Nowadays, our digital devices provide us with countless entertainment and social platforms at the touch of a button. It is very easy to become addicted. To some extent, we are all aware of the excessive time spent using these devices, but using these digital devices can cost you a lot more than just your time. As you use your devices more and more, they can also prevent you from achieving your goals, whilst slowly eating away your health. Here are some reasons why excessively using your digital devices is harming both your physical and mental health:
1. It steals time and opportunity
How many times have you launched an app to just watch a clip, but end up hours later having watched many clips? When you spend a lot of time engaging in meaningless internet browsing, you’ve wasted time that you could’ve put towards achieving something.
2. You develop bad habits
Each time you struggle to put down your device eats away at your self-discipline. You might start drowning yourself in negative thoughts like “I can’t live without my mobile”, “I cannot quit” and/or “I am not able to control myself”.
3. You give up more easily.
Your passions and interests take a backseat because you are not prioritising your time well. In reality, you’ve just become lazy and justify it with “I am busy with my mobile/PC”.
4. Your social skills decline
Only socialising via digital devices causes one to gradually lose interest in meeting people/friends in person. Over time, you’ll start to notice important habits, such as maintaining proper eye contact, take a dive and affect your social interactions.
5. You’ll lose sleep
Your priorities have shifted, and you’ll sacrifice a healthy night’s sleep in order to play or browse more.
6. It may lead to chronic pain
Without even noticing it, you may be maintaining a particular posture or position for a long time as your use your device. This creates many body aches, which, if not corrected over time, can develop into chronic pain.
7. You may lose touch with reality
Immersing yourself in the internet world for too long can cause you to lose the feeling of reality.
8. You’re at risk for severe medical issues
Your sedentary lifestyle leads to bad metabolism and weight gain. There have been many cases where people die in internet cafés due to playing online games for days without moving.
9. It can cause numbness and negative emotions
Dopamine is well known as the ‘happy hormone’ that the body produces when you have enough sleep, an appropriate amount of exercise and you’re achieving your goals. Using digital devices for too long can increase the risk of imbalanced dopamine release. Over time, a lack of dopamine can result in feelings of numbness, pessimism and boredom with life.
How we use digital entertainment in our everyday life is a serious matter. In order to live a meaningful and creative life, let’s use our devices in a way to enrich, instead of harm, our lives.
Is maternal caffeine intake associated with neonatal anthropometry?
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Findings
In this cohort study of 2055 women from 12 clinical sites, measures of caffeine consumption (plasma caffeine and paraxanthine and self-reported consumption) were associated with neonatal size at birth.
Increasing caffeine measures were significantly associated with lower birth weight, shorter length, and smaller head, arm, and thigh circumference.
A study has found that caffeine consumption during pregnancy, even in amounts less than the recommended 200 mg per day, is linked to smaller neonatal anthropometric measurements.
The longitudinal cohort study in JAMA Network Open concluded that compared to women who drank no, or very little caffeine, women who drank the most caffeine (a plasma caffeine level of ≤ 28 ng/mL) had neonates who weighed 84 g less, were 0.44 cm shorter in length, a 0.28 cm smaller head circumference, a 0.25 cm smaller arm circumference, and a 0.29 cm smaller thigh circumference.
“Most of the research on caffeine and neonatal size at birth focuses on birthweight and length, while relying on self-reported measures of caffeine consumption.,” said senior author Katherine Grantz, MD, an investigator in the Epidemiology Branch, Division of Intramural Population Health Research, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD), National Institutes of Health, in Bethesda, Maryland.
The current study analyzed data from the NICHD Fetal Growth Studies–Singletons, which enrolled 2,055 nonsmoking women at low risk for fetal growth abnormalities with complete information on caffeine consumption from 12 U.S. clinical sites between 2009 and 2013.
“In the NICHD Fetal Growth Studies, we have rich data on multiple measures of neonatal anthropometry to more specifically characterize neonatal size, as well as objective measures of plasma concentrations of caffeine and its primary metabolite, paraxanthine,” Grantz told Contemporary OB/GYN.
The two main sources of caffeine were coffee and soda, which accounted for 35% and 41% of caffeine intake, respectively.
