely to find solution here. Daily 8am-noon, 1.30-9pm. 2 Tuanjiehu Beilu, Chaoyang District (50 meters from Changhong Qiaonan). (6582 7961/63) 北京中医药大学国医堂中医院 , 朝阳 区团结湖北路 2 号 ( 长虹桥南 50 米 ) www.guoyitang.com

Beijing Tongrentang Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital 北京同仁堂中医医院 RMB 5 for ordinary registration and RMB 30-200 for seeing senior specialists. Good with traditional treatments and best with herb medicine. Daily 7.30-11am, 1-4.30pm. 46 Xidamochang Jie, Chongwen District. (6701 9022; 6701 0215 for specialists) 崇文区西打磨厂街 46 号 www.tongrentangzyyy.com

OASIS International Hospital 北京明德医院 No registration fee. Both appointments and walk-in patients are accepted. All the staff speak English. TCM department is open Monday-Friday 8.30am-5.30pm, Saturday 8.30am12.30pm. Treatments include acupuncture, herb medicine, cupping and scraping and tuina massage. 9 Jiuxianqiao Beilu, Chaoyang District. 400 UR OASIS (400 87 62747), 5985-0333 (24 hour emergency) www.oasishealth.cn 北京市 朝阳区酒仙桥北路 9 号 (798 艺术区北门对面 )

The Meridian 明经堂中医诊疗机构 Free registration fee expect for senior specialists (RMB 300400). Appointment one day ahead is suggested. No English service but most staff speak some English. Acupuncture and tuina are recommended. Daily 9.30am-9.30pm. 9-10-A, Si’ de Park, Fangyuan Xilu, Dongsihuan, Chaoyang District 朝阳区东四环芳园西路四得公园 9-10-A ( 近东四环霄云桥 ) (8456 7010), www.mingjingtang.com/main.php?cat=10

Joyful Bliss Wellness Center 金佰健康中心 Good with relaxing massage, facial and skin care, weight control and stress release. Reasonable prices and English service.

Tue-Sun 10am-10pm. 3/F, 32 Liang Ma Qiao Road, Chaoyang District. (6436 4576, 136 1125 2085) 朝阳区亮马桥路 32 号 高 澜大厦附楼三层 www.caclinic.com

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Cupping and scraping (ba guan 拔罐 and gua sha 刮痧) may not involve the actual breaking or peeling of skin, but both can be quite painful.

During a cupping session, the doctor creates a vacuum by burning the oxygen in a light bulbshaped bottle that is then placed on top of the skin (usually on the back). The process draws blood to the skin beneath the container and stimulates circulation, and is often performed in the winter for various back and shoulder ailments. Scraping, on the other hand, is mostly done in the summer to treat fevers and heatstroke. Using a smooth-edged instrument to repeatedly rub the skin on the back until the skin turns red (or even purple) it is believed to remove “heat” (huo , 火) from the body. It is important to remember that you should not shower immediately after cupping or scraping as the skin is still sensitive after the treatment.

Herbal Medicine

Sole Power The Ins and Outs of Foot Reflexology

Traditional Chinese Medicine

by Kyle Mullin, photo by Lova Li

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hinese masseuses appear to be more than mere practitioners – they also seem to have a way with words, waxing soulful poetics while applying soothing oil to our soles.

“If you feel tired, then of course a foot reflexology massage is your best choice for treatment, because it will improve circulation and promote your metabolism. It’s the main, most important place on the body – and that is why we Chinese call our feet our second heart,” says Zhou “Peter” Hai Yang, a Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) massage therapist at Jingkang Spa in Sanyuanqiao, in a whimsically lyrical description of the time honored treatment of foot reflexology.

According to masseurs and masseuses versed in the aged technique, their vocation is based around the holistic notion that body parts are intricately connected. And there’s no part where those overlaps occur more than the tender flesh on the bottom of our feet.

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Yang “Amy” Chen, a reflexology masseuse at the Hummingbird Spa (near subway line 10’s Jintaixizhao station), says those links are laid out in a somewhat simple fashion. Imagine, if you will, a pair of feet side by side, with the soles facing toward you. From that vantage, Yang says the big toes can be seen to representative of, and connected to, the head of our bodies. When those appendages are massaged, blood flow in the brain improves, easing headaches. The areas just beneath the foot’s arches are connected to our stomachs and intestines, meaning that massaging there can help alleviate indigestion.

“The (connection to the) heart would be on left, at the top, just below your little toe,” Yang says of the corresponding point on the sole, before adding with smile, “When you massage there, it improves vascular circulation. It’s like touching the person’s heart.”

On top of that, other ailments can be cured with foot reflexology – insomnia, for instance – can be treated by applying pressure to

the place on our soles that resides just above the heel. Zhou says such results show why foot reflexology amounts to so much more than a regular foot rub. Practitioners must study the layout of our soles before applying oil.

“There are so many reflection points on your feet,” Zhou says of the spots that mirror our other body parts. “Those points are divided into six meridians, and if you touch your foot the meridians conveniently open up. But the most important thing you need to know is the places where the reflection points are, and how much pressure to apply where. That requires a professional.”

May Cheng, co-owner of The Hummingbird, agrees, adding that the practice provides several other benefits.

“According to theories of reflexology, foot massages release blockage that can hold back energy which should be flowing through the body freely,” Cheng says. “Therefore, it improves the immunity system. Relaxing the body through foot massages may prevent the harmful effects of stress from taking a toll on the body.”

She says it may be a practical technique that has been passed down for generations, but she adds that it now incorporates several aspects of modern biology. “ W i t h m o r e t h a n 7, 0 0 0 nerves in the feet, massaging them can bring about a deep state of relaxation as it improves blood circulation, cleanses waste and toxins from the body,” she says. “A regular foot massage can offer protection against the many diseases that are associated with stress.

The solar plexus reflex is situated on both feet. It is like a tank where all your stress is stored. When the solar plexus point is pressed on, anxiety is alleviated and the body is renewed.”

While foot reflexology has many proponents in Beijing, some professional wonder about which venues house the highest level of expertise. Dr. Tang Lixin, senior acupuncturist at Oasis Hospital (near the 798 art district), heads up the facility’s Traditional Chinese Medicine department, which is rife with aged herbs and practitioners who are highly versed in the discipline’s techniques like acupuncture, gua sha skin scrapping (see p75), and of course, foot reflexology.

“Foot massages are available at some Chinese hospitals, but not too many,” she says, before adding that such an inconvenience doesn’t mean that patients should look elsewhere for substitutes.

“Spas are not hospitals. Doctors have more serious training, at least six or seven years of study, and have a lot more knowledge about the body. Simple ailments and functional problems could be treated at a spa, but not major organ problems.”

But Beijing’s spa masseuses argue their services are quite vital, especially when they are used to supplement hospital treatments.

“A spa therapist can only assist in relaxation or therapy, as suggested by doctors,” Cheng admits, before adding: “Our therapists do have several years of experience.”

Yang agrees, saying that spa practitioners are by no means unskilled. Yang studied at a school in her hometown that not only taught massage techniques, but also the specific TCM skills and theory that have been passed down through the ages. It was a year long program, and after that she spent another full year on the job as an apprentice, honing her skills in a highly practical educational

method. Yang adds that the most crucial thing she learned was not how to massage a foot, but how to read the person she was serving and adapt to their needs.

“I base a lot of my practice on customer reactions,” she says.

“When it hurts or tickles they will tense up, and then I will know to adjust my strokes.”

Despite that experience and expertise, some instances at the spa will still surprise Yang. She recently was massaging the arches of one client’s feet, knowing that was a reflection point for the stomach and that applying pressure there would improve digestion. It turns out that her technique worked a little too well.

“She was a foreigner. After we were done she was paying for her massage, and asked me about reflexology, how the foot is related to other parts of the body. As an example, I told her massaging foot arches is connected to the intestines. She looked surprised and said ‘That’s why I had to go to the toilet immediately after the massage!’”

Yang says, before adding with a giggle, “Massaging that part of the foot really does work well to relieve constipation.”

Cheng says ticklish feet can sometimes pose another challenge for clients and reflexology practitioners. But she says seasoned masseuses and masseurs know how to deal with such tricky situations.

“It is a matter of the mind.

By using broader strokes and stronger pressure, most ‘ticklishfeet-customers’ are still able to enjoy their foot massages.

We have had customers who couldn’t stop laughing, even before the therapist began.

Sometimes we succeeded in convincing them to relax after a head and shoulder massage, before giving them a foot massage.”

Cheng adds that those of us with even the most ticklish soles should give reflexology a try. Aside from the relaxation and various organ treatments it offers, another of its key benefits is the holistic balance that can be attained by the massage’s end.

“Foot massages are restorative, in that they give the receiver energy. When the foot is rubbed and palpated, all the elements of a foot massage come together to bring renewed energy to the body.

Homeostasis is a term for when all the body’s systems are working in harmony with one another, in order to bring about a state of balance. A foot massage can definitely encourage homeostasis, so that good health can be obtained.”

… Their vocation is based around the holistic notion that body parts are intricately connected. And there’s no part where those overlaps occur more than the tender flesh on the bottom of our feet

10am-12am. 601, Tower B1,Phoenix City, Shuguangxili, Chaoyang District. (8440 6234) 朝阳区曙光西里甲 5 号凤凰城 B1 座 501 室

OASIS International Hospital Daily 24hrs (emergency care), Mon-Fri 9am- 6pm, Sun 8.3012.30am. 9 Jiuxianqiao Beilu, Chaoyang District, Chaoyang District.

(400 UR OASIS (876 2747)) www.oasishealth.cn 明德医院 , 朝阳区朝 阳区酒仙桥北路 9 号

The Wellness Spa by Hummingbird Bldg 26 Central Park, 6 Chaowai Dajie, Unit 103, Chaoyang District.

(6533 6922) 朝阳区朝阳门外大街 6 号新城国际 26 号楼

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Jingkang Traditional Massage Center

The Healing Touch Easy DIY acupressure for common childhood ailments

Traditional Chinese Medicine

by Jennifer Thome, photo by Mitchell Pe Masilun

Two-year-old Sulluvan Rockwell undergoing acupressure treatment from Dr Yue Haibin

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very new stage of life brings lots of exciting changes for your baby, and often, a whole new set of bumps, bruises and discomforts. The next time your little camper comes to you with a complaint, consider skipping the medicine cabinet and using acupressure, a technique that has been used in China for more than 4,000 years, to treat everything from sprains, colds, headaches, and even to induce labor.

While there are some skeptics around the world who don’t believe in the effectiveness of Chinese medicine, more and more insurance companies around the world have begun including coverage in their policies – and you know if the insurance companies are willing to pay for it, you’ll likely get results.

Acupressure and acupuncture have been used in China for more than 4,000 years, and work by stimulating points on various meridians – or energy channels – on the body to release blocked energy, trigger the healing response, and relieve symptoms. It is particularly effective for things like headaches, stomachaches, and stress, but can also be used to treat more serious problems such as epilepsy and accelerate the recovery from stroke.

When practicing acupressure at home, you can use your fingertips, a pencil eraser, or a rounded piece of metal, said to be the most effective in moving energy to apply pressure to the points. There are three ways to conduct the treatment: you can apply gentle pressure to the point, rub it in gentle, circular motions, or stroke the point along the meridians.

