Health Check Magazine Issue 18 December 2020 - February 2021 by Blooms The Chemist

hea th magazine ISSUE 18 SUMMER 2020

PLUS

MYTHS AND MISCONCEPTIONS ABOUT CHOLESTEROL MINDFULNESS ACTIVITIES FOR KIDS CAN YOU DIE OF A BROKEN HEART? FACT OR FICTION: WE FIND OUT

Supporting Your Health & Wellbeing

THIS MEDICINE MAY NOT BE RIGHT FOR YOU. ALWAYS READ THE LABEL BEFORE PURCHASE. FOLLOW THE DIRECTIONS FOR USE. INCORRECT USE COULD BE HARMFUL. IF SYMPTOMS PERSIST, TALK TO YOUR HEALTH PROFESSIONAL. ASK YOUR PHARMACISTâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;THEY MUST DECIDE IF THIS PRODUCT IS RIGHT FOR YOU.

THIS MEDICINE MAY NOT BE RIGHT FOR YOU. ALWAYS READ THE LABEL BEFORE PURCHASE. FOLLOW THE DIRECTIONS FOR USE. INCORRECT USE COULD BE HARMFUL. IF SYMPTOMS PERSIST, TALK TO YOUR HEALTH PROFESSIONAL.

bloomsthechemist.com.au

CONTENTS H E A LT H C H E C K M A G A Z I N E | S U M M E R 2 0 2 0 The end of the year and the promise of a new one is always a good time to take stock of what’s working for you; what routines or habits do you want to review? Are you unhappy with a particular area of your life? Do you want to invest more time in your physical health or emotional wellbeing? This edition is ‘the self-care issue’, with a curated selection of articles to help you cultivate healthy habits that focus on your overall wellbeing. According to Raphaelia Michael, “Self-care is any activity that we do deliberately in order to take care of our mental, emotional, and physical health.”

In this issue, we invite you to check in on your cholesterol levels (Ask a Pharmacist, page 6), take control of your medications (What is Medication Packing?, page 4) and let go of the past and embrace failure in The Art of Making a Mistake (page 20). Discover products to help you Slide into Summer (page 16), embrace a device detox (page 13) and learn more about the importance of seeing your gynaecologist through all stages of life (page 10). 2020 has been a challenging year for all and whilst we are not out of the woods yet, we are cautiously optimistic for the future and what 2021 will bring. We hope that you and your family enjoy the festive season and a bright, happy new year.

Blooms The Chemist's Health Check Magazine is produced entirely in-house.

The Health Check Magazine Team Editor-in-Chief Annette Williams, National Communications Manager

WHAT IS MEDICATION PACKING?

MYTHS AND MISCONCEPTIONS ABOUT CHOLESTEROL

PHARMACIST FOCUS

WHEN SHOULD YOU SEE YOUR GYNAECOLOGIST?

Chief Writer Emily Facoory, Communications and Content Coordinator

THE ART OF MAKING A MISTAKE

CAN YOU DIE OF A BROKEN HEART?

DISCOVER YOUR PERSONALITY TYPE

Chief Designer Ivan Botic, Graphic Designer

THANK YOU WISHMAKERS!

IN NEED OF A LITTLE DETOX?

THE IMPORTANCE OF VITAMIN E

MINDFULNESS ACTIVITIES FOR KIDS

SLIDE INTO SUMMER

HELLO HANDSOME

HELPFUL TIPS TO HANDLE FUSSY EATERS

DECEMBEARD

OUR KIND OF COMMUNITY

WHAT’S ON IN YOUR BLOOMS THE CHEMIST

Disclaimer: All material included in Health Check magazine is provided as general information and is not intended, nor may it be construed, as medical advice or instruction. Information and opinions expressed are believed to be correct and accurate to the best knowledge and judgement of the authors. Readers should consult their appropriately qualified health care professional prior to taking any action or inaction in relation to the content contained herein.

H E A LT H C H E C K M A G A Z I N E | S U M M E R 2 0 2 0

What is Medication Packing? A MEDICATION PACKING SERVICE, OR DOSE ADMINISTRATION AID, REDUCES CONFUSION FOR PEOPLE TAKING PRESCRIBED MEDICATIONS AND HELPS MAKE THEIR LIVES EASIER.

Anyone taking regular medication can benefit from a Dose Administration Aid (DAA), including the elderly, mental health patients, people in remote areas and domestic and international travellers. DAAs can also provide independence for people with or without the support of a relative or carer. HOW DOES IT WORK? The pharmacy dispenses your medications and packs them for you in a sealed, tamper-evident device. Currently, there are two types of medication packs: sachets and blister packs. Your pharmacy may use one or the other or both.

HOW EASY ARE THEY TO OPEN? BLISTER PACKS The blister packs are easy to open as they are either sealed by foil or a thick paper. To open blister packs you can either push the blister until it tears open on the reverse side,or cut or push through the foil from the back. Additionally, the pharmacy can provide you with a tool to help open and catch the tablets from the blister. SACHETS These are another form which are easy to open. Each individual sachet is separated by a perforated line making them easy to split. To open the sachet, you can either tear the packet or cut the top.

The pack will contain information such as: – Your name

CAN MORE THAN ONE PACK BE SUPPLIED AT A TIME?

– Pharmacy details

Depending on the arrangement between yourself, your GP and your pharmacy you may be supplied with a weekly, fortnightly or monthly pack. If you are going through some changes with your medications, you might start with a weekly pack in case changes need to be made. The benefit of a monthly pack means you only need to go into the pharmacy once a month to pick up your medication.

– Names and descriptions (shape, colour) of your medicines – Directions for each medicine – Date and day of the week – Time of each dose BLISTER PACK A week’s worth of medication is set out in a sealed blister pack, with spaces for four doses per day. It sets out all the tablets and capsules that need to be taken at each particular time of the day, for each day of the week. The blister pack is single-use and is inserted into a plastic reusable folder. SACHETS Your medicines are sorted into individually labelled sachets with easy tear packaging by day, dose and time. These sachets are then rolled up in chronological date and time order.

WHAT IF I’M GOING ON HOLIDAYS FOR A FEW WEEKS? If you are going on holidays, using a DAA can be a huge help. The packs are easy to transport, store and can reduce the stress of trying to remember if you have your medication. Additionally, if you need to take a record of your medication with you when you travel you can show authorities the list of medications on the pack. It’s wise to visit your GP regularly so they can review and update your medications and ensure your Pharmacist has the right information. DAAs also contain vital information that can be used in an emergency situation by hospital or ambulance staff.

WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF MEDICATION PACKING? • Improved medication management as the DAA organises doses of tablets and capsules according to when they should be taken on each day of the week. • Allows for fewer doses to be missed or taken incorrectly. • Reduces the number of medicines stored in the home. • Helps nursing homes or other care facilities in ensuring they give patients the right medication at the right time. • Reduces patient and/or carer stress.

Blooms The Chemist offers medication packing services as well as medication reviews. Head in-store to chat with your local Blooms The Chemist Pharmacist for more information.

• Increased communication between the pharmacy, doctor and patient. • Anyone can use them regardless of the number of medications they take.

