OCTOBER 2013 - Women's Health

Calanna Women’s Multi Ultimate|$19.95 Save $7

Benefits of taking this  Women’s Multivitamin;

Convenient One-a-Day dose

Assists women with their general well being

Promotes energy

Provides essential Vitamins, Minerals, Antioxidants and herbs to assist with:

ü   Stress reduction

ü Immunity Support

ü   Strong Bones

ü   Energy Production

*Your Calanna Pharmacy Naturopath’s; Vanessa, Michelle and Kym will also be able to assist you with general health and lifestyle advice.

 

 

Calanna Mega B|$ 16.95 60’s    $24.95 200's

 

Vitamin B helps:

4 Relieve stress and tension

4 Improve energy  levels

4 B Vitamins form the building blocks of the ‘feel good’ brain chemicals such as Serotonin.

Serotonin plays an important part in the regulation of learning, mood and sleep.  Alterations in serotonin levels in the brain may affect mood.

Experts say serotonin also might have a role in anxiety,  migraine, vomiting and appetite.

 

Breast Cancer in Men…...

Yes men can also develop breast cancer - didn’t you know?

Men developing Breast Cancer is on the rise, but is still considered rare.   Approximately 100 men are diagnosed with breast cancer each year. It is a fact that both men & women have breast tissue.  However, the exact reason why some men develop breast cancer is still unknown

For men the most common risk factors are:

4 Getting older (occurs more commonly in men aged 50 and over

4 Having a strong Family history of Female and/or Male Breast Cancer

There are some studies that suggest that there may be a link between male breast cancer and some testicular disorders and exposure to excess radiation -  however these theories are not yet proven.

 

Breast Cancer in Women…...

Breast cancer is the second leading cause of  cancer-related death in Australian women, accounting for 15.5 per cent of all cancer deaths in women. 

- It is estimated that 2,700 women will lose their lives to breast cancer in 2013 -

There are different types of Breast Cancer, and an abundance of support networks, websites and information available.  If you are unsure about any lumps or changes in your breast, it is vital to seek professional advice from your doctor or specialist. 

Early Breast Cancer - Cancer cells that are contained in the Breast and may or may not have spread into the lymph nodes and armpit.

Locally Advanced Cancer - When the cancer has spread to one or more of, the lymph nodes or other areas near the breast, or to tissues around the breast such as the skin, muscles or ribs, but there is no sign that it has spread to other parts of the body.

Secondary or Metastatic Breast Cancer - These terms are used interchangeably.  Secondary breast cancer is the term used to describer cancer that has spread from the original site in the breast to other organs or tissues. For some women, secondary cancer may be the first diagnosis of breast cancer.

Pagets Disease - begins in the milk ducts and spreads to the skin of the nipple and areola (area around the nipple), but is a rare form. This type of cancer is one reason why the emphasise on keeping note of any notable changes that may occur around the breast area is important.

Inflammatory Breast Cancer (IBC) - Is a rapidly growing form, but is still referred to as rare.  It is where the lymph vessels in the skin of the breast become blocked, causing the breast to look swollen red, and “inflamed”.

 

Breast Cancer develops in either the ducts or lobules of the breast.  Milk is produced in the lobules, and travels through the ducts to the nipples.

Cancer cells develop when the cells lining the ducts or lobules become abnormal in size and shape and start multiplying in an uncontrollable way.

 

What are the Signs & Symptoms?

· New lumps or thickening in the breast or under the arm

· Changes to the nipple such as a change in shape,  crusting, an ulcer, redness or inverting of the nipple.

· Discharge from the nipple which is bloodstained or      occurs without squeezing

A change in the shape or size of a breast. This might be either an increase or decrease

*most breast changes are not due to cancer*

 

What can help in early detection?

Breast self-examination should be part of your weekly care routine and you should visit your doctor if you experience any breast changes it might be helpful to keep notes.