Caffeine was evaluated by both plasma concentrations of caffeine and paraxanthine and self-reported caffeinated beverage consumption measured/reported at 10 to 13 weeks gestation.
Caffeine metabolism was defined as fast or slow, based on genotype information from the single nucleotide variant rs762551.
“Prior caffeine studies have observed lower birthweight after consumption of higher amounts of caffeine — usually 200 to 300 mg, or 2 to 3 cups of coffee, daily,” said Grantz, who served as a co-principal investigator of the NICHD Fetal Growth Studies.
Before starting their analyses, the current authors knew that the average consumption in the sample was much lower, about 35 mg/day, and only 16 women reported drinking more than 200 mg/day.
Because of this low consumption, we were uncertain we would see any significant results, so it was surprising that we still found that increasing caffeine consumption, even at low levels, was associated with some smaller anthropometric measures in the offspring,” Grantz said. “Also, the finding that the decreases in birthweight were manifested by decreases in bone and muscle measures, but not skin folds and fat mass, were unexpected. These findings may indicate decreases in lean tissue as caffeine consumption increases.”
The clinical implications of the study are unknown, considering there were only small reductions in some neonatal anthropometric measures, Grantz said. “Other evidence suggests that even small amounts of caffeine intake during pregnancy (50 mg/day) could be associated with a higher risk of excess growth in infancy and childhood that could put children at higher risk of later cardiometabolic disease,” she said.
“Therefore, our results could indicate some disruption in normal fetal growth patterns, but will require more research to confirm.”
Although the study authors are unable to make recommendations based on the results of their single study, “we encourage pregnant women to talk to their providers about caffeine consumption, and suggest that caution may be warranted,” Grantz said.
The next step for the investigators is to evaluate the serial ultrasounds and fetal volumes conducted throughout pregnancy by the NICHD Fetal Growth Studies to determine when changes begin in fetal growth in relation to caffeine measures, and how these changes may be manifested in fetal volumes.
Disclosure
Grantz reports no relevant financial disclosures.
Reference
Gleason JL, Tekola-Ayele F, Sundaram R, et al. Association between maternal caffeine consumption and metabolism and neonatal anthropometry: a secondary analysis of the NICHD Fetal Growth Studies–Singletons. JAMA Network Open. Published online March 25, 2021. doi:10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2021.3238
broccoli is the star but eating plenty of green vegetables of the cruciferous family help the liver metabolise oestrogen.
Other cruciferous vegetables include: Bok-Choy, Brussels sprouts, Cabbage, Cauliflower, Chinese cabbage, Daikon radish, Horseradish, Kale, Radish, Turnip and Watercress.
Eat high fibre foods to help oestrogen bind in the bowel and assist elimination.
One source suggests that eating 1/2 cup of raw grated carrots can be enough fibre to assist in elimination
Decrease alcohol consumption
Assist the liver by drinking St Mary’s Thistle and Dandelion tea
Avoid soy
Eat a no sugar and no gluten diet
sugar and gluten are both highly inflammatory in susceptible people so should be avoided when possible
Be mindful of too many vitamins, supplements, medications and even caffeine that all need to be processed by the liver, where possible space them out through the day.
Chinese herbal medicine
Some Chinese herbal medicine /formula may help assist in balance your hormone. You may contact us for details.
Natural Ways to Increase Progesterone
Reduce stress
google progesterone steal if you are more interested in how stress affects progesterone levels
Supplements:
750 mg vitamin C per day (increased progesterone 77% and improved fertility)
600 mg vitamin E (increased progesterone in 67% of patients)
6 g L-arginine (increased progesterone in 71% of patients)
Increasing beta carotene in your diet, as found in:
Apricots, Asparagus, Broccoli, Carrots, Chinese cabbage, Chives, Dandelion leaves, Grapefruit, Herbs and spices – chilli powder, oregano, paprika, parsley, Kale, Onions, Peas, Peppers, Plums, Pumpkin, Spinach, Squash, Sweet potatoes. So again, get onto those carrots!
Supplementing with
Vitex Agnus Castus 1000mg daily
Black Cohosh or as we call it in Chinese Medicine ‘Sheng ma’ on days 1 to 12 (increases progