FHD JulyAug 2014 by Family Health Diary

YOUR FREE GUIDE

familyhealthdiary.co.nz JULY / AUGUST 2014

Bright ways to beat the

WINTER CHILLS

be in to

THE AMAZING WIN over $ WARMER 2,000 WINTER G I V E AWAY worth of prizes! See back page for details

As I write this, there are gale force wind warnings in place around the country - certainly the tree branches outside my windows are pretty bendy in the stiff breeze. We’ve already had two of the offspring go down with that fun combo of sore throats, blocked / runny noses, headaches and fever - one just before exams so not ideal. Nothing bacterial so it’s just a matter of combatting symptoms and staying as comfortable as you can while your body does the work of killing off the virus. Hot lemon and honey drinks after rounds of lozenges seemed to be the ticket through the worst of it. On the up now and (literally) chewing through the vitamin C to try and build up a bit of immunity going forward. We have some great winter goodies to give away this month, including cookbooks and a slow cooker to name a few. With some overseas visitors staying we’ve had a couple of occasions to dig out our own slow cooker and increase the size of the dining table (it’s an old one where you wind it out with the handle and add a piece or two of oak depending on how many chairs you need to accommodate). There is something lovely about cooking food and sharing it – it’s the whole day gone in many ways (and the dishwasher does overtime), but a nice way to spend a winter weekend. Stay warm and healthy this winter. Catch you in spring!

IN THIS ISSUE 4 Get serious with sore throats 6 How to avoid the winter chills 8 Chesty coughs – a different approach 10 Winter's answer to dry, cracked lips 12 Real power against colds and flu 14 Once-a-day treatment for psoriasis 16 Just the tonic when you're not just 'tired' 18 Probiotics – when more is more 20 Your gut – the key to good health 24 Heartburn – not all treatments are the same 26 How to upgrade your approval for Efexor-XR 28 The once-a-year answer to osteoporosis 30 Managing bladder weakness with total discretion 32 Win 1 of 27 great prizes with our Winter Warmer giveaway!

Family Health Diary July/August 2014

WHAT'S HAPPENING AT www.familyhealthdiary.co.nz

IS IT A COLD? OR FLU? Often the first sign of a sniffle is mistakenly called the flu, but it helps to know which one you’ve got. While both can bring secondary infections and complications, the flu can bring more serious complications, including pneumonia. Also ongoing medical conditions, such as heart disease, can become worse after a bout of flu. Here’s a little table to keep handy this winter, and here’s to overpowering any chills in minimum time.

For more, visit us online Editor: Aileen Nakhle Contributor: Briony Henderson Design: Raydar For editorial enquiries write to: editor@familyhealthdiary.co.nz For Family Health Diary advertising enquiries: Please phone 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 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. ©2014 Copyright. No part of this publication may be reproduced without the express permission of the publisher. Family Health Diary® is a registered trademark of BrandWorld Limited.

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Get serious with sore throats A sore throat is one of those pains you can’t ignore, with constant reminders whenever you try to swallow. There’s really no sense in mucking around… head to a pharmacy for a treatment that gets to the bottom of it. 4

Family Health Diary July/August 2014

When you’ve got a sore throat, you want pain relief – fast. You typically have two options – you could choose a lozenge from the supermarket or dairy – or choose a medicine that actually targets the cause of pain as well. For that you need to head to your pharmacy. And that’s where you’ll find Difflam – the throat lozenge of choice for pharmacy shoppers*.

WHEN TO USE A THROAT SPRAY VERSUS A LOZENGE?

Fre qu ently as ked qu estion s

Wh at cau ses a sore throat ? Viral infe ctions are responsible for 85 -90% of sore throats in ad ult While bacterial infe ctions responds. to antiba cte rial treatm ents an d antibiotics , vira l infe ctions do not You need to treat the pai n, an d . to do that, it’s important to treat the cau of the pai n – the inf lam mation. se Are all lozeng es the sam e? No, they’re not. M any lozenges contai n an antiba cte rial age nt, how to treat the cau se of pai n in the eve r you need an anti-inf lam matory throat All Diffla m lozenges contai n an as we ll. inf lam matory an d an anti- bacterantiial. Are all lozeng es sugar-free? No, but all Diffla m lozenges are sugar-free, lactose-free an d gluten -fre e.

It’s really a matter of preference. Some people enjoy sucking on a lozenge as they find this soothes the throat. Sprays however, are perfect for targeting the back of the throat to provide fast pain relief exactly where you want it. This also means that you only get a numbing feeling in the area sprayed, rather than the whole mouth. Difflam has a range of antiinflammatory, anti-bacterial lozenges in different flavours. There is also an extra numbing option containing an anaesthetic. Difflam Throat Spray is available in two strengths. It can also be used to relieve pain in the mouth caused by mouth ulcers, sore gums or dental pain.

