Breast Cancer Awareness Month: Let’s Support Women’s Health

Did you know that nine New Zealand women will be diagnosed with breast cancer today?

Breast cancer is the most common cancer among Kiwi women, and there’s a good chance you know someone affected. 

So, during Breast Cancer Awareness Month this October, let’s keep spreading the message about the importance of getting checked. Remind all the women in your life that it doesn’t matter what age they are, or if no one else in their family has had breast cancer: they are still at risk. In fact, research shows that 89% of women who develop breast cancer have no family history among their first-degree relatives (mother, daughter, or sister). On the other hand, most women who do have relatives with breast cancer may never develop it themselves. 

The best protection against breast cancer is prevention. That means taking the steps that help to minimise the risk. Women of all ages should be vigilant about their health, both in mind and body. 

So, while we’re thinking about the importance of breast cancer awareness, let’s look at the healthy habits that have been shown to support women’s wellbeing, and how Bargain Chemist can support you along the way.

Nourish yourself
Studies show that one of the best ways to minimise the risk of developing breast cancer is by eating a balanced diet and maintaining a healthy weight. Everyone has different needs and preferences when it comes to diet, but the basic rules are the same: keep the junk food to a minimum, and fill up instead on fresh fruits, veggies, and lean protein. Choose natural foods over processed or packaged foods, as these are often loaded with extra salt and sugar. Try to eat when you’re hungry rather than when you’re bored (this is often the most difficult one!). If you’re struggling with diet and weight management, it may help to talk to a nutritionist.
But if you’re eating well and still feel like something is missing, consider a daily multivitamin.
. My Health Women's Daily Multivitamin is a comprehensive formula that includes B vitamins for energy support, Grape Seed for supporting healthy collagen formation, Horsetail to support skin, hair and nails, and other nutrients specific to women’s health and wellbeing. It’s great for women with demanding or stressful lifestyles. Or, if it’s just energy support you need, Nature's Way High Strength Adult Vita Gummies can help. These tasty gummies help to top up your daily intake of vitamin C and vitamin D, supporting your immune and respiratory health, as well as your antioxidant capacity. 

Get your sleep 

We all need at least 7-9 hours of deep slumber each night. Sleep is our body’s chance to carry out its repair and restoration processes, which are essential for supporting your mood and energy levels. Just one bad night’s sleep can leave you feeling flat and tired; over time, sleeplessness can have a serious impact on your health. Studies have linked inadequate sleep with a number of chronic conditions including cardiovascular disease, obesity, diabetes, and even cancer.

Of course, getting enough sleep each night is often easier said than done - especially when you have a lot on your mind. As we age, our bodies produce less melatonin, the ‘sleep’ hormone that helps us to drift off each night. That’s when a few sleep hygiene techniques may be necessary. Set yourself a bedtime and stick to it. Allow yourself to unwind each night by switching off those devices, taking a warm bath, and sipping a chamomile tea.
Make sure that your bedroom is dark enough and that your bed is comfy, and that there are no distractions from noise or light. 

And, because it’s nice to wake up feeling both refreshed AND gorgeous, it’s worth adding Blackmores Beauty Sleep to your supplement regime. This special formula contains hops to support healthy sleeping patterns, plus nutrients retinol, Hyaluronic Acid, Collagen, Biotin, and Vitamin C to support skin repair and rejuvenation while you dream. 

Look after your lady parts

Being a woman isn’t always easy. There are quite a few health issues that we could really do without - especially when hormones are involved. One problem that almost every woman battles at least once in her lifetime is a urinary tract infection. These nasty little issues can strike at any time, particularly when we’re stressed, worried, or just generally run down. As if we didn’t have enough to deal with! 

Keeping your lady parts happy and healthy can support urinary tract health. Drinking plenty of water (and going to the bathroom when you need to!) helps to dilute and clear bacteriuria, the bacteria in your urine. It’s also important to wipe properly (front to back, never the other way around!) and to wear underwear made of natural fibres (and isn’t too tight). But just in case, keep a pack of Cranclense Effervescent Tablets on hand. These great-tasting effervescent tablets contain natural cranberry extract to support the bladder and urinary tract. Just add water and drink! Perfect for keeping on your desk or in your handbag. 

Recover well

Fact: exercise is good for you. Hundreds of studies show that regular physical activity supports almost every bodily function: cardiovascular, musculoskeletal, metabolic, cognitive, and more. Being active also supports your mental health by stimulating your brain to release those ‘feel good’ chemicals like serotonin. It’s one of the best ways to improve your chances of living a longer, healthier life. 

But you’ll harness even greater benefits from your exercise if your body can recover properly. Eating foods rich in protein after exercise stimulates your body’s muscle repair processes while preventing your body from breaking down its own protein sources. This is especially important after intense exercise, because dietary protein helps to rebuild tissues and improve muscle gain. Studies also show that eating protein during and/or immediately after exercise helps to support your body’s adaptive response to each exercise session, which means your muscles are reconditioned more effectively. 

Good sources of post-workout protein include lean meats such as chicken, fish, or beef, or vegetarian options like eggs, tofu, and tempeh. But when you’re busy, a protein shake makes life a lot easier! The Athena sports nutrition range is tailored for women’s bodies. Each product is designed to support women’s unique biological needs and fuel performance. Athena Protein Water + Collagen is a blend of high-quality Whey Protein Isolate, collagen, and digestive enzymes to support training and recovery. It contains 23g protein in every serve along with  TENDOFORTE® Bioactive Collagen Peptide to support ligaments and tendons. 

Bargain Chemist has plenty more ways to support women’s health and happiness. Think pink this Breast Cancer Awareness Month and remind the women in your life to take care!

Always read the label and use as directed. If symptoms persist see your healthcare

professional.