When you give your kid or yourself acupressure, pay close attention to sensation. If you feel a slight tingling you’ve hit the spot, but do be sure that you don’t push so hard that it hurts.

There are a number of points you can use for each symptoms, but the ones we list below are both easy and effective, and if you agree, don’t be shy about learning more about acupressure massage. There are a number of really good books out there that will teach you everything you need to know to get rid of your medicine cabinet once and for all.

Motion Sickness It’s easy to get a little queasy in Beijing traffic, not to mention while traveling around the world or in the countryside. To treat motion sickness, gently massage the P6 point, located between the two tendons of the inside of your wrist, three finger’s width down from the actual wrist. Do each wrist for 30 seconds.

Nausea

Tummy Troubles And of course it doesn’t stop there. Tummies tend to get upset in many ways, a wonderful evolutionary trait that ensures children get lots of raspberries and belly kisses. Luckily Mother Nature also built in a natural off switch – CV11. This pressure point is located

Dizziness Acupressure is great for solving hard to diagnose problems, such as dizziness, before running off to the hospital for a long afternoon of waiting in lines – which is enough to bring on dizziness for everyone else. LV3, located on the top of the foot, is commonly used to treat dizziness, as well as anxiety and headaches. LV3 is located between the big toe and second toe, about one finger’s width above where the two meet. Massage this point gently for a few minutes for a calming, stabilizing effect.

Headache and Irritability Ok, be honest – did you just get excited when you read that there is a treatment for irritability? Can’t wait to try it on your teenager?

Well, we can’t guarantee that it’s strong enough to overcome the hormonal hurricane of the teenage years, but you can always use it on yourself while you wait out the storm. There are actually a number of points that can treat irritability, but GB20, located in the hollows on both sides of the base of the skull, is both effective and easy to find for a massage on your child or yourself. Simply massage it for a few minutes until you feel the blood returning to your brain and your tension melting.

Stuffy Nose and Congestion Childhood seems to be all about stuffy noses, but keeping your kid on a constant stream of decongestants can really mess with their system. For mild congestion, gently massage the ST3 points located to either side of the nose, about one finger’s width down the smile crease. Pinky tips of pencil erasers are best for this point, which should be massaged for 30 seconds at a time. Keep in mind that this point can be very tender, so start gently.

Cough and Respiratory Problems If you’re little lovebug has developed a mild cough in Beijing, or suffers from asthma, there are a few points that can alleviate symptoms, as well as relax the muscles that become tense and exhausted during coughing fits. B38, located between the shoulder blade and the spine at the same height as the heart, is a great, all-purpose point for respiratory problems. This point responds well to pressure, so it’s easy to find, and a couple of minutes of gentle massage or pressure might just help your kid sleep through the night.

K27, located in the hollow below the collarbone and next to the breastbone, is a great supplement to B38, as it can also relieve chest congestion, coughing, and anxiety. Again, just apply gentle pressure or massage the point, and your child should feel a little tension in the area, followed by an opening of the chest.

Fever Fevers are nothing to fool around with and if you’re child is burning up, by all means, do talk to a doctor. But if you’re child is just feeling a little feverish or you’ve already given it some medicine and are waiting for the fever to drop, consider massaging GB20, located at the base of the skull, at the point where it joins the neck. Rubbing this point for up to five minutes not only lowers fever and helps alleviate symptoms of cold and flu, it can also relieve neck pain, and help soothe sore muscles.

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It seems that above all, nausea seems to be one of the most common problems parents encounter in Beijing, whether it be from just a little bit of unclean food, to way too much of delicious food.

P6, the point you used for motion sickness, also works for nausea, but there are also a handful of other points that are just as effective. LI14, located on the webbing between the thumb and index finger, is one of them. You can find it by pressing the thumb against the base of the index finger of the same hand – the big bulge is where LI14 is located. Gently massage this point for 30 seconds to a minute on each hand. Do keep in mind that this point is not recommended for pregnant women, as it can also create pre-mature contractions.

between the sternum and the belly button, and is an all-purpose tummy soother, and can give you relief from heartburn, indigestion, nausea, and even diarrhea. To find it, look for a small indentation between your belly button and sternum, and massage it gently for around five minutes.

Useful Info

International SOS Beijing’s 24/7 emergency room is an integral part of its medical assistance operations care (see p80). Photo by Lova Li

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Code Red Tips on how to handle emergencies and accidents in Beijing

by Jennifer Thomé

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to consult your embassy. In the meanwhile, the body should be held at the hospital until all documents are complete and repatriation arrangements have been made with a licensed company. The death certificate can be issued by the hospital immediately. If the PSB is involved, it may take up to a week for them to complete their investigations and issue one.

While these types of stories are terrifying, there are thing you can do to prepare your family for the worst, like making sure you have all your information and contacts in order, setting up a designated Chinese person to help in case of emergency, and more, and we’ll get to those at the end of this article. But first, let’s have a look at some common medical emergencies and how to prepare for them.

Car and Bike Accidents There are a lot of distracted drivers out there, so the first thing you need to do is make sure your victim is in a safe location, says Jeff Gao, founder of Cycle China, who has guided thousands of foreign nationals through China. If your victim is seriously injured, call an ambulance, but if they seem ok, have them stand up, move around to check for broken or sprained fingers, toes and arms, and do some simple math problems. Take photos of the victim, the person who hit them, and the crime scene. If possible, also take a photo of the perpetrator holding his ID near the scene and better yet, a close-up of the ID. Try to have them call you so that you have a record of their phone number, and also that you’ve been in touch. You need to create as much evidence linking them to the crime as possible. And don’t be afraid to get loud. It’s often the only way to get people to take responsibility.

Assault As inflation, property prices, and tempers rise, assault has become a reality in the streets of Beijing, particularly in the Sanlitun area.

Unfortunately, we got the same answers from the five victims we spoke to: The police are generally unwilling to get involved in “foreign” matters, and one was even asked to pay a RMB 1,000 “investigation fee” when she was attacked in broad daylight. In another case, a woman who was abducted and sexually assaulted by a group of men went to an international hospital for emergency treatment. Legal protocol demands that criminal evidence in this scenario be collected by a special division of the police, which can take up to 24 hours to respond, and investigations generally lead nowhere. So if you’re confronted, get away as fast as you can, and if you require medical treatment, head to an international hospital that can walk you through all the important steps, and call your embassy to assist you with the legal matters.

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Useful Info

y global standards Beijing is a safe place to live – violent crime is relatively low and the sluggish traffic makes it difficult to get in high-speed collisions. But accidents and emergencies, ranging seizures and heart attacks to road accidents and bar fights, can happen to anybody.

Almost every person who has been in a medical emergency wishes that they had done something differently: Preparation. A family’s trauma is often exacerbated during an emergency by missing insurance cards and documents and an inability to communicate, not to mention the attitudes of police and medical worker who are hesitant to deal with situations, especially those involving foreigners.

One restaurant owner, who asked to remain anonymous, told us about a woman who got very drunk and hit her head in the restaurant. They called for an ambulance, but at first medical workers were reluctant to deal with a “drunk foreigner.” But after pressing and insisting that her head injury needed to be treated in a hospital, they asked what kind of insurance she had. The owner told them she had the very best foreign insurance, and finally the ambulance agreed to come.

Another expat couldn’t even bring herself to recount the harrowing tale of trying to save her comatose cousin, who was moved from hospital to hospital where doctors eagerly (and perhaps greedily) proposed a slew of surgeries and treatments that didn’t seem like they were necessary. Fortunately he ended up in an international hospital and made a full recovery, but nonetheless the tale was too difficult to recount.

The consensus seems to be that the best rescue is prevention, and Dr. Jon Craig, Medical Director Clinics, China for International SOS agrees. “Most expats are more likely to be knocked of a bicycle in Beijing traffic than in their home towns, yet so many don’t bother with a helmet. A helmet can make the difference between dented pride and a serious head injury.” He also advises expats to be careful with street food – as they see a very high number of food poisoning in their clinics and suggests that long term residents should receive rabies vaccination.

And what should you do if you get hurt? “If possible, get in the car or taxi and go to your preferred ER – waiting for an ambulance and dealing with ambulance staff who speak only Mandarin can be stressful and waste valuable time,” says Dr. Craig, adding that “if the situation is too serious to use your own transport, call 999.”

Beijing, it turns out, is a very bad place to get hurt. And it’s not a great place to die either. Wilfried Verbruggen of Linga International – Roseates puts it this way: “Don’t die in China. It’s too expensive.”

Verbruggen specializes in repatriation, and says that dying in China is much like doing business in China: tricky. There are some companies who will try to get a hold of the deceased’s passport and exploit the confusion for monetary gain.

So what should you do when someone passes away in China?

The laws and regulations vary by the person’s nationality, so it’s best

Dr John Craig, Medical Director of Clinics for International SOS Beijing

Useful Info

Dog Bites Despite China’s ongoing efforts to control the virus, rabies is still a problem and less than 10% of small companion animals are vaccinated. This is a big problem for families, as most bites are sustained by curious children.

If you are bitten, you have two options: you can take the dog to get tested, or start immunoglobulin therapy. The first is more time and cost effective, but ICVS founder Mary Peng strongly advises against having the dog tested in a government facility, as results can take weeks if not months to return, and you need to start therapy immediately. Instead, you can have the animal taken to a private clinic where they can do an oral swab for rabies. A negative reading can save you a lot of time, trouble, money and pain. If the animal is gone or found positive and you haven’t been immunized, you need to begin therapy with human rabies immunoglobulin (HRIG), which is costly, painful and stressful. If you are immunized, you will have to get a booster.

Ultimately, the best cure in this case is prevention.

HRIG is available at Beijing United, International SOS, the Sino-Japanese Friendship Hospital and the Beijing Chaoyang District Center for Disease Control and Prevention (北京市朝阳区疾病预防控制中心), but call in advance as they may run out during the course of the day.

Knocked-Out Tooth A knocked out tooth can happen anywhere, and when it does, you’ll want to get to the emergency room or dentist as soon as possible,

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as a tooth reinserted within 30 minutes has the highest chance of survival. If you can reinsert the tooth, do so first and gently bite down on gauze to keep it in place. If you cannot, store the tooth in a glass or milk or in the corner of your check to prevent the tooth from drying out.

Medical Poisoning If you suspect that you or a loved one has been poisoned, get to the ER immediately, as quick treatment can prevent serious liver and kidney damage. But also be aware of insidious slow poisonings, because in a land where so many medicines are available over the counter, the cure might worse than the disease, says one expat who ended up in the ICU with liver failure after being given several cold medications that all contained the same painkiller. To make a long story short, he couldn’t read the labels and was relying on helpful pharmacists, and the overdose of Paracetamal ended up costing him 90% of his liver function and a prolonged visit to the hospital.

Tip # 1 – Get a Dedicated Chinese Friend Expats living in China often lack a strong support network – meaning a person you can count on when push comes to shove. This is why it’s critical that you make a best Chinese friend, preferably someone who is from Beijing or has been here a long time who you can keep on speed dial in case something happens.

International SOS Beijing’s emergency room

Tip # 2 – Know your Numbers

Tip # 6 – Treat Chronic Conditions

The thing that often stalls medical treatment and notification of family is simply that the information isn’t available, so it’s critical to program emergency numbers, family, ayi, driver and assistant information, as well as your insurance information and preferred hospital address into all of your family phones. Be sure you add the Chinese for husband, wife, father, and mother to the end of those contacts so Chinese authorities can find and contact them.

