HEALTHY BODY: January 2015

COFFEE - 3 Tricks to Make it Super-Healthy

by Nils Zid

Mmm, coffee ... almost everybody drinks that ... some people have 3-4 cups a day or more.

But most people do not think of it as a "health drink". And it certainly is not healthy that most people do it with lots of sugar or artificial sweeteners and artificial cream.

But I would give my advice here, healthier cup of coffee and see what ...

First, you can debate in the past about how coffee has some connections in it, have seen the negative effects on health, such as might have some tar or other potentially inhibitory compounds in coffee. But the good news is that coffee has such high concentrations of beneficial antioxidants, phenol nutrients, chlorogenic acid and other healthful compounds that counteract more of the bad connections.

In fact, coffee has the greatest source of antioxidants for most Americans. Although many have with the fact that many Americans do not have enough antioxidants to fruit and vegetables, so the coffee ends up being its biggest source. You should try to diversify their sources of antioxidants from fruits, vegetables, spices, fruits, beans, organic cocoa without sugar, tea, and yes, even coffee, if you like.

So what is the best way to make a healthy cup of coffee? Well, here are my top 3 tips to maximize the benefits and minimize the negative coffee:

1. First, you need to avoid adding harmful refined sugar or artificial sweeteners. What I do instead is either a touch of organic maple syrup or half a pack of natural Stevia to sweeten coffee only slightly. If you like black unsweetened coffee at all, that's the healthiest way.

If you always keep your coffee at a cafe, make sure that all these fancy coffees (latte with sweet taste, Frappuccinos, etc.), as they are almost always avoid loaded with extra sugar or artificial sweeteners. Some of these fancy coffee drinks at Starbucks or other cafes can drink 300-400 calories in just a coffee! Definitely not good for your body or your blood glucose or insulin levels.

A latte or cappuccino can be fine as long as you make sure to order it without sugar, then use your own Stevia, if you need a slight sweetness.

2. You should also try to avoid at all costs a shit these artificial cream (liquid or powder) generally corn syrup solids and hydrogenated oils (trans fats harmful) to be made. Instead, use some real cream full fat (organic pasture, if found, as the CLA in grass fed cream is very healthy).

Or better yet, what I. With some time coconut milk / cream as one of the healthiest alternatives Creamer, I get this by buying organic canned coconut milk, then after opening the can (Shake well before opening), coconut water savings in the refrigerator in a container. Note that the cans coconut milk are much better than creamy coffee cream and coconut milk drink boxes '' which is diluted with coconut milk only.

The thick creamy coconut milk is the healthiest for coffee cream option as medium flame with super healthy saturated fat triglycerides (MCT), which are known, accused of promoting the immune system and metabolism! In addition, coconut milk in coffee just delicious! It is the best Creamer, healthy option by far.

When people visit my house and make us a cup of coffee, I'll try the coconut milk / cream in your coffee and almost everyone always says how much I love it!

3. If you are loading your coffee with healthier and tasteful antioxidants, consider trying a little extra cinnamon, your coffee as (cinnamon can help control blood sugar, and has many other health benefits). It is also found in coffee really delicious!

I also sometimes as a teaspoon (unsweetened) organic cocoa powder to add my coffee, my own way of mocha makeup (but without the expense of a typical mocha sugar you get in the cafeteria). The addition of cocoa powder also gives you a lot of flavor and a healthy dose of additional antioxidants (and cocoa is also known to help lower blood pressure!)

Personally, I only drink coffee about 3-4 times a week, because I am sensitive to caffeine and do not want me addicted to caffeine, as some people are. I see people. 3-4 cups a day, drink a huge headache when they have their daily coffee, because caffeine withdrawal only decide this addiction to drink about 3-4 times a week to avoid, and drink a variety of teas such as green tea, oolong, black and white most other days that contain caffeine are much lower.

But despite the caffeine content, there are a lot of data that the high level of antioxidants and health benefits, to show coffee.

