FREE
www.familyhealthdiary.co.nz JULY/AUGUST 2012
Psoriasis treatment with a difference
FIGHT COLDS AND FLU AND STAY AT YOUR PEAK How to win the ultimate All Blacks pass
Weir n Health
a Wint ! k c a p s s e n t & Fi n! 3 to be wo
My daughters have finally realised it’s winter, after Mother’s urgings to dress warmly seemed to fall on deaf ears on the last couple of exits out the door. Alas, once outdoors the winter chill bit and the lack of practical clothing was painfully evident. Mother resisted the ‘I told you so’ line and let the other Mother (Nature) do it instead! Next time they see me rug up with the trusty old coat, scarf and boots they might join me I suspect. This cold, wintry weather offers great things to look forward to on the home front… easy, yummy crock-pot dinners and roasts, snuggling up indoors listening to the rain and wind howl outside, catching up on the movies you never saw on DVD… We’ve so far bypassed the usual coughs and colds that plague many midyear, but it’s only a matter of time I suspect. There’s a bunch of advice in this edition on boosting your immune system to help ward off chills, plus how to deal with the lurgy if it does get you. Whatever the colder, darker months bring, remember to get out regularly and get some vitamin D from the sun to keep you in good health and fine spirit. Till next time, stay warm, dry and well.
In this issue Iron shortage tiring you out?
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Rugby-mad? Win the ultimate weekend pass!
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Quit smoking with online help
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Get real control over asthma
Staying at your peak this winter Out with mucus the easier way
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Your winter chill super-fighters
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Cold and flu remedies for the family
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Wteir n Health
a Win ss pack! & Fitneht to you by Broug ife Nutra-L
For more details and to enter, visit
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The gentle choice in skincare
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Think digestive health, think immunity
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Psoriasis treatment brings new hope
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What to do when your bladder rules
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Depression treatment you can stay with
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Control acid, end heartburn
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24 n Editor Aileen Nakhle n Design Cathy Ellegard Goss n On the cover Jude Dobson n Cover photography Roy Emerson Photography n Make-up & styling Nikki Lovrich n Clothing RJC n For editorial enquiries, write to editor@familyhealthdiary.co.nz For Family Health Diary advertising enquiries please phone +64 9 306 2340 n Sales manager Harinda Singh DDI: 09 306 2344 Email: harinda@brandworld.co.nz Family Health Diary is published by BrandWorld Limited, Auckland. Phone (09) 306 2340, Fax (09) 307 9246. Every effort has been made to ensure the contents of this magazine reflect current accepted medical opinion and that it is as up-to-date as possible, but it does not claim to be the last word on any medical matter featured. No medical or health information, however detailed, can ever be considered a substitute for consultation with, or the advice of, a qualified doctor. Though this publication contains information that may be of the greatest importance to your health and well-being, it is not intended to replace your doctor or discourage you from seeking his or her advice. If anything in Family Health Diary leads you to suppose you may be suffering from any of the serious conditions described, you are urged to see your doctor without delay. Š2012 Copyright. No part of this publication may be reproduced without the express permission of the publisher. Family Health DiaryŽ is a registered trademark of BrandWorld Limited.
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Tired of
feeling tired?
There’s no flashing beacon to tell you that you’re iron deficient, but if you’re always feeling tired that might be a clue.
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ron deficiency is one of the most common nutrient deficiencies today. But would you know if you were short of iron? Pale skin, slight tiredness, headaches and a lack of performance and focus are key signs to look for. Dry hair, brittle fingernails and a loss of appetite are also symptoms. There are others too which your doctor can discuss with you.
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WHY IRON MATTERS? Iron is essential to our bodies – and a shortage of it can result in less oxygen circulating throughout the body. Iron is important for the formation of haemoglobin, which is responsible for transporting oxygen from the lungs to all the other cells in the body. It is also responsible for carrying carbon dioxide back to the lungs where it will be exhaled at the end of the process.
FLORADIX BENEFITS • Liquid formula absorbed faster than a tablet • All natural ingredients • Source of vitamins B, C and E • Pleasant tasting • Doesn’t affect bowel regularity. A shortage of iron can very quickly lead to a low haemoglobin content in the blood and less supply of oxygen to the body’s tissues.
THE GLUTEN-FREE VERSION – FLORAVITAL Floradix also comes in a yeast and gluten-free version called Floravital, suitable for people with gluten intolerance and vegans. Taken just twice a day, Floradix or Floravital can help protect the health and vitality of the whole family.
WHERE DO WE GET IRON? As our bodies cannot produce iron, we have to get it through the diet. A healthy, balanced diet containing iron-rich foods can normally provide our bodies with an adequate amount. But women – at various stages of their life, children, vegetarians and athletes may all require more iron than a regular diet can supply.
WHAT IS FLORADIX IRON TONIC?
NO UNPLEASANT EFFECTS
The easy way to get an iron top-up is with Floradix Iron Tonic. This is a liquid iron formula made from actual fruit and vegetable juices, herbs and organic iron. Perhaps most importantly, the fact it’s a liquid means your body absorbs it faster than a tablet.
The herbs help maintain healthy digestion and, together with vitamin C, support the absorption of all nutrients. Due to Floradix being so absorbable, very little undissolved iron enters the intestinal tract, which means it doesn’t affect bowel regularity.