“Many of the medical emergencies we see result from missing medication or poor control of medical problems. Always ensure that you have a regular check up for any chronic disease (diabetes, asthma) and have enough medication, especially when travelling,” says Dr. Craig.

Tip # 3 – Carry some Cash Dr. Craig advises all families to keep RMB 500 in cash at home and on your person at all times. If you have to call 999, you will be expected to pay for the ambulance up front. Most local hospitals will also charge a patient being admitted into the ER up front.

Tip # 4 – Have insurance Even if just for going to a good, international hospital in case of emergency. One recommendation we got was the insurance at nomad.com which can cover emergencies for as little as USD 500 a year.

And while you’re at it, have your ayi and driver learn it as well.

Beijing United Hospitals offers public first-aid courses every few months, but will also make arrangements for groups of six or more.

You can contact Kitty Gao kitty.gao@ufh.com.cn and see p84.

Death can happen at any time, and it is vital to organize all of your vital documents (including insurance, bank accounts, stocks, billing information) and to share them with at least one family immediate family member, and someone back home. One website to get you started on this is www.getyourshittogether.org.

Save These Numbers, Save a Life Police 110 Fire 119 English-speaking Ambulance service 999 Ambulance 120 Beijing Chaoyang District Center for Disease Control and Prevention 北京市朝阳区疾病预防控制中心 朝阳区潘家园华威里25号 6777 3512 Foreign Emergency Services 6525 5486 International SOS Clinic and Emergency Services 6462 9112 International SOS Emergency Dentist 6462 0333 United Family Hospital Emergency Services 5927 7120 2013 BeijingKids Health Guide

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Useful Info

Tip #5 – Learn some Emergency Chinese and CPR

Tip # 7 – Prepare for the Worst

Keep Cool, Save a Life Emergency services and first response in Beijing

by Steven Schwankert, photo by Sui

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mergency medical infrastructure has improved markedly in Beijing over the last five years, thanks in part to the Olympics. However, being a large city prone to traffic problems, reaching or being reached by medical personnel is not always the best option. Language ability may also create a barrier to quick response. Residents of Beijing therefore must be ready to address emergencies directly, by themselves.

Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) and first aid training are important for adults, whether single or heads of a family. Advanced preparation and contingency planning to address emergencies – be they health-related, natural disasters, or injuries – are the best solutions to crises that happen at the worst of times. Beijing is subject to a number of natural disasters, notably floods – unseasonable weather in July 2013 led to 77 deaths – and earthquakes. Although not as seismically active as nearby Japan or California, residents of Beijing should remember that on July 28, 1976, a 7.8 earthquake flattened the city of Tangshan – less than 150 km (92 miles) from Beijing – and killed 250,000 people. Earthquake supplies and planning should be part of any emergency preparations for Beijing residents. The Los Angeles County Fire Department website has an excellent checklist and instructions for planning for fire, earthquakes and other emergencies [http://fire.lacounty. gov/].

Bear in mind that neither Beijing nor China have a Good Samaritan law that protects common citizens who attempt to provide assistance in times of emergency from legal liability, regardless of the outcome. For example, performing CPR on a victim is likely to cause some chest soreness or related minor injuries, for which the rescuer could be sued, even if the victim’s life is saved. As such, although the urge to render assistance may be strong, except in cases where the rescuer knows the victim, the best course of action may be to notify rescue personnel and let them handle it.

packed in any large handbag or backpack. While many foreign residents of Beijing send their caregivers and drivers for training, it’s worth pondering – is your ayi or driver with you throughout the night, on weekends, and even on holidays and vacations?

The key to any such situation is building a bridge between an incident happening and the arrival of trained medical person or at a qualified medical facility. The more people in a household who are trained for emergencies, the more will be ready to handle it when the worst happens.

Training

Beijing United Family Hospital Beijing United Family Hospital offers a basic, four-hour introduction to CPR and first aid, available in both English and Chinese. The course covers emergency numbers, common medical emergencies, common injury emergencies, cold and heat-related emergencies, and safety tips to prevent injury. Participants who successfully complete the course receive a United Family Training Certificate.

For cost, schedule and registration, contact Kitty Gao on kitty. gao@ufh.com.cn, or 5927 7130.

Advanced preparation and contingency planning to address emergencies – be they health-related, natural disasters, or injuries – are the best solutions to crises that happen at the worst of times

Preparation

Useful Info

What goes into a first aid kit?

First aid kits and what goes in them should meet two important criteria: portable and practical. The best first aid kit is the one you can carry with you all the time. That means when assembling one, focus on the basics: a few pairs of surgical gloves, preferably vinyl or a nonlatex material (many people are allergic to latex); at least 10 plasters/ adhesive strips, also non-latex; at least two sterile gauze pads in twoinch, three-inch, and four-inch sizes; at least two rolls of gauze wrap (not elastic wrap, which can easily be wrapped or pulled too tight and restrict blood flow); and a barrier for giving rescue breaths, either a pocket mask or a one-time use face shield. All of this can be kept in a large zipper storage bag, which allows the bag and its contents to be

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International SOS

International SOS offers occasional all-day training in First Aid and CPR, along with use of an automated external defibrillator in the event of an emergency. Upon completion of the course, participants receive an International SOS and an American Heart Association certificate, both valid for two years. Cost is RMB 750 per person, payable before training. For schedule and registration, please contact seminar@internationalsos.com.

SinoRescue Offers three courses, teaching the domestically and internationally recognized Emergency First Response curriculum. These courses are designed to be simple and straightforward, to maximize laypeople’s willingness and confidence to participate in emergency situations: Primary and Secondary Care (basic CPR and first aid); Care for Children, a course specialized for parents and caregivers of children from newborns up to age 9; and the Emergency First Response Instructor Course, which prepares individuals to teach Primary and Secondary Care and Care for Children, and issue certifications for those courses.

SinoRescue also offers a complete line of targeted first aid kits for the child’s room, home, automobile, and activities including hiking and team sports. Courses are RMB 650 per person, or RMB 1,100 per couple (Care for Children only). Gift certificates available. Contact: steven@sinorescue.com, or call 1861 113 3629. www.sinorescue.com.

Disclosure: Steven Schwankert is the founder of SinoRescue and Managing Editor of True Run Media publication the Beijinger.

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In Good Hands How to determine the right health insurance policy for you and your family in China

by Oscar Holland

Abacare partner Alistair White. Photo by Sui

T Useful Info

he cost of healthcare in China is rising dramatically so getting a health insurance policy should be one of the first things to consider when relocating to Beijing. There is a lot to consider in the process: The type of clinic or hospital you can use, the treatments covered and the way you make claims all vary depending on the type of insurance you choose.

Navigating the options may be complicated but finding a policy that suits your circumstances can save you confusion, stress and money. Even if your employer provides insurance, it is still worth understanding how different insurers operate to ensure that you have the protection that you and your family need.

Managing your risk Health insurance is not mandatory, so some may choose to ‘self insure’ and foot the bill themselves. Be forewarned: Although some public hospitals offer cost-effective care, prices for certain medical procedures can match, if not surpass, those in developed countries.

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Without adequate cover you may find yourself significantly out-ofpocket or unable receive the treatment you need.

At the other end of the spectrum, the most comprehensive (and expensive) policies cover everything from complex conditions to eye care. Most people will opt for something in between, insuring for some elements of healthcare and paying for others themselves. As with any type of insurance, you must work out the level of risk you are prepared to accept and the space in your budget to absorb costs if the unexpected happens The most important thing is that you are covered if you require immediate medical attention. “The absolute minimum you want is inpatient [treatments requiring hospital admission] and repatriation to get you home in the worst case scenario”, says Alastair White, a Partner at the health insurance brokers Abacare.

But beyond this, it is a matter of choice. While most people will also opt for outpatient cover for less urgent or ongoing health problems, such as sports injuries, it may work out cheaper to budget for

some of the other extras yourself. “Take dental care,” White says, “if you’ve got good teeth and you only want to get a check up once or twice a year - just pay for it out of pocket.”

You will also need to consider whether to include treatment at ‘high-cost facilities’, which include Beijing’s international hospitals and VIP wards. Use of these facilities could increase your premium (the overall cost of your insurance plan) by up to 15 percent but will generally provide more pleasant and hygienic settings. They also have English-speaking doctors and therefore may be necessary for those with limited or no spoken Chinese. Those with children, especially those aged three and under, should also ensure that regular vaccinations and check-ups are included.

Paying the premium Prices can vary hugely. But as a rule, the more you pay, the more you will be covered for and the lower the additional costs further down the line. The price of your premium will depend on your personal circumstances, in particular your age. Any complex health needs or pre-existing conditions will also affect your quote and it is imperative that you disclose your full medical history.

Being a smoker will not usually affect your premium but obesity, high cholesterol and high blood pressure will, so make sure you are clear on what information you are expected to provide. There are a few serious pre-existing conditions that will not be touched by any insurance company, although some group policies provided by employers include an option called MHD (medical history disregarded) which makes relocation more feasible for those with chronic conditions.

It is advisable to choose an insurance company that guarantees to renew you for life if you plan to stay in China for a significant period of time. But there is one pitfall to be aware of when insurers calculate the cost of next year’s premium.

With ‘claims rated’ policies the cost of your renewal will depend on the claims you have already made, which will present significant problems if you fall seriously ill or require ongoing medical care.

‘Community rated’ policies however, will calculate your premium based on the claims made by all policy-holders in the geographical area. So even if you rack up huge medicals bills you will still be guaranteed affordable insurance.

“We always advise that people go for community rated,” Abacare’s Alastair White stresses, “that way you will never pay more than anyone else your age.”

Making your claim Clinics and hospitals require either payment or a guarantee of payment before treating you. If your policy does not include direct billing (where the hospital will directly contact your insurer to confirm that they will pay) keep hold of your diagnosis form and receipt to ensure you can claim your money back.

Finally, it is essential that you carry your medical insurance card with you at all times. Paramedics and hospitals are terrified of providing treatment that cannot be paid for and will not necessarily assume that you are covered. Buying a policy really can be a matter of life and death.

So while getting covered in China can be an expensive business, insurance almost always pays. If not through the actual medical care you receive then through the peace of mind of knowing that you and your family will get treatment when and where they need it.

Without adequate cover you may find yourself significantly out-of-pocket or unable receive the treatment you need

Keeping your costs down If you want to lower your premium there some further options to consider. The first is co-payment, whereby you split the costs with your insurance company. With a 20-percent co-pay for instance, your policy will be cheaper but the insurer will only cover 80 per cent of the costs.

You can also adjust the level of your deductible – the amount you pay for your own treatment before the insurance kicks in. Setting it at a higher level allows you to keep your premium down, as long as you are happy to budget for low-level care yourself. Once you have paid the deductible the insurer will pick up all of the following bills for that course of treatment.

But be aware that policies have a lifetime limit and it is generally advisable to be covered for at least USD$1.5 million unless you only plan to be in China for a short period of time. If you go over your limit, your insurer will stop paying and no-one else will insure you.

Bear in mind with all of these premium-lowering options that insurance is always a gamble and you should adhere to the old adage – don’t bet what you can’t afford to lose.