H E A LT H C H E C K M A G A Z I N E | S U M M E R 2 0 2 0

Ask a Pharmacist MYTHS AND MISCONCEPTIONS ABOUT CHOLESTEROL by Casey Shannon

CHOLESTEROL IS ESSENTIAL FOR A NUMBER OF BIOLOGICAL FUNCTIONS. IT’S REQUIRED FOR STORING ENERGY, SYNTHESISING HORMONES, AND IS ONE OF THE KEY CONSTITUENTS OF CELL MEMBRANES AND CELL STRUCTURES.1 ALTHOUGH CHOLESTEROL IS IMPORTANT, TOO MUCH CHOLESTEROL CAN BE DETRIMENTAL TO YOUR HEALTH. During the festive season be mindful of your cholesterol intake and how you can control it. Here are some common misconceptions about cholesterol and the truth behind them.

THIN PEOPLE DON’T HAVE HIGH CHOLESTEROL The cholesterol in your body comes from two main sources; your liver and the food you ingest. In fact, three quarters of cholesterol in your body is produced by your liver.² It is more likely that overweight people will have high levels of cholesterol due to a poor diet, however it is possible for thin people to overproduce cholesterol. Therefore, a person with any body type can have high cholesterol.³

ONLY MEN SUFFER FROM HIGH CHOLESTEROL Both men and women can suffer from high cholesterol. As you get older, your cholesterol levels increase. Premenopausal women may have some protection from high levels of LDL cholesterol compared to men.⁹ This is due to the high levels of estrogen during the childbearing years which tend to raise HDL cholesterol. After menopause, women’s LDL cholesterol levels tend to rise.10 Therefore, women who reach menopause should regularly get their cholesterol levels checked.

I AM TAKING CHOLESTEROL LOWERING MEDICATION SO I CAN EAT WHATEVER I LIKE Lifestyle modifications such as eating a healthy balanced diet and engaging in daily physical activity is critical in reducing your overall risk of heart disease. Taking cholesterol lowering medication is not the answer to reduce your overall risk of heart disease. Instead, it is a combination of medication and lifestyle factors which can help reduce your risk.11

ALL CHOLESTEROL IS BAD FOR YOU

To ensure your cholesterol levels don’t increase over the Christmas period, please remember to:

The liver distributes cholesterol and triglycerides to the rest of the body via lipoproteins.⁴ There are two types of lipoproteins:

1. Check your cholesterol levels – your local Blooms The Chemist can screen you for your total cholesterol level.

LDL (low density lipoproteins), or “bad cholesterol”, is the main cholesterol transporter and is responsible for the development of plaque on the artery walls. High levels of LDL cholesterol raise your risk for stroke and heart disease.⁵

•

HDL (high density lipoproteins), or “good cholesterol”, is responsible for carrying cholesterol back to the liver to be flushed from the body. High levels of HDL cholesterol can lower your risk for stroke and heart disease.⁶

•

It is important to keep a healthy balanced diet and reduce the intake of foods that are high in LDL cholesterol. This includes foods such as cakes, biscuits, coconut oil, cream, processed meats, fat on meat, hard cheese and butter. Research shows that celebrating Christmas is associated with higher levels of LDL and total cholesterol, therefore increasing your risk of heart disease or stroke.⁷ During this Christmas period, ensure you are swapping out the high cholesterol foods for something a little healthier. Instead of a cheese board, have more nuts, veggie sticks and fruit. Rather than reaching for the Christmas cake and the trifle, enjoy a fresh fruit salad for dessert.

2. Change your diet and lifestyle to improve your cholesterol level.12 3. Control your cholesterol with help from your doctor and your local Blooms The Chemist Pharmacist.

Dr. Mandal A. 2019. News Medical: Cholesterol Physiology. [online] Available at: https://www.news-medical.net/health/Cholesterol-Physiology.aspx 1

Queensland Government: Queensland Health. 2020. Your Blood Cholesterol Explained. [online] Available at: https://www.health.qld.gov.au/news-events/ news/blood-cholesterol-explained-good-bad-test-levels-food-diet-lifestyleprevention 2

American Heart Association. 2017. Common Misconceptions about Cholesterol. [online] Available at: https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/ cholesterol/about-cholesterol/common-misconceptions-about-cholesterol 3,9,10

Williams, H., 2013. Clinical Pharmacist. Dislipidaemia Pathophysiology and Types, [online]. Vol 5, 189-194. Available at: https://www.pharmaceuticaljournal.com/download?ac=1067087&firstPass=false 4

I WOULD BE ABLE TO FEEL IT IF I HAD HIGH CHOLESTEROL You can feel when you are getting a cold or if you are in pain, but you cannot feel your cholesterol. High cholesterol usually has no signs or symptoms until it is too late and you have suffered from a heart attack or stroke.⁸ Therefore, it is important that you get your cholesterol tested every four to six years as an adult.

Centres for Disease Control or Prevention (CDC). 2019. Cholesterol Myths and Facts. [online] Available at: https://www.cdc.gov/features/ cholesterol-myths-facts/index.html 5,6,8,11

Vedel-Krogh. S, Kobylecki. C, Nordestgaard. B, Langsted. A. 2019. Atherosclerosis. The Christmas holiday are immediately followed by a period of hypercholesterolemia. Vol 281, 121-127. [online] Available at: https://www. atherosclerosis-journal.com/article/S0021-9150(18)31542-9/fulltext 7

American Heart Association. 2017. What is cholesterol. [online] Available at: https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/cholesterol/about-cholesterol 12

H E A LT H C H E C K M A G A Z I N E | S U M M E R 2 0 2 0

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AHA’s in the SunSense Anti-ageing Face & SunSense Anti-Ageing Face Matte. Always read the label. Follow the directions for use. Avoid prolonged sun exposure and wear protective clothing, hats and eyewear to further reduce 8risk. Frequent re-application is required. *

Expert care for the sun aware

Pharmacist focus Jessica Sturcke BLOOMS THE CHEMIST DIANELLA

How long have you been a Pharmacist with the Blooms The Chemist network? I have been working as a Pharmacist for 10 years and began working at the Dianella store just over five years ago. We became a Blooms The Chemist store when I took over ownership in February 2019. What made you want to become a Pharmacist? I’ve always had an interest in science and chemistry, particularly within the medical field. While studying a science degree I worked in a pathology lab and although it was interesting work, I really missed interacting with the community. I decided I wanted a career where I could help and engage with people. Nursing was not an option (I have quite a weak stomach), so pharmacy seemed like a good fit! 10 years on and I still enjoy it.

How does your pharmacy give back to your local community? Our store loves contributing to local schools, sporting clubs and nursing homes with donations and prizes for raffles. We have also been helping to supply hand sanitiser to local businesses and sporting clubs. What community initiatives have you and your team been involved in? We regularly support Blooms The Chemist’s charity partner, Make-a-Wish Australia, by hosting bake sales, raffles and other fundraising events. How do you best support your team and customers? I like to support my team by providing a happy workplace and making sure everyone feels valued and appreciated.

What is the most important thing you’ve learnt as a Pharmacist?

What’s the number one health tip you’ve learnt over the years?

During my time as a Pharmacist, especially over the last few months, I have learnt how important it is just for us to be there for our customers, whether it’s for advice on their medications or health issues, or just a quick chat. For some of our customers, we may be their only interaction with another person that day, and I think it’s really important that we take time to talk to them and make them feel welcome in the pharmacy.

‘Life isn’t about waiting for the storm to pass… It’s about learning to dance in the rain.’- Vivian Greene.

How do you like to relax or spend your free time?

What are you excited about for the future of your store?

I spend most of my free time with my husband Michael and our fur baby, Diesel, a chocolate Labrador. We enjoy going on walks, especially if they end with a coffee at our local café. I also love spending time with friends and family, cooking up a storm or teaching myself to crochet.

