Women’s Health Month

By White Pine Wealth Management

Prioritize Your Well-being

May is Women’s Health Month, a perfect opportunity for you and your female loved ones to reflect on health and the steps necessary to maintain a high quality of life. Women often face different challenges in being diagnosed with diseases compared to men. A prominent example is heart attacks, one of the leading causes of death in the U.S. Unlike men, who typically experience severe chest pain or discomfort, women may exhibit atypical symptoms such as jaw pain, shortness of breath, nausea, fatigue, dizziness, or indigestion. These subtle symptoms can be easily dismissed or misdiagnosed by healthcare providers.

Given the differing risks for diseases, it is crucial for women to keep up with preventative care appointments and advocate for their health when something feels off. Below are four key considerations for women’s health:

Eat a Balanced Diet

Eating a healthy, well-balanced diet is vital for everyone, but especially for women, as their nutrition and reproductive health are closely linked. Essential vitamins and minerals like vitamin D, vitamin B, magnesium, and zinc are crucial for healthy hormone function. Consuming these nutrients through a diet rich in leafy greens, fruits, whole grains, and proteins can help maintain proper thyroid function and regulate estrogen and progesterone levels. Well-regulated hormones contribute to overall mood, bone and cartilage density, and reproductive health.

Stay Active

The American Heart Association recommends that adults get a least 150 minutes per week of moderate-intensity aerobic activity, 75 minutes per week of vigorous aerobic activity, or a combination of both throughout the week. Additionally, the organization recommends that adults spend less time sitting throughout the day. With warmer days ahead, it’s time to go outside and get active! Dust off that old walking pad that you bought during COVID, take a dip in the pool, or go on a “#hot girl walk” (an outdoor walk trend that encourages women to focus on mindfulness and affirmations) with your friend. Whatever mode of exercise you choose, try to participate for at least 30 minutes a day, five times a week.

Have Regular Checkups

Regular checkups are key to reducing the risk of disease. Prevntive  care can make a significant difference in detecting abnormalities early. Women should have regular screenings to prevent cancers such as cervical and breast cancer. Women aged 40-54 should have annual mammograms to screen for breast cancer, while those 55 and older can opt for biennial exams. For cervical cancer, women aged 21-30 should have a pap smear every three years, and those aged 30-65 should have one every five years. Encouraging regular testing can save lives.

Manage Your Mental Health

Since the pandemic, many Americans have reported increased stress levels. Chronic stress can lead to serious health issues like high blood pressure, heart disease, and type 2 diabetes. Women often experience high levels of stress while juggling responsibilities such as work, motherhood, being a spouse, and managing the household. While it may be impossible to abandon these tasks, there are ways to prioritize mental health and well-being. Listening to “The Power of Self Care” episode of the Keeping the Well in Well-thy podcast, featuring wellness industry leader Catherine Canadeo, can provide valuable insights on managing stress and anxiety.

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Final Thoughts

We hope these suggestions are useful for you and your female loved ones during Women’s Health Month. At our practice, we are committed to seeing our clients in good health both physically and financially. By prioritizing a balanced diet, staying active, having regular checkups, and managing mental health, women can take significant steps towards maintaining their overall well-being. Remember, your health is your wealth, and we are here to support you in achieving both.