Choosing an insurer

Aetna International Contact: +86 21 6193 6988 (China office), AGBSalesShanghai@aetna.com, www.aetnainternational.com AXA Contact: +86 21 6156 3500, service@axa-ins.com.cn, www.axa-ins.com.cn

AIG Contact: +86 10 5969 2966, customerservicechina@ aig.com, www.aiginsurance.com.cn Allianz Contact: +86 20 8396 6788, contact@allianz.cn, www.allianz.cn

Bupa International Contact: +86 21 5852 5959, email enquiry form at www.bupa-intl.com

Pacific Prime Contact: +86 21 6445 4592 (China office), David Hayes - david@pacificprime.com, www.pacificprime.com

Panoramic Insurance Brokerage Contact: +86 21

3226 0702, Robert Formon - robert.formon@pibb.com.cn, www.pibb.com.cn

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Useful Info

There is no central database of insurers so you will have to do your own research. It may be worth contacting an independent insurance broker who can find a policy that is best suited to you or your family’s circumstances. Reputable advisors take a flat fee from insurance companies so they can be relied upon to provide advice at no cost to the individual. They are often able to negotiate the best prices and can offer support when you need to make a claim or if your insurer refuses to pay out.

Abacare Contact: Alastair White, +86 10 5820 7740, alastair.white@abacaregroup.com, www.abacareinsurancechina.com

Game Over?

Getting back on your feet after sports injuries

by Jonathan White

T

he legacy of the 2008 Beijing Summer Olympics and some hard work over the last couple of decades by some very dedicated expat pioneers means that there’s never been a better time to play sport in Beijing. The diversity of disciplines available to you range from the long-established (Chinese martial arts) to the nascent (Ultimate Frisbee) via the bizarre (fixedgear bike polo). Unfortunately, given the nature of physical exertion combined with our own physical frailties, you’ve never had more opportunities to pick up an injury.

Thankfully, Beijing’s multitude of healthcare providers has got you covered. First of all, you can rest assured that if you are unfortunate to receive a serious injury – the type that requires immediate medical attention – then you are in safe hands. There have been many instances, some of which we will come to below, where broken legs and dislocated shoulders have been handled with the minimum of fuss. What happens next – your road to recovery and, more importantly, return to sport – is a more important concern.

AQI reading, given the amount of respiration that sport demands.

Common sense is key: Sunstroke can be as much of a sports injury here as a twisted ankle.

Another factor is that facilities in Beijing tend to be quite basic.

Tennis courts are likely to be concrete, as are the vast majority of basketball courts, while, outside of international schools, soccer pitches tend not to be the latest type of astroturf and are laid down with little support beneath them. Factors like these equate to more wear and tear on your body.

The sports community is very well aware of the likelihood of injury and plan for it. Regular classes and organized leagues generally have a first-aider onhand, while professional medical staff attends the annual tournaments or one-off events – such as the All-Asia Gaelic Games, Ultimate Frisbee’s China Nationals and White Collar Boxing’s Brawl On The Wall. If you want to become a first-aider, many international schools and hospitals offer courses.

“… Modern sports medicine’s goal is to get people back to playing as close to the same level of sport as soon as possible … scientific and technological advances are allowing them to do just that”

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“I suffered a fracture dislocation of the right ankle as a result of playing football. I was treated at Beijing United Family Hospital. The initial treatment was immediate surgery to put a plate on the break of the fibula as it broke in eight places and to put my ankle back in place. I was in hospital for a week. Follow-up was regular consultation with the surgeon and weekly physio – stretching and weight-bearing exercises – for three months. I was fully-healed and back in training in six-to-nine months. It was maybe 18 months before I played any matches.” – Ben Woodcock Rehabilitation from a serious injury is very similar to recovery from more minor sports injuries – the aches, pains, tweaks, strains, knocks and niggles that your ligaments, muscles and cartilage are much more likely to sustain. These are part and parcel of sports wherever in the world you play them and as we’ve all noticed, they tend to occur ever more often as we get older. Any doctor will tell you that “PRICE” – Protection, Rest, Ice, Compression and Elevation – is the first step to recovery, and many of Beijing’s international hospitals offer such advice on their websites.

Such injuries are often unavoidable but the chance of them occurring can be minimized with proper preparation, such as dynamic stretching before you play or wearing athletic supports.

Other factors to consider are whether or not you should be playing at the upper and lower extremes of Beijing’s weather and the

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“A clash of legs at the All-Asia Gaelic Games in Shanghai led to a bloody gash on my shin. The on-site medic patched it up immediately, cleaning off the arterial spray and dressing the wound before advising me to seek hospital for stitches. A quick phone call to the insurance company advised me as to the options that were available to me and I headed to the New East Hospital with the intention of visiting the international wing. My arrival after 6pm on a Saturday for a non-emergency put paid to that and I had to wait for stitches at the normal Chinese hospital.” – Henry Church If you don’t have health insurance, then it’s going to cost you a small fortune for the type of rehabilitative care that sports injuries often need. You can pay your own way at any of the major international hospitals, all local hospitals and private physiotherapists, but as with everything else, you get what you pay for – specialist care doesn’t come cheap.

There is a cheaper remedial option. Traditional Chinese Medicine, and acupuncture in particular, have gained an ever-expanding place in sports medicine. The NBA’s Muggsy Bogues, the NHL’s Jaromir Jagr and Olympic bronze medallist speed skater Kevin Overland have all used acupuncture as an aid to speed up recovery.

“My hamstring was ruptured and required intensive physiotherapy on it. This was carried out at Beijing United Family Hospital where I received therapeutic ultrasound and electrotherapy for several months. The hamstring healed and full

in treating sports related injuries. Photo by Sui

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Useful Info

Parkway Health Medical Rehabilitation Center specializes

range of movement was regained but this then highlighted that there was a problem with my knee. The course of treatment for that involved an MRI scan and appointments with a number of orthopaedic surgeons culminating in a meeting with the visiting knee specialist where a successful course of treatment – exercises and supplements – was developed for what amounted to treatable wear and tear.“ –Keith Jarman To give an example of how world-class, cutting edge sports medicine is available in Beijing, let’s focus on the humble knee. Dr. Jeffrey Chew is head of a Singapore-based team of joint specialists and visiting consultant at the ParkwayHealth Medical Rehabilitation Center at the Vantone Center on Chaowai. I spoke to Dr. Chew on how the clinic handles knee injuries. He assured me that modern sports medicine’s goal “is to get people back to playing as close to the same level of sport as soon as possible” and that scientific and technological advances are allowing them to do just that. The typical process would begin with the patient getting an MRI scan in Beijing before a Skype consultation with Dr. Chew in Singapore, which would take into account the patient’s own experience and the scan, before working on the course of treatment. Any minor surgery could

BEIJING DCN ORTHAPAEDIC HOSPITAL This was the designated hospital for national athletes during the 2008 Olympics. They offer online consultations with specialists. 19A Fushi Lu, Haidian District. (5271 3366, health@dcn.org.cn) 海淀区阜 石路甲 19 号 ( 建议采用 1024×768 分辨率浏览 ) www.dcn.org.cn

BEIJING UNITED FAMILY HOSPITAL (BJU) Permanent physio department in Beijing supported by visiting orthapaedics and sports medicine specialists from Hong Kong.

Mon-Sat 8.30am-5.30pm. 24-hour emergency care. 2 Jiangtai Lu, Chaoyang District. (5927 7000, 5927 7120 (ER)) 北京和睦家医院 , 朝阳区将台路 2 号 www.ufh.com.cn

BEIJING UNITED FAMILY HOSPITAL REHABILITATION CENTER This new facility offers physical and occupational therapy. Facilities include hydrotherapy and atmospheric oxygen chambers.

Mon-Fri, 8.30am-5pm. 1 Yaojiayuan Bei Erlu (South gate of Dongfeng Park, northwest corner of Yaojiayuan North 2nd Road and Qingnian North Road intersection), Chaoyang District. (8558 1800, bju.rehab@ufh.com.cn) 朝阳区姚家园北二路 1 号 ( 姚家园 北二路与青年北路交叉口西北角 , 东风公园南门 ) www.ufh.com.cn

HORIZON SPORTS MEDICINE CLINIC

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A dedicated FMS and SFMA-certified sports medicine clinic with an emphasis on sports performance, core strength and correcting posture. Official clinic for many Chinese pro sports teams.

Mon-Fri, 9.30am-6.30pm. 4/F, Bldg A, 40 Xingfu Ercun, Chaoyang District. (8438 9966, clinic@winbright.cc) 朝阳区幸福二村 40 号 A 座 4 层 www.horizon-clinic.cc/en

INTERNATIONAL SOS Permanent physio department in Beijing supported by visiting

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be done in Beijing, with Dr. Chew flying up to carry out the procedure, to ensure the minimum disruption to the patient. This is then followed up with regular online consultations and Dr. Chew overseeing the rehab programme at the Beijing clinic. This type of treatment is becoming widespread.

“I tore my meniscus following hyperextending my standing leg in a tackle. Initial diagnostic testing was at Beijing International SOS, where the partial tear was revealed in an MRI. An operation was needed to return to high-impact sport, which I decided to have carried out at Bangkok’s Bumrungrad Hospital on the recommendation of a friend who had the same operation. It also combined with a holiday. I was on crutches for two days before it felt comfortable to bare weight again. Four months of moderate-intensity self-physio in the gym and I was back playing.”- Peter Reilly Nowadays, thanks to advancements in sports medicine, the vast majority of injuries are no longer a threat to your continued enjoyment of your favourite pastime. Throw yourself into it. It’s never been a better time to get injured – you’ll be back on your feet in no time.

orthapaedics and sports medicine specialists from Hong Kong. Daily 9am-6pm, 24-hour emergency care. Suite 105, Wing 1, Kunsha Building, 16 Xinyuanli, Chaoyang District (6462 9112, china.inquiries@internationalsos.com) 朝阳区新源里 16 号琨莎中心一座 105 室

JOYFUL BLISS Offers Western physiotherapy alongside Traditional Chinese Medicine. Mon-Fri, 10am-10pm, Sat & Sun, 10am-11pm. 3/F, 32 Liangmaqiao Lu (next to Golden Land), Chaoyang District. (136 1125 2085) 亮马桥路 32 号高澜大厦附楼三层

OASIS INTERNATIONAL HOSPITAL Sports medicine focuses on post-operative rehabilitation and physical therapy. Mon-Fri, 9.30am-6.30pm, Sat & Sun, 8.30am12.30pm, 24-hour emergency care. 9 Jiuxianqiao Beilu, Chaoyang District, Chaoyang District. (400 876 2747) 朝阳区朝阳区酒 仙桥北路 9 号 www.oasishealth.cn

PARKWAYHEALTH MEDICAL REHABILITATION CENTER This clinic houses China’ s first DBC system, while the Singapore-based chain has links with many professional sports teams worldwide. Mon-Sat, 10am-6pm. 1 and 2/F, Vantone Center, 6 Chaoyangmenwai Dajie, Chaoyang District. (4000 662 882, enquiry@parkwayhealth.cn) 朝阳区朝阳门外大街甲六号万桶中心 AB 座一层和二层 www.parkwayhealth.cn

VISTA CLINIC Sports medicine centers on permanent physiotherapy department and orthapaedic specialists from Beijing’ s top hospitals.