Finally, it is extremely important to choose organic coffee beans, as conventional coffee is one of the crops treated with pesticides, fungicides and herbicides. Remember that one of the many health risks of these chemicals is that some pesticides can be used as "xenoestrogens" act in the body, alter hormonal balance for men and women. Chronic exposure may also xenoestrogen a cause of "stubborn belly fat" in both sexes, as well as "man boobs" in men ... so choose organic as often as possible with most foods, but especially the coffee!

How to Prevent a Stroke in Women Naturally

How to prevent stroke in women, of course? The American Heart Association has to avoid policies that support women, established to conduct a race course a longer, healthier life.

Each year, about 800,000 Americans have a new or recurrent movement, which, when a blood vessel in the brain bursts or is passed by a clot blocks. The American Heart Association is to prevent its first guidelines on stroke in women recently. The focus is on pregnancy, contraceptives and other risk factors that women are clearly or more frequently than men. With stroke is the third leading cause of death in women and the fifth leading cause of death in men, this is a very serious risk factor Americans.

My sister had a stroke last the whole family in shock year, but have been very blessed to recover very fast and good. It was under his morning walks, jogging in the afternoon and a healthy diet since. She has lost about twenty pounds and his health has greatly improved. The AHA guidelines apply to patients like my sister Michelle suffered a stroke.

The key to surviving a stroke and minimize disability recognize symptoms such as weakness or numbness of an arm, slurred speech, and hanging over the side of the face. Guidelines for the prevention of stroke focus on the control of diabetes and blood pressure, more exercise or fat loss and healthy eating and smoking. According to Dr. Cheryl Bushnell, director of career at Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center in Winston-Salem, North Carolina led the panel that wrote the guidelines, published in Stroke, a journal Heart Association.

Pregnancy

During pregnancy, the strokes are rare, but the risk is even greater, especially in the last three months and immediately after childbirth. The real problem is dangerously high blood pressure, which may have a seizure and other problems, the result called preeclampsia. Later in life the risk of stroke doubles and the risk of hypertension after pregnancy quadrupled. The guidelines state that can reduce the risk of preeclampsia with calcium and pregnant women with high blood pressure (160/110) may require lowering drugs.

Menopause

According to the guidelines hormone it should not be used to try to prevent a stroke. Now the guidelines put women's issues on the table € € as discuss more doctors, said Dr. Shazam Hussain, director of the Cleveland Clinic career.

Pill

It is recommended that women be tested for high blood pressure before taking oral contraceptives because the combination may increase the risk of stroke. Although the risk is small, women aged 45 to 49. There is greater among the more than 10 million women currently on the pill.

Aspirin and Migraines

An aspirin is provided for all those who have suffered a stroke, unless the race was bleeding in the brain, rather than a blood clot are recommended or caused bleeding risk is a concern, says Bushnell. A low dose of aspirin every day can be useful € € in the risk of stroke in women over age 65 only if the benefit is greater to reduce the possibility of bleeding or other risks, according to the guidelines. Women are four times more likely to suffer from migraines than men, and they generally agree with hormonal changes. Migraine with aura to the risk of stroke, but not to raise alone. Smoking and oral contraceptives increase the risk even more, so that the guidelines emphasize that patient smoking completely.

I recommend that all Americans, especially women have the following guidelines from the American Heart Association stroke to prevent all live longer and healthier accidents. A balanced diet and daily exercise is very important for reducing stroke, heart attack, diabetes and other serious problems today so take your health measures affecting key to better health.

Weight Loss Tips And Tricks Especially For Women

by Maiysha Johnson

You are looking for an, easy simple weight loss tips and tricks for women?

Are you overweight? Do you think your body is bulky and unattractive? Do you feel a sense of frustration when trying to get rid of excess pounds that happens? Have you tried to lose weight, yes, but had difficulty?

This article is intended to help people like. Read on to learn some tips and effective weight loss tips for women

Keep a journal of your progress on your weight loss journey. Some people like you often weight and keep track of weight, to remind about their goals. Otherwise, their motivation to increase. The motivated you are, the easier goals have to be set up quickly and easily to achieve.