DID YOU KNOW? Difflam lozenges and spray are not only for adults, but also children aged 6 years up. Mums can spray the back of their child’s throat with the spray as an alternative to using a lozenge.

Only available at pharmacies * Aztect data May 2014. Always read the label. Use only as directed. If symptoms persist see your healthcare professional. Radiant Health Ltd, Auckland. 0508 Radiant. TAPS NA7137

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Build immunity with these essentials… Having a strong immune system is actually a science. That’s why the experts at the Nutra-Life lab here in New Zealand have formulated some powerful new supplements to fight the winter chills. These are your immunity essentials this winter. VITAMIN C We all need Vitamin C – it supports our immunity, eyes, skin, teeth and bones and as a powerful antioxidant, it supports the fight against ills and chills. You can get Vitamin C from fruits and vegetables or a vitamin supplement, but hanging on to all that goodness is the hard part. Ordinary Vitamin C supplements break down quickly in the body and are 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’. Thanks to the unique way it’s made, Ester-C® is rapidly absorbed by your white blood cells. And it gives 24 hours’ immune support around-the-clock.

Family Health Diary July/August 2014

Unlike ordinary Vitamin C, Ester-C® is non-acidic, which makes it gentler on your stomach and teeth.

Best of all, you can choose between tablets or great-tasting chewables. It also comes in a kids-only formula. New Ester-C 1500mg formula is the most potent* vitamin C on shelf. This is a key supplement to keep handy this winter. ®

ESTER-C® BENEFITS • Faster absorption • 24-hour immune support • Stomach-friendly Vitamin C.

OLIVE LEAF Olive leaf has been used for centuries to support immunity. That’s because it contains two very powerful compounds – antioxidant flavonoids and oleuropein – which support your immune response and recovery from winter chills.

OLIVIRAL™ IMMUNE SUPPORT HIGH STRENGTH For the olive leaf formula with the highest active oleuropein content, at 132mg per capsule+, look no further than this one. Nutra-Life® Oliviral™ Immune Support High Strength provides serious support against winter chills, containing not only high-potency oleuropein, but additional herbs that also help in times of stress, when extra immune support may be required. This is a good supplement to use in conjunction with Ester-C® for a well-rounded approach against the winter chills.

Only in pharmacies and health food stores *In tablet format. +As at May 2014. 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 NA7124

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Chesty cough... Is cough liquid the only answer? The most common way to relieve a chesty cough and congestion is with a liquid. But it might not be the most convenient. Winter colds and flu bring a range of uncomfortable symptoms, but none can be as lingering as a phlegmy or chesty cough.

WHY DOES A CHESTY COUGH LINGER? When you get a cold or flu, mucus can increase. Excess mucus becomes congealed, thicker, and harder to move through your respiratory system. It can result in a wet cough, wheezing and shortness of breath. Treatment should both thin and loosen mucus in the chest to help clear the airways and relieve symptoms.

Family Health Diary July/August 2014

ARE COUGH LIQUIDS THE ANSWER? If you’ve tried to clear chest congestion with a liquid, you’ll know the routine. You often have to take liquid formulations multiple times during the day especially when symptoms persist. But when life is busy and you’re on the move, re-dosing can be a hassle. Liquids are not easily portable and it can be difficult to measure the correct dose every time. Well there is an easier way: One Mucinex Maximum Strength tablet will give fast, effective and long-lasting relief for 12 hours. That means uninterrupted relief through the day.

CONVENIENT 12-HOUR RELIEF IN A TABLET Mucinex treats chest congestion and chesty coughs by thinning and loosening mucus. It’s a unique bi-layer tablet with an immediate-release layer that gets to work fast, in just 8 minutes, and an extended-release layer that works for 12 hours.

Be ne fit s of M u cin ex M ax im u m St ren gt h – Work s fa st - in just 8 mi nute s – 1 2- hours’ un int erru pt ed relief – M ore co nven ient th an coug h liquid s.

