For the Halfsquare Woman...

by Jon Fiume
November 17, 2005

The women's health world can be a very complex arena filled with the challenges of the day; menopause, PMS, protecting against cancer, fighting cancer, keeping the pounds off, keeping the hair color on, strengthening the bones, weakening the wrinkles. It is a never ending world that requires daily management. Doing so requires staying ahead of the game, being proactive, and maintaining a positive attitude all of which can make a difference including some of these helpful tips...

Exercising with a purpose.
That purpose is for a better you, at least 5 times a week and at least for _ hour each of those times. Aerobic exercise is important for the prevention of heart disease and of course to help maintain weight. Just think those 30 minutes equate to some of the same activities as sitting on the couch watching your favorite sitcom (how fast does that go?), waiting for a pizza to be delivered, or talking with your girlfriend on the phone! Point being the time can and will fly by. Your reward? Enjoy the release of the "feel good" endorphins and most importantly know that you have done something good for yourself.

Preventing hair loss!
Like most women you may be extremely concerned about the loss of hair for no apparent reason. Hair loss can be attributed to many factors from stress to hormonal imbalances. Certain nutrients may slow down the loss and or increase the quality of existing hair. These would include the essential fatty acids and the B vitamin Biotin. Both have been known to increase the quality of hair as well as assist in growth.

Know your drugs!
Literally, if you are taking prescription medications make sure you have a complete understanding of what they do and their possible side effects. Are you having the appropriate discussions with your physician and or have you inquired with your pharmacist on what it is that you are taking? Have you considered what nutrients you could be depleting from the medications that you are taking? Believe it or not birth control pills can deplete your ever important B vitamins. And some of your statins or cholesterol lowering medications can deplete Co-enzyme Q10, a powerful antioxidant and heart protector. Remember that knowledge is power!

Managing the stress.
We always have to do it. Keep our cool and don't get stressed out! Really, just think of the number of hats that you are wearing. Perhaps you are the career woman, the mom, the wife, the sister, the daughter, the caravan driver to the soccer game, the church volunteer and I am sure that this list could go on and on. But somehow we need to find a way to make it through our day and through those many roles. Planning our day can help. Do we really take the time in the morning or the night before to strategically plan what our day is going to look like? We may not be able to control the many fires that may (and will!) show their face but at least we are going to attempt to start the day out with a plan, prioritize what is important, including some time for ourselves.

Pre-menstrual what???
Is it chocolate that helps? Or that additional pop or cup of coffee? Or may just another dose of that favorite pain reliever! Whatever the case, there are additional and perhaps better choices to assist with this monthly bother. Calcium and magnesium may provide support. Calcium assists with blood clotting and magnesium helps the muscles relax possibly easing menstrual cramps. In addition, evening primrose oil contains the omega 6 fatty acid GLA or gamma linolenic acid. This essential fatty acid assists in the reduction of inflammation and therefore reduces the pain.

Nourish well to feel well!
Looking good and feeling good go hand in hand and therefore eating right is a priority. You are choosing those healthy choices of fresh fruits and vegetables, chock full of antioxidants and fiber. Maybe you are also opting for a healthy smoothie on your way to work in the morning instead of that egg McMuffin. And you are eating sensibly, watching your portion size, consuming more cold water fish containing those omega 3's and less processed foods. You've left the diet soda on the shelf opting instead for more water and green tea. You are nourishing your body and you feel better for it!

Embrace all that is you! Set your goals, determine your plan, and point yourself toward a healthy you! You deserve it!

This information is intended for educational purposes only. It is not intended to take the place of your current healthcare program or advice from you healthcare professionals.