Read nutrition labels to lose more weight. The most important thing to consider is the amount of calories in each serving of food. Many packages have more than one serving, which included plan for serving food. The label tells you more than just calories though. Keep an eye on the levels of sugar and carbohydrates as well.

Weight Loss Tips and Tricks for Women is easy to incorporate exercise into your normal daily activities. Regardless of the type of programming you have, you can use the time to do some exercises, especially if combined with their normal chores.

If you want to keep your pounds lost weight back down slowly. Rapid weight loss offers instant gratification, but usually the result is losing water weight and diets that cannot be kept. Avoid these tricks that promise quick results with little effort, and instead, focus on your weight to lose pounds from week to week.

To lose weight, an easy way to do this is to make sure you get enough sleep every night. It was reported that the missing in my sleep may overeat because of their higher levels of hunger. This can lead to weight gain.

On average, eight hours of sleep the goal for normal adults. Staying awake will not cause your body to lose weight. The right amount of sleep helps your body to correct your metabolism to burn fat.

Weight loss tips and tricks for women trying to resist temptation. Avoid caving in them.

It is easy to stick to your diet, even if you are at an event or party. If fruits or vegetables are available, use this instead. In this way, you can still participate in the festivities without sabotaging your weight loss success. Do not advertise their diet plans or a big business out of them, while at a party; find a way to work with him.

If you try to go to the mall, in the clothes you want to buy, even if you cannot afford to buy immediately. When trying on ten teams, it will burn 60 calories!

The photo may not be as comfortable at your current size for you, but it will be beneficial to you in your underwear or bathing suits. To see how far you've come, you are to avoid relapse.

Weight Loss Tips and Tricks for Women If potato chips are part of your eating habits and you will struggle to get into your diet, look around version as an alternative. Baked potatoes are often thirty percent fewer calories or fat-free is a big difference in taste.

Now that you know what to do in order to lose weight fast, is the only thing left to do is put this plan into action.

Do not miss this opportunity; use the things you learned from these weight loss tips and tricks for women, and do not stop until you have reached the finish. You have reached goal.ed you goal.

8 Healthy Women's Weight Loss Snacks

by Charles Zoe

Healthy snacking will help your body get the nutrients it needs and help you avoid overeating at meal times.

Some snacks have the advantage of delivering specific health benefits. Nuts, for example, help lower elevated LDL cholesterol and blood pressure, and may help ward off Type 2 diabetes.

Snacks also provide an opportunity to boost your intake of important nutrients such as protein, fibre and calcium. Young children have small stomachs, so they need to eat frequently to obtain the nutrients they need. Older kids need the added calories to fuel growth, development and physical activity.

Indulge in these guilt-free snacks. We encourage an anti-inflammatory, low-glycemic, paleo-style diet for weight loss and wellness. A body must get healthy before it can lose weight.

Homemade protein shakes can taste pretty good and are excellent weight loss choices. Just blend some eggs, milk, honey, banana and protein poweder and leave it in the fridge for when you need a quick snack.
A Handful of Nuts. Walnuts are the best choice as they're rich in protein and fiber but they also contain a high dose of omega 3 fatty acids (good fats) as compared to other nuts. Healthy fats help lower your risk of disease.
Bananas are a great source of fiber and potassium. They do have a high sugar content so eat in moderation. Coconuts have anti-microbial, anti-viral and anti-bacterial properties and are one of the best sources in the world for MCFA.
Veggie Sticks With Cottage Cheese Dip. Non-starchy vegetables contain almost eight times the amount of fiber found in whole grains. Fiber is essential for a healthy digestive system.
As I always say, it is ok to make fruit a whole meal. It is full of nutrients, vitamins and all sorts of other things that the human body needs.
Homemade, fresh juice from a juicer is also a natural weight loss snack idea. Fresh fruit or vegetable juice is an amazing idea for health and weight loss.
Herring Wraps. Buy a few tinned containers in a few different flavored sauces such as tomato or tangy mustard, herring fillets are high in omega 3 fish oils. Don't but if they are in soybean oil. Try wrapping them in a few leaves of romaine lettuce.
Yogurt and a medium-sized fruit, a homemade smoothie made with milk or soy milk and frozen berries.