Multiple doses a day

1 tablet for 12-hour relief

Available at pharmacies 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 DA1514DB familyhealthdiary.co.nz

Dry, cracked lips? Not any more. Dry, cracked lips are painful and irritating, but hiding away from the wind and sun is not realistic. Spending just a few seconds of your time on your lips, every day, will help prevent them from getting into a sorry state in the first place. DAILY HELP FROM BLISTEX You might be one of the many to call on Blistex when your lips get sore or chapped. But what if there was a way to prevent the problem in the first place? Blistex Lip Conditioner is designed for everyday use to keep lips hydrated and protected from wind and ultraviolet rays. With a moisture-rich formula that cools and softens lips to keep them from cracking, regular daily use of Blistex Lip Conditioner helps your lips stay in top condition. 10

Family Health Diary July/August 2014

PROTECTION WHATEVER THE SEASON Lips are especially vulnerable to the sun and wind because unlike other skin they do not have oil and sweat glands to keep them moist. In winter, lips are exposed to blasts of cold and dry air and suffer as a result of overheated homes and offices. Dry air sucks moisture from skin. Further damage is done when lips are exposed to the sun without adequate protection. Blistex Lip Conditioner’s precise blend of moisturisers and protein keeps lips soft and hydrated, while its built-in sunscreen of SPF 15 shields lips from sun damage.

DID YOU KNOW…

Wi nte r doe s da ma ge to lips Wit h the ext rem e weathe r con ditions that com e with winter, lips are ofte n left fee ling dry, cha pped and uncomforta ble. Blistex Int ens ive Repair and Medicated Reliefe help give lips the ext ra moi stur n the y need afte r the y have bee . da ma ged by the win d and cold

Sun and wind are the main contributors to dry or sensitive lips, but other triggers include: • Mouth-breathing instead of breathing through the nose • Licking your lips frequently • Dehydration from not drinking enough water • Toothpaste with an ingredient called phenol, which some people are sensitive to • Vitamin B deficiency • Diabetes or anaemia.

Take a preventative approach with Blistex There’s a wide range of Blistex products to match all your lip care needs, but you don’t have to wait for pain and dryness to set in. Take a preventative approach with help from the experts in lip care.

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Real power against cold & flu When you’re hit with severe cold and flu, all you really want is powerful relief.

Some rest and TLC can do wonders when you’re sick, but life doesn’t stop when you have a cold or flu. For most of us, it just means that the day-today tasks become harder to deal with. Severe cold or flu can leave you exhausted, foggy and unable to manage the simple things, let alone some of the bigger commitments to work or family. The fact is, you might need some serious treatment to get you through.

INTRODUCING LEMSIP FOR PHARMACY Lemsip has been caring for Kiwis’ coughs and colds for years, but with its recently introduced range of pharmacy-strength formulas, it's now capable of doing even more. Lemsip for Pharmacy has been specially formulated to treat severe cold and flu, day and night if needed. With formulas tailored to meet different needs, you can find the relief you need when the going gets really tough. There’s even specialised sinus relief. You don’t have to suffer through cold, flu or sinus pain. Head to your pharmacy for this Pharmacy Only Lemsip range.

Family Health Diary July/August 2014

Lemsip for Pharmacy: Pharmacy Strength medicine for colds, flu and sinus pain

FOR COLDS & FLU • Relieves headaches, body aches, body pains & fever • Clears a blocked or runny nose.

With the added advantage of: • Non-drowsy Day tablets to get you through the day • Night tablets to support a good night’s rest • 24-hour relief.

FOR SINUS PAIN & ALLERGY • Relieves sinus pain, sinus headache, aches & fever • Clears a blocked or runny nose • Relieves sneezing and itchy, watery eyes. With the added advantage of: • Non-drowsy Day tablets to get you through the day • Night tablets to support a good night’s rest • 24-hour relief.

Only available at pharmacies

For more on colds and flu visit: familyhealthdiary.co.nz Always read the label and use only as directed. Incorrect use could be harmful. May cause drowsiness (avoid alcohol and driving). If symptoms persist see your pharmacist. Reckitt Benckiser, Auckland. TAPS DA1514DB familyhealthdiary.co.nz

Once-a-day treatment for psoriasis Psoriasis is not an easy condition to manage and you may think you've tried everything. But did you know there's a treatment that can make life easier? Anyone 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 fully funded treatment that may be different to anything you have tried before.

Family Health Diary July/August 2014

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. When a flare-up happens, you only need to apply it once a day. And most people see improvement within seven days.

AVAILABLE AS A GEL Daivobet® is also available as a gel to make life even easier. It's easy to spread on the body and scalp without going clumpy. Daivobet® Gel is also easily absorbed, so there's no greasy feeling.

CHECK YOUR SCALP TOO If you’re seeing your doctor about psoriasis, ask them to check your scalp as well.

DAIVOBET® GEL BENEFITS

Scalp psoriasis usually affects the back of the head, but other parts of the scalp can be affected. It's characterised by red thickened skin covered with thick silvery-white scales.

• Easy to apply on body and scalp

Scalp psoriasis can occur with any other form or psoriasis, but also in isolation. Daivobet® Gel is especially useful on scalps, as lotions and creams can be messy to apply on hair. The almost clear gel is alcohol-free, odourless and rapidly absorbed.

