Finding Meaning in Menopause Menopause is a term known by women of all ages, and yet, most would be hard pressed to define it correctly. From a medical point of view, it means going twelve consecutive months without a menstrual period (or any vaginal bleeding). A woman can go three months or more without a period, and then out of the blue, one comes along and she has to start the countdown all over again! Once all bleeding stops, the hard part is usually over. It is the years leading up to menopause that is generally fraught with all the problems! What Is Peri-Menopause? Who knew that the “synchronized unraveling” of the monthly rise and fall of hormones, known as … Read More
#4 Superfood: Flax, The Regulator
Continued from Fall Into Health With These 5 Superfoods Flax seed is a home-grown Canadian seed densely packed with goodness. Chewed well or ground, flax is one of the best foods to support healthy detoxification by keeping your bowels regular and binding toxins so they can’t be reabsorbed into your body through your digestive tract. Think of it as nature’s Metamucil. They also supply a medicinal dose of phytoestrogens, plant compounds that naturally combat excess amounts of estrogen and estrogen-like chemicals that act as endocrine disruptors. Flax seeds also contain high amounts of omega-3 oils which are beneficial for your cardiovascular health and reduce inflammation in your body. Use cold-pressed flax seed oil in salad dressings or drizzled over cooked … Read More
Check ’em, Don’t Neglect ’em! A Brief Guide to Breast Self-Exams
It’s Dr. Alaina here! Since October is Breast Cancer Awareness month, as a Healthy Breast Expert I thought this would be a perfect time to encourage you that you know your body best, including when it comes to your breast health. Regardless of your age, I encourage you to know what’s your normal for how your breasts look and feel so that you can alert your doctor to any changes. Breast Self-Exam Quick Tips: The only way to become familiar is through regular self-checks. The best time to check your breasts is about 1 week after your menstrual period starts. Practice a breast self exam technique and stick with it (it will get easier each time). There are some risks with … Read More