Posted on Thursday, May 25, 2017

4 Ways to Prevent Preeclampsia

Pregnancy is a beautiful thing. However, it can cause changes to your health that can be detrimental and long lasting. Preeclampsia is a complication of pregnancy that is characterized by high blood pressure. It can also cause damage to other vital organs, such as the kidneys. We all know it is important to take care of our heart during pregnancy. Today we’re sharing 4 ways to prevent preeclampsia to ensure a healthy pregnancy.

1. Stay active.
Although it may be difficult, especially as the weeks go on, it’s important to stay as active as possible throughout your entire pregnancy.

2. Maintain a healthy weight.
A lot of women go overboard when it comes to pregnancy weight gain. Ideally you should aim to consume 500 additional calories each day while pregnant. Avoiding gaining too much weight will keep your heart strong and blood pressure normalized.

3. Drink up.
Staying hydrated is essential for maintaining normal blood pressure levels. Dehydration can cause blood vessels to constrict thus increasing blood pressure.

4. Eat well.
This is especially important to start before you even become pregnant. Healthy fats, fresh fruits and veggies will all help cut inflammation and keep blood pressure at its optimal level.

To learn more about women’s health check out the Women’s Mind Body Wellness Summit. It contains 6 interviews by top female health professionals plus two workout videos and 3 bonus videos on mind-body wellness with MyHealthSpin Founder Lori-Ann Rickard.

Posted on Thursday, May 18, 2017

Things To Do Now To Prevent Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis and osteopenia are extremely prevalent in middle aged women. Osteoporosis is a condition in which bones become porous and brittle usual as a result of hormone fluctuations. Although this disorder is most common in middle aged women, it is preventable. Today we’re sharing things that all women should do now to prevent developing osteoporosis or osteopenia in the future.

Pick up some weights
Strength training, particularly weight bearing exercises, is a great way to build bones and increase strength. Pilates focuses on strengthening your spine and core which is essential in having a strong body. You should aim to work out at least three times a week. If you already have osteoporosis are are looking to start an exercise regimen, it’s important to work with a professional. There are certain exercises that people with osteoporosis shouldn’t do due to risk of fracture.

Increase your protein intake
Eating lean protein helps to build strong bones and increase muscle mass. Both are vital to preventing osteoporosis.

Get off the pill
Birth control pills, particularly ones that are high in estrogen, can be bad for your bone health. Hormonal fluctuations are a huge contributing factor to osteoporosis.

Make sure you’re getting the right vitamins and minerals
Calcium and vitamin D play a huge role in bone health. Calcium is an obvious one, but many people don’t know about vitamin D. Vitamin D is essential for the absorption of calcium. Green, leafy vegetables, such as spinach, are full of calcium. And vitamin D can be found in the sun or in foods such as egg yolks. You can also supplement these vitamins in your diet, but always talk to your healthcare provider first.

Posted on Thursday, May 11, 2017

How to Spot a Depressed Teen

Did you know that suicide claims the lives of more young adults than cancer, car accidents and chronic illnesses combined? Depression in teens is an epidemic and often the kids who are struggling are the ones you would least suspect. At this age it can be difficult to distinguish between normal teenage behaviors and mental health disorders. It’s so important to be able to recognize the signs of depression in teens, so here are some things to watch for.

Loss of interest
Maybe your child has stopped playing a sport they used to love.

Isolation
They seem to avoid family dinners which they once loved. They would rather eat alone in their room. Or maybe they’re spending less time with friends.

Mood swings
Does their mood seem to change at the drop of a hat? One moment they’re laughing and joking and the next they’re yelling and screaming.

Acting out
Rebellious behavior is often a big sign of depression in teens. They are screaming out for attention, and they feel as though the only way to get it is to act out. This may even lead to using drugs or alcohol to numb the pain and escape reality.

Excessive sleep
Sure, teens love to sleep. But if your child has gone from being a morning person to sleeping in all afternoon there may be a reason. They may feel no use in facing the day and would rather sleep. Depression can also cause extreme fatigue.

Depression is serious and can sometimes be fatal in teens and young adults. If you think your child or a friend is struggling with depression it’s important to get them help right away. Hopefully these signs have helped save a life.