Available at supermarkets, pharmacies and health stores Always read the label and use only as directed. If symptoms persist, consult a healthcare professional. Supplementary to and not a replacement for a balanced diet. People with iron overload conditions such as haemochromatosis should not take this product and consult their doctor. Red Seal Natural Health Ltd, Auckland. TAPS NA5827
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Pain...
don’t ignore it! Would a professional athlete ignore pain or injury? No – and neither should you. iwis love their winter sport, be it rugby, soccer or skiing, but enthusiasm on the field can bring its share of injury and pain. During exercise, muscles and tendons can be stretched too far. A sudden twist or awkward movement can also damage ligaments, resulting in pain and inflammation. The key is to treat pain quickly when it strikes, to help get you back to doing the things you love.
WHAT TO DO • L ook out for the signs of inflammation, such as swelling, a hot or burning sensation, redness, stiffness or loss of mobility. • To treat inflammation, apply a rub that treats both inflammation and pain – treatment is important because inflammation may cause ongoing pain.
• K eep moving – within limits. Inactivity may cause stiffness and prolong the pain. You may be able to gently move the injured muscle or joint to help maintain your fitness while in recovery.
VOLTAREN® EMULGEL CAN HELP
When the pain of inflammation hits, Voltaren Emulgel could be the key to keep you moving. Voltaren® Emulgel is a medicated rub for muscle and joint pain caused by soft tissue injuries. It contains a powerful anti-inflammatory ingredient, diclofenac, which helps relieve both pain and inflammation by targeting the source of pain and concentrating its action where you need it most. Voltaren® Emulgel is cool to apply, easy to rub in and readily absorbed to help relieve aching muscles and joints.
Head to your pharmacy for Voltaren® Emulgel And for full details on how to win the Ultimate Weekend Pass For short-term relief of local pain and inflammation. Always read the label. Use only as directed. If symptoms persist see your healthcare professional. Novartis Consumer Health Australasia Pty Ltd, Auckland, NZ. TAPS NA5843
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Want to quit smoking but need help?
Q: I’m trying to quit, but it’s
hard work. Where can I get the answers I need? Most people have questions about the different options to help them quit, what to expect when they quit, and how they will feel physically. That’s why the people at Pfizer, the makers of Champix, have created a series of short videos at www.champix.co.nz where you can find answers to many of your frequently asked questions.
Q: Why should I go to the Champix website? If you are finding it hard to stop smoking then you may be ready to learn about a different approach. Champix.co.nz has 12 short video clips on preparing to stop, support to stop and staying smokefree.
Q: Will the website help me
understand why it’s so hard to quit? Yes, it will explain how nicotine from smoking causes the release of a “feel good” chemical in the brain. The problem is it’s only temporary, so to get it back you have to have another smoke, and another…. until the only way to feel normal is with nicotine constantly in your system.
Q: Is this why going cold turkey
can be hard? Yes. At www.champix.co.nz there’s
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a video clip about why trying to quit with no support is difficult. Many people suffer nicotine withdrawal symptoms which can last more than 10 weeks including the desire to smoke, headaches, sleepless nights, feeling down or irritability. This is one of the reasons why only around 5% of smokers who try to quit by going cold turkey are successful after a year.
Q: So, what are the options?
Go to www.champix.co.nz where you can learn more about the options. There is a clip explaining why combining willpower with medication improves your chances of quitting.
Q: What is Champix
and does it work? Champix is a medication that can help you stop smoking. It is also quite different to gum or patchbased treatments you may have tried. It is a tablet you take twice a day for at least 12 weeks. By the end of the 12-week Champix programme, you’re four times more likely to have given up, than if you’d taken no medication.
Q: How does Champix work?
Champix works in two ways. It reduces withdrawal symptoms and blocks the effect of nicotine, so if you do smoke, you probably won’t enjoy it as much. At www.champix.co.nz you can find out more.
Q: Are there side effects?
Everyone is different, so talk to your doctor about the potential side effects of Champix, such as nausea and difficulty sleeping. Some people may experience mood changes and it isn’t known if they occur as a result of quitting, or taking Champix.
Q: What will it cost?
If you’re ready to quit now, talk to your doctor about Champix. You may be eligible to have the entire 12-week course funded. Normal doctors’ fees and pharmacy dispensing fees apply.
For all you need to know visit the Champix website.
www.champix.co.nz Ask your doctor about Champix Champix (varenicline) 0.5 mg & 1 mg Tablets. Champix (varenicline) is a prescription medicine that helps adults stop smoking. Champix is fully funded under special authority. A pharmacy charge and normal doctor’s fees apply. Do not take Champix if you are allergic to varenicline or any other tablet ingredients. Tell your doctor if you have ever had depression, other mental health problems, kidney problems, have a history of repeated fits, are pregnant, intend to become pregnant or are breastfeeding. Some people have had changes in behaviour, mood or thinking including self-harm or harming others. If you or your family notice changes in your behaviour, mood or thinking, stop taking Champix and see your doctor. Some people have had allergic reactions to Champix that can be life threatening. If you get swelling of the face, mouth, throat or a skin rash, stop taking Champix and see your doctor immediately. There have been reports of heart attack and strokes in some people taking Champix. Heart attacks and strokes can also be caused by smoking. If you have any of these conditions tell your doctor. Common side effects include nausea, constipation, flatulence, dry mouth, headache, dizziness, difficulty in sleeping and abnormal dreams. If you have other side effects see your doctor. Always read the label and use as directed. Consult your doctor to see if Champix is right for you. Contains varenicline 0.5 mg or 1 mg. Further information on Champix is available from www.medsafe.govt.nz or Pfizer New Zealand Ltd, Auckland, www.pfizer.co.nz. Ph. 0800 736 363. V11111. TAPS NA5828 www.familyhealthdiary.co.nz
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Get real control
over asthma Many Kiwis with asthma think they have to put up with coughing and wheezing: that’s because they don’t realise what good asthma control should feel like.