For full info and pictures on how to perform this properly in 5 easy steps, visit www.breastcancer.org

What things May help prevent Breast Cancer?

4 Add Turmeric to your diet 4Avoid Caffeine 4Have a diet high in antioxidants4Eat plenty of fresh fruit, vegies, nuts & seeds 4Eat cabbage & broccoli to metabolize oestrogen 4Eat lots of Lignans (Barley, Oats, Millet, Rye, Flax Seeds, Sesame seeds and Sunflower seeds)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

OCTOBER 2013 - Practitioner's Corner "PMT"

Optimising Women’s Health & Wellbeing

Premenstrual Tension

Most women at some stage of their reproductive years will experience premenstrual tension (PMT). Symptoms associated can vary and often can be a frustrating and stressful time. Angry outbursts and reduced tolerance are among the many emotions associated with PMT. Pain is a common symptom that can be debilitating, leading to secondary problems including depression, tearfulness and insomnia.

PMT is often joked about and has been used as ‘verbal ammunition’ to make light of emotional distress. Some of us may have very mild symptoms that are of no concern, but for others it can affect their performance of daily tasks.

PMS is thought to be caused by:

·         Hormonal imbalances (excessive oestrogen and inadequate progesterone)^1,4,6.

·         Irregularities in prostaglandins (inflammatory mediators) or neurotransmitters (serotonin)^4,6.

·         Impaired liver function (decreased detoxification and elimination, esp. excess estrogen)^4,6.

·         Stress (elevated levels of cortisol and aldosterone)^4,6.

·         Hypothyroidism (low thyroid function)^4,6.

·         Nutritional deficiencies^1,4,5,6.

·         Poor dietary and lifestyle practices^4,6.

Types of Premenstrual Tension

PMT Types	Symptoms
PMT-A 66-80% 1,3	·         Anxiety, nervous tension1,3 ·         Irritability1,3 ·         Mood swings1,3 ·         Insomnia1,3
PMT-H 60-66% 1,3	·         Water and sodium retention1,3 ·         Abdominal bloating1,3 ·         Weight gain1,3 ·         Breast pain (Mastalgia)1,3
PMT-C	·         Craving for sweets 1,3 ·         Increased appetite1,3 ·         Indulgence in refined sugar followed by palpitation and fatigue1,3 ·         Dizziness, shakiness, headache1,3
PMT-D 1.7-23%	·          Crying1,3 ·          Depression 1,3 ·          Suicidal tendencies1,3
PMT-P	·          Painful periods1,3

Dietary & Lifestyle Recommendations:

Diet

Disruption to healthy oestrogen metabolism is linked to multiple PMT symptoms ⁶. Foods high in fibre such as fruits, vegetables, grains and legumes can help lower elevated circulating estrogen⁶.  Phytoestrogen foods are incredibly beneficial to eat to optimize healthy hormone levels⁶. Some of these include: Fermented Soy, Alfalfa, Oats and Linseed.

Low saturated animal fat diets are beneficial to help remove excess oestrogen. Good fats such as raw nuts, seeds and fish can help reduce inflammation in the body ^4,6.

High sugar consumption has also been associated with inadequate oestrogen metabolism⁶. If you crave chocolate before menstruation you may be deficient in magnesium. 

Women should avoid stimulants like caffeine (tea, coffee, chocolate, energy drinks) and alcohol as these can exacerbate some PMT symptoms. These include: anxiety, irritability, insomnia and depression. High intake of salt increases water retention and bloating associated with PMT ⁶.

Exercise

Regular exercise has a positive effect on mood; decreases fatigue and improve sleep ⁴. Aerobic exercise such as running or walking releases endorphins (chemicals that elevate mood) ⁴.

Several studies have shown that women who exercise regularly do not suffer from PMS as often as sedentary women do^4,6.