• Only one application a day • Works fast – most see improvements within seven days • Rapidly absorbed and provides alternative to ointment when you need fast drying treatment • Fully funded.

D id y ou k n A rou n d 70%owof? pe op le wit h p so ri a si s a ls obody sca lp p so ri a si h a ve s.

Ask your doctor whether Daivobet® Ointment or Gel is right for you. 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, are pregnant or breastfeeding, or have 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 bioCSL (NZ) Ltd, PO Box 62 590 Greenlane, Auckland 1546. Freephone 0800 502 757 or www.bioCSL.co.nz. DAIVOBET® is a registered trademark of Leo Pharmaceutical Products Ltd. TAPS NA7178

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Just the tonic when you’re not ‘just tired’ Tiredness is a problem for many women today – especially those juggling a busy work life with a busy home life. But could your tiredness be a sign of something else? One in four Kiwi women are irondeficient. If you’re always feeling tired and can’t focus on the things you want to, you might be one of them. If that’s the case, the answer to regaining your vitality could be simpler than you think. Floradix Iron and Vitamin Tonic is made from fruit, vegetables, herbs and organic iron. But what makes it really special is that it’s a liquid, not a tablet, so it’s absorbed faster.

ABSORPTION DOES MAKE A DIFFERENCE Better absorption means you feel the effects of the tonic faster, and it also means you don’t have to put up with 16

Family Health Diary July/August 2014

unpleasant side-effects caused by undissolved iron entering the intestinal tract and affecting bowel regularity. Besides being a liquid, another reason Floradix absorbs so well is because it’s infused with vitamin C – nature’s little helper when it comes to efficient iron absorption.

WHY DOES IRON MATTER? 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.

FLORADIX – WHO’S IT FOR? Usually, a healthy, balanced diet containing iron-rich foods can provide our bodies with an adequate amount of iron. But women, children, vegetarians and athletes may all require more iron than a regular diet can supply. Menstruation also increases the need for iron. Because Floradix contains only natural ingredients, completely free from artificial colours, flavours, alcohol, animal derivatives, synthetic additives, and chemical preservatives, it is especially suited to pregnant women and nursing mothers who need higher levels of iron.

IRON DEFICIENCY – DO YOU HAVE THESE SYMPTOMS? • Fatigue/ general lack of energy • Decreased ability to concentrate • Decreased endurance during exercise • Increased frequency of infection • Ridges along the fingernails • Paleness and/or dark circles under the eyes. Do you suffer from a few of the above? You could try Floradix – if you are iron-deficient it can quickly and easily boost your iron stocks for renewed health and vitality.

GLUTEN-FREE NEEDS?

WORRIED ABOUT A CHILD’S HEALTH?

Don’t worry, if you are gluten-free but still keen to experience the benefits of Floradix, you can take the specially formulated Floravital.

If you want to ensure your children have the vitamins and nutrients they need, try Kindervital by Floradix. It provides the calcium and vitamins they need to grow and develop even if they’re not eating as well as you would like.

Available at supermarkets, pharmacies and health food stores Read the label and use only as directed. If symptoms persist see your healthcare professional. Do not use if you have an iron overload disease like hemochromatosis. TAPS NA7143. familyhealthdiary.co.nz

Choose your probiotic wisely

With so many factors causing digestion problems, it’s no surprise more of us are turning to probiotics for our wellbeing. But probiotics come in different strains, all of which do different things. Are you getting the most from yours? Probiotics, or beneficial bacteria, are not all the same. You’ll find them bottled up in different strengths and different strains. Storage needs vary too, with some needing refrigeration and others needing none. And then there are variations in how the probiotics are released in order to maximise benefits. Nutra-Life® ProBiotic 50 Billion contains the highest number of shelf-stable probiotics on the shelf. With 11 researched strains of beneficial bacteria including HOWARU®, it contains more 18

Family Health Diary July/August 2014

strains of probiotics than many other supplements on shelf, which means a greater spread of benefits for you. The vegetable-based capsule is cleverly constructed with a DRCap technology for delayed release. This allows probiotics to be released all the way to your lower intestine.

DIGESTION – IMPORTANT & VULNERABLE Probiotic bacteria can aid digestion by modulating gut flora and supporting a

healthy gastrointestinal lining. This means that nutrients from food can be absorbed and metabolised so you’ll feel better. Boosting the number of good bacteria with regular concentrated doses of probiotics can help rebalance your digestive system more quickly. Resources can be depleted for a number of reasons, including taking antibiotics or an oral contraceptive, feeling stressed or having a poor diet.