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here’s a lot of evidence to show that poor asthma control often goes unrecognised. One reason for this, explains asthma expert Professor Shaun Holt in a recent Research Review article, is that patients with asthma are rarely, if ever, symptom-free, and have nothing to compare their current symptom level with. In short, they do not know what good asthma control feels like.1 Only after updating their treatment can they truly appreciate what it’s like to be on top of their asthma. 10
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LEAVING SYMPTOMS BEHIND In a major New Zealand asthma study, 81% of people thought their asthma was well controlled, yet three-quarters were using their blue reliever at least once daily and the remainder were taking at least 3-4 puffs a day. 2 In short, most people overestimated their level of asthma control. The fact is, if you’re using your reliever more than twice a week, chances are your asthma is not as good as it could be.3 If this sounds like you, a move to Seretide®, the purple inhaler, could be the answer.4
HOW SERETIDE® WORKS
IS YOUR ASTHMA UNDER CONTROL?
Seretide® (fluticasone propionate/salmeterol xinafoate) is a two-in-one inhaler that combines the active ingredient in the orange preventer inhaler with a longacting symptom controller, offering lasting control of symptoms day and night.
Control means3… • No coughing or wheezing • No night-time interruptions • No emergency visits to your doctor or hospital • Participating in activities you enjoy and not having to avoid them • Using a blue reliever inhaler less than two times a week and living life more. There is a simple test to help you find out if your asthma really is under control – visit www.asthmacontrol.co.nz and answer the online questionnaire.
IS SERETIDE® RIGHT FOR YOU? Your doctor is the best person to talk to about your asthma control. The most important thing is to let them know what symptoms you’re experiencing and how often you’re having them. You may not realise you can have symptom-free days for most days of the year with Seretide®, the purple inhaler.5 And if you qualify, Seretide® is fully funded. Just ask your doctor.
Ask your doctor about Seretide® – the purple inhaler References: 1. Research Review Educational Series www.researchreview.co.nz – May 2012. 2. Holt S. NZ INSPIRE Study Overview. Research Review. 2008:1-13. 3. Global Initiative for Asthma. Global Strategy for Asthma Manangement and Prevention. Updated 2009. Available at http://www.ginasthma.org/Guidelineitem.asp??|1=2& 12=1&intid=1561. Accessed 15 May 2012. 4. Bateman ED et al. Am J Respir Crit Care Med. 2004;170:836-844. 5. Woodcock A et al. Prim Care Resp J. 2007;16(3):155-161. Seretide® (fluticasone propionate/salmeterol xinafoate; available as a 50/25 or 125/25 micrograms per actuation inhaler, or as a 100/50 or 250/50 micrograms per actuation Accuhaler®) is a Prescription Medicine for the treatment of reversible obstructive airway disease (ROAD) including asthma, and for the treatment of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Seretide is a fully funded medicine; Special Authority criteria apply. Seretide 250/25 microgram inhaler is a private purchase medicine that you will need to pay for. Use strictly as directed. Seretide is not for relief of acute symptoms. Always carry your reliever inhaler. Do not discontinue Seretide abruptly. Tell your doctor if: you are taking any other medicines or herbal remedies; you have pulmonary tuberculosis (TB), a thyroid problem or a heart problem; or you are having treatment for high blood pressure; Side Effects may include: ‘shaky’ feeling; headache; fast heart rate; irritation in the nose and throat. If symptoms continue or you have side effects, see your doctor, pharmacist or health professional. For more information, see Seretide Consumer Medicine Information at www.medsafe.govt.nz. Normal doctor’s office visit fees apply. Ask your doctor if Seretide is right for you. Seretide is a trade mark of the GlaxoSmithKline group of companies. Marketed by GlaxoSmithKline NZ Limited, Auckland. TAPS NA5836/12JU/SFC/0012
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Out with mucus... the easier way
The most common way to relieve chest congestion is with a liquid. But it might not be the most effective….
T
o help clear chest congestion, you often have to take liquids up to four times a day. But when life is busy and you’re on the move, taking liquids every four hours can fall by the wayside. Remembering your medicine can be a hassle; liquids are not easily portable and it can be difficult to measure whether you’re taking the correct dose every time. As a result, cough liquids don’t always do the job you’d hoped, with mucus and congestion hanging around longer than you expect. Now there’s an easier, longer lasting way with Mucinex. 12
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MUCINEX – 12-HOUR RELIEF IN A TABLET Mucinex is the new way to treat mucus and chest congestion, with half the hassle. It’s a unique bi-layer tablet with an immediate-release layer that gets to work fast, and an extended-release layer that works for up to 12 hours. Unlike liquids, which you have to keep taking every few FAST hours, Mucinex gives you fast, effective and long-lasting relief with just two doses a day. LONG-LASTING
SHOWING MUCUS THE WAY OUT… Mucus isn’t always the bad guy. It is actually an important part of your body’s defence system, helping transport and remove inhaled particles that become trapped in your air passageways. Every so often however, like when you get a cold, mucus can increase. It becomes thicker and moves more slowly through your respiratory system.