We have recently started offering Sleep Apnoea testing and products, which has already made a difference in the lives of some of our customers. I am really looking forward to helping more people achieve good quality sleep.

What’s the best thing about your community? Dianella is a great community, very diverse and multicultural. Some of our customers have been visiting the pharmacy since it opened in 1968, so we have a lot of regular customers. The local suburb is changing though, and we are gradually seeing more young families coming through.

That self care is super important. Eating well, regular exercise and getting enough sleep are all necessary, but doing something for yourself is just as important for your mental health and wellbeing. What are five things you couldn’t live without? My husband and dog, our families, coffee and wine. Do you have a quote to live by?

If you could give a shout out to one of your regular customers, who would it be and why? I couldn’t possibly choose just one regular customer, I have far too many favourites!

H E A LT H C H E C K M A G A Z I N E | S U M M E R 2 0 2 0

WHEN SHOULD YOU

See Your Gynaecologist? SEEING YOUR GYNAECOLOGIST IS AN IMPORTANT STEP IN YOUR PREVENTATIVE HEALTHCARE ROUTINE. WE SPOKE TO DR MARCELA MARTIN, A GYNAECOLOGIST AND FERTILITY SPECIALIST, TO DETERMINE WHEN YOU SHOULD BE SEEING A GYNAECOLOGIST ANDÂ WHAT ISSUES ARE IMPORTANT TO DISCUSS. 10

TEENS According to Dr Martin, you should be checking in with a gynaecologist in different phases of your life and this should ideally start during puberty. “If we think about those under 20, it’s a good idea to check in with a gynaecologist if there are any problems with periods, such as irregularity, painful periods or not having started menstruation by the age of 16.” Starting a conversation around what constitutes a ‘normal’ period and ones that are interfering with everyday life is also extremely important. More than 10% of Australian woman suffer from endometriosis.1 Characterised by painful periods, heavy or irregular periods and pelvic pain, this disease often starts during teenage years. Another common condition that can affects the ovaries, ovulation and fertility is Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS). PCOS symptoms can include irregular periods or absence of a period, heavy periods or spotting, weight gain and acne. Being aware of these conditions and what is considered a ‘normal’ period may assist teenagers in better understanding their bodies and health.

TWENTIES In their twenties, many women are more focused on not getting pregnant. “It’s important to make sure that your contraception choices are the best for you, as the oral contraceptive pill is not just a one size fits all. There are so many choices in Australia, and we are lucky in that sense. But different pills will have different hormonal profiles and therefore, different pills suit different people.

ISSUES TO DISCUSS When seeing a gynaecologist, you should feel free to discuss your contraceptive options, including ensuring you have access to the right contraception that works for you. Any unusual pain in your lower abdomen or pain during sexual activity should be discussed. Along with discussing pap smear results or any unusual discharge, Dr Martin also stresses the need to discuss any risks for STIs, especially if you’ve got a new partner and you’d like a routine check-up. Dr Martin would also like to see more women understanding and discussing their fertility potential.

There is also the option of non-hormonal contraception that can be discussed. In Australia, we have a new smaller intrauterine device now, that can help with painful periods, endometriosis and can still be used in women who haven’t had babies,” Dr Martin says.

“We teach girls a lot about contraception these days in high school, but obviously we just don’t bring up the concept that fertility is not a guaranteed thing in the future. They have choices, we live in a world where we can do egg freezing these days,” Dr Martin says.

THIRTIES

OVARIAN CANCER

The next decade is usually when women start to think about having children or choosing to postpone having babies due to a variety of factors. “Certainly, I think in your early thirties, if you haven’t had children you should be thinking about a fertility check-up. There are blood tests that can be done that help predict your fertility potential and therefore need to be discussed. There are a lot of things that can be done now for women, that allow them to make informed choices about their fertility in the future, rather than just leaving it to chance,” Dr Martin says.

FORTIES The next phase after babies is the perimenopausal phase, which usually starts in your late forties. This then moves into the menopausal phase, where a gynaecologist can help guide you through any changes, including hot flashes, trouble sleeping and headaches. Menopause can affect women in a variety of ways and not everyone experiences the same symptoms. Keeping a routine and discussing any issues with your gynaecologist can help make the process easier.

With February being Ovarian Cancer Month, it’s important that more women are aware of the disease. According to Dr Martin, there are no regular check-ups or pre-emptive tests that they can do, unless there is a strong family history of breast or ovarian cancer. If that’s the case, then you’ll be sent to a gynaecologist who may put forward more regular check-ups. “I wish women knew more about the fact that they have the right to ask for assistance, starting with their GP to organise an ultrasound if they have unexplained pelvic symptoms. This can then initiate that conversation along with a potential referral to a gynaecologist to see if there are any cysts involved. One of the minor things that might potentially assist with ovarian cancer is being on the oral contraceptive pill. It keeps the ovaries quiet, but there is no definitive preventative measure. The one thing that we would like to see is far more research into ovarian cancer, there are still so many unanswered questions,” Dr Martin says. For more information, visit ovariancancer.net.au https://www.endometriosisaustralia.org/

H E A LT H C H E C K M A G A Z I N E | S U M M E R 2 0 2 0

MYTH: CHOCOLATE CAUSES ACNE

TRUTH: BACTERIA CAUSES ACNE

KILL BACTERIA WITH BENZAC

SWAP MYTHS FOR RESULTS IN 3 EASY STEPS 1

1 / CLEANSE Benzac Purifying Daily Facial Cleanser • Prepares skin for Benzac treatment gel or wash

• Removes impurities & helps unblock pores

• Controls oiliness without drying the skin

2 / TREAT Benzac AC Treatment Gel or Wash • Kills 94% of acne bacteria responsible for acne1,2

• Unclogs pores, blackheads and whiteheads

3 / MOISTURISE Benzac Daily Facial Moisturiser

• Won’t clog your pores

• Lightweight, non-greasy moisturiser

• Oil-free and fragrance free

• Reduces inflammation and dries the pimples

• Removes excess oiliness and moisturising agents reduce the risk of irritation ALWAYS READ THE LABEL. FOLLOW THE DIRECTIONS FOR USE. IF SYMPTOMS PERSIST, TALK TO YOUR HEALTH PROFESSIONAL. 1.R Jackson, Report no. 88-0740-74 June 1989. Funded by Owen/Allercreme. Available from Galderma Australia Ph. 1800 800 765. 2. Mills OH et al. Int. J. Dermatol. 1986;12(25):664-667. BNZ20-08-0144

IN NEED OF A LITTLE

Detox? THIS KIND OF DETOX ISN’T YOUR USUAL ‘GREEN JUICES AND CELERY STICKS’ DETOX. RATHER, IT HAS TO DO WITH THAT RECTANGULAR OBJECT IN YOUR HAND THAT HAS SLOWLY TAKEN OVER YOUR LIFE. INSTIGATING A SMARTPHONE DETOX IS A GREAT IDEA TO START AFRESH FOR THE NEW YEAR. BUT WHILE TURNING OFF YOUR NOTIFICATIONS IS SIMPLE, TAKING A BREAK OR LIMITING THE CONSTANT BARRAGE OF INFORMATION IS EASIER SAID THAN DONE.