Snacking is actually very beneficial. It helps to refuel your body, maintain blood sugar and energy levels and control your appetite. To control weight, snacks should contain 150 to 200 calories for women and 200 to 250 calories for men.

Preventing Heart Diseases in Women: The Natural Way

by James Pendergraft

t women consider death from heart diseases as second only to breast cancer as the main cause of death. While it cannot be denied that breast cancer is also a top killer in women, it is wrong to think that heart diseases do not affect women that much. This erroneous thinking largely results from belief that heart diseases are more likely to strike men than women. At present, men are by far still the more numerous victims of heart diseases-but women are catching up.

There are many factors that make women equally susceptible to heart diseases:

1) Foremost of this is the consumption preference for fast foods and other processed foods that contain large amounts of oil and fat, which contrib
It is a sad reality that mosute to having heart problems.

2) Another is the growing number of women who smoke and drink-a testament to changes in lifestyle and fashion but very harmful to their health.

3) Moreover, women are less likely to exercise than men, leading women to live sedentary lifestyles. Instead, most women are apt to spend their time between their work and family.

Ways to Prevent Heart Diseases in Women

1) Maintain a healthy diet. A healthy diet for women is one that includes fresh fruits and vegetables, fresh fruit juices, daily intake of milk, lean meat, whole grains, and dairy products. This will provide a woman's body with all the essential nutrients as well as preventing heart diseases.

2) Make sure to have plenty of fiber intakes for the body. Fiber is known for cleansing the body's system from harmful toxins. The best way to obtain fiber is through oats and bran, which contain soluble fibers that the body can easily absorb.

3) Some studies suggest that a moderate intake of alcohol will do the body good. Whatever the merit behind it, experts still suggest that it is still far better to avoid alcohol.

4) Quit smoking. Smoking is one of the leading cause of heart diseases. So if you want to live longer, stop smoking.

5) Exercise regularly. A daily 30-minute exercise can do a lot of benefits for the body. Foremost of these benefits is that it can strengthen the body's immune system while at the same time strengthen the cardiovascular muscles to make them sturdier and enable them to withstand heart diseases.

6) Reduce salt intake. A high level of salt intake can cause an increased blood volume, which may lead to stiffness of the blood vessels and increase the likelihood of hypertension.

Prevention of heart diseases in women largely lies with her lifestyle. It is more a matter of discipline and self-conviction to let go of things and vices that can cause heart diseases. Moreover, a woman needs to change her views on heart diseases and consider herself equally at risk as men. In doing so, the necessary preparations to preventing the disease will be exercised.

Healthy Pregnancy Tips – Tips for New Mom

by Jana Mendez

Pregnant women are more prone to dangers than you can imagine. A little "risk" might mean so much to them. A little danger might be little to other people but for them, it might cost their life and their baby's life. If you are pregnant, you should be careful with your health not because you owe it to yourself but because you owe it to your baby. When you are having a baby for the nth time, then it might not be an issue for you because already know what you should do. But when you are a first timer, then you might find pregnancy as a little tough thing to deal with. And because of this, you might want to consider healthy pregnancy tips that you can incorporate.

For newly moms, they tend to get excited with the idea that they are going to have a baby after nine months. While this might be a good idea, this can also cause some minor effect on your pregnancy (eg. If you are pregnant, you tend to over indulge with some things like overeating just because you like it.). These wrong things should not be practiced as it is bad for your baby and does not do you any good. Below are some tips that you can implement when you are one of those new expectant mother.

Talk to your doctor right away. Do not make the same mistakes of some pregnant women that they don't come to their doctors right away the moment they know that they pregnant. The sooner you can talk with your doctor, the better. Because one you have talked with your doctor you will know some vitamins that you need to take. You can also be sure that you in the right path of your pregnancy. The doctor will also inform you about the baby's condition.

Fortify with Fish Oil. According to some studies, EPA and DHA, the two essential fatty acids that helps in the development of your baby's brain and growth can only be found in omega 3 fish oils. The only way that your baby can get these fatty acids it through you so you might have to ask your doctor if you can include fish oil in your diet.