3/F Kerry Centre Shopping Mall, 1 Guanghua Lu, Chaoyang District. (8529 6618) 朝阳区光华路 1 号北京嘉里中心商场 3 层 www. vista-china.net

Glossary

Body Parts

1 Emergencies 急救 Jíjiù Sentences • Help! 救命！ Jiùmìng!

• Call an ambulance 叫救护车 Jiào jiùhùchē!

• Get a doctor! 叫医生！ Jiào yīshēng!

• Take me to the nearest international hospital 送我到最近的国际医院 Sòng wǒ dào zuìjìn de guójì yīyuàn • Take me to Beijing Emergency Medical Center 送我到北京市急救中心 Sòng wǒ dào Běijīngshì Jíjiù Zhōngxīn • Call my ... 打电话给我的 ... Dǎ diànhuà gěi wǒ de ...

(1) boss 老板 lǎobǎn

(2) company 公司 gōngsī

(3) husband 丈夫 zhàngfu (4) wife 妻子 qīzǐ (5) spouse 爱人 àiren

2 Basics 基础词汇 Jīchǔ cíhuì Sentences • Where is the nearest 最近的 ... 在哪儿？ Zuìjìn de…zài nǎr?

(1) emergency room 急救室 jíjiùshì

(2) pharmacy 药房 yàofáng

(3) optometrist 眼镜店 yǎnjìng diàn • Is there an English-speaking physician here? 这儿有会说英语的医生吗？ Zhèr yǒu huì shuō yīngyǔ de yīshēng ma?

• Is there a 24-hour hotline? 有 24 小时热线电话吗？ Yǒu èrshísì xiǎoshí rèxiàn diànhuà ma?

• I would like to find an English-speaking doctor 我想要一个会讲英语的医生 Wǒ xiǎng yào yí gè huì jiǎng yīngyǔ de yīshēng

• I have health insurance 我有医疗保险 Wǒ yǒu yīliáo bǎoxiǎn • I have BUPA insurance 我有 BUPA 保险 Wǒ yǒu BUPA bǎoxiǎn • I work for ... company 我在 ... 公司 Wǒ zài ... gōngsī • My company will pay for the costs 我的公司会负责医疗费 Wǒ de gōngsī huì fùzé yīliáofèi

3 Making an appointment 预约 Yùyuē Sentences • I need to make an appointment for a ... 我想预约 ... Wǒ xiǎng yùyuē …

(1)

(3) pediatrician 儿科医生 érkē yīshēng

(4) gynecologist 妇科医生 fùkē yīshēng

(5) obstetrician 产科医生 chǎnkē yīshēng (6) female doctor 女医生 nǚ yīshēng

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general checkup 综合体检 zōnghé tǐjiǎn (2) dentist 牙医 yáyī

Glossary (7) psychologist 心理医生 xīnlǐ yīshēng (8) traditional Chinese Medicine doctor 中医大夫 zhōngyī dàifū

(9) acupuncturist 针灸师 zhēnjiūshī

(10) specialist 专家 zhuānjiā

(11) x-ray 照 X 光 zhào x guāng

• Can the doctor make a house call? 医生可以出诊吗 ? Yīshēng kěyǐ chū zhěn ma?

• Do I need … ? 我需不需要 ... Wǒ xū bù xūyào…

(1) to pay with cash 付现金 fù xiànjīn (2) a credit card 信用卡 xìnyòngkǎ (3) insurance 买保险 mǎi bǎoxiǎn

• How much is the registration fee? 挂号费多少钱 ? Guàhàofèi duōshao qián?

4 Seeing the doctor

看医生 Kàn yīshēng

Listen for this • Nǎr téng? 哪儿疼？ Where does it hurt?

• Zhèyàng duōjiǔ le? 这样多久了？ How long have you had this condition?

• Yǐqián yǒuguò zhèzhǒng qíngkuàng ma? 以前有过这种情况吗？ Have you had this before?

(1) the flu 感冒 gǎnmào

(2) pneumonia 肺炎 fèiyán

(3) avian flu 禽流感 qínliúgǎn

(4) constipation 便秘 biànmì

(5) malaria 疟疾 nuèji

(6) Japanese encephalitis 乙型脑炎 yǐxíng nǎoyán

(7) a sexually transmitted disease 性病 xìngbìng

(9) a broken bone 骨头断了 gǔtou duàn le

(8) sand in my eye 眼睛里进沙子了 yǎnjīng lǐ jìn shāzi le • Here are my symptoms: 我有这些症状 : Wǒ yǒu zhèxiē zhèng zhuàng: (1) dizziness 头晕 tóuyūn

(2) fever 发烧 fāshāo

(3) stomach problems 胃不好 wèi bù hǎo

(4) dry skin 皮肤干燥 pífū gānzào (5) excess phlegm 多痰 duō tán

(6) diarrhea 拉肚子 lādùzi

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(6) (think I) am pregnant（想我）怀孕了 (xiǎng wǒ) huáiyùn le

• I am allergic to ... 我对 ... 过敏 Wǒ duì … guòmǐn (1) anti-inflammatories 消炎药 xiāoyányào

(2) antibiotics 抗生素 kàngshēngsù

(3) bee stings 蜜蜂蛰 mìfēng zhē

(6) nuts 坚果 jiānguǒ

(4) codeine 可待因 kědàiyīn (5) eggs 鸡蛋 jīdàn

(7) opiates 安眠药 ānmiányào

(8) pain killers 止疼药 zhǐténgyào

(9) penicillin 青霉素 qīngméisù

(11) sulfa drugs 磺胺药 huáng’ānyào

(10) shellfish 贝类 bèilèi

• I’ve been vaccinated against ... 我已经打过 ... 预防针了 Wǒ yǐjīng dǎ guò … yùfángzhēn le

(1) hepatitis 肝炎 gānyán

(2) rabies 狂犬病 kuángquǎnbìng

(4) typhoid 伤寒 shānghán

(5) Japanese encephalitis 乙型脑炎 yǐxíng nǎoyán (6) malaria 疟疾 nuèji

Listen for this • Fāshāo ma? 发烧吗？ Do you have a fever?

• Nǐ … ma? 你 ... 吗 ?

Do you ...

(2) chōuyān 抽烟 smoke

• I think I have ... 我觉得我 ( 得了 )... Wǒ juéde wǒ (dé le) …

• I ... 我 ... Wǒ …

(1) was stung by a bee 被蜜蜂蛰了 bèi mìfēng zhē le

(2) was in a fight 跟人打架了 gēn rén dǎjià le

(3) have asthma 有哮喘 yǒu xiàochuǎn

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(5) am on medications 在接受药物治疗 zài jiēshòu yàowù zhìliáo

(1) hējiǔ 喝酒 drink

Sentences

(3) tetanus 破伤风 pòshāngfēng

• Nǐ nǎr bù shūfu? 你哪儿不舒服？ What’s the problem?

(4) am diabetic 有糖尿病 yǒu tángniàobìng

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(3) xīdú 吸毒 take illegal drugs • Nǐ … 你 ... Are you ...

(1) duì shénme guòmǐn ma? 对什么过敏吗 ? allergic to anything?

(2) zài jiēshòu yàowù zhìliáo ma? 在接受药物治疗吗 ? on medication?

(3) xìngshēnghuó zhèngcháng ma? 性生活正常吗 ? sexually active?

(4) lái lìjià le ma? 来例假了吗 ? on your period?

• Qǐng tuō diào … 请脱掉 ... Please remove your …

(1) shàngyī 上衣 top

(2) kùzi 裤子 pants

• Qǐng tǎng zhèr 请躺这儿 Please lie down here • Shēn hūxī 深呼吸 Breathe deeply • Niǔtóu késòu 扭头咳嗽 Turn your head and cough • Wǒ děi kàn nǐ de … 我得看你的 ... I need to take your …

(1) X guāng piàn X 光片 X-ray

(2) dàbiàn yàngběn 大便样本 stool sample

(3) xuěyàng 血样 blood sample

(4) niàoyàng 尿样 urine sample (5) biǎntáotǐ 扁桃体 tonsil sample • Nǐ děi zuò jìnyíbù jiǎnchá 你得做进一步检查 You need further tests • Wǒ yào bǎ nǐ zhuǎn gěi zhuānjiā yīshī 我要把你转给专家医师 I’m going to refer you to a specialist

Glossary Watch for this • emergency ward 急救病房 jíjiù bìngfáng • operating (room) 手术（手术室）shǒushù (shǒushùshì)

6 Medicine and medical tools 药品和医疗器械 Yàopǐn hé yīliáo qìxiè

• internal medicine 内服药 nèifú yào

Vocabulary

• external medicine 外用药 wàiyòng yào

antacid 抗酸剂 kàngsuānjì

antibiotics 抗生素 kàngshēngsù

• traditional Chinese medicine 中医 zhōngyī

ibuprofen 布洛芬 bùluòfēn

Immodium 易蒙停 yìméngtíng

• moxibustion 艾炙 àizhì

• acupuncture 针灸 zhēnjiū

antiseptic 消毒剂 xiāodújì

inhaler 吸入器 xīrùqì

• surgery 外科 wàikē

• pediatrics 儿科 érkē

aspirin 阿司匹林 āsīpīlín

injector 注射器 zhùshèqì

• obstetrics 产科 chǎnkē

• gynecology 妇科 fùkē

laxative 泻药 xièyào

omotil 止泻宁 zhǐxièníng

• dentistry 牙科 yákē

• dermatology 皮肤科 pífūkē

Tylenol 泰诺 Tàinuò

vitamin/s 维他命 wéitāmìng

• optometry 验光 yànguāng • radiology 放射科 fàngshèkē

malaria tablets 疟疾药 nuèjiyào

dramamine 晕海宁 yūnhǎiníng

• psychiatric care 精神病科 jīngshénbìngkē

eye drops 眼药水 yǎnyàoshuǐ

syringe 注射器 zhùshèqì

• orthodontics 畸齿矫正 jīchǐ jiàozhèng

thermometer 体温计 tǐwēnjì

floss 牙线 yáxiàn

lip balm 润唇膏 rùnchúngāo

tampons 棉球 miánqiú

sun cream 防晒霜 fángshàishuāng

iodine 碘酒 diǎnjiǔ

5 At the pharmacy 在药店 Zài yàodiàn Sentences • Do you have … 你们有没有 ...

Nǐmen yǒu méiyǒu …

(1) Chinese medicine 中药 zhōngyào

(2) Western medicine 西药 xīyào

hand moisturizer 护手霜 hùshǒushuāng deodorant 除臭剂 chúchòujì sanitary pads 卫生巾 wèishēngjīn

condoms 避孕套 bìyùntào

birth control pills 避孕药 bìyùnyào

re-hydration salts 盐水 yánshuǐ

pregnancy test 妊娠测试 rènshēn cèshì cough medicine 止咳药 zhǐkéyào

(3) Herbal medicine 草药 cǎoyào

rubbing alcohol 外用酒精 wàiyòng jiǔjīng sleeping pill/s 安眠药 ānmiányào

• I need a refill of this medication 我要换药 Wǒ yào huàn yào

Acetaminophen (a replacement for aspirin) 退热净 tuìrèjìng

• I need something for my ... 我要开点治 ... 的药 Wǒ yào kāi diǎn zhì … de yào

Golden Throat (throat losenge) 金嗓子喉宝 jīnsǎngzi hóubǎo

(2) diarrhea 拉肚子 lādùzi

calamine lotion 炉甘石液 lúgānshí yè

(1) stomach ache 胃疼 wèi téng

(5) cold 感冒 gǎnmào

(3) constipation 便秘 biànmì

(7) headache 头疼 tóu téng

(4) flu 流感 liúgǎn

(6) dry skin 皮肤干燥 pífū gānzào

band aid 创可贴 ( 邦迪 ) chuàngkětiē (bāngdí) contact lens / eyeglass fluid 隐形眼镜 / 眼镜药水 yǐnxíng yǎnjìng / yǎnjìng yàoshuǐ

• How often should I take it? 多久吃一次 ? Duōjiǔ chī yí cì?