DOES IT SPARK JOY? If your Instagram is overflowing with influencers whose lavish lifestyles and impossible beauty standards have left you feeling less than great about yourself, then it could be time for a refresh of the accounts you follow. Set some time aside and go through each account, making sure that, as Marie Kondo says, it sparks joy within you. If it doesn’t, then unfollow or delete. Search through the explore page and find accounts whose values closely align to yours, whether that’s through activism, art, positivity or inclusive health and fitness accounts. Fill up your feed with ideas and images that inspire creative thinking and motivation instead of competition and envy. YOUR WAKE-UP ROUTINE Avoid getting stuck into the habit of reaching for your phone every morning by tweaking your morning wake-up call. We all know the struggle of the dreaded snooze button. Avoid the temptation to hit snooze by removing easy access to your phone. This can involve putting your phone across the room when you go to sleep. So instead of rolling over and hitting snooze, you’ll have to get up, walk across the room and turn off the alarm.

The sense of already being up can motivate you into staying up, instead of crawling back under the covers. Better yet, buy an analogue alarm clock and put your phone in another room so you won’t be tempted to stay up late and scroll. STICK TO ONE DEVICE An easy way to decrease your use of social media is confining it to one particular device. For example, if you have both an iPhone and an iPad or a laptop, you could delete Facebook and Instagram from your phone and instead only have it on your iPad or laptop. Do you really need to check Facebook and Instagram on your way to work or on your lunch break; can you not wait to see your sister’s new air fryer or your friend’s new house until you get home? Having the apps on only one device can help you to decrease your reliance on them and encourage you to seek out other ways to use your time. Listen to podcasts or read a hardcopy book or an eBook. The withdrawals will be hard at first, especially when your finger automatically clicks the blank space where the apps used to be. But after a while you’ll forget that they were even there in the first place. H E A LT H C H E C K M A G A Z I N E | S U M M E R 2 0 2 0

Australiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s No.1 Probiotic Brand

Always read the label. Follow the directions for use. Vitamin & mineral supplements should not replace a balanced diet. Not for the treatment of iron deficiency. In Pharmacy - IRI Scan Data, Australian Pharmacy, Probiotics Ingredient, Dollar Sales by Brand, MAT to 12/07/2020. IHP4829 - 08/20

Mindfulness Activities for Kids IN NEED OF SOME CREATIVE AND EXCITING IDEAS TO KEEP THE KIDS ENTERTAINED OVER THE SUMMER HOLIDAYS? WE’VE GOT YOU COVERED WITH ACTIVITIES THAT ADD A LITTLE BIT OF MINDFULNESS INTO THE MIX. WHAT IS MINDFULNESS? Mindfulness is the conscious effort of bringing your attention to the present moment, free from any judgement or distraction. It’s about slowing down and taking in everything that’s around you, instead of focusing on several things at once. WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS FOR KIDS? Mindfulness has numerous benefits for children, including the improvement of focus and attention along with promoting calm and helping to reduce stress. The practice can help cultivate patience, optimism and a healthier outlook on life.

MINDFULNESS JARS

A mindfulness jar can be a great way to teach kids about regulating their emotions and the importance of focus. Soothing a temper tantrum or helping an upset little one focus on calming down can be achieved through shaking the jar and concentrating on the glitter settling slowly at the bottom. To make a mindfulness jar, you’ll need the following ingredients: • A mason jar or just an average glass jar • Kid-safe PVA glue • Warm water • Glitter • Food colouring if you want to colour the water • A hot glue gun (keep out of reach from little hands once you turn it on) Step 1: Fill your glass jar with the glue. Remembering that the more you add in, the longer it will take for the glitter to settle after shaking. Step 2: Add in a tablespoon or more of glitter into the jar.

Step 3: Fill the jar the rest of the way with warm water and add food colouring if you wish, then seal the cap of the jar using a hot glue gun. You can also help the kids decorate the lids or add ribbon or extra trim to personalise their mindfulness jar.

NON-TOXIC SLIME

Non-toxic slime is a great way for your kids to learn more about science and you can easily use ingredients that are found in your kitchen cupboard. This recipe is completely safe with no toxic ingredients and can be used on those with sensitive skin. Playing with slime is perfect for kids who respond well to sensory activities, and helps to promote mindfulness and focus. To make non-toxic slime, you’ll need the following ingredients: A kid-safe PVA glue Baking soda • Food colouring • Water • Non-toxic food grade glitter (optional) • •

Step 1: Add ¼ cup of baking soda into two separate cups of warm water and mix well, setting them aside. Step 2: In another bowl mix in 140 grams of the clear glue and your chosen food colouring. You can also add a food-safe glitter (found in the cake decorating section of your supermarket or cake decorating shops) for extra sparkle. Step 3: Pour the glue mixture into the two cups of baking soda water. The slime will start to form into little lumps; take these out and you’ve got slime. If the slime starts to loosen up, then you can add it back into the baking soda water to keep it firm. H E A LT H C H E C K M A G A Z I N E | S U M M E R 2 0 2 0

Slide into

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H E A LT H C H E C K M A G A Z I N E | S U M M E R 2 0 2 0

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THE ART OF

Making a Mistake MAKING A MISTAKE CAN OFTEN FEEL PAINFUL AND EXTREMELY UNCOMFORTABLE IN THE MOMENT. WHILE THE PHYSICAL EFFECTS OF A RAPIDLY BEATING HEART AND SWEATY HANDS MAY ONLY OCCUR FOR SO LONG, THE LASTING EMOTIONAL EFFECTS CAN STAY LODGED IN YOUR BRAIN FOR A SIGNIFICANT TIME AFTER.

e may relive every excruciating moment of our misstep, often repeating it over and over in our minds. However, if we ruminate and replay everything that went wrong, we ultimately aren’t helping the situation. Instead, we are prolonging the self-punishment. When a child takes its first steps and falls, we tell them to get back up and try again, which they do with often more success. The child doesn’t berate itself and give up; they continue to try again. So why haven’t we incorporated that into our adult lives? After all, aren’t we learning every day? We’re also much harder on ourselves than we are on others. When a friend makes a small mistake, we offer encouraging words and reassure them there is no need to beat themselves up over such an insignificant incident. Yet a few weeks later, we might make a similar error and spend the next few days ruminating on it. Why are we so quick to reassure others yet chastise ourselves when we make the same mistake? Dan Ariely, a behavioural economist, told New York Magazine that it’s simply a matter of perspective. When you’re dealing with friends who have made minor mistakes or have similar problems, it’s easier to stay rational and have that third-party objectivity. But when it’s your own problems, your emotions take over and can skew your judgement on the situation. While taking your own advice may be easier said than done, you can instead take on a new perspective. It can be hard to grasp that your failure has not branded you an imbecile or that you

desperately need to move across the world to escape your mistake. But to avoid these thoughts, it’s a good idea to breathe and think about it objectively. If someone you loved made the exact same mistake, what would you say to them? Would you call them an idiot, would you punish them endlessly? We need to learn to flip the script in our minds to one in which we would speak to our closest friends, allowing ourselves the compassion we so freely give to others. Try to think rationally about what actually went wrong but don’t overanalyse to the point of mental anguish. Instead, reflect on why you made the mistake and learn what you can do to make sure it doesn’t happen again. ‘Owning’ the mistake can also help you feel more in control of the situation and boost your sense of integrity. If you can, use this as a learning experience. While it is often only visible in hindsight, the best and most worthwhile lessons can come from our failures. As Oscar Wilde said, “Experience is simply the name we give our mistakes.” Without those experiences, you may not have learnt that that particular person wasn’t right for you, or that you should have double checked that PowerPoint slide before your big presentation at work. If you frame the mistake as a lesson learned, that mindset can benefit you in all areas of your life. Finally, as hard as it can be, you must practise acceptance and just move on. Nobody’s perfect, we are all human, and mistakes are ultimately how we learn and grow. It all comes down to changing your perspective; your next mistake may just be your next breakthrough.