Treatment should both thin and loosen mucus in the chest to help clear the airways and relieve symptoms of chest congestion. Mucinex does this with its active ingredient guaiphenesin, proven to reduce mucus thickness and adhesiveness. One dose of Mucinex provides sustained release of guaiphenesin for 12 hours.
MUCINEX BENEFITS Mucinex has several advantages over liquid treatments: • Easy and convenient to take – just two doses a day • Works fast and provides continuous relief for 12 hours • Tablet form ensures you get the right dose.
or
• Up to 4 doses a day
• 2 doses a day • 12 hour relief per tablet
Available only at pharmacies Always read the label. Use only as directed. If symptoms persist contact your healthcare professional. Available in Pharmacy. Reckitt Benckiser, Auckland. 0508 731 234. TAPS NA5841 www.familyhealthdiary.co.nz
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Your winter chill
super-fighters When you think of nature’s strongest weapons against winter chills, Vitamin C and garlic would have to be top of mind. So when it comes to immune support this winter, don’t look past these two super nutrients.
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o support immunity, some people look for supplements with a lot of ingredients in them. There are times, however, when high potency single ingredient options are the answer. Garlic and Vitamin C are just the type of nutrients that can stand on their own in helping fight winter woes. And thanks to Nutra-Life, these trusted ingredients have been made even more potent.
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ARE YOU GETTING ENOUGH VITAMIN C? Vitamin C is needed to maintain healthy immunity, eyes, skin, teeth and bones. You can get it from fruits and vegetables or a vitamin supplement, but hanging on to all that goodness is the hard part. Vitamin C breaks down quickly in the body and is flushed out fast, so often after just two hours, all that Vitamin C is gone!
THE BETTER VITAMIN C™ Nutra-Life Ester-C® is ‘the better Vitamin C™‘. The patented, water-based process used to create it helps it stay in the body longer. In fact, clinical studies show it stays in the body for a full 24 hours, providing immune support all day long. On top of that, Nutra-Life Ester-C® is less acidic than standard Vitamin C, which makes it gentler on your stomach and teeth.
DO YOU DARE GET ENOUGH GARLIC? Garlic is one of the healthiest foods you can eat, but a lot of people tend to avoid it out of fear of garlic breath! Raw garlic contains a wide variety of sulphur compounds, which are responsible for its pungent smell. Cooking helps remove some of the smell and makes it more palatable, but heat also breaks down many of the beneficial sulphur compounds. Up until now, this has created a dilemma for people who want the garlic but not the unpleasant effects.
NUTRA-LIFE KYOLIC® AGED GARLIC EXTRACT ™ – NO GARLIC BREATH! Nutra-Life Kyolic® Aged Garlic Extract™ retains and adds benefits not found in fresh garlic, with absolutely no garlic breath. It’s made up of organically-grown garlic that’s been naturally aged, converting the harsh odourcausing compounds into beneficial, odourless ones. It makes Nutra-Life Kyolic Garlic® the ideal solution to your winter woes without the usual hitch! Both Nutra-Life Kyolic® Aged Garlic Extract™ and Nutra-Life Ester-C® come in high-potency formulas, which can be taken both preventatively to support your body’s natural defences and during times of low immunity.
Nutra-Life Ester-C® & Nutra-Life Kyolic® Aged Garlic Extract™ only in pharmacies and health stores Contact the Naturopathic Advice Line on 0800 268 872 or visit www.nutralife.co.nz Always read the label and use only as directed. If symptoms persist, consult a healthcare professional. People on prescription medicine should check with their doctor first. Supplementary to and not a replacement for a balanced diet. Vitaco Health (NZ) Ltd. Auckland. TAPS DA4812DC101
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Answers to your
cold & flu woes For your cold and flu needs, there’s one range that has most of the family covered.
F
or effective relief of a wide range of cold and flu symptoms, Dimetapp has the widest range of medicines: from specialised treatments for children through to powerful adult-strength formulas. Ask your pharmacist for advice on the right formulation for your condition.
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DIMETAPP CHILDREN’S ELIXIRS Taste is a big factor with children’s medicines. If they don’t like the taste, they won’t take it. Dimetapp’s children’s formulations not only taste great, but they’re also sugar-free and colour-free. These children’s elixirs help relieve both coughs, colds and allergies helping the kids get a good night’s rest.
DIMETAPP FOR ADULTS Daytime/Nightime liquid caps For around the clock relief of cough, cold and flu symptoms, Dimetapp daytime/nightime capsules will help you get a good night’s rest without making you drowsy during the day. 12-hour Nasal Spray This fast-acting nasal spray gives 12-hour relief from nasal congestion due to colds, sinusitis, hayfever and other respiratory allergies.
DIMETAPP ADULT’S SINUS RANGE Dimetapp PE liquid capsules help relieve the symptoms of sinus congestion and a blocked nose. Dimetapp PE Sinus Pain helps relieve symptoms of cold & flu, sinus headache, sinus congestion and a blocked or runny nose. Dimetapp PE Sinus Pain & Allergy helps relieve the symptoms of cold & flu, itchy, watery eyes, sneezing, runny or blocked nose and sinus headache. Dimetapp PE Sinus Day + Night provides up to 24 hours’ relief from cold & flu symptoms such as sinus pain and a blocked nose.
WHAT ELSE TO DO FOR COLD AND FLU • D rink plenty of fluids: especially if you have a fever. Liquids are also soothing to a dry, irritated throat, and may help relieve coughing.
• Get plenty of rest: don’t tax your body or distract your immune system from the main job at hand – fighting the virus. • G et steamy: A hot shower or steam inhalation can help clear the passageways and loosen mucus.
