Fitness Articles

HRT Warning - March 2005

HRT WARNING

Experts are now warning that HRT, which has already been linked to an increased risk of breast cancer and stroke, should only be used in the short term. The Royal collage of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists has reviewed all data surrounding HRT and are now recommending that it should be prescribed for women who suffer severe symptoms, but for others the benefits don't outweigh the risks. If you're thinking of going au naturelle there are a host of alternative remedies to match your symptoms.

Vaginal Dryness : Pharma Nord Omega7, which will help reduce dryness.]

Hot Flushes and Night Sweats: Phyto Soya Capsules, can reduce symptoms between 40-60%.

Irritability and Mood Swings: Gynovite will help with changing emotions.

WATER RETENTION SUFFERERS

Diagnosis: You may have low progesterone levels which is similar to oestrogen excess and can result in heavy periods with cramping and poor lymphatic drainage. It indicates that the hormones are not being properly processed in the liver. Progesterone improves fat metabolism, increased bone density and lifts the mood.

THINGS TO AVOID
Alcohol, which is a major cause of fluid build up.
Caffeine acts like a diuretic and can make you lose water too rapidly.
Food additives
Flavour enhancers, such as monosodium glutamate, this increases the body's salt levels.
Ready meals, salty foods, cheese and pre packed meats.

FACT: Exercising regularly reduces fluid retention by keeping the fluids moving in the right direction.

Exercising out doors:

Staying warm and well hydrated keeps your outdoor workout safe. Ware an insulating top (fleece) that doesn't absorbe moisture. Top this off with a hat, gloves and windbreaker with reflective strips that can be seen from every angle. Remember that Ice on roads and pavements can be treacherous and difficult to spot.

Just half an hour's worth of moderate aerobic exercise a day can be more effective than drugs in treating mild to moderate depression, Researchers found that aerobic exercise stimulates neurotransmitters in the brain to produce serotonin, an endorphin that makes us feel better.