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CAN YOU DIE OF A

Broken Heart? AN AGE-OLD QUESTION THAT HAS BAFFLED MANY; CAN YOU REALLY DIE OF A BROKEN HEART? WHILE MANY DISTRAUGHT LOVERS WILL SAY THAT THEY’VE COME CLOSE, WE’VE FOUND A SOURCE THAT MIGHT BE ABLE TO SHED SOME LIGHT ON THE MATTER.

Dr Nikki Stamp FRACS is an Australian trained cardiothoracic surgeon with a strong desire to change the way we think about health. Her first book Can You Die of a Broken Heart? focusses on the human heart, detailing its function, the process behind transplants, and ‘broken heart syndrome’.

THE HEART Pumping blood to all parts of our bodies, the heart is our lifeforce and roughly the size of a clenched fist. This incredible organ will beat about 115,000 times each day, with a woman’s heart beating slightly more than a man’s. A kitchen tap would need to be turned on all the way for at least 45 years to equal the amount of blood pumped by the heart in an average lifetime.

BROKEN HEART SYNDROME Contrary to what some may believe, broken heart syndrome is a real condition. The medical name is ‘takotsubo cardiomyopathy’, or stress-induced cardiomyopathy. According to Dr Stamp, the syndrome is similar to a heart attack. “The body’s emotions cause the release of huge amounts of hormones that lead the coronary arteries to spasm and squeeze down, limiting blood supply to the precious heart muscle cells.” Some startling statistics can be found in Dr Stamp’s book, with one study showing that on the first day after losing someone, the risk of having a heart attack is 16 times greater than normal. A US study of more than 16,000 patients found that divorce increases the risk of having a heart attack, with the risk being higher in women.

Palpitations: Being abnormally aware of your heartbeat, especially if it feels fast or irregular and this sensation doesn’t go away, signifies the need for an appointment with the doctor. You’re worried: Being worried is a good enough reason to get checked out. Sometimes we just know when something isn’t quite right in our bodies. Whether it is a little pain, or you feel exhausted all the time, have a chat to your doctor.”

LOOKING AFTER YOUR HEART While you may not be able to fully control the emotional upheavals and heartbreaks you experience in life, you can be in control over the quality and health of your heart. • Aim

for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity, such as brisk walking, on most days of the week.

• Eat

a variety of foods, including vegetables, wholegrains, lean meats, oily fish, fruits, nuts, seeds and legumes.

• Smoking

causes narrowing and clogging of the arteries which reduces blood supply and the amount of oxygen available throughout the body. Smoking also increases the likelihood of your blood clotting which can lead to a heart attack and stroke.

• Manage

your cholesterol and blood pressure by getting regular checks.

• Manage

stress by meditating, building a strong support network and visiting a mental health provider, if necessary.

“What causes takotsubo, what hormones are involved and how it is best treated is still being studied,” Dr Stamp says.

WHAT TO LOOK OUT FOR? An estimated 1.2 million Australian adults aged 18 years and over had one or more conditions related to heart or vascular disease.1 Coronary heart disease is the leading cause of death in Australia.2 Dr Stamp suggests being aware of certain symptoms that can indicate there might be a problem with your heart. Chest pain: this is the classic symptom we are told to keep an eye out for. One man described this pain to me as ‘like an elephant sitting on your chest.’ Short on puff: Some people with heart troubles feel a little like they’re running a marathon all the time. If your heart is sick, whether in the coronary arteries or a valve, it cannot keep up with what your moving body needs. Swelling: When the heart can’t pump well, there is back pressure that builds up all the way down to your ankles, making them swell up markedly.

Visit your local Blooms The Chemist for a free blood pressure evaluation. We’ll fit an adjustable cuff around your upper arm (roughly at heart level) and measure your blood pressure. Your Pharmacist will then discuss your results and provide further advice and referral if necessary. Dr Nikki Stamp’s book Can You Die of a Broken Heart is out now. Find out more information at drnikkistamp. com/book.

Australian Institute of Health and Welfare. https://www.aihw.gov.au/ reports/heart-stroke-vascular-diseases/cardiovascular-health-compendium/ contents/how-many-australians-have-cardiovascular-disease 1

Heart Foundation. https://www.heartfoundation.org.au/About-us/AustraliaHeart-Disease-Statistics 2

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Discover Your PERSONALITY TESTS HAVE LONG BEEN SEEN AS A POPULAR WAY TO IDENTIFY CERTAIN BEHAVIOURS OR TRAITS THAT INDIVIDUALS MAY POSSESS. BASED ON CERTAIN PSYCHOLOGICAL PRINCIPLES FROM PSYCHOANALYSTS SUCH AS SIGMUND FREUD AND CARL JUNG, THESE THEORIES AND TESTS HAVE BEEN REDEFINED FOR THE WIDER POPULATION, CAPTIVATING PEOPLE’S ATTENTION AND CURIOSITY AS THEY SEEK TO LEARN MORE ABOUT THEMSELVES.

HISTORY OF PERSONALITY TYPES Greek physician Hippocrates recorded the first known personality model, theorising that one’s persona is based upon four separate temperaments. With every passing century new discoveries were made which helped to influence how we perceive personality tests today. Throughout the 20th century, psychology as a field of study started to become more popular. One of the most well-known academic figures, Sigmund Freud, had a reputation that has long since outlasted him, theorising a structural model of the mind and its behaviours. Famous psychiatrist Dr. Carl Jung created the concept that people use four principal psychological functions; sensation, intuition, feeling, and thinking. These ideas have been transformed and modified to form the basis of certain personality tests.

WHY WE FIND IT FASCINATING We all want to find out what makes us tick; to help us understand our particular quirks and flaws. Personality tests can be often used as a tool to help validate ourselves. They may make us feel ‘seen’, understood, or special. We want to know that our strengths are uniquely ours and that our choice of career path was inevitable, even though we fit into these categories with millions of other people. If you’re interested in trying personality tests out for yourself, we’ve listed some of the most popular ones.

ENNEAGRAM The Enneagram describes nine different personality types and how they interact with the world and their overarching perspectives. Derived from the ideas of Bolivian psycho-spiritual teacher Oscar Ichazo and Chilean psychiatrist Claudio Naranjo, the test identifies each type with a set of core beliefs that describes how an individual processes and moves through life. These beliefs may help identify ways to improve and develop. The nine types include: The Perfectionist, The Giver, The Achiever, The Individualist, The Investigator, The Skeptic, The Enthusiast, The Challenger and The Peacemaker. These all correspond to one of the nine numbers and each have their own defining characteristics and core values. Visit truity.com/test/enneagrampersonality-test to find out your number.

Personality Type MYERS BRIGGS Arguably one of the most well-known personality tests, the Myers Briggs test was developed by mother daughter duo Isabel Briggs Myers and her mother, Katharine Briggs, using theories from the acclaimed psychiatrist Dr. Carl Jung. The Myers Briggs test focusses on four main components of personalities; Extraversion vs. Introversion, Sensing vs. Intuition, Thinking vs. Feeling and Judging vs. Perceiving. These are determined on a sliding scale and your result ends up as a four-letter code, e.g INFP, to indicate the stronger preferences. These codes cover 16 different personality types with descriptions such as The Mastermind, The Inspector, The Healer and The Composer. To find out your personality type visit truity.com/test/type-finder-personality-test-new.