Only available at pharmacies Medicines have benefits and some may have risks. Always read the label and use only as directed. If symptoms persist see your pharmacist. Incorrect use may be harmful. May cause drowsiness – avoid alcohol and driving. Not for children under 6 years. Pfizer, Auckland. TAPS NA5834
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A healthy choice
for your skin Choosing a skincare range that’s perfect for your skin can be a mission. If you are one of the 50% of New Zealanders with sensitive skin, it can be even more of a challenge…. But it doesn’t have to be.
W
hether your skin is healthy or sensitive, it’s important to gently care for it every day. Skin is constantly exposed to the irritating effects of heat, wind, dryness 18
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and pollution. Then there’s the added effect of chemical irritants found in detergents and many skincare products. This can be all the worse if your skin is already compromised, dry, itchy or flaky.
MAKE A GENTLE CHOICE When choosing a daily cleanser and moisturiser, check for ingredients that won’t irritate the skin: products that are fragrance-free and non-comedogenic (ie. won’t block the pores) are a good start. And choose one that is pH-balanced to match your skin – a pH of 5.5 to 7.0 is usually ideal – any higher and it could disrupt the skin’s ‘acid mantle’.
LOOK FOR DERMATOLOGISTRECOMMENDED Dermatologist-recommended products are usually both gentle and hydrating, and now one of the most highly researched and recommended skincare ranges is also easier to find – newly available in supermarkets as well as pharmacies.
SIMPLE AND EFFECTIVE CETAPHIL The Cetaphil skincare range offers a complete, daily skin care system to restore and maintain healthy skin. Cetaphil products are hypoallergenic and fragrance-free, making them gentle enough for all skin types including sensitive skin.
CLEANSE AND MOISTURISE ALL SKIN TYPES Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser is just that – gentle. In a 21-day Cumulative Irritancy Study, it was found to be one of the least irritating cleansers when compared to other brands.* Unlike many other cleansers, Cetaphil is designed to cleanse, moisturise and restore your skin’s pH balance which may have altered during the day. It gets rid of the nasties leaving behind the goodies – your skin’s protective natural softeners. New Cetaphil Daily Advance Ultra Hydrating Lotion is designed to moisturise and restore dry, sensitive skin. With a unique combination of five moisturising ingredients, it is clinically proven to hydrate and protect for a full 24 hours.*
CETAPHIL LEAVES OUT THE SKIN IRRITANTS All Cetaphil products are soap-free. Focusing on what to leave out of their products, as much as what to put in, Cetaphil has to be a good choice for peace of mind and healthy skin.
Available in pharmacies, leading supermarkets and Farmers
* Data on file. TAPS PP9717
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Planning a baby? Myth versus fact!
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he old adage, ‘it takes a village to raise a child’ must also take into account the pregnancy and planning stage, because it seems that everyone – from friends and family to online pundits around the globe – will have an opinion on what you should or shouldn’t be doing to create the perfect bundle of joy. Here’s a look at some of the most popularly bandied myths and how they fit into reality.
Myth #1: You should tone down the exercise… False! Exercise can gear up your body for a healthier, more enjoyable pregnancy, and in moderation can see you through your pregnancy. Walking, swimming, pilates, yoga or stationary cycling can improve posture and reduce backache and fatigue. Jogging is fine in pregnancy if you were doing it beforehand, but do consult your doctor before undertaking an exercise programme. Myth #2: The best time to conceive is around Day 14 of your cycle… Not exactly. It’s difficult to know precisely when you ovulate each month, but your fertile window begins a few
days beforehand; that means your best chance of conception could be any time after menstruation up until the ‘middle of your cycle’. In a study of 192 pregnancies, conception occurred when intercourse took place during a six-day period that ended on the estimated day of ovulation, but the probability of conception peaked on the day of ovulation itself.1 Myth #3: Men should ‘save up’ their sperm for the days it counts… False. Some medical opinion suggests that refraining from sex for up to a week might be beneficial to men with low sperm counts. But a recent study showed that men with low sperm counts should not abstain from sex,
Our thanks to Fertility Associates medical director Dr Mary Birdsall for reviewing this article. 20
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ELEVIT WITH IODINE – YOUR PREGNANCY PARTNER
IT’S NO MYTH - TAKE ELEVIT WITH IODINE DAILY
Elevit with Iodine provides the extra nutrients needed in pregnancy from the start of your journey right through to the finish. It contains 800mcg of folic acid, as recommended by the Ministry of Health, and is the only pregnancy supplement clinically proven to reduce the risk of neural tube defects by 92%.3 With 250mcg of iodine, it supports a healthy thyroid, brain development and nervous system.
To help prevent neural tube defects, Elevit with Iodine should be taken daily as soon as you start trying for a baby and for the first three months of pregnancy. Taken right throughout pregnancy it can help meet both yours and baby’s ongoing needs.
Only available from pharmacies For more information phone 0800 847 874
OTHER ESSENTIAL NUTRIENTS COVERED As well as 60mg of iron to help combat fatigue and prevent dietary iron deficiency, Elevit also contains zinc, vitamin C, calcium, B6, B12 and other essential nutrients – all in a once-daily tablet.
because sperm quality was actually reduced the longer they held back.2 The advice from Fertility Associates’ Dr Mary Birdsall is also to not abstain from sex. Myth #4: You should be taking folic acid before you get pregnant… True! By the end of the first four weeks of pregnancy, your baby’s heart, digestive system, backbone and spinal cord are already forming. While this is the time your baby needs extra nutrients, it’s also the stage where you might not even know you’re pregnant. To ensure your baby is supported from the very start, you should take a supplement from the time you start trying for a baby.