BENEFITS OF NUTRA-LIFE® PROBIOTIC 50 BILLION • High strength, containing 50 billion probiotic bacteria • Multi-strain formula, with 11 researched strains including the HOWARU® strain

Th e im mu nity con nection If you r dige stive tract is working well and you are getting the nut rients you need, the roll-on effe ct is that you r imm une syst em is stronge r. Hea lthy nu mbers of probiotics help you r gastroi nte stin al linin g act as a barrier to unwant ed orga nisms, the reby supporting you r nat ural imm une defences. Additiona lly, scie ntif ic research has fou nd that som e probiotic stra ins act ually prod uce esse ntia l B vita min s, which help imm unity. An d one stra in in Nut ra-life® Pro biot ic 50 Billion prod uce s lactic acid, which prom ote s a hostile environ me nt for unwant ed inva ders.

• Supports digestive, immune and urinary health • No refrigeration needed • Vegetable-based capsule • DRCap technology (delay release) • Convenient and handbag ready.

YOUR GUT, YOUR HEALTH It pays to choose your probiotic course wisely to ensure you are giving your digestive system the best chance to work optimally. Try Nutra-life® ProBiotic 50 Billion – the highest strength of shelf-stable probiotic available in New Zealand.

Only in pharmacies and health food stores

Always read the label and use only as directed. If symptoms persist, consult your healthcare professional. Vitaco Health (NZ) Ltd, Auckland NZ. TAPS NA7180.

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YOUR GUT

– THE KEY TO GOOD HEALTH

With the brain and heart taking on the glamour role of our bodies, the gut has been rather neglected. But that is starting to change, with many scientists saying the gut is where good health begins, and some even calling it our ‘second brain’. Time for a bit more respect then? Our gut is no simple plumbing job, but a highly sophisticated, intelligent system. It shouldn’t really be too much of a surprise. After all, we use expressions like ‘gut instinct’, ‘gut feeling’ and ‘listen to your gut’ when we really want to know what’s true and right. And if you look back 2000 years, you’d find Hippocrates – the ‘father of medicine’ – saying that “all disease starts in the gut”.

GUT WORKING WELL? ALL WELL If the digestive system is working well, then the benefits of this flow out to the rest of the body helping us with immunity, brain function and even our emotions. Why? Ultimately all of the body is connected to the digestive system, and depends on it. Our gut has a lot of jobs, but one of the most important is determining what’s good in food – nutrients – and 20

Family Health Diary July/August 2014

helping get these nutrients out to all parts of the body so these other areas can function. If not enough nutrients are being processed and reaching other parts of the body, then you’re not going to feel as well as you could. Our growth and development, energy levels, mental health and performance, sleep quality, exercise performance and recovery, weight, likelihood and management of illness are all affected by our nutrient intake and absorption.

SO, WHY WOULDN’T OUR GUTS WORK WELL?

Helping our gut function well are billions of friendly bacteria. Different strains affect the body in different ways, and low levels overall have a detrimental effect on the health of your gut. If too much harmful bacteria outnumbers good bacteria, you might generally feel unwell.

YOUR IMMUNITY Your body needs a healthy digestive system to manufacture vitamins, and it takes many nutrients to fight invading organisms. Amazingly, your intestinal tract is responsible for around 70% of your immunity. As well as aiding nutrient absorption, your intestinal lining acts as a barrier to illness-causing viruses and bacteria, but it can also be an entry point for these nasties if not functioning well. Lynette Hill, a naturopath and homeopath at the natural medicine clinic My Remedy on Auckland’s North Shore says that: “When we have consistently impaired intestinal flora, we start to see symptoms such as allergies (asthma, skin disorders), obesity, digestive issues and Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS). Long-term imbalance can lead to more serious and chronic conditions. She believes there is a link to type II diabetes, heart disease, high cholesterol and even depression.

Bacteria imbalance Good bacteria can be badly affected by antibiotics, the oral contraceptive pill, steroids, stress and aging, a poor diet, pollution and more. Harmful bacteria, on the other hand, can flourish due to a poor diet, stress or fatigue. In order for us to maintain a healthy digestive system we need to ensure that we have balanced intestinal flora with more of the good bacteria and less of the bad. An imbalance is called dysbiosis. Lynette Hill says that it can be a good idea to replace good bacteria daily with a quality probiotic. With a gut full of balanced bacterial flora, digestive enzymes and acids should be able to cope with processing foods efficiently, so you are better off on the whole.