Nutritional Recommendations:

Vitamin B6

Vitamin B6 is a micronutrient important in hormonal and neurotransmitter synthesis. It is incredibly beneficial for women who suffer with PMT, especially if anxiety and depression are present ^4,6. This vitamin is necessary for the formation of serotonin and dopamine (happy chemicals) and can also help to alleviate breast pain and fluid retention^4,5,6. Short-term supplemental dosing can be administered 50-100mg/daily⁵. Do not exceed recommended daily intake unless under practitioner supervision.

Magnesium

Low magnesium levels have been linked to premenstrual headaches and migraines^4,6. This mineral is necessary in muscle relaxation and is thought to help with uterine cramping^5,6.

Calcium

Calcium had been found to be an affective mineral to use for alleviating fluid retention, mood swings, food cravings and pain ⁴. It has also demonstrated to improve menstrual migraines in combination with vitamin D ⁴. Calcium in combination with manganese has shown to improve mood, concentration and behavior ⁴.

Evening Primrose Oil (EPO)

Gamma linolenic acid (GLA) found in EPO is an important fatty acid that is useful in relieving PMS. It is thought to regulate prostaglandin production (modulate inflammation) and aid in healthy glandular function ^4,5,.

Vitamin E

In several studies vitamin E has demonstrated to improve breast tenderness, nervous tension, headache, fatigue, depression and insomnia ^4,5 .

Herbal Support:

Vitex agnus castus

Vitex is an effective herb for the treatment of some PMS symptoms such as irritability, anger, headaches, acne and breast tenderness ^4,5,6. Vitex is also highly beneficial for women who suffer from progesterone deficiency and corpus luteal insufficiency (follicle that carries the egg after ovulation)^4,5,6. Advise your practitioner if you are talking prescriptive medications before taking this herb.

Other:

Keep a PMT symptom diary for about 3 months. Some information may include: appetite changes, headaches, constipation/diarrhoea, sleeps disturbances as well as emotional symptoms such as tearfulness and mood swings.

Basal temperature tests can help to detect if your thyroid gland is under/over active. This is done using a thermometer and a recording chart. For additional information see a qualified natural practitioner.

Breast Self-Examination

1.       Examine both of your breasts each month, after your period ².

2.       Stand in front of a mirror and raise your arms and place your hands behind your head².

3.       Assess what your breasts look like².

4.       Place your hands on your hips and apply pressure².

5.       Look for dimpling of the breast skin, unbalanced nibbles and differences between both breasts².

6.       Also check for red scaling or thickening of skin and nipples².

7.       Raise one arm and place hand behind head. With the other hand, apply moderate pressure in a circular motion starting at the outer edge of the breast. Gradually work your way towards the nipple².

8.       Also feel underneath the arm pits (lymph glands)²

9.       Look for lumps that are hard and immobile (cancers are generally attached to underlying muscle or skin) ².

10.    Repeat the same on the other breast².

11.    Lying on your back is also a beneficial position to check for lumps².

12.    Gently squeeze your nipples to check for any blood of discharges².

 NB: Always consult your doctor if you notice any change in your breasts. If you have a family history of breast cancer or over the age of 35 annual checkups are recommended.

What to expect during a Naturopathic Consultation:

·         Personalized treatment plans

·         Salivary Hormone Profile

·         Natural hormonal support including herbal medicine and nutritional therapy

·         Liver detoxification support to optimize hormone metabolism

·         Reproductive disorder management e.g. endometriosis, polycystic ovarian syndrome and unexplained infertility.

·         Hemaview (live blood screening): inflammation, oxidative stress, liver stress, nutritional deficiencies and white blood cell activity.

·         VLA or BIA (Bio-Impendence Analysis): Weight management programs, fat distribution, metabolic age, muscle mass, water distribution, bone density and cellular health evaluation.

·         Stress Management

References are available upon request.

Written by Calanna Pharmacy Naturopath Vanessa Laird

BHSc.(Comp.Med). Adv.Dip.Nat. ATMS Accredited