References: 1. Timing of Sexual Intercourse in Relation to Ovulation — Effects on the Probability of Conception, Survival of the Pregnancy, and Sex of the Baby. Allen J. Wilcox, M.D., Ph.D., Clarice R. Weinberg, Ph.D., and Donna D. Baird, Ph.D. N Engl J Med 1995; 333:1517-1521 December 7, 1995. 2. Fertil Steril. 2005 Jun;83(6):1680-6. Relationship between the duration of sexual abstinence and semen quality: analysis of 9,489 semen samples. Levitas E, Lunenfeld E, Weiss N, Friger M, Har-Vardi I, Koifman A, Potashnik G. 3. Czeizel Ae & Dudas I. NEJM 1992; 327: 1832-5 *Essential nutrients refers to folic acid, iron and iodine. Elevit with Iodine tablets are a Pharmacy Only medicine & contain vitamins B, C, D, E & minerals. Consult your healthcare professional to see if Elevit with Iodine is right for you. The New Zealand formulation of Elevit with Iodine is the same as that used in the Czeizel study except it contains Iodine and does not contain Vitamin A. Medicines have benefits & some may have risks. Always read the label and use only as directed. If symptoms persist or you have side effects, consult your healthcare professional. Supplementary to, and not a replacement for, a balanced diet. Registered Trademark. Bayer New Zealand Ltd, Auckland. TAPS NA5844 www.familyhealthdiary.co.nz
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A healthy gut means a
healthier, happier you!
You may have heard the saying “you are what you eat” but the truth is you are what you digest. So if your digestive system is out of balance you might not be getting the goodness from your food... and all the immune support you need.
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ven when you do your best to look after your health, factors such as daily stress, lack of sleep and processed foods can affect the natural balance of your digestive system. 22
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That’s bad news given that your digestive tract contains 70% of your immune defences. So when your digestive system is out of kilter, not only can it lead to discomfort, bloating and wind, but your immunity can suffer too.
WHAT’S YOUR DIGESTIVE SYSTEM MADE OF? Your body naturally contains billions of probiotic (beneficial) bacteria that keep your digestive tract functioning properly. Many lifestyle factors, such as stress, excess alcohol intake, a low-fibre diet or antibiotic use, can change the environmental conditions inside the digestive system and subsequently lower the body’s probiotic levels. That’s where a probiotic supplement can really help.
GET A PROBIOTIC TOP-UP Eating foods rich in probiotics or taking a concentrated supplement can help replenish levels of beneficial bacteria and keep unfriendly bacteria from gaining a foothold in your body. As a result, probiotics support your digestive health and, through that, your overall wellbeing. When choosing a probiotic supplement, look for one that contains acid-resistant bacteria strains. The stomach is a harshly acidic environment that probiotic bacteria must pass through in order to get to the site of action in the gut. Many probiotic strains cannot survive this environment, and so are less able to contribute their health benefits in the body.
PROBIOTICA BENEFITS • Supports healthy digestion to avoid bloating, wind and discomfort • Maintains healthy immune function • Up to 20 times* more probiotics than yoghurt • High-potency – just one capsule a day • Acid-resistant to survive the journey to your gut • No refrigeration required.
THE CONVENIENT PROBIOTIC Probiotica P3 can go wherever you go. Unlike most probiotics, it doesn’t need to be refrigerated.
Available at pharmacies, health stores and supermarkets
PROBIOTICA P3 Probiotica P3 contains a powerful blend of probiotics guaranteed to survive acidic conditions in the stomach, to ensure they reach the intestinal tract where they are most useful. It’s the easy way to support digestive wellbeing and immunity; just one capsule contains up to 20 times the amount of probiotics as a 150g pottle of standard yoghurt.
Always read the label and use only as directed. If symptoms persist, consult your healthcare professional. Vitaco Health (NZ) Ltd, Auckland NZ. TAPS NA5852
*150g serve of standard pottle of yoghurt www.familyhealthdiary.co.nz
23
Newly funded
psoriasis treatment brings hope
If you have to live with psoriasis, when it comes to treating it, you might think you've heard it all before. Now your doctor may have good news for you.
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A
nyone dealing with psoriasis knows how difficult it is to live with, and how equally frustrating it can be to treat. Creams and lotions must be applied repeatedly – many of which are heavy and take time to dry. Even in between flare-ups, maintenance treatment is usually needed to keep the red, inflamed skin from coming back. But in most cases it does come back – angry, itchy and difficult to cover up. So the endless cycle of treatment continues.
If you’re familiar with this routine, don’t give up hope. There is now a newly fully funded treatment that may be different to anything you have tried before.
ASK YOUR DOCTOR ABOUT DAIVOBET® Daivobet® is a once-a-day treatment that works fast. It’s an easier way to treat psoriasis, without the need for multiple applications and multiple treatments. If you haven’t spoken to your doctor recently, this could be the time to do so. This fully funded treatment might be the answer you’ve been hoping for.
HOW IT WORKS Daivobet® is a combination treatment containing two products often used separately: this combination of products treats the overactive skin cells that cause psoriasis and relieves redness, swelling, itching and irritation of the skin. When a flare-up happens, you only need to apply it once a day. And most people see improvement within seven days.