• For how long should I take it? 要吃多久 ? Yào chī duōjiǔ?

• Can I drink alcohol while on this medication? 吃药期间能喝酒吗 ? Chī yào qījiān néng hē jiǔ ma?

• How do I take this? 这个药怎么用？ Zhègè yào zěnme yòng?

Listen for this • kǒufú 口服 take orally • wàiyòng 外用 external remedy • Nǐ yǒu chǔfāng ma? 你有处方吗？ Do you have a prescription?

• Mǎi zhègè yào xūyào yǒu chǔfāng 买这个药需要有处方 You need a prescription to buy this medicine

7 At the optometrist 验光配镜 Yànguāng pèijìng Sentences • I need new ... 我想要一副新的 ... Wǒ xiǎng yào yī fù xīnde …

(1) glasses 眼镜 yǎnjìng

(2) contact lenses 隐型眼镜 yǐnxíng yǎnjìng

(3) frames 眼镜框 yǎnjìng kuàng (4) prescriptions 镜片 jìngpiàn

• My prescription is 150 我的验光报告是 150 度 Wǒ de yànguāng bàogào shì yìbǎiwǔshí dù

beijingkids 93

Useful Info

2013 BeijingKids Health Guide

Glossary • Can I take an eye test? 我能测一下视力吗 ? Wǒ néng cè yí xià shìlì ma?

• How much will it cost? 多少钱 ? Duōshǎo qián?

• When can I pick them up? 我什么时候来取 ? Wǒ shénme shíhou lái qǔ?

Emergency Card (Please fill out and photocopy as needed)

• Can I have a receipt for my insurance? 能给我一张保险的发票吗 ?

Néng gěi wǒ yì zhāng bǎoxiǎn de fāpiào ma?

(1) My name is

Listen for this

我叫

• Zuǒbiān hǎo hái shì yòubiān hǎo? 左边好还是右边好 ? Which one is better, left or right?

Wǒ jiào

• sǎnguāng 散光 astigmatism

8 At the dentist 看牙医 Kàn yáyī Sentences • My tooth hurts 我牙疼 Wǒ yá téng

(2) My home telephone number is

我家电话是

Wǒ jiā diànhuà shì

• I want my teeth cleaned 我想洗牙 Wǒ xiǎng xǐ yá

(3) In an emergency, take me to

• I want my teeth whitened 我想美白牙齿 Wǒ xiǎng měibái yáchǐ

I am affiliated with

• I think I need a filling 我可能得补牙 Wǒ kěnéng děi bǔ yá

(company, school, or organization)

• Can I get … ? 我能用 ... 吗 ? Wǒ néng yòng … ma?

如遇紧急情况请送我到

(2) novocaine 局部麻醉 júbù mázuì

我是

(1) anesthetic 麻醉 mázuì

(3) nitrous (oxide) 笑气 ( 一氧化二氮 ) xiàoqì (yīyǎnghuà’èrdàn)

(4) a porcelain filling 陶瓷补牙 táocí bǔ yá

• It hurts / doesn’t hurt 好疼 !/ 一点儿也不疼 Hǎo téng!/Yì diǎnr yě bù téng

Rú yù jǐnjí qíngkuàng qǐng sòng wǒ dào

Wǒ shì

• Stop! 停一下 ! Tíng yí xià!

Listen for this • Wǎng hòu tǎng 往后躺 Lie back

（公司，学校或组织）成员

(gōngsī, xuéxiào huò zǔzhī) chéngyuán

(4) My insurance provider is

我购买了

Wǒ gòumǎi lè

的保险 dè bǎoxiǎn

• Shùkǒu 漱口 Rinse and spit • Tóu wǎng hòu yǎng 头往后仰 Tilt your head back

(5) Policy number

• Zhāng dà diǎnr 张大点儿 Open wider

保险号码为

• Yǎo hé 咬合 Bite down • Wǒmen lái zhào zhāng X guāng piàn 我们来照张 X 光片 We need to take an x-ray • Rúguǒ téng de huà gàosu wǒ 如果疼的话告诉我 Let me know if it hurts • Nǐ hái děi zài lái yí cì 你还得再来一次

Useful Info

You need to come back again (for another appointment)

2013 BeijingKids Health Guide

，他们会支付所有费用

Bǎoxiǎn hàomǎ wéi

, tāmen huì zhīfù suǒyǒu fèiyòng

(6) I have allergies to

medications

I am currently on

我对

94 beijingkids

, and they will pay all my bills

Wǒ duì

过敏。我现在在服用 guòmǐn. Wǒ xiànzài zài fúyòng

药 yào

Dental Clinics Arrail Dental Clinic 1) Mon-Thu 9am5pm, Fri-Sun 9am-5pm. Rm A205, CITIC Bldg, 19 Jianguomenwai Dajie, Chaoyang District. (6500 6472/3); 2) Mon-Thu 9am5.30pm. Rm 308, Raycom Infotech Park, Tower A, 2 Kexueyuan Nanlu, Haidian District. (8286 1956, 24hr: 139 1100 1367); 3) Mon-Thu 9am-6pm, Fri-Sun 9am5.30pm. Rm 201, The Exchange-Beijing, B118 Jianguo Lu, Chaoyang District. (6567 5670); 4) Mon-Thu 9am-5.30pm, Fri-Sun 9am-5pm. 1/F, Somerset Fortune Garden, 46 Liangmaqiao Lu, Chaoyang District.

(8440 1926/7/8) www.arrail-dental.com 瑞尔齿科, 1) 朝阳区建国门外大街19号国 际大厦A205; 2) 海淀区科学院南路2号融 科资讯中心A座308室; 3) 朝阳区建国路乙 118号京汇大厦201室; 4) 朝阳区亮马桥路 46号盛捷福景苑1层 Bayley and Jackson Dental Services Mon-Fri 9am-6pm, Sat 9am-5.30pm. 7 Ritan Donglu, Chaoyang District. (8562 9998, after-hours emergencies 8562 9990, bjmc@ikang.com) www.bjhealthcare.com 朝阳区日坛东路7号 Bayley & Jackson Medical Center Mon-Sat 9am-6pm. 7 Ritan Donglu, Chaoyang District. (8562 9998, billing@ikang. com) www.bjhealthcare.com 庇利积臣医 疗中心, 朝阳区日坛东路7号 Beijing 21st Century Hospital Mon-Fri 9am-7pm, Sat-Sun 9am-6pm; 24-hr house call service. 1-2/F, 21st Century Plaza, A40 Liangmaqiao Lu, Chaoyang District. (8444 6168 (English/Chinese), 8444 6169 (Japanese/Korean)) http://www.21-hospital.com 朝阳区亮马桥路甲40号21世纪大厦1-2楼 Beijing United Family Hospital Dental Clinic 2 Jiangtai Lu, Chaoyang District.

(5927 7058) www.ufh.com.cn 北京和睦家 医院牙科, 朝阳区将台路2号 Beijing United Family Hospital Shunyi Dental Clinic Mon-Thu 9am-7.20pm, Fri-Sat 9am-5.30pm. 818 Pinnacle Plaza, Tianzhu Real Estate Development Zone, Shunyi District. (8046 1102) www.ufh. com.cn 和睦家顺义牙科诊所, 顺义区天竺 开发区荣祥广场818 Beijing Vista Dental Clinic Daily 8.30am-6pm. Level 3, Kerry Centre, 1 Guanghua Lu, Chaoyang District. (vista@ vista-china.net) www.vista-china.net 朝阳 区光华路1号北京嘉里中心三层 Elite Dental Clinic Mon-Sat 8.30am5.30pm. Rm 205, Tower A, Boya International Center, 1 Lize Zhongyi Lu, Wangjing, Chaoyang District. (8256 2568) 精致口腔, 朝阳区望京利泽中一路1号博雅国际中心A 座205室 GlobalCare Dental Clinic Mon-Fri 9am5pm. 24 Xidawang Lu, Chaoyang District.

(6770 5558 - English hotline) www.globalcarecn.com 朝阳区西大望路24号 IDC Dental Daily 9am-6pm. Rm 209, Bldg 7, Yard 9, Richmond Park Clubhouse, Fangyuan Nanli, Chaoyang District. (6538 8111, info@idcdentalbj.com) www.idcdentalbj.com IDC国际齿科中心, 朝阳区芳园南 里9号院7号楼209室 IMC Dental Clinic Mon-Sat 9am-5pm.

S111, Lufthansa Center, 50 Liangmahe Lu, Chaoyang District. (6465 1384, 6465 1328, marketing@imcclinics.com) 北京国 际医疗中心牙科诊所, 朝阳区亮马桥路50号 燕莎中心写字楼1层S111

Joinway Dental Clinic Mon-Sat 9am6pm. 11D, Bldg D, Oriental Kenzo Plaza, 48 Dongzhimenwai Dajie, Dongcheng Dis-

King’s Dental Daily 9am-9pm. Shop 118, 1/F, Beijing Towercrest Plaza, 3 Maizidian Xilu, Chaoyang District. (8458 0388, fax: 8458 0603) www.kingsdental.com 京典口 腔, 朝阳区麦子店西路3号新恒基大厦1层 118室 May Flower Dental 1) Rm 03-06, 3/F, Tower 2, China World Office, Jianguomenwai Dajie, Chaoyang District. (6505 8033, info@mayflowerdental.com.cn); 2) 3/F, Bldg 2, Yingtai Business Center, 28 Financial Street, Xicheng District. (6657 8833, info@mayflowerdental.com.cn) www. mayflowerdental.com.cn 五月花口腔诊所, 1) 朝阳区建国门外大街国贸写字楼2座3层 03-06; 2) 西城区金融大街28号盈泰中心2 号楼3层 OASIS Dental Clinic Mon-Sat 6am-9pm.

9 Jiuxianqiao Beilu, Chaoyang District.

(5985 0305) 朝阳区酒仙桥北路9号 SDM Dental 1) Daily 9am-8pm. East of the Basement, Sunshine Plaza, 68 Anli Lu, Chaoyang District. (6497 2173, 6498 2173); 2) 2层NB210. NB 210, B2/F, China World Shopping Mall, 1 Jianguomenwai Dajie, Chaoyang District. (6505 9439); 3) Daily 9am-8pm. FC222, 21st Century Hotel, 40 Liangmaqiao Lu, Chaoyang District. (6466 4814, 6461 2745); 4) LB107, Euro Plaza, 99 Yuxiang Lu, Tianzhu Town, Shunyi District. (8046 6084); 5) Daily 9am-8pm. Rm 106, Bldg 11, 22 Yuanda lu (near Golden Resources Department Store), Haidian District. (8859 6912/13) www.sdmdental.com 固瑞齿科, 1) 朝阳区 安立路68号阳光大厦东侧底商; 2) 朝阳区 建国门外大街1号国贸商场地下2层NB210; 3) 朝阳区亮马桥路40号二十一世纪饭店 FC222; 4) 顺义区天竺镇裕祥路99号欧陆广 场LB107; 5) 海淀区远大路22号11号楼106 室 (金源时代购物中心斜对面) Smart Health Medical & Dental Center Daily 9am-6pm. Rm 102/215, Lido Place, 6 Jiangtai Lu, Chaoyang District. (6437 6898, 136 9921 5851) www. hmmp.com.hk, www.smarthealth.cn 北京 维健医疗中心, 朝阳区将台路6号丽都广场 102/215室

Emergency Services 120 Ambulance Service (dial 120) Beijing 999 Ambulance Service (dial 999) Beijing Emergency Medical Center 103 Qianmen Xidajie, Xuanwu District.

