Thursday, April 28, 2005

Calcium and Vitamin D Fail in Fracture Prevention - CME Teaching Brief - MedPage Today

Calcium and Vitamin D Fail in Fracture Prevention - CME Teaching Brief - MedPage Today

Despite the results of this study, I do not recommend that women stop their calcium and vitamin d supplementation. More work needs to be done here.

Tuesday, April 26, 2005

Smoking and Your Heart

Smoking affects every part of your body, including your heart. Here is some information that we don't always hear.

Women who smoke are 2-6 times more likely to have a heart attack than women who don't smoke. And smoking just 1-4 cigarettes a day can increase your change of having a heart attack by 2-3 times. One study found that 72% of women, who had heart attacks in their 30's, were smokers.

Quitting smoking definitely will reduce your risk. For example: after 1 year of not smoking your risk for developing heart disease decreases by 50% and after 15 years, it is the same as someone who has never smoked.

What can you do? If you smoke, quit. I don't mean just cut down, but completely stop. While there are lots of online resources, you will also find some on OlderWiserWomen for you to get started.

If you like these tips, you can receive them via email on a weekly basis. Simply send a blank email to Tips@OlderWiserWomen.com

Barbara C. Phillips, NP

Tuesday, April 19, 2005

Menopausal Health Tips

***Use non-toxic methods to alleviate any uncomfortable sensations you might experience with menopause. While some women may temporarily encounter power surges (hot flashes), poor quality sleep, moodiness, memory concerns and vaginal dryness, many do not. Be aware that every woman experiences menopause differently.

***Expect freedom, creativity, joy, peace and wisdom! Many women have wonderfully positive menopausal experiences. Sounds like it calls for a Celebration to me!

***Practice good nutrition. In the realm of menopause it is suggested that one consider foods that contain phytoestrogens such as celery, fennel, parsley, soy, nuts, whole grains, apples, and alfalfa. And drink lots of water!

For your copy of Tips for Successful Aging, send a blank email to: Tips@OlderWiserWomen.com

Until next time,

Barbara C. Phillips, NP
OlderWiserWomen.com

Sunday, April 03, 2005

Cardiovascular Health Tips ~ Part 1

Heart disease is the number one cause of death in women over the age of 50. Cardiovascular disease is largely preventable with a healthy lifestyle.

**Participating in exercise, at least 30 minutes per day will reduce your blood pressure and decrease your risk of heart disease and strokes. Your heart is a muscle, and keeping it toned will do wonders for you.

**Know your numbers. Do you know your cholesterol profile (HDL, LDL, total cholesterol, glucose, blood pressure, and waist circumference, among others)? Knowing these numbers can tell you where you need to take action to keep your cardiovascular risk low. This is a case in which not knowing can harm you.


**Reduce your cholesterol by eating a heart-healthy diet. That means eating a diet that is low in saturated fat and cholesterol, high in fruits, vegetables and grains that contain soluble fiber.

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