DAIVOBET® BENEFITS • Convenient – Only one application a day – Combination treatment • Works fast – most see improvements within seven days • Fully funded.
WHAT TYPE OF PSORIASIS? Daivobet® is available as an ointment to treat plaque psoriasis. Plaques are raised, rough, reddened areas covered with fine, dry silvery scales. About 80% of people with psoriasis have this type. Daivobet® also comes as a gel to treat scalp psoriasis. The almost clear gel is alcohol-free, odourless and rapidly absorbed. While there is still no cure for psoriasis, Daivobet® might help you deal with it a lot better. Your doctor will know if it’s right for you.
Ask your doctor about Daivobet® DAIVOBET is a fully funded prescription medicine. Normal doctor’s fees and pharmacy charges will apply. For the topical treatment of plaque type psoriasis and scalp psoriasis. Tell your doctor if you are taking Calcium or Vitamin D Supplements or any medicines. If you have other types of psoriasis, liver or kidney problems, any skin infections, TB, or skin rashes, acne, rosacea, ulcers or broken skin, pregnant or breastfeeding, or Calcium metabolism disorder. Do not use on face, mucous membranes, or skin folds. Protect treated skin areas from sunlight and UV rays. Side effects may include: skin irritation; rash; worsening of psoriasis; change in skin colour; headache; sore throat; back pain; sensitivity to light or change in control of diabetes. Tell your doctor or pharmacist if you experience any of these or if you have any other unpleasant side effects. Always use DAIVOBET strictly as directed by your doctor. Contains 50 mcg/g calcipotriol and 500 mcg/g betamethasone (as dipropionate). Additional consumer medicine information can be obtained from CSL Biotherapies (NZ) Ltd, PO Box 62 590 Greenlane, Auckland 1546. Freephone 0800 502 757 or www.cslbiotherapies.co.nz. Daivobet is a registered trademark of Leo Pharmaceutical Products Ltd. A/S DBET033-05/12 TAPS PP2383
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25
Don't let your
bladder rule Bladder control shouldn’t weigh on your mind or dictate the things you do. Getting on with life might just be a matter of finding the right back-up.
F
or anyone with a degree of bladder difficulty, a potentially small problem can become a serious burden, affecting your activities and enjoyment of life. But it doesn’t have to be that way. DEPEND® underwear could be the key to a fuller, more confident life. It offers comfortable, reliable and discreet protection so you can get on with everyday things. With gender-specific products, DEPEND® underwear offers effective absorbency where men and women need it most, 26
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and now comes in coloured underwear for men and women.
BLADDER MANAGEMENT TIPS Bladder control problems are more common than you think, but it is a problem that can be improved and is always manageable. Keep the following tips in mind: • Watch your diet: Drink enough fluids – at least 6½ cups per day. Limiting daily fluid intake can actually worsen incontinence or lead to
serious illness. Avoid beverages that can cause excessive urine production such as caffeine and alcohol, as well as beverages that can irritate the bladder, such as grapefruit juice and tomato-based products. Constipation can also contribute to bladder control problems. Eat foods that are high in fibre to help you stay regular. Watch your weight: Even a few • kilos can make a difference. A 5-10% weight loss can help improve bladder control by reducing
abdominal pressure. Keep active: A positive attitude is • important in managing incontinence. Remain active and stay involved with family and friends so you’ll feel good about yourself. Choose absorbent products • carefully: Make your product selection based on the level of absorbency you need. A pharmacist or healthcare professional can help. Tips sourced from www.depend.co.nz
DESIGNED DIFFERENTLY FOR WOMEN AND MEN
Peach underwear for women
DEPEND® underwear offers targeted protection – absorbent cores positioned where men and women need it most.
Leg openings shaped for a woman's body
DEPEND® products offer worry-free protection giving you the freedom to get out and enjoy life to the full, so you can feel confident in any situation.
Grey underwear for men
Available at selected supermarkets and pharmacies
Absorbent protection where women need it most
Leg openings shaped to fit a man's body Absorbent protection where men need it most
sa Free mp le
For more information phone 0800 800 509 or visit www.depend.co.nz for a free sample ® Registered Trademark Kimberly-Clark Worldwide, Inc. © 2012 KCWW
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27
Depression
If your treatment is working, why change? If you have been prescribed Efexor-XR® (venlafaxine) for the treatment of major depression, it’s important to know that if you are offered an alternate brand you don’t have to change.
E
fexor-XR remains fully funded at no extra cost to you until at least April 2017. You just need to let your doctor know that you want to stay with Efexor-XR, and ask your pharmacist for it by name. Efexor-XR has helped thousands of New Zealanders living with depression.1 Not only is Efexor-XR used in the treatment and prevention of relapse of depression, but it is also prescribed for a range of mood disorders including generalised anxiety, social anxiety and panic disorder.2 28
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DUAL ACTION Efexor-XR’s dual-action approach to depression may help resolve a broad range of depression symptoms like constant sadness, trouble sleeping or low energy. Resolving these symptoms can be the first step to helping you control your depression so you can feel like your old self again.
