International Women’s Day: Celebrating Women’s Health

International Women’s Day on March 8 is all about the relentless pursuit of equality for women, and celebrating those who strive for it. This year, the theme for IWD is “inspire inclusion” - to embrace the diversity of women of all ages, races, ages, abilities, faith, body types, and how they identify themselves. 

At Bargain Chemist, we believe that women should be celebrated every day - and that begins with supporting their health! So, we’d like to do our bit by sharing our top tips for how women of all ages can feel healthy and happy. From digestive support and energy boosters to intimate health and feminine hygiene products, we’ve got you covered. 

. 

Women’s Gut Health

Did you know that the gut is the centre of your wellbeing? The gut breaks down food we eat into nutrients which are then delivered to other organs and cells so that your body functions properly. This process of breaking down food is largely done by the trillions of microorganisms living in the gastrointestinal tract called the gut microbiome. 

For women, a healthy microbiome is especially important. The specific bacteria in a woman’s gut play a role in almost every bodily process, from digestive function and hormonal balance to mood, metabolism, immune function, urogenital health, fertility, and much more. 

Maintaining the right balance of good bacteria in the gut should be a priority for women of all ages. Symptoms such as bloating, constipation, low energy, and frequent infections can be a sign that all is not well in the gut. 

The first step in supporting better gut health is by eating a healthy diet. Fresh fruits, veges, wholegrains, and lean protein should be a priority. Fermented foods such as acidophilus yogurt (unsweetened), kombucha, kimchi, and sauerkraut are also great for gut health because they contain natural probiotics - the “helpful” bacteria that support the gut microbiome. Taking a probiotic supplement can also be an efficient and convenient way to support gut health because you’re delivering a concentrated dose of healthy bacteria right where it’s needed. 

Clinicians Flora Restore is specifically designed to support women’s urogenital health and healthy flora balance. Flora Restore contains two scientifically researched strains of probiotics that can help to maintain the balance of yeasts and bacteria in the gut. 

Women’s Energy Support

It takes a lot of energy to be a woman! Whether you’re a mum, athlete, partner, CEO, or student, you’ll know how important it is to feel on top of your game every day. Fatigue and sluggishness can really get in the way of your superpowers. 

But if you find your energy levels starting to dwindle, or you’ve been feeling flat for a while, take action. There can be lots of reasons for a lack of energy, such as poor sleeping habits, eating the wrong foods, low iron levels, stress, and much more. If you’re really struggling, it’s a good idea to seek help from your doctor or a qualified health practitioner. 

B vitamins are among the most important nutrients for supporting energy production. There are nine B vitamins in total, and they each play vital roles in metabolising the food you eat into the fuel your body needs. 

My Health. B Complex is a comprehensive B Vitamin formula designed to support energy production, healthy nervous system function, and mental clarity. GO Healthy PRO Activated B Complex is also great for women on the go - it contains the activated forms of Vitamins B6, B12, and folic acid for better uptake in the body. 

Urinary Tract Health and Vaginal Health

Ladies, if there’s one thing we can all agree on, it’s that infections SUCK! The worst part is that they’re very common: around one in two women will get a UTI at least once in her lifetime, and two out of three will have a yeast infection.  

All the more reason to keep your “lady bits” in the best of health!

We’ve already mentioned the benefits of probiotics, which can go a long way in supporting the balance of healthy flora in the genitourinary tract. Cranberry extract is also fantastic for maintaining that balance. Good Health Uricleanse contains a scientifically researched extract of cranberry that supports the urinary tract system and bladder health. Ural Effervescent Powder Urinary Alkaliniser can also help relieve the discomfort of cystitis when an infection strikes. 

For supporting the unique microflora of both the vagina and urinary tract, there’s Kolorex. Made right here in New Zealand, Kolorex Gut Health Candia Balance contains horopito, a native herb that helps to support and balance women’s microflora.

Women’s Hormonal Support

As every woman knows, hormones often have a lot to answer for. From teenage years through to your twenties, thirties, midlife and beyond, hormones have an enormous impact on mood, metabolism, cognition, and more. Wonderful as they are, these hormones do have the tendency to get out of balance at certain stages in life, which can sometimes make everyday function a little more challenging. Add the stress of daily life into the mix and you’ve got a recipe for burnout. 

Fortunately, a few adjustments to your lifestyle can help a lot. Exercise is the easiest place to start - and it doesn’t have to cost anything! Walking, running, swimming, or other forms of cardio have many benefits for keeping hormones under control. If stress is sending your cortisol levels sky high, try relaxation techniques like meditation and yoga. Even a short daily “self care” break to do something you enjoy - like taking a bath or reading a book - can help to bring things back into balance. 

When you need a little extra support, check out NuWoman. Designed to support women’s health and wellbeing at different life stages, the NuWoman range includes NuWoman BALANCE (for women aged 18 to 30), NuWoman 30 PLUS Hormone Balance Support (for women 30 to 50) and NuWoman 50 Plus. Each formula contains a blend of herbs, vitamins, and minerals to assist with hormonal balance and energy support. 

Women’s Self-Care 

Now for the fun stuff! Every woman deserves to treat herself - and Bargain Chemist has no shortage of treats.

If soaking in the tub is your thing, get yourself a pack of Dirty Works Getting Fizzy With It Mini Bath Bombs. With notes of bergamot, peach swirl, rose, jasmine, and vanilla, these tiny but mighty bath bombs pack a pretty punch! Perfect for unwinding after a long day of being your awesome self. 

Prefer a skin treat? Grab the Antipodes Gospel Vitamin C Skin-Glow Gel Cleanse. With the nourishing benefits of Kakadu plum, Vinanza® Grape, Kiwi, Lotus flower, and olive squalane oil, this luxurious face cleanser will soften and replenish skin. 

Smelling good can do wonders for your self-confidence, so why not indulge in a gorgeous new scent? From Marc Jacobs to Dolce & Gabbana, you’ll find the perfect fragrance to suit your mood and groove at Bargain Chemist. 

Celebrate International Women’s Day on March 8 by taking extra special care of yourself and the women in your life. Let’s support women’s health together! 

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