STRENGTHS TEST The VIA Survey attempts to determine your strengths and weaknesses in a comprehensive list order. The test claims to provide an understanding of your strengths and what values are most important to you, with the goal that this will help you improve aspects of your life, including relationships, career and overall wellbeing. Some of the 24-character strengths include Curiosity, Honesty, Humour, Love of Learning and Perspective. After you have taken the test, the 24 characteristics are ranked from your most to least valued. To find out more about your strengths visit viacharacter.org.

HIGH PERFORMANCE HABITS High performance coach Brendan Burchard created The High Performance Indicator Assessment to measure what he believes are the most important factors when it comes to long-term success, serving not so much as a personality test, but as a way to determine your habits. The six habits (Clarity, Energy, Necessity, Productivity, Influence and Courage) promote the importance of acting deliberately by routinely exhibiting these practices. The five-minute assessment helps you determine where you stand with these specific six habits and can provide insight on which areas need more improvement. To take the assessment, visit brendon.mykajabi.com/hp6-assessment. Personality test results can sometimes seem uncanny, distilling your behaviours and traits into revealing categories with which you may strongly identify. It’s always wise to remember that personality tests are similar to horoscopes, with mixed opinions on the validity of the evidence behind them. Whilst they can be fun to take, it’s important to remember that we are all individuals and personality tests don’t measure the full spectrum of every single person’s character. Where would the fun be in life if we all neatly fit into little boxes?

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Blood Pressure Monitors

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Keep track of your blood pressure this summer with High blood pressure (hypertension) can lead to serious health problems. Regular self-check with an Omron Blood Pressure Monitor can assist Healthcare Professionals to evaluate blood pressure trends. Omron’s IntellisenseTM Technology automatically applies the right amount of pressure for fast, accurate and more comfortable measurements.

AUS/NZ

Always read & follow the instructions for use & health warnings. For people with high blood pressure. Consult your doctor to evaluate the readings. Check your device periodically for accuracy. Source: “Global Home Appliance Market Comprehensive Survey 2020”, Fuji Keizai Co., Ltd (data for 2019)

The Importance of Vitamin E Vitamin E is an antioxidant that can protect cells against the effects of free radicals and help to support the immune system. Whilst fan favourite vitamin C has already made a reputation for itself in skincare, vitamin E is another important ingredient to factor into your daily routine. Its properties may decrease redness and contribute to a more even complexion. An essential nutrient, vitamin E also occurs naturally in many foods that contain fat, such as avocadoes, peanuts, almonds and sunflower seeds. It’s added to many cosmetic products, including moisturisers, anti-ageing creams and sunscreens. Applying vitamin E topically either with a cream or oil-based option is often the easiest way to incorporate it into your skincare routine. Apply a generous amount to your skin and massage it in to allow it to infiltrate the skin’s barrier. It absorbs easily and may increase the amount of vitamin E stored within the sebaceous glands. Add INVITE E CREAM, an emollient-rich moisturising cream with vitamin E, to your skincare routine, paying close attention to drier areas including the face, knees, elbows and feet. ALWAYS READ THE LABEL. FOLLOW THE DIRECTIONS FOR USE.

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BioCeuticals® iron range – for an easily absorbed iron that’s gentle on your stomach. Who needs extra iron? Everybody needs a certain amount of iron in their diets, but some people might have an increased need or may not eat enough.

Some people who may benefit from a little boost to their iron intake include: • • • • •

women vegetarians and vegans athletes pregnant or breastfeeding women the elderly

What does iron do? Iron isn’t just for healthy red blood cells, it also: • reduces tiredness and fatigue, when dietary intake is inadequate • helps to maintain normal immune system function • helps support cognitive function

BioCeuticals products contain forms of iron which are easy to absorb – meaning there is more iron getting to work where it’s needed in your body.

Ask your Blooms The Chemist Pharmacist about our BioCeuticals iron today!

Hello Handsome MAINTAINING A GOOD SKINCARE ROUTINE CAN REDUCE SIGNS OF AGEING AND INCREASE HYDRATION, LEADING TO IMPROVED SKIN INTEGRITY AND HEALING (GREAT FOR THOSE OF US PRONE TO RAZOR BURN!). The Handsome range has been specifically designed to meet men’s skincare needs, with products featuring natural and organic ingredients, refreshing clean aromas and slick minimalist packaging. THE HANDSOME FACIAL WASH contains natural ingredients including ylang ylang and bergamot oil to balance and regulate oil production. Other ingredients include bitter orange, which works with bergamot to help calm oily skin, and hyaluronic acid and vitamin E to keep your face clean and fresh. Use the facial wash morning and night, followed by a moisturiser. THE HANDSOME CHARCOAL FACE BUFF contains activated charcoal in a mousse texture with fine particles to give you a deep cleanse and light exfoliation. Ingredients include mineral rich kaolin clay to soak up excess oils and organic witch hazel that works as an anti-inflammatory to help soothe skin conditions. It also contains bamboo stem extract which provides calming benefits to the skin. Use this once or twice a week to remove dead skin cells and encourage cell turnover. THE HANDSOME ANTIOXIDANT DAY CREAM has a powerful blend of natural antioxidants to help reduce visible signs of ageing and neutralise free radicals to invigorate the skin. Ingredients such as organic jojoba help to reduce redness and dryness, whilst avocado and vitamin E boost hydration and skin health. Pat on a small amount after you’ve washed your face. If you’re heading outdoors, reach for the HANDSOME FACIAL MOISTURISER SPF15, a nourishing, non-greasy facial moisturiser that provides hydration and protection against the elements. The broad-spectrum sunscreen in this moisturiser will help keep your face protected from damaging UV rays. Products are subject to availability.

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With optimal skin compatibility at pH5.5, you can count on MoliCare® to support you without irritation or leakage.

Helpful Tips to Handle Fussy Eaters FUSSY EATERS CAN MAKE DINNER TIME A CONSTANT BATTLE, WITH VEGGIES OFTEN BECOMING A SORE POINT BETWEEN CARERS AND CHILDREN. TO HELP MAKE DINNERTIME LESS OF A STRUGGLE, TRY THESE CREATIVE WAYS TO MAKE HEALTHY FOOD A LITTLE MORE APPETISING. Make food fun - Create faces with vegetables, cut up sandwiches into different shapes and let your kids be a part of the process by helping you whisk omelettes or create fruit kebabs. Serve small portions – You’ll not only waste less, but your children may be more inclined to eat if there isn’t as much on their plate. Combine their favourite and least liked foods - Introducing too many foods at once may overwhelm them. Instead, serve the new food with an old favourite, preferably something that’s familiar that you know they will eat. Hide vegetables in their favourite foods - For example, add in small amounts of broccoli or mushrooms into spaghetti bolognaise or add zucchini to a healthy brownie mix. There are loads of recipes that showcase creative ways to incorporate vegetables into tried-and-tested favourite dishes. Gummy vitamins can also be helpful in providing nutritional support, packed with important nutrients to assist with growth and development. NATURE’S WAY KIDS SMART VITA GUMMIES MULTIVITAMIN FUSSY EATERS contains 14 vitamins and minerals, plus added vegetable extract powders, all in a delicious raspberry flavoured gummy. NATURE’S WAY KIDS SMART VITA GUMMIES CALCIUM + VITAMIN D are an easy way to support your child’s daily intake of calcium, for strong healthy bones, teeth and muscles. NATURE’S WAY KIDS SMART VITA GUMMIES MULTIVITAMIN + VEGIES combines a multivitamin and vegetable powders to help support the intake of essential nutrients for kids’ healthy growth and development, including brain function, eye health and immune system function. ALWAYS READ THE LABEL. FOLLOW THE DIRECTIONS FOR USE. IF SYMPTOMS PERSIST, TALK TO YOUR HEALTH PROFESSIONAL. VITAMIN SUPPLEMENTS SHOULD NOT REPLACE A BALANCED DIET. THIS MEDICINE MAY NOT BE RIGHT FOR YOU. READ THE WARNINGS BEFORE PURCHASE. H E A LT H C H E C K M A G A Z I N E | S U M M E R 2 0 2 0

