Digestion
Changing how we treat our bodies is part of making sure we have sustainable lives. Getting your gut health in order is important and helps decrease inflammation within the body. There are trillions of microorganisms in our bodies which help digest and help us absorb our food in addition to strengthening our immune systems. One way to help protect the “good” bacteria in our bodies is to use probiotics which can fortify our natural gut flora. When there is imbalance within our gut, it has been shown to contribute to heart disease, allergies and asthma, skin disorders, obesity, irritable bowel syndrome, digestive problems and much more. Using daily probiotics help prevent inflammation and minimize the effects of disease on the body.
Prevention
Preventive health is the best way to help us stay healthy, and help women take control of their own health. Every year there are screening tests that help prevent diseases such as cancers, diabetes and help enhance wellness. Using preventive services like mammograms, smoking cessation services and annual well-woman visits are helpful in taking strides in improving your health.
The ultimate goal in improving your health is becoming a little selfish to focus on taking time for yourself to get the whole body in tune and centered.
Dr. Jessica Shepherd is a women’s health expert and also the founder of Her Viewpoint, an online women’s health forum that focuses on addressing taboo topics in a comfortable setting. As an OB/GYN, she practices at the University of Illinois at Chicago and also serves as the Director of Minimally Invasive Gynecology. She treats women for obstetrics, pelvic health as well as pelvic and sexual dysfunction. Dr. Shepherd has written in various journals including Women’s Day, Women’s Health, Family Circle, Parents, LifeScript.com, Heart and Soul, Best Health and Essence. Follow her on Twitter @JShepherd_MD.