Be active yet have adequate sleep. Exercise reduces stress and helps you get prepared for your labor day. However, being active should not prohibit you from getting adequate sleep. Eight hours sleep is recommended for pregnant women.

When you are pregnant, you are carrying another life inside you thus you have to do everything in your power to protect the baby and make it your rule to make your baby safe. Healthy pregnancy tips might just be what you need to ensure that you are making your baby safe and sound.

The Best Weight Loss Diet for Women

Finding the best weight loss diet for women involves understanding the unique nutritional needs and lifestyle factors that influence women's health. While there is no one-size-fits-all approach, certain dietary principles and strategies can help women achieve and maintain a healthy weight. Here, we explore the key components of an effective weight loss diet for women, including balanced nutrition, portion control, and sustainable habits.

Understanding Women's Nutritional Needs

Women's nutritional needs vary based on factors such as age, activity level, and hormonal changes. For example, women require more iron than men due to menstruation, and their calcium needs increase with age to support bone health. A weight loss diet for women should address these specific needs while promoting overall health and well-being.

Balanced Nutrition

A balanced diet is essential for weight loss and overall health. It should include a variety of nutrient-dense foods from all food groups:

1. Fruits and Vegetables: These are rich in vitamins, minerals, and fiber, which help keep you full and satisfied. Aim for a colorful variety to ensure you get a range of nutrients.

2. Whole Grains: Whole grains like brown rice, quinoa, and whole wheat bread provide essential nutrients and fiber, which can help regulate blood sugar levels and keep you feeling full longer.

3. Lean Proteins: Protein is crucial for muscle maintenance and repair. Include sources like chicken, fish, beans, and tofu in your diet.

4. Healthy Fats: Healthy fats, such as those found in avocados, nuts, seeds, and olive oil, are important for hormone production and overall health. They also help you feel satiated.

5. Dairy or Dairy Alternatives: These provide calcium and vitamin D, which are important for bone health. Choose low-fat or fat-free options when possible.

Portion Control

Portion control is a key aspect of weight loss. Even healthy foods can contribute to weight gain if consumed in large quantities. Here are some tips for managing portion sizes:

1. Use Smaller Plates: This can help you eat smaller portions without feeling deprived.

2. Measure Your Food: Use measuring cups or a food scale to ensure you're eating appropriate portions.

3. Listen to Your Body: Eat when you're hungry and stop when you're full. Avoid eating out of boredom or stress.

4. Mindful Eating: Pay attention to what you're eating and savor each bite. This can help you enjoy your food more and prevent overeating.

Sustainable Habits

Sustainable weight loss involves making long-term changes to your eating habits and lifestyle. Here are some strategies to help you stay on track:

1. Set Realistic Goals: Aim for a gradual weight loss of 1-2 pounds per week. This is more sustainable and healthier than rapid weight loss.

2. Stay Hydrated: Drinking water can help you feel full and prevent overeating. Aim for at least 8 glasses of water a day.

3. Regular Physical Activity: Exercise is an important component of weight loss and overall health. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week.

4. Get Enough Sleep: Lack of sleep can disrupt hormones that regulate hunger and appetite, leading to weight gain. Aim for 7-9 hours of sleep per night.

5. Seek Support: Having a support system can help you stay motivated and accountable. Consider joining a weight loss group or working with a dietitian or coach.

Popular Weight Loss Diets for Women

Several popular diets have been shown to be effective for weight loss in women. Here are a few examples:

1. Mediterranean Diet: This diet emphasizes whole foods, including fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats. It has been linked to numerous health benefits, including weight loss and improved heart health.

2. Low-Carb Diets: Diets like the ketogenic diet and Atkins diet focus on reducing carbohydrate intake and increasing protein and fat consumption. These diets can be effective for weight loss, but it's important to choose healthy sources of protein and fat.

3. Plant-Based Diets: Diets that emphasize plant-based foods, such as the vegan or vegetarian diet, can be effective for weight loss. These diets are typically high in fiber and low in calories, which can help you feel full and satisfied.

