international woman’s day

Today is International Women’s Day and this year’s theme - #BalanceforBetter – is focusing on building a more gender-balanced world.

Balance

The question of balance is something that women contend with every day as they juggle their professional and work commitments with looking after their homes and families. And, let’s face it, women are still doing most of the household chores and childcare tasks.

In order to keep pushing the boundaries, break through the glass ceiling and continue to achieve amazing things, women need to stay strong and healthy. In other words, achieving the balance between hard work and looking after number one.

The charity Well-being of Women, reports that, in the UK, 58 women are diagnosed with gynaecological cancers and that the incidence of womb cancer has risen by 65% in 40 years. Also 1.5 million women suffer from endometriosis. In some cases, women put their own health on the back-burner as they tackle day-to-day tasks.

Take a step back

So, in honour of International Women’s Day, why not take a step back and look after your health. The naturopathic approach can help to ward off potential illness and I offer the following tips:

• Take a food state supplement – this will help to keep the bugs at bay and keep your immune system strong.
• Don’t let the menopause weigh you down – make sure you have plenty of calcium and vitamin D in your diet to offset the loss of bone density. Take supplements if necessary. Post menopause cut down on the carbs to avoid gaining weight.
• Keep fit – take regular exercise. If the gym is not your thing, do something you enjoy and share activities with friends.
• Get a good night’s sleep – as we get older, our sleep patterns change so try and avoid caffeine before you go to bed.
• Endometriosis/polycystic ovaries/infertility – It is possible to minimise these issues through diet and supplements. Fish oil is a good anti-inflammatory, zinc is essential for hormone synthesis and balance and vitamin B complex also supports hormone production. Eat plenty of fibre-rich fruits and vegetables and good proteins, such as fish, eggs and nuts. Try and, restrict carbohydrates and drink plenty of water. Flaxseeds are good for removing excess toxins and cinnamon helps to regulate blood sugar.

If you are trying to lose weight, drink two teaspoons of apple cider vinegar 30 minutes before each meal as this helps to break down food more efficiently.

Taking a preventative approach can help you to stay healthier and fitter. And you will feel more energised in striving for that all-important #BalanceforBetter.