Busting Myths About Women’s Health
There are many myths about women’s health, some of them so pervasive that even doctors believe them. Knowing what’s true and what’s not can help you identify if any changes in your health deserve some extra attention from your doctor, or if what you’re experiencing is one of these common myths. Many of these myths can also lower your fertility, so understanding the truth about your health can also help you conceive and successfully carry a baby to term. You should always talk to your Doctor about your personal situation and if our recommendations (or any recommendation other people give you) makes sense for your personal health program.
MYTH Osteoporosis happens around menopause
Women stop gaining bone mass at about age 30. Well before a woman hits the age of menopause, she could have already lost a significant amount of bone density. Even before her 30s, a woman should ensure she is consuming enough calcium each day and participating in some weight-bearing physical activity, like running or brisk walking, tai chi and yoga, dancing, strength training and even golf. Maintaining or building bone density is a gradual process; the easiest way to do it is to incorporate calcium-rich foods or calcium supplements into your daily meal plans, and weight-bearing activities into your normal exercise or activity plan.
MYTH Type 2 diabetes can’t be prevented
The easiest way to lower your risk of Type 2 diabetes is to keep your weight in check. Women’s weight often begins to creep up beginning in their 30s, after childbearing. Busy days, active children, little time for exercise or eating right, stress and lack of sleep all take a toll. Women in their 30s and even younger are now being diagnosed as Type 2 diabetics. Lifestyle changes, such as fewer pre-packaged and fast food selections, more activity, weight loss and adequate sleep, have all been shown to reduce or even reverse Type 2 diabetes.
MYTH A perfectly healthy adult doesn’t need immunizations
While most parents are diligent about ensuring their children receive vaccinations, many parents (and adults without children) forget or neglect their own safety. Parents are especially at risk, as their children, while building up their own immune system, can bring home a wide range of illnesses. Your doctor can suggest the appropriate schedule of immunizations for you that might include Diptheria-Tetanus-Pertussis (DTP), influenza, chickenpox, or pneumococcal vaccines.
MYTH Birth defects can’t be prevented
Up to 70% of spina bifida and anencephaly births each year can be prevented if the expectant mothers take folic acid, a B vitamin, daily before getting pregnant and throughout the first trimester of pregnancy. Women can check the level of folic acid in a daily multivitamin and make sure it contains at least 400 micrograms; folic acid supplements are available for multivitamins that don’t meet this level.
As a reminder your doctor is your best advocate and partner to help you get and stay healthy.
We were made aware of a great resource for Canadian women to get extra assistance with the online availability of Canada drugs and supplements.
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