4. Intermittent Fasting: This eating pattern involves alternating periods of eating and fasting. Common methods include the 16/8 method (fasting for 16 hours and eating during an 8-hour window) and the 5:2 method (eating normally for 5 days and restricting calories for 2 days). Intermittent fasting can help reduce calorie intake and promote weight loss.

Customizing Your Diet

It's important to customize your diet to fit your individual needs and preferences. Here are some tips for creating a personalized weight loss plan:

1. Identify Your Goals: Determine your weight loss goals and create a plan that aligns with them. Consider factors such as your current weight, target weight, and any health conditions you may have.

2. Choose Foods You Enjoy: Select healthy foods that you enjoy eating. This will make it easier to stick to your diet and avoid feeling deprived.

3. Plan Your Meals: Plan your meals and snacks in advance to ensure you have healthy options available. This can help you avoid impulsive eating and stay on track with your diet.

4. Monitor Your Progress: Keep track of your food intake, exercise, and weight loss progress. This can help you identify patterns and make adjustments as needed.

The best weight loss diet for women is one that is balanced, sustainable, and tailored to individual needs and preferences. By focusing on nutrient-dense foods, portion control, and healthy habits, women can achieve and maintain a healthy weight. Remember that weight loss is a journey, and it's important to be patient and kind to yourself along the way. With the right approach, you can achieve your weight loss goals and improve your overall health and well-being.

Women Storing Eggs in Fertile Period for Later Pregnancy

by Dr Gautam Allahbadia

Technological advances now allow women to preserve their fertility potential by freezing and storing their eggs. All women share a common dream of becoming a mother. Female fertility begins declining in the late 20's, however conception rates remain high into the 30's. After age 35, the decline accelerates and reaches nearly zero pregnancy potential by the time the woman reaches age 45. In addition, women over 35 have an increased risk of miscarriage and/or genetic abnormalities in their children as a result of age-dependent changes in egg quality. There are two distinct reasons for women to choose to freeze their eggs. The first is for health reasons; in particular, for women who wish to preserve their fertility before undergoing cancer treatment. The second is for personal and social reasons as many women delay childbearing beyond their most fertile years which increases the risk of age-related infertility.

Egg-freezing also known as oocyte cryopreservation is the latest development in the field of Assisted Reproduction Technology (ART). The American Society of Reproductive Medicine removed the "experimental" label from the technique of egg freezing in 2012 and it has since been included in mainstream fertility practice. A woman is born with all the eggs she will ever have. In fact, the strength of her oocyte reserve is finalised when she is in her mother's womb. This number promptly becomes half by the time of birth. The eggs lie dormant till hormonal activity starts at puberty. Each month, a bunch of eggs start their journey towards ovulation.

Only the best are selected and the rest are discarded naturally. By the age of 37, there is a sharp decline in the egg reserve and the number steeply declines till the age of 40-plus, when there are but few good ones left. At this point when women have not considered pregnancy, it becomes necessary to preserve her fertility so that she can get pregnant when she wants in the future. Oocyte cryopreservation is considered as an important component of human assisted reproductive technology.

his technique gives women an opportunity to slow down their biological clock by freezing their eggs till they are ready for conception. When they decide to get pregnant, the eggs are thawed, fertilised in-vitro and transferred back into the uterus. Busy pursuing educational and career goals, most women these days delay marriage and pregnancy. There are many women who cannot contemplate marriage in the near future as they are still looking for the right partner or have many compulsions like working their way through their careers. Freezing eggs is a woman's biological insurance against ageing. However, many women are complacent and believe that egg-freezing can be done at any age. They wait till they turn 40, but by that time, it is too late! Eggs are best frozen between the ages of 25 and 37. Women who can afford this option should not waste time. Freezing eggs at an early age may ensure a chance for a future pregnancy. Reproductive specialists can help women figure out which category they are in, which is an important factor to consider when thinking about freezing eggs. In addition, women over 35 have an increased risk of miscarriage and/or genetic abnormalities in their children as a result of age-dependent changes in egg quality.