Thank you Wishmakers! SINCE 2016, BLOOMS THE CHEMIST HAS BEEN A MAJOR PARTNER OF MAKE-A-WISH AUSTRALIA, THE ONLY CHARITY IN AUSTRALIA DEDICATED TO GRANTING WISHES FOR CRITICALLY ILL CHILDREN.

Through the support of the entire Blooms The Chemist store network and local communities we have raised over $1,000,000, making it possible for over a thousand children, families and communities to experience the power of a wish since the beginning of our partnership. WHAT’S IN A WISH?

THE WISH JOURNEY

By putting the power back in the hands of these children and allowing them to regain some control, they can reignite their sense of hope and imagination, and give them strength to battle their illness. Studies have shown that the wish experience can have a positive effect, with wish kids experiencing less stress, depression and anxiety symptoms, even as they underwent treatment. Health-related quality of life and their perceptions of their own physical limitations can improve. A wish can give these kids hope and optimism, even in the face of unimaginable challenges. Wishes can also positively impact families, healthcare workers and communities. Wish kids’ siblings can experience reduced anxiety and fear, and parents can experience an increased sense of empowerment and ability to cope with their child’s illness and situation.

1. Make-A-Wish volunteers visit each child to capture their greatest wish, getting to the heart of what kids truly want and why.

2. Make-A-Wish HQ works with families, volunteers and medical teams to design the ultimate wish experience. 3. In the lead up to the wish, Make-A-Wish takes each child on a journey designed to build excitement and provide a welcome distraction from medical treatment. Anticipation can be incredibly powerful, helping to calm, distract and inspire sick kids at a time they need it most. 4. When the moment finally arrives, children get to experience their greatest wish come true - it's everything they've imagined and more.

THE POWER OF THE #WISHFORCE

WISHES ARE WAITING

Make-A-Wish Australia receives no government funding and relies solely on the support of organisations, the community and individuals. Over the last four years, the Blooms The Chemist network has partnered with local communities and other businesses to deliver incredibly important fundraising events. Since 2016, we have: - held over 100 store fundraisers - baked 100s of cupcakes and biscuits for numerous bake sales - organised dozens of raffles and guessing competitions - dressed up as superheroes and childhood career ambitions - played over 6000 holes of golf on our charity golf days - answered over 400 trivia questions - cooked over 2500 sausages and 9 kilos of onions over several sausage sizzles

Every day, six families around Australia receive the devastating news that their child has a life-threatening medical condition. That’s 2000 families each year; four times the number Make-AWish are currently able to reach. The COVID-19 pandemic has had a devastating impact on kids who are waiting to have their wish. Many long-term supporters are understandably unable to give as they usually would, and community fundraising events have significantly decreased. Despite the easing of restrictions, many wish kids are already vulnerable and unable to go out in public with the same freedom as others. The Make-A-Wish team are working to keep these kids safe while helping them stay focussed on their amazing Wish experience ahead.

HELP HANNAH VISIT VIVID

HANNAH’S WISH

Hannah is the little girl born with half a heart. Yet she's also full of heart and courage, having overcome four open-heart surgeries in just seven years.

Hannah, 7, hypoplastic left heart syndrome and Ayme-Gripp syndrome.

Wish mum Emma first learned something was wrong with Hannah's heart during pregnancy. A pericardial effusion, which is excess fluid surrounding the heart, meant Emma's baby could be stillborn or born struggling to breathe. Some 20 doctors were in the delivery room the day Hannah was born, and she was whisked off to The Royal Children's Hospital within hours. "When she was about six or seven hours old, they drained the fluid out. They had to do it straight away; otherwise, she wouldn't have survived," says Emma.

SETBACKS AND SURGERIES Hannah was diagnosed with hypoplastic left heart syndrome, which meant the left side of her heart literally didn’t form and she required three open heart surgeries in her first year. The first open-heart surgery when Hannah was just 36 hours old went well, but there was a serious setback a few days later. "After the operation, she went into cardiac arrest. I don't know how long they worked on her, probably 10 to 15 minutes. That was terrifying. It was probably one of the worst days of my life. The first time we got to hold her, she was already 18 or 19 days old.” After 155 days in hospital, Hannah finally came home. But her challenges weren't over, and in 2017, aged 5, Hannah was diagnosed with the rare Ayme-Gripp syndrome, which means she can't hear or speak, is vision-impaired and has an intellectual disability. Despite these challenges, family and friends have affectionately named Hannah, 'Hurricane Hannah'. "She's always on the go, never stops," Emma said. "She's gorgeous; she's very happy and very cheeky. She has been strong since she was born. It's impossible not to be strong and brave to get through what she has," Emma said.

“To visit Vivid Sydney”

"She loves anything with lights, her school has a sensory room, and she loves that," Emma said. Hannah's wish is one of many wishes currently on hold. Hannah’s family understand the delay, especially since Hannah has a higher risk of infection than other kids due to her heart condition. "She is obviously at risk, so the best place for us to be is here at home," she said. Emma said Make-AWish was helping to create Wish anticipation for the family, including a package of sensory toys that "you shake, drop and they light up". "The volunteers have been amazing. It'll be exciting and a bit nervous when we do go on the Wish. Most of it will be exciting because it will be a surprise for Hannah. It's something we can look back on and say, 'This is what we did', and Make-A-Wish made it happen," Emma said. Just by shopping at a Blooms The Chemist, you’re helping to support wish kids like Hannah. If you’re a My HealthRewards member, you can donate your Rewards points or if you can spare any further support you can donate to a collection tin in-store, purchase any of our exclusive Make-A-Wish products, or give online at www. makeawish.org.au/support/ways-to-donate/donate.

H E A LT H C H E C K M A G A Z I N E | S U M M E R 2 0 2 0

The weight loss program for busy people. Developed in collaboration with CSIRO

Digital consultations

Online forum to support your journey

Unique Flexi meal plan

Ability to enjoy whole foods every day

Recipe book filled with exciting foods to enjoy

Nutritionally balanced meal replacement shakes

A day each week to relax and enjoy the foods and drinks you love

Clinically tested by the CSIRO

For more information visit www.impromy.com/flexi-by-impromy/ Product available in selected stores. Individual results may vary and success is dependant on program compliance. Consult with your medical professional to decide if Impromy is right for you. Meal replacements should not be used as total diet replacement. Weight loss is based on a reduced energy diet including regular exercise.

Try this great Flexi dinner recipe today!