Our gut has a lot of jobs, but one of the most importa nt is determining wh at’s good in food – nutrients – and helping get the se nutrients out to all parts of the bod y so the se other areas can fun ction. Our growth and develop ment, ene rgy levels, menta l hea lth and perform ance, sleep qua lity, exercise performanc e and recovery, weight, plu s likeliho od and ma nagement of illn ess are all affected by our nutrient inta ke and absorption. familyhealthdiary.co.nz

Diet Our diet has changed dramatically. Lynette says that traditional diets around the world typically included raw and fermented food such as yoghurt, kefir, sauerkraut, and fermented fish, all containing many strains of beneficial bacterium.

by altering the population of our bacterial colonies and causing imbalances so there is a shortage of good bacterial flora.

“But these days helpful bacteria is often missing and has been replaced with preservatives, starches, sugars, vegetable oils, flavour enhancers and bulking products. Starches and sugars alter the balance of good bacteria by feeding harmful bacteria,” says Lynette.

“Even with the best of diets, if we’re constantly stressed, eating on the run or while working or focusing elsewhere (in front of TV for example), our body is less able to digest our foods efficiently, and food passes out of the gut and into the bowel only partially digested,” says Lynette. “No wonder we are having more and more IBS, bloating and digestive problems.”

Stress and fatigue For the gut to work efficiently, we need to be relaxed. Unfortunately, in modern day life we are often suffering from stress and fatigue. Stress particularly affects our gut

Affecting 10 to 20% of the population, IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome) is a problem that affects the functioning of the large intestine. It can cause abdominal cramping, bloating, and a change in bowel habits.

Family Health Diary July/August 2014

HOW YOUR GUT AFFECTS OVERALL HEALTH - RECENT RESEARCH Weight gain Gut bacteria has been linked to weight gain. Researchers in the Alimentary Pharmabiotic Centre at the University College Cork have discovered how gut bacteria communicate with their host to regulate weight gain and serum cholesterol levels. The research has implications for the selection and design of probiotics for the control of obesity, high cholesterol and diabetes. Cholesterol Researchers at the University of Gothenberg have shown that cholesterol metabolism is regulated by bacteria in the small intestine. These findings may be important for the development of new drugs for cardiovascular disease.

a long healthy life say scientists from the Buck Institute for Age Research. Scientists promoted health and increased lifespan by altering the symbiotic relationship between bacteria and the absorptive cells lining the intestine.

Useful information: • Your intestinal tract is responsible for around 70% of your immunity • Traditional diets typically included raw and fermented foods, all containing many strains of beneficial bacterium – these days helpful bacteria is often missing • Stress can alter the bacterial balance in our gut and affect digestion.

Gut and brain communication Similar studies have also highlighted the important role that gut bacteria play in communication between the gut and brain. More on this in the full version of this story on www. familyhealthdiary.co.nz.

At present, when we eat we often just think about the effect the food has on weight, blood pressure, blood sugar levels, cholesterol… but what about the effect on the gut? And what about stress, rest, and whether you have enough good bacteria for your body to digest and get nutrients?

Right balance for a long life Having the right balance of gut bacteria may be the key to enjoying

Overall, respect your gut, listen to it and pay heed to its messages – it could affect your whole wellbeing.

Visit www.familyhealthdiary.co.nz for a full version of this article with more information and tips for a healthy digestive system.

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Heartburn – not all treatments are the same If you get heartburn, you’ll know not all treatments are the same. Some work in the stomach, which is one thing, but some work in the bloodstream and this makes a difference too. Some heartburn treatments are designed to keep a lid on stomach acids, or neutralise their acidity so they don’t irritate the oesophagus as much. Others can stop heartburn/ reflux at its source by regulating the amount of acid your stomach produces in the first place. They do this by entering the bloodstream and reducing the activity of the pumps supplying acid to the stomach. What makes Losec® Extra so different is how quickly it’s absorbed into the bloodstream. As a result, it gets to work fast.

Family Health Diary July/August 2014

MUPS – THE SECRET TO LOSEC® EXTRA Omeprazole is the active ingredient in Losec. But the secret is actually in the MUPS (Multiple-Unit Pellet System) that make up each tablet. These are tiny, individually enteric-coated units of omeprazole that allow Losec Extra to pass through the stomach without being broken down by gastric acids, and get to the bloodstream faster.

CAN YOU GET LASTING RELIEF WITH LOSEC® EXTRA? Losec® Extra stops heartburn or reflux at its source. It works by regulating the amount of acid your stomach produces, so that symptoms are effectively controlled. One tablet of Losec® Extra (omeprazole 20mg) provides 24-hour relief from heartburn. Taken for two weeks, Losec® Extra may keep you symptom-free for up to three months.

WHAT CAUSES HEARTBURN?

COMMON DIETARY TRIGGERS

Heartburn and acid reflux occurs when acid from the stomach flows up into the food pipe (oesophagus), causing a burning pain in the chest.