(6609 8114) http://www.beijing120.com/ 北京市急救中心, 宣武区前门西大街103号 International SOS Mon-Fri 9am-6pm, Sat-Sun 9am-6pm. Ste 105, Wing 1, Kunsha Building, 16 Xinyuanli, Chaoyang District. (Clinic: 6462 9112, 24hr hotline 6462 9100, china.inquiries@internationalsos.com) www.internationalsos.com, www.clinicsinchina.com 北京国际救援中 心, 朝阳区新源里16号琨莎中心一座105室 See p83 for more Emergency Services contacts

General Hospitals and Clinics Bayley & Jackson Medical Center Mon-Sat 9am-6pm. 7 Ritan Donglu, Chaoyang District. (8562 9998, billing@ikang. com) www.bjhealthcare.com 庇利积臣医 疗中心, 朝阳区日坛东路7号 Beijing 21st Century Hospital Mon-Fri 9am-7pm, Sat-Sun 9am-6pm; 24-hr house call service. 1-2/F, 21st Century Plaza, A40 Liangmaqiao Lu, Chaoyang District. (8444 6168 (English/Chinese), 8444 6169 (Japanese/Korean)) www.21-hospital.com 朝阳 区亮马桥路甲40号21世纪大厦1-2楼

Beijing Friendship Hospital Daily 6.30am-4.30pm, 24hr emergency care. 95 Yong’an Lu, Xuanwu District. (6301 4411 ext 3482) www.bfh.com.cn 北京友谊医院, 宣武区永安路95号

District. (Clinic: 6462 9112, 24hr hotline 6462 9100, china.inquiries@internationalsos.com) www.internationalsos.com, www.clinicsinchina.com 北京国际救援中 心, 朝阳区新源里16号琨莎中心一座105室

Beijing Orient Care Clinic Mon-Sun 9am-6pm. Unit 102, Business Building 16, China Central Place, 89 Jianguo Lu, Chaoyang District. (Chi/Eng 6598 1887, Jpn 6598 1823, service@rentaimedical.com) www. rentaimedical.com 北京仁泰门诊部, 朝阳 区建国路89号华贸中心16号商务楼102

King’s Garden Hospital Mon-Sun 8.30am5.30pm. 18 Xiaoyun Lu, Chaoyang District.

(6468 1355/6468 1356) 京润医院, 朝阳区 朝阳区霄云路18号京润水上花园别墅

Beijing Puhua International Clinic Mon-Sun 9am-6pm. 54 Wusheng Beilu, Dongsanhuan, Chaoyang District. (8773 5522, 5245 2585 (24hr hotline)) www. puhuaclinic.com 北京普华门诊, 朝阳区东 三环武圣北路54号 Beijing Tiantan Puhua International Hospital 7am-10pm (Mon-Fri). 8am10pm (Sat-Sun). 12 Tiantan Nanli, Chongwen District, 800m west of the south gate of the temple of heaven, Chongwen District. (67020836, puhuachina@gmail.com) www.puhuachina.com, www.puhuachina. cn 北京天坛普华医院, 北京天坛普华体检 中心, 崇文区天坛南里12号 Beijing United Family Hospital (BJU) Mon-Sat 8.30am-5.30pm. 24-hour emergency care. 2 Jiangtai Lu, Chaoyang District. (5927 7000, 5927 7120 (ER), fax 5927 7200) www.ufh.com.cn 北京和睦家 医院, 朝阳区将台路2号 Beijing United Family Hospital Jianguomen Health and Wellness Center Mon-Fri 8.30am-12pm,1pm-3.30pm. B1/F, The St. Regis Residence, St. Regis Hotel, 21 Jianguomenwai Dajie, Chaoyang District. (8532 1221; 8532 1678 (immigration clinic) www.ufh.com.cn 和睦家建国门保健 中心, 朝阳区建国门外大街21号北京国际俱 乐部饭店公寓楼地下1层 Beijing United Family Hospital Liangma Clinic Mon-Fri 8.30am-5pm. 2/ F, Grand Summit, 19 Dongfang Donglu, Chaoyang District. (5927 7005) www.ufh. com.cn 和睦家亮马诊所, 朝阳区东方东路 19号1号楼会所27号 (外交人员公寓B区官 舍16号) Beijing United Family Hospital Shunyi Clinic Mon-Thu 9.30am-7.30pm, Fri-Sun 9.30am-4.30pm. Unit 806, Pinnacle Plaza, Tianzhu Real Estate Development Zone, Shunyi District. (8046 5432, fax 8046 4383) www.ufh.com.cn 和睦家顺义诊所, 顺义区天竺开发区荣祥广场806号 China-Japan Friendship Hospital Yinghua Donglu, Heping Jie, Chaoyang District. (8420 5122) www.zryhyy.com.cn 北京中日友好医院, 朝阳区和平街樱花东路

OASIS International Hospital Daily 24hrs (emergency care), Mon-Fri 9am6pm, Sun 8.30-12.30am. 9 Jiuxianqiao Beilu, Chaoyang District, Chaoyang District. (400 UR OASIS (876 2747)) www. oasishealth.cn 明德医院, 朝阳区朝阳区酒 仙桥北路9号 Parkway Health Medical Rehabilitation Center 1 and 2/F, Vantone Center, 6 Chaoyangmenwai Dajie, Chaoyang District. (4000 662 882) 朝阳区朝阳门外大街 甲六号万桶中心AB座一层和二层 Peking Union Medical College Hospital Mon-Fri 8am5pm. 1 Shuaifuyuan, Wangfujing (the foreigners’ wing is located behind and to the left of the main hospital entrance), Dongcheng District. (6529 5284, 24hr em, 6529 5269) www.pumch. ac.cn 北京协和医院, 东城区王府井帅府园 1号 (接待外国人的区域在主楼的左后方) Peking University First Hospital 8 Xishiku Dajie, Xicheng District. (6529 6114) 北京医科大学第一医院, 西城区西什 库大街8号 People’s Hospital of Peking University11 Xizhimen Nandajie, Xicheng District. (6831 4422) 北京大学人民医院, 西城 区西直门南大街11号 Sino-Japanese Friendship Hospital Mon-Fri 8am-noon, 1.30-5pm, Sat 8-11.30am. 24hr emergency care. Yinghua Dongjie, Heping Jie Beikou, Hepingli, Chaoyang District. (6428 2297, 8420 5122 (both numbers are valid for International Dept.)) www.zryhyy.com.cn 北京中日友好 医院, 朝阳区和平里和平街北口樱花东街 The New World Eaton Medical Center 9am-6pm. 5/F, Beijing New World Shopping Mall, Chongwen District. (6708 5077) http:// www.eatonclinic.com/index1.asp 新世界耀 东诊所, 崇文区崇文门新世界百货5层 Tongren Hospital 2 Chongwenmennei Dajie, Dongcheng District. (5826 9911 ext. 5798/5799) www.trhos.com 北京同仁 医院, 东城区崇文区崇文门内大街2号 Vista Medical Center Daily 24hrs. 3/F, Kerry Centre, 1 Guanghua Lu, Chaoyang District. (8529 6618, fax 8529 6615, vista@ vista-china.net) www.vista-china.net 维世 达诊所, 朝阳区光华路1号嘉里中心3层

Flower Medical Center of Beijing Daily 9am-8pm. 1/F Hengyang Dasha, 15 Tuanjiehu Nanli (near Jin Ding Xuang restaurant), Chaoyang District. (8597 7096, info@flowermedical.cn) www.flowermedical.cn 北京花家地门诊部, 朝阳区朝阳区团 结湖路南里15号 恒祥大厦1层南侧

Cancer Treatment

Hong Kong International Medical Clinic, Beijing Daily 9am-9pm (after 9pm nurse on duty). 9/F, Office tower of the Swissôtel, 2 Chaoyangmen Beidajie, Dongcheng District. (65532288 ext 2345/6/7, 6553 9752) www.hkclinic.com 北京港澳国际医务诊所, 东城区北京港澳国 际医务诊所, 朝阳门北大街2号港澳中心瑞 士酒店办公楼9层

Beijing United Family New Hope Center Mon-Fri 9am-5pm. 9-11 Jiangtai Xilu, Chaoyang District. (5927 7008) www. ufh.com.cn 和睦家启望中心, 朝阳区朝阳 区将台西路9-11

International Medical Center (IMC) Daily 24hrs. S106, S111 Lufthansa Center, 50 Liangmahe Lu, Chaoyang District.

(6465 1561/2/3, 6465 1384/28, marketing@imcclinics.com) www.imcclinics.com/ 北京国际医疗中心, 朝阳区亮马桥路50号燕 莎中心写字楼1层S106 International SOS Mon-Fri 9am-6pm, Sat-Sun 9am-6pm. Suite 105, Wing 1, Kunsha Building, 16 Xinyuanli, Chaoyang

Cancer Institute and Hospital 17 Panjiayuan Nanli, Chaoyang District. (6778 1331) www.cicams.ac.cn/cicams_en/web/ index.aspx 中国医学科学院肿瘤医院, 朝阳 区潘家园南里17号

Chiropractors and Orthopedic Hospitals Beijing DCN Orthopedic Hospital 19 Fushi Lu, Haidian District. (5271 3366, 5271 3366 (fax), health@dcn.org.cn) www.dcn.org.cn 德尔康尼骨科医院版权所 有, 海淀区阜石路19号 BNH Hospital Beijing (Rep Office) Daily 24 hours. 6/F, W2 Oriental Plaza, 1 Dong Chang’an Dajie, Dongcheng District.