Chicken Dukkah with Quinoa Ingredients 400g chicken breast 100g quinoa (raw) Capsicum Carrots

SERVES 4

Parsley Â˝ cup of Dukkah Extra virgin olive oil spray Soy sauce or herbs and spices

Method 1. Preheat oven to 220 degrees. Spray baking dish with olive oil spray 2. Coat chicken breast in Dukkah and bake for 25 minutes turning on each side until cooked through. 3. Boil quinoa until cooked. 4. Add in chopped capsicum, carrot and parsley with soy sauce dressing or herbs and spices to taste. 5. Dress with fresh orange slices and parsley. Tip Quinoa can be cooked with a mixture of herbs and spices to suit your taste buds. Add additional green vegetables.

Decembeard NOW’S THE PERFECT TIME TO GROW SOME STUBBLE OR A BEARD THAT EVEN SANTA WOULD BE ENVIOUS OF, ALL IN THE NAME OF RAISING AWARENESS OF BOWEL CANCER. IF YOU CAN’T MANAGE TO GROW SOME FACIAL FUZZ, ENCOURAGE FAMILY MEMBERS, PARTNERS AND FRIENDS TO TAKE PART. EVEN IF IT’S A SUBTLE EFFORT, EVERY STRAND OF STUBBLE COUNTS. One in 13 Australians will develop bowel cancer in their lifetime. Despite being Australia’s second deadliest cancer,1 almost 99% of bowel cancer cases can be treated successfully when detected early.2 Bowel cancer, also known as colorectal cancer, can affect the larger bowel, colon or rectum and develops from the inner lining of the bowel. Screening for bowel cancer is vital, as in its early stages bowel cancer may have no symptoms. However, some symptoms that may be experienced include a change in bowel habits, blood in stools or on toilet paper, unexplained weight loss and weakness or fatigue.3 To reduce your risk of bowel cancer, it’s recommended that you maintain a healthy diet and partake in regular physical activity. Bowel cancer screening and surveillance is also extremely important, especially if you come from a family with a history of the disease.

A major fundraiser for Bowel Cancer Australia, Decembeard encourages people to grow beards and facial hair throughout the month of December to raise awareness and funds for bowel cancer. Easy fundraising ideas include hosting a ‘best beard’ competition or a beard-themed morning tea or lunch. Hold a themed dress-up day at your work or local club (eg. Best Beards Throughout History) and fake some facial hair by creating beard templates out of paper and craft materials. Or set yourself a challenge to decorate your own beard and create a different masterpiece every day for a month. For more information on how you can get involved, visit www.bowelcanceraustralia.org/decembeard. Bowel Cancer Australia. https://www.bowelcanceraustralia.org/what-isbowel-cancer 3 Cancer Council. https://www.cancer.org.au/cancer-information/types-ofcancer/bowel-cancer 1,2

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Our Kind of Community During those first few months of lock-downs and restrictions, many of us were struggling to find the joy in the everyday. The Blooms The Chemist team hit pause on our usual showcasing of ‘Our People, Our Community’ stories and instead focussed on sharing small moments of happiness and kindness submitted by our own Blooms The Chemist customers and communities around Australia. These stories have really highlighted the wonderful kindness and camaraderie that Australians have shown one another throughout these hard times. Thank you to every single customer who sent us such amazing stories and helped us all remember the importance of kindness and community spirit.

“My daughter keeps asking if she can go to the park or play centre and I have to keep telling her that it’s closed. But we have a backyard and we are all experimenting with new play ideas. Hopscotch is an oldie but a goodie. We only chalked it up for the first time today, three weeks into lockdown. It is an example of how we are all learning and playing together in new ways. Her little brother liked it too!” Rita “Because our neighbour is on her own during this difficult and lonely time, my wife Margaret asked her for ‘Drinks on the drive at 5.’ We love the chat and company, so we are doing this each week. People in our street toot and wave as they drive past.”

"Not long ago my daughter was very ill and I had to get to her immediately. While I was driving to her house I smelt this awful burning odour inside the car. So I pulled into the nearest service station and asked if they could help me, but they couldn't. I went out to my car and burst into tears. At that moment a Lube Mobile Van pulled up to get petrol and the man saw me in distress and came over to ask what was wrong. He told me not to worry and came back over with some tools, and fixed the problem. When I offered to pay he just waved his hand and said no worries, and this made me cry even more. I was so grateful and I eventually got to my daughter and all was well. This was such a random act of kindness, bless him." Noelene

“My daughter is a school teacher and finds it difficult to purchase things she needs as she can’t get to the shops early. Last week she was at a service station and they had toilet paper and paper towels, which she hadn’t been able to find for weeks. At the register she was told she could only purchase one or the other, so she ended up leaving the paper towels. As she walked back to her car, the man who’d been behind her in the queue called out to her and handed her the paper towels, which he had bought for her. He wouldn’t accept any money for them, and she was incredibly grateful for his generosity. It’s a wonderful thing to know that there are so many people out there who are still able to be thoughtful and kind in this trying time.” Joyce

Bob and Margaret

“My daughter Karina is a nurse at the Royal Adelaide Hospital and she usually works in the recovery ward. But when the Coronavirus looked like it would infect a very large number of people, she and others were trained in the use of the equipment in the intensive care ward.

“While the children have all been at home completing online schooling, I’ve been delivering treats of cookies to their homes, hoping to brighten their days. The usual market where I attend is cancelled, and missing all the little people, I decided to share some treats with them.

A few weeks ago, Karina was having trouble buying toilet paper, as by the time she finished work it was sold out. Then one day when she got home, she found a box on her front veranda with some rolls of toilet paper and paper towels. It was left with a note from a friend who knew she needed it. Times like these bring out the best in people.”

Love the surprised look and now in the process of making more.”

Sue “It’s been a tradition to have family gatherings, special dinners and egg hunts on an Easter Sunday. But because of the lockdown, this year’s Easter Sunday was lonesome and I am really missing my family and friends. But what a pleasant surprise I got when my neighbour of eight years came and handed me these special cupcakes that she baked herself. Not only were these cupcakes yummy but they gave me joy and a bit of love in these struggling times...a random act of kindness which really meant so much to me!”

John “At the end of last year, I had a sudden turn in health and ended up at RPA Hospital to get a pacemaker. After six weeks of recovery I returned to work and while gradually adjusting going back, the virus hit. Working at Woolworths where it got incredibly busy, I found that I was exhausted, not only with how busy it was but also dealing with stressed and upset customers. After a long day when I was walking to my car, a lady called out while loading her shopping and said, ‘Thank you and enjoy the rest of your day.’ Even with social distancing and with all the tension that is around us at the moment, this lady made my day. Kind words can make a big difference.” Patricia

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Whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s on in your Blooms The Chemist December CHRISTMAS 2020 Pick up a copy of our Christmas Gift Guide and discover a range of perfect gifts for everyone on your list.

January QUIT SMOKING Are you wanting to finally quit your smoking habit for the new year? Come into your local Blooms The Chemist and speak to your Pharmacist, who can recommend the right products that can help to support you on your journey.

February CHOLESTEROL SCREENING We all tend to over-indulge during the festive season. Pop into your local Blooms The Chemist for a quick total cholesterol test. Usually performed as a fasting test, a small amount of blood will be taken from your fingertip and you should have your results in about three minutes. Your Pharmacist can talk you through the results and any recommended follow-up tests and lifestyle advice.

Ask your local Blooms The Chemist team for more information about our range of Health Services. To find your local Blooms The Chemist or shop online, head to bloomsthechemist.com.au

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