WHAT IS THE GOAL OF TREATMENT? In treating depression, the goal is more than just to feel better – you want to
try and eliminate all your depression symptoms and to keep them from coming back. Doctors call this the remission of symptoms and people who reach remission of symptoms are less likely to have their symptoms return. No two people have the same symptoms. Remission for you could mean having days without feelings of
WHY IT’S IMPORTANT TO FOLLOW YOUR DOCTOR’S ADVICE One of the most important things to remember is to take your medication as prescribed, and stay on it for as long as your doctor advises. That’s because it’s not uncommon for depression symptoms to return. For some, the symptoms of depression seem to disappear, or improve to the point where they no longer seem to interfere with your life. If this happens to you, don’t be tempted to stop taking your medication, unless your doctor advises it, because sometimes these symptoms come back. Doctors call this a relapse, and if this occurs it is usually within six months of starting treatment. Symptoms can also return long after the depression seems to have disappeared. This new episode of depression is called a recurrence. Evidence suggests that a recurrence can make it more likely that symptoms will continue to return in the future.3 If your treatment is Efexor-XR your doctor will know the right dosage and how long you need to stay on Efexor-XR to get the best results.
constant sadness, or the return of your normal sleeping and eating habits. It could also mean having energy again for your favourite activities and renewed interest in the things you used to love doing. You can find more information about fully-funded Efexor-XR on our website www.pfizer.co.nz
Talk to your doctor to see if EFEXOR-XR is right for you And ask your Pharmacist for Efexor-XR by name
EFEXOR-XR (venlafaxine hydrochloride, 37.5 mg, 75 mg, 150 mg) Modified Release capsules. References 1. IMS Jan 2012. 2. Efexor-XR Data Sheet. 3. Thase ME. J Clin Psychiatry 2003;64 (suppl 2):3-7. EFEXOR-XR (venlafaxine hydrochloride) is a funded prescription medicine (restrictions apply) for the treatment of depression, panic and anxiety disorders. A pharmacy charge and normal doctor’s fees apply. Do not take EFEXOR-XR if you have an allergy to venlafaxine or any other capsule ingredients. Do not take EFEXOR-XR if you are on monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) or have taken MAOIs in the last 14 days. Use with caution if you have a history of aggression, glaucoma, kidney, liver, blood pressure or heart problems, raised cholesterol, a history of fits, a history or family history of bipolar disorder, abnormal bleeding tendencies, are pregnant or breastfeeding. Tell your doctor if you are taking any other medicines. Common side effects include stomach, bowel or urinary tract problems, headache, difficulty sleeping, drowsiness, dizziness, nervousness, confusion, agitation, muscle tremor or weakness, fast heart beat,menstrualproblems,weightloss,sweating,hotflushes, hair loss, bleeding or bruising more easily than normal, changes in your eye sight, sexual function problems. If you have any side effects see your doctor. Use strictly as directed. Consult your doctor to see if EFEXOR-XR is right for you. Contains venlafaxine hydrochloride 37.5 mg, 75 mg or 150 mg. Further information on EFEXOR-XR is available from www.medsafe.govt.nz or Pfizer New Zealand Ltd, 14 Normanby Road, Mt Eden, Auckland, New Zealand 1140. www.pfizer.co.nz. Ph. 0800 736 363. TAPS NA5680
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29
Control acid,
end heartburn
Heartburn starts with stomach acid. When we produce too much stomach acid, the excess acid can flow into the food pipe causing a burning pain in the chest.
I
f the last thing you want to be worried about is heartburn and acid reflux, you need to know there is a simple answer – a treatment that targets the cause of heartburn, stopping it in its tracks so you can get on with enjoying life. For frequent heartburn sufferers Losec Extra could free you from heartburn for up to three months, and you don’t need a prescription to get it. 30
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UNDERSTANDING HEARTBURN If you suffer from recurring heartburn, it might be because you’re only addressing the symptoms, not the cause. Heartburn and acid reflux occurs when acid from the stomach flows up into the food pipe (oesophagus), causing a burning pain in the chest and, in some cases, a sour acid taste in the mouth.
COMMON DIETARY TRIGGERS Heartburn can be triggered by: • Spicy or fatty food • Chocolate or sweets • Caffeinated or fizzy drinks • Alcohol • Eating large portions and eating before bedtime. Too much stomach acid is usually to blame, and so to tackle the problem effectively you may need to limit the amount of acid your stomach produces in the first place.
CAUSES OF HEARTBURN The stomach uses acid to sterilise food and protect against infection. Specialised cells in your stomach lining produce this acid and pump it into the stomach. If too many of these pumps produce acid at the same time, it can result in excess stomach acid. Many things can trigger excess acid production – certain foods and drinks, having a busy lifestyle and specific medical conditions.
or reflux at its source, you may need to regulate the production of stomach acid. That’s why millions of people worldwide use Losec®, shown to be twice as effective as antacids in the relief of heartburn and reflux.
TREAT THE ROOT CAUSE Unlike antacids that only temporarily relieve the symptoms of heartburn/ reflux, Losec regulates the amount of acid your stomach produces, so that symptoms don’t have the chance to rear their head at all. Losec Extra (omeprazole 20mg) may provide up to three months’ relief when taken for two weeks. It’s now available from your pharmacy – without prescription – making it easier to get lasting freedom from the nagging pain of heartburn.
GET LASTING RELIEF Watching what you eat, reducing excess weight, stopping smoking and avoiding stressful situations can all help reduce heartburn or reflux. But to stop heartburn
Losec treats the problem at its source, regulating the amount of acid your stomach produces.
Ask for Losec® at your pharmacy
Losec® and Losec® Extra are used for the relief of reflux-like symptoms, heartburn or regurgitation for people aged 18 years or older. Always read the label and use only as directed. If symptoms persist see your pharmacist. Bayer New Zealand Limited, Auckland. TAPS NA5679
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31
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