Hello 2017

OK I must admit, I’ve been quite bad at this blogging idea. Kids can keep you extremely busy!

So here’s my first blog for 2017…. I’ll make this short and sweet.

SCHOOL!

At the beginning of every year, most families are preparing to send their kids off to school…playschool, preschool, primary school, high school…when does it end!?

With that, comes the mingling of many, many, mannnyyy germs that your precious ones will encounter. We need to prepare them, prep their tiny developing immune systems in order for them to ward off all these infections.

The bare essentials :

  1. ECHINACEA : Immune booster of note, especially the practitioner range that is safe for the whole family. Take every day as a preventative and double up during acute infections.
  2. OLIVE LEAF : The same as above with the added power of being anti-parasitic, so if you’re suspecting a worm infestation this would be your go-to tincture!

Now that that’s out of the way, let’s talk brain power! Especially during exam time but also a good all year rounder type of herb is BACOPA . A good tincture to assist with poor memory, anxiety and lack of concentration. Bacopa is also noted for its usage in ADHD (clinically proven trials!). So if you feel that your child needs the extra help, please give this herb a try!

Wishing you all the best of health for this year! (I think my next article should be about how to deal with the stress of being a parent!)

Dr Fatima Hansa

Pink Ribbons : Not Just for October

Breast Cancer Awareness month
A month dedicated to raise awareness for breast cancer, it’s treatment and the need for a permanent cure. Raised awareness has led to early detection at a more treatable stage. Let us remember and acknowledge that cancer awareness is not confined to one month . Show your support by buying a pink ribbon to wear all year round.

Mental Health Awareness month
There is a strong need to educate the public about mental health as well as to reduce the stigma involved with those suffering from a condition such as Anxiety, Depression, Substance abuse, stress etc. Many of these conditions have a direct impact on one’s quality of life. Attaining the correct treatment will also improve productivity at the workplace or school with a decrease in absenteeism. Homeopathy is an excellent form of Intergrative Medicine with a gentle, holistic approach with no side effects.october

ADHD Awareness month
Have a look at my first blog post for more information.

Wishing you the best of health

Dr Fatima Hansa

Diabetes Part 1

Diabetes….a life sentence or a life opportunity to treat your body the way it deserves?

Just a quick description before we move on :

Diabetes Type 1 : The body destroys the beta cells in the pancreas that produce insulin ( daily insulin injections needed)

Diabetes Type 2 : Not enough insulin produced OR less insulin receptors on the body cells. (Glucophage/Metformin is the most common first-line treatment)

Insulin : This hormone Allows GLUCOSE into your cells. Without the correct functioning of this hormone, glucose remains in your blood stream which is called hyperglycaemia.

A normal fasting blood glucose level should be below 6.5.

Those at risk of developing type 2 diabetes :

  • Those with close blood relatives who are already diagnosed as diabetic.
  • Obesity, especially central obesity(abdominal fat).
  • Women with Poly Cystic Ovarian Syndrome(PCOS).

Symptoms to watch out for :

  • Urination very frequent
  • Hungry often
  • Thirsty often
  • Fatigue
  • Slow healing
  • Blurred vision

Lifestyle Changes :

  • WEIGHTLOSS : Aim for realistic weight loss goals, motivate yourself to keep up with a regular exercise routine(physical activity lowers blood glucose levels).
  • HEALTHY EATING : Cut down on Fat, salt and sugar.
  • NO SMOKING
  • Look after your feet
  • Regular eye exams