Am I a candidate for Egg Freezing?

If you are between the ages of 25 and 35, not in a stable relationship and you wish to increase your chances of conception with your own eggs in the future, Egg Banking is a suitable option for you. This is also a good option for young women diagnosed with cancer, women with a family history of early menopause and those with chronic diseases where the medication may have a detrimental effect on oocyte function. Even women who want or need to delay childbearing in order to pursue educational, career or other personal goals can also opt for egg banking.

Like all new fertility techniques, egg freezing brings not only new options but also tough decisions that previous generations of women never had to face. If you do freeze your eggs, don't be lulled into a false sense of security. You and your partner should still try for pregnancy as soon as you are ready. Freezing eggs for one's own future use has become a growing trend.

The process and procedure of egg freezing and storage

The patient is initially tested for HIV and Hepatitis B and C. Women who wish to freeze and store eggs are given a course of fertility drugs to stimulate the ovaries to produce a large number of eggs. When the eggs are mature they are retrieved and frozen €" either by cooling down slowly or by vitrification i.e. fast freezing. Recent studies have shown that egg-freezing by vitrification method increases conception rates. That's because the chances of the eggs surviving the freeze-thaw process is comparatively higher. Eggs are frozen at a temperature of -196 degrees C in liquid nitrogen and liquid cryoprotectant to ensure long-term storage. During this period, the woman can decide if she wants to use the eggs herself or donate them to help another woman get pregnant.

In oocyte cryopreservation, the eggs are harvested by a process similar to the natural cycle. The patient will be made to grow more eggs, with the help of hormonal injections, which are patient-friendly and can, in most cases, be self-administered. The eggs are later retrieved by a 10-minute procedure under short anaesthesia. The patient can resume normal life within a day. The eggs are cryopreserved using advanced vitrification process, which causes minimal damage to the eggs they can be maintained for many years.

How long can you store your eggs in cryo bank?

Theoretically, eggs or embryos may be frozen indefinitely, as no biological activity takes place during cryopreservation. In medical literature, the longest reported time for an embryo to be frozen, thawed and result in a viable healthy delivery is twelve years. Freezing and thawing protocols continue to improve, making it possible that eggs / embryos frozen more recently may have even better outcomes. Based on this scientific evidence, it can be said that 15 -20 years of storage does not result in any decrease in quality of eggs.

How do you use frozen eggs to achieve pregnancy?

Once you are ready to start a family with your partner/husband, you will be prepared for a recipient cycle with medications to prepare your uterine lining. Your eggs will be thawed and fertilized using the ICSI (Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection) technique with partner/husband's sperm. The embryo transfer will then be planned after 2 or 3 days.

What can go wrong during this entire process?

Sometimes things don't go as planned. There is a small possibility that during egg retrieval no eggs are collected or the collected eggs are not mature and hence not suitable for freezing. It may also happen that none of the frozen eggs survive the thawing process, or they may not get fertilized in spite of successful thawing.

Is egg freezing safe?

To date, approximately 2,000 babies have been born from frozen eggs. The largest published study of 900 babies from frozen eggs showed no increased rate of birth defects when compared to the general population. Additionally, results from one study showed no increased rates of chromosomal defects between embryos derived from frozen eggs compared to embryos derived from fresh eggs.

Most insurance companies don't cover the cost of egg freezing, not even for medical reasons when a young woman's fertility is jeopardized by cancer. So the decision by Facebook and Apple to foot the bill is a significant benefit for women who want to freeze their eggs.

Dr. Gautam Allahbadia is a renowned IVF, Fertility and Infertility Specialist in Mumbai, India and runs the clinic Rotunda - The Center For Human Reproduction. Dr. Gautam says infertility can be one of the most stressful situations you may encounter, emotionally, physically and sometimes financially.

The estrogen connection to ADHD

The relationship between estrogen and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a fascinating and complex topic that has garnered increasing attention from researchers and clinicians alike. This intricate connection challenges our understanding of both conditions and offers new insights into the role of hormones in cognitive function and behavior. Here, we delve into the estrogen connection to ADHD, exploring its impact on symptoms, treatment, and overall understanding of the disorder.