Heartburn can be triggered by:

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. That’s exactly what Losec® Extra does.

• Caffeinated or fizzy drinks

• Spicy or fatty food • Chocolate or sweets

• Alcohol •E ating large portions and eating before bedtime.

Watching what you eat, reducing excess weight, stopping smoking and avoiding stressful situations can all help reduce heartburn.

Available at pharmacies – without prescription Losec® Extra is a Pharmacy Medicine, 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 NA7177. familyhealthdiary.co.nz

Update your approval for Efexor-XR

It’s great when you find relief from major depression. So if Efexor-XR is working for you and your doctor feels you should continue treatment, you can stay on it. Just ask your doctor to update your authority number… If you’d like to stay with Efexor-XR and not be given another brand, it’s really important you ask your doctor to check the authority number Standard Prescription on your script. Pharmacy only

Rx 10 July 2014 cines once Dispense stat list medi close control. only unless endorsed

nded Efexor-XR 150mg Exte Release Capsules (28) Sig: 1 tab po mane Mitte: 90 tabs on Allowed) (No Generic Substituti

Authority No: CHEM1234567890 Expiry Date: 10 July 2016

It’s a number that appears at the bottom of your script, and you’ll want to be sure it’s not out of date.

Family Health Diary July/August 2014

You see, it’s this number that enables you to receive the Efexor-XR capsules you’re used to, and not a tablet alternative.

FULLY FUNDED With an up-to-date authority number, Efexor-XR is fully funded, so there is no extra charge other than your usual doctor’s and pharmacy fee. You just need to let your doctor know that you want to stay with Efexor-XR, and ask your pharmacist for Efexor-XR by name.

MORE ABOUT EFEXOR-XR Efexor-XR is used in the treatment and prevention of relapse of depression and is also prescribed for a range of mood disorders including generalised anxiety, social anxiety and panic disorders. 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.

STAY ON YOUR TREATMENT AS LONG AS PRESCRIBED One of the most important things for you 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. If you have found a treatment that works for you, and it’s Efexor-XR, then you don’t have to change. You can stay with what you know, so long as your authority number is up to date.

Wh at is the goa l of treatm ent? In treatin g depression, the goa l is more tha n just to fee l better – you wa nt to try an d eliminate all you depression sympto ms an d keep ther from coming back. Doctors call this m remission of sympto ms an d people the rea ch remission of sympto ms are who like ly to have their sympto ms retuless rn. For you, remission cou ld mean hav ene rgy again for you r favourite ing activities an d ren ewed inte rest in thi ngs you used to love doi ng. the If you r treatm ent is Efexor-XR, doctor will know the right dosag you r how lon g you need to sta y on Efee an d xorXR to get the best resu lts. For more inform ation on fully-fund Efexor-XR, visit ww w.p f ize r. co. ed nz

Ask your doctor to update your Authority Number and ask your pharmacist for Efexor-XR by name. EFEXOR-XR (venlafaxine hydrochloride, 37.5 mg, 75 mg, 150 mg) Modified Release capsules. 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, restlessness, 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 diabetic, 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, menstrual problems, weight loss, sweating, hot flushes, 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, Auckland. www.pfizer.co.nz Ph. 0800 736 363. V10913. TAPS NA6706 familyhealthdiary.co.nz

Treat osteoporosis just once a year If you’re managing osteoporosis with tablet treatments, there is another option… and you’ll only need it once a year. If you have osteoporosis, you might be treating it with tablets. But you have to remember to take them, constantly, which is easier said than done. If you find that you are missing doses, or struggling to take as directed, your bones may not be getting the protection they need. Fortunately, there is another option that helps protect your bones for a full year. It’s not a tablet. It’s an infusion you have only once a year.

ACLASTA – ONCE A YEAR With Aclasta, once you have your first infusion – which takes around 15-30 minutes – you don’t need to think about your Aclasta treatment again for another year. If you are on Aclasta, it’s important to get the infusion every year for

Family Health Diary July/August 2014

at least three years. That will help ensure you have ongoing protection for your bones. After three years, your doctor will reassess how often you need this treatment.

HOW DOES ACLASTA WORK? For those in normal health, bone breakdown (resorption) and bone formation take place in close sequence and remain balanced. For those with osteoporosis, there is an imbalance in the bone cycle, resulting in bone loss. This imbalance can occur after menopause in women – when ovaries stop producing the hormone oestrogen, which keeps bones healthy – and with ageing in both genders. Aclasta works by slowing down bone breakdown, which allows the boneforming cells time to rebuild normally.

