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Monday, June 18, 2012

A Quote Goodie

Red Raspberry Tea For Reproductive Health


I remember a long time ago when I worked at a local health food store, selling many boxes of Red Raspberry Leaf tea (Rubus ideasus, spp).  Women from all ages would come to buy this product for their reproductive health.  I never gave much thought to it until this year, when my lady hormones seem to be totally 'out of sync'!  Since I have stopped breastfeeding my now 1 year old son, my hormones have been doing some weird tricks on my body.  My first post-partum menstrual period, it felt like I was going through menopause!  I had a few days of hot flashes and night sweats, as well as nausea.  It also felt like I was pregnant all over again (which I am not)!
So, as I was going through all this hormonal angst, I thought of Red Raspberry Leaf tea and started to do a bit more research.  The internet is full of great information about this tea and how it can help to balance women's hormonal flux.  It can help with PMS, fertility, first trimester symptoms, labour progression, menopause, and much more!  It is a natural tonic for your uterus!  I have had three c-sections, so I am thinking this would be a great way to heal my uterus from all of its surgeries.
After giving this herbal tea a good taste test for a few days, I have found my symptoms to be somewhat better.  Perhaps I will ad this tea to my daily tea ritual!  I always prefer loose leaf teas, but it can also be bought in packages at many health food stores.
If you feel Red Raspberry Leaf tea would be of benefit to your hormonal balance, it is worth giving it a try!  I would recommend that you talk to your doctor or naturopath, to make sure that it won't counter any medications or supplements you are currently taking.

I wish you all the best towards finding balance and peace with your body!

Reference:
1. Natural-Fertility-Info.Com
2. American Pregnancy

Wednesday, June 6, 2012

Aerobic Exercise and PMS


Each women experiences varying symptoms with their menstrual periods.  Pre-menstrual Syndrome (PMS) can affect a women's daily life as well as her exercise regimen.  In my situation, I can get some severe symptoms such as increased sweating and painful cramping.  During these time, the last thing I want to do is exercise.  However, experts suggest that exercising can help ease PMS symptoms.  In addition, it can make women more susceptible to particular injuries due to hormonal changes.  What are your thoughts?
Read this article from SHAPE magazine: Exercise and Your Menstrual Cycle: What Your Period Means For Your Workout Schedule...

Tuesday, June 5, 2012

Hyperthyroidism and Exercise


As a sufferer of hyperthyroidism, sustaining a healthy exercise regimen can be difficult at times.  In my situation, I have had symptoms such as weight loss, fatigue, and muscle weakness.  Since I am a very active individual by nature, a hyperthyroid condition can impair the body when combined with exercise if I am not careful.  For example, I have lost a lot of weight with this condition so I need to make sure that I do light exercise as combined with a nutrient, caloric-dense diet. In addition, with muscle fatigue, exercising for long periods of time can be taxing on my body.  I listen to my body on such days and know that plenty of rest is best.  The ideal situation for me is that exercise helps me maintain a positive outlook on my health and wellness.  I believe balance is the key and knowing what you can tolerate with your particular hyperthyroid symptoms.
So what are some exercise guidelines for those with an overactive thyroid?
THYROID PROBLEMS AND EXERCISING  - LIVESTRONG.COM

Always be a first-rate version of yourself, instead of a second-rate version of somebody else.  ~Judy Garland


Monday, June 4, 2012

What's On My iTunes: Good Life

New on my running playlist this week - Good Life by OneRepublic. 

On My Plate: Feta Spinach and Chicken Salad

This is a very simple and healthy recipe that is low-fat, low-cal and a good source of protein.  The salad includes organic spinach leaves, organic strawberries, herb chicken breast and low fat feta.  This salad does not require any extra dressings, but you may wish to add a low-fat dressing (if you are not watching out for calories).

Saturday, June 2, 2012

On My Plate - After Run Snack

This is one of my favourite snacks after my morning workout.  It includes Mary's Gluten-free and Wheat-free crackers with cucumbers and hummus.  I usually always go for seconds!