Understanding ADHD

ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by persistent inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. It affects millions of individuals worldwide, with symptoms often appearing in childhood and continuing into adulthood. While traditionally viewed as a condition primarily affecting boys, recent research has highlighted its prevalence and unique manifestations in girls and women.

The Role of Estrogen

Estrogen, often referred to as the "female hormone," plays a crucial role in various bodily functions, including brain development and cognitive processes. Produced primarily in the ovaries, estrogen's influence extends far beyond reproductive functions, impacting neurotransmitter systems and brain function.

Estrogen and Neurotransmitters

One of the most notable ways estrogen affects the brain is through its influence on neurotransmitters. These chemical messengers are responsible for transmitting signals between neurons, and their balance is crucial for optimal brain function. Estrogen has been shown to modulate the production, release, and reuptake of several key neurotransmitters, including dopamine, serotonin, and norepinephrine—all of which are implicated in ADHD.

Estrogen and Cognitive Function

Research has demonstrated that estrogen can enhance various aspects of cognition, including memory, attention, and executive functions. These cognitive domains are often impaired in individuals with ADHD, suggesting a potential link between estrogen levels and ADHD symptoms. The estrogen-dopamine ADHD hypothesis proposes that fluctuations in estrogen levels throughout a woman's life may influence ADHD symptom severity by modulating dopamine function.

Hormonal Fluctuations and ADHD Symptoms

For many women and girls affected by ADHD, the severity of symptoms fluctuates throughout the month, closely tied to their hormonal cycles. Changes in estrogen levels at puberty, during the menstrual cycle, and at menopause can dramatically impact ADHD symptoms and overall functioning. For example, some women report that their ADHD symptoms worsen during the premenstrual period, a condition known as premenstrual magnification.

Estrogen and Dopamine

Dopamine plays a vital role in regulating attention, motivation, and reward-seeking behaviors. In individuals with ADHD, dopamine signaling is often disrupted, leading to difficulties in sustaining attention, controlling impulses, and managing hyperactivity. Estrogen's ability to modulate dopamine production and regulation is particularly significant in the context of ADHD. Studies have shown that estrogen can enhance dopamine synthesis, increase the number of dopamine receptors, and improve dopamine signaling efficiency.

Gender Differences in ADHD

The interplay between estrogen and ADHD may help explain why there are notable gender differences in ADHD prevalence and presentation. While boys are more likely to be diagnosed with ADHD in childhood, girls often go undiagnosed until later in life. This discrepancy may be due, in part, to the influence of estrogen on ADHD symptoms and the different ways the disorder manifests in males and females.

Treatment Implications

Understanding the estrogen connection to ADHD has important implications for treatment. Hormonal fluctuations can affect the efficacy of ADHD medications, and some women may benefit from hormone therapy in addition to traditional ADHD treatments. Clinicians must consider the impact of hormonal changes on ADHD symptoms and tailor treatment plans accordingly.

Future Research Directions

The relationship between estrogen and ADHD is a burgeoning field of study, with many questions still unanswered. Future research should focus on understanding the mechanisms by which estrogen influences ADHD symptoms, exploring the potential for hormone-based treatments, and examining the long-term effects of hormonal fluctuations on ADHD.

The estrogen connection to ADHD offers a new perspective on this complex neurodevelopmental disorder. By exploring the intricate relationship between hormones and brain function, researchers and clinicians can gain a deeper understanding of ADHD and develop more effective treatments. As our knowledge of the estrogen-ADHD connection continues to evolve, it holds the promise of improving the lives of individuals affected by this condition.

In summary, estrogen plays a significant role in modulating neurotransmitter systems and cognitive function, both of which are crucial in the context of ADHD. Hormonal fluctuations throughout a woman's life can impact the severity of ADHD symptoms, highlighting the need for tailored treatment approaches. As research in this area progresses, it will undoubtedly shed light on the complex interplay between hormones and ADHD, offering new avenues for understanding and managing this disorder.