HELP YOUR BONES

Wh at is ost eoporo sis ? Osteoporosis is often refe rred the “sile nt epide mic” becau se totheas wa rnin g sign s are not obviou the disease is advan ced. s until Bones becom e less den se, ma kin g the m wea ker, moregrabritdutleally an d easily bro ken. Th ere is no cure, but medic n an d som e life style cha nge s helpatio . Aclast a is a convenient onc ar infu sion that protects you fore-a1-ye 2 months at a tim e. It is also a fully fun ded medicine if you qua lify for it. Only the nor ma l doctor’s an d treatm ent fee s apply .

Every day…. • Eat a balanced diet high in calcium • Spend 30 minutes outdoors in sunlight (for vitamin D) • Be physically active for 30 minutes • Limit alcohol to two standard drinks • Don’t smoke.

DON’T REACH BREAKING POINT If you are currently putting up with a tiring tablet regime, or about to begin osteoporosis treatment, remember there is another option. Just think Aclasta, once a year. Ask your doctor if Aclasta is right for you. And for ongoing protection, don’t forget to get the infusion yearly.

Ask your doctor if Aclasta is right for you Aclasta® (zoledronic acid 5mg) is a prescription medicine for the treatment and prevention of osteoporosis. Aclasta is an infusion and contains 5mg of zoledronic acid. Check with your doctor to see if Aclasta is right for you. It is important to have an Aclasta infusion each year to ensure you get maximum treatment benefit. Aclasta is fully funded for patients who meet specified criteria. Funding does not include the cost of infusion and normal doctors and prescription charges will apply. Caution while under dental treatment or if dental treatment is planned. Calcium, hydration status and kidney function may be assessed by your doctor before and after you are given Aclasta. Your doctor may recommend that you take regular Calcium and Vitamin D supplements. Adverse effects are usually mild and transient. Common side effects are flu-like symptoms and bone, joint, and/or muscle pain; anaemia; headache; dizziness; transient low blood calcium; gastrointestinal symptoms; renal impairment; breathing difficulty and lethargy. If symptoms persist or you have side effects see your doctor. Aclasta is the registered trademark of Novartis AG. Novartis New Zealand Limited, Auckland. For further information check the Consumer Medicine Information [CMI] at www.medsafe.govt.nz. ACL 0514-266 TAPS CH3923

familyhealthdiary.co.nz

Bladder weakness? You'd never know It may be incredibly common, but a weak bladder is a private matter. Now you can manage it without anyone knowing you’re wearing anything but regular underwear.

For New Zealanders with bladder weakness, finding a discreet and reliable way to manage it can be just as taxing as the problem itself. That’s where DEPEND® Real-Fit Underwear can help – a genuine answer to bladder control.

De sig ned for me n... an d wo me n.

With all the protection you would expect, DEPEND® Real-Fit Underwear is more discreet – the closest thing yet to real underwear.

DESIGNED FOR DESCRETION DEPEND® Real-Fit Underwear is made from a special cotton-flex fabric and designed for discretion. With its unique slim-fit design, it fits like regular underwear – even under close-fitting clothes. DEPEND® Real-Fit Underwear provides absorbent protection – with all-around leg elastics and worry-free odour protection. It is so like real underwear you won’t believe it until you have it on. 30

Family Health Diary July/August 2014

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Ela stic wa istban d Cotton-lik e fabric M axim u m protection All-aroun d leg ela stics Wo rry-free odour protection.

RETRAIN YOUR BLADDER These techniques can help you suppress the urgent need to pass urine until an appropriate time and place is found. • When you feel you really need to pass urine, sit down and try to take your mind off wanting to go to the toilet. • Avoid those ‘just in case’ toilet trips – try to go only when your bladder is full and when you need to. • Walk, don’t run, to the toilet.

WHAT ABOUT LIGHT LEAKAGE? Men, here’s something just for you. If you experience only light to moderate leakage and could do with a shield, instead of a pant, then try these new DEPEND® Guards.

BENEFITS: • Guards fit inside your own underwear • Lock in place with strong adhesive

• Minimise your intake of coffee, tea, cola and alcohol. • Do pelvic floor exercises for strengthening and confidence. • Drink six to eight glasses of fluids a day to help avoid constipation (which only makes the problem worse).

• Leak barriers protect you while active • Worry-free odour control.

More information and advice on how to put together a bladder chart or diary can be found at www.continence.org.nz

Get a FREE sample

Available in medium and large sizes at supermarkets and selected pharmacies

Try out DEPEND® Real-Fit Underwear OR DEPEND® Guards for men. Call 0800 800 509 toll free or visit www.depend.co.nz for a free sample.

Watch the Depend TV ad at: familyhealthdiary.co.nz/products

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