(8520 0442) http://www.bnhhospital.com 东城区东长安大街1号东方广场W2座6层

2013 BeijingKids Health Guide

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Directories

International SOS Dental, Orthodontics Clinic Mon-Sat 9am-5pm. Suite 105, Wing 1, Kunsha Building, 16 Xinyuanli, Chaoyang District. (6462 0333) www.clinicsinchina.com 国际SOS齿科,畸齿矫正诊 所, 朝阳区新源里16号琨莎中心一座105室

trict. (8447 6092/93, 132 6181 6708/139 0109 6692 English, joinway@dentalcn. com) www.dentalcn.com 久汇齿科, 东城 区东直门外大街48号银座大厦D座11D

Chiropractic and Rehabilitation with Dr. David Zhang Medical services 24hrs; Dental services 8.30am-6pm (Mon-Fri), 8.30am-12pm (Sat); Integrated medical service 8.30am-5.30pm (Mon-Fri). 3/F, 32 Liangmaqiao Lu, Chaoyang District. (64336232) 北京国际医疗中心, 朝阳区金佰健康 会馆, 亮马桥路32号高斓大厦附楼三层

Dermatology Capital City Dermatology Hospital Daily 8am-8pm. 4 Shuangquanpu, Deshengmenwai, Chaoyang District. (400 6500 877 (free), 6488 8999) www.pf110.com/ english/index.html 北京京城皮肤病医院, 朝阳区德胜门外双泉堡甲4号

Eye Clinics and Hospitals Beijing Aier-Intech Eye Hospital Daily 8.30am-4.30pm. 1, 4, 5/F Panjiayuan Plaza, 12 Panjiayuan Nanli, Chaoyang District. (6773 2700, customerservice@ intecheye.com) www.intecheye.com 英智 眼科医院, 朝阳区潘家园南里12号潘家园大 厦1, 4, 5层 Beijing Huade Eye Hospital 8am-noon, 1-5pm. 179 Chaoyang Beilu, Chaoyang District. (6502 5061) www.5i5eye.com/ 北 京华德眼科医院, 朝阳区朝阳北路179号 Beijing Mihe Eye Hospital 11 Yongle Dongxiaoqu, Lugu Lu, Shijingshan District.

(6866 9720; 137 0108 9390, mx@mxyl. com) http://www.mxyl.com/ 米赫眼科医院, 石景山区石景山鲁谷路永乐东小区11号楼 Beijing United Family Hospital See General Hospitals and Clinics.

Eye Hospital of China Academy of CMS Daily 24 hours. 9 Lugu Lu, Shijingshan District. (6868 3975, zdaming2006@163.com) www.chinaeyecare.com 中国中医科学院眼科医院, 石 景山区石景山鲁谷路9号 Medical Laser and Esthetic Surgery Center of the Air Force PLA Hospital Daily 8am-noon, 2-5pm. 30 Fucheng Lu, Haidian District. (6848 9948) www.unilaser.net 空军总医院激光整形美容中心, 海 淀区阜城路30号 OASIS International Hospital See General Hospitals and Clinics.

Maternity and Women’s Health Alice Gynecology Hospital 9 Beisihuai Xilu, Haidian District. (8856 5656) www. bjalice.com 艾丽斯妇科医院, 海淀区北四 怀西路9号 Amcare Women’s & Children’s Hospital 1) Daily 8am-4.30pm. 9 Fangyuan Xilu, Chaoyang District. (6434 2399 24hr hotline, 800 610 6200); 2) 9-9 Jiangtai Xilu, Chaoyang District. www.amcare.com. cn 北京美中宜和妇儿医院, 1) 朝阳区芳园 西路9号; 2) 朝阳区将台西路9-9号

Directories

American-Sino OB/GYN/Pediatrics services Daily 24hrs. Outpatient service (clinic Location). 18 Anyuan Lu, Chaoyang District. (8443 9666) 朝阳区安苑路18号 Inpatient service (Hospital Location). 218 Anwai Xiaoguan Beili, Chaoyang District (8443 9595) 朝阳区安外小关北里218号 www.meihua365.com Beijing Antai Maternity Hospital Daily 8.30am-5pm. Building 18, Court 1, Xingheyuan, Jiayuan Road, Fengtai District. (67735551, 67537768) www. antaihospital.com 北京安太妇产医院, 丰台 区北京丰台嘉园路星河城1号院18号楼 Beijing Maternity Hospital 1) 251, Yaojiayuan Lu, Chaoyang District.; 2) East: 17 Qihelou, Dongcheng District.

(6507 2971) 北京妇产医院, 1) 朝阳区姚家 园路251号; 2) 东城区东院: 骑河楼17号

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Beijing Modern Women’s Hospital 8am-10pm. 337 Dongsi Beidajie, Dongcheng District. (6400 0999) http:// www.bjmwh.com/ 北京当代女子医院, 东 城区东城区东四北大街337号 GlobalCare Women & Children’s Hospital Mon-Sun 8am-8pm, 24h emergency services. 24 Dawang Xilu, Chaoyang District, Chaoyang District. (8776 9899, 800 810 8911, 6770 5558) www.globalcarecn. com 北京五洲妇儿医院, 朝阳区望路西大 24号, 朝阳区 Mary’s Hospital for Women and Infants 8am-5pm. 5 Hepingli Beijie, Chaoyang District. (6421 6666) www.mary. net.cn/ 北京玛丽妇婴医院, 朝阳区和平里 北街5号 (东土城路北口)

Naturopathic and Alternative Medicine Naturopathic Medicine Rm S106, International Medical Center-Beijing, Lufthansa Center Office Building, 50 Liangmaqiao Lu, Chaoyang District. (6465 1561) www. drmelissarodriguez.com 朝阳区朝阳区亮马 桥路50号燕莎中心写字楼1层S106

Pain Treatment Xuanwu Hospital Pain Treatment Center Mon-Tue 8am-12pm, 1-5pm, WedFri 8am-12pm. 45 Changchun Jie, Xuanwu District. (8672 5461, dochmw@hotmail. com) 宣武医院疼痛治疗中心, 宣武区长椿 街45号

Pediatriacs Beijing Children’s Hospital Daily 6.30am-10.30pm. 56 Nanlishi Lu, Xicheng District. (59616161) 北京儿童医院, 西城区 南礼士路56号 Beijing New Century Harmony Pediatric Clinic Harmony Business Center, Liyuan Street, Tianzhu Zhen, Shunyi District. (6456 2599) www.ncich.com.cn 北京 新世纪荣和儿科门诊部, 顺义区天竺镇丽苑 街荣和商业中心 Capital Children’s Clinic (Ritan) Daily 24 hours. 2 Yabao Lu (across from west gate of Ritan Park), Chaoyang District. (8569 5755/5756/5757 (registration)/5555 (main switchboard)/5352) 首都儿科研究, 朝阳区 朝阳区雅宝路2号 New Century International Children’s Hospital (NCICH) Daily 8am-5pm (full services), daily 24hrs (A+E services). 56 Nanlishi Lu (next to the east gate of the Beijing Children’s Hospital), Xicheng District. (6802 5588) www. ncich.com.cn 北京新世纪国际儿童医院, 西 城区南礼士路56号 (北京儿童医院东门南 侧)

Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation Beijing United Family Hospital Rehabilitation Hospital 1 Yaojiayuan Bei Erlu (South gate of Dongfeng Park, northwest corner of Yaojiayuan North 2nd Road and Qingnian North Road intersection), Chaoyang District. (8558 1800, bju.rehab@ufh. com.cn) www.ufh.com.cn 朝阳区姚家园北 二路1号 (姚家园北二路与青年北路交叉口 西北角, 东风公园南门) Horizon Sports Medicine Clinic 4/F, Bldg A, 40 Xingfu Er Cun, Chaoyang District. (8438 9966) www.horizon-clinic.cc/ en/ 朝阳区朝阳区幸福二村40号A座4层g

Stomatological Hospitals Beijing Stomatological Hospital 4 Tiantan Xili, Chongwen District. 北京口腔 医院, 崇文区天坛西里4号

2013 BeijingKids Health Guide

Traditional Chinese Medicine Beijing Dongwen TCM Clinic MonFri 9am-5.30pm, Sat&Sun 9am-8pm. Rm 107, 8 Xaioyunli, Chaoyang District. (5613 7619, 133 3104 0363, dywjmedical@ gmail.com) www.dywjmed.com 北京东文 中医诊所, 朝阳区霄云里8号, 107室 Beijing Feng Tai Li Zhi Healing MonFri 8.30am-11.30am, 2pm-6pm. 93 Fengxi Beili, Fengtai District. (5185 6801, lizhi0831@163.com) www.bjlizhi.org/ index.htm 利智康复中心, 丰台区北京市丰 台区丰西北里93号 Beijing Hongyitang Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital Daily 7am9pm. 2 Tuanjiehu Beilu, Chaoyang District.

(6582 7850, hongyitang@hotmail.com) www.guoyitang.com 北京弘医堂中医医院, 朝阳区团结湖北路2号 Beijing Massage Hospital 7 Baochan Hutong, Xicheng District. (6616 8880, massage@2911.net) www.massage-hospital.com 北京按摩医院, 西城区宝产胡同7号 Beijing Orient Traditional Chinese Medicine Clinic Rm 2215, Bldg C, Beijing Hotel, 33 Dongchang’an Dajie, Dongcheng District. (6522 9009, tcmclinic@126.com) www.dfctyx.com 北京东方传统医学门诊部, 东城区东长安大街33号北京饭店2215室 Beijing Yishengtang TCM Clinic Hospital specialized in traditional Chinese medicine. Daily 7am-9pm. 305 Shaoyaoju Beili, Chaoyang District. (8464 1810) 北京医圣 堂中医门诊, 朝阳区芍药居北里305号楼 China TCM Research and Study Institute Acupuncture Hospital Mon-Sat 24hrs. 18 Beixincang (south of Dongzhimennei), Dongcheng District. (6403 5769) www.cintcm.ac.cn/gam/gamy/e_zyyjy. html#clinical 中国中医科学院针灸医院, 东 城区东直门北新仓18号

Liuzheng Massage Clinic Daily 9am12pm. 1/F, Bldg 7, Jiqingli, Chaoyangmenwai Dajie (opposite the Industrial and Commercial Bank at the west gate of Julong Garden), Chaoyang District. (6552 9282) 刘 正诊疗所, 朝阳区朝外吉庆里七号楼一层 Middle Way Chinese Medicine Clinic A23 Yangfang Hutong (by Houhai Lake), Xicheng District. (6613 8885) 中道堂谦益 讲堂, 西城区羊坊胡同甲23号 OASIS International Hospital See General Hospitals and Clinics.

Ping Xin Tang Clinic Mon-Sun 8am5.30pm. 3,4/F, 218-2 Wangfujing Dajie, Dongcheng District. (6523 5566) 平心堂诊 所, 东城区王府井大街218-2号3-4层 Sophie Quan Daily 8am-midnight. 413 Wangjing West Block, Chaoyang District.

(134 2609 6064, quanxm139@sohu.com) blog.sina.com.cn/quanyishengpeixunban 全医生工作室, 朝阳区望京西园四区413 TCM Training 16 Nanxiao Jie, Dongzhimennei, Dongcheng District. (training@ china5000yrs.org) 东城区东直门内南小街 16号 Tong Ren Tang 1.) Daily 8am-7.30pm. 24 Dashilan’r Jie, Qianmen, Xuanwu District.

(6301 4883, 6303 1155) 同仁堂, 宣武区宣 武区大栅栏街24号; 2.) Daily 8.30am-5pm.

Jianwai Soho, Guomao, Chaoyang District.

(5869 1171/2, 135 2287 3781) 同仁堂施小 墨中医馆, 朝阳区国贸建外SOHO7号楼底商 Yanhuang Traditional Chinese Medicine Clinic Daily 8am-8pm. 1 Dayabao Hutong, Dongcheng District. (6513 3046/49) www.yanhuang.com.cn 北京炎 黄国医馆, 东城区金宝街1号 Yuhe Healthcare and Wellness Center 1/F, Door 2, Bldg A, Global Trade Mansion, 9A Guanghua Lu, Chaoyang District. (136 9136 9411) 御和扶正养生堂, 朝阳区光华 路甲9号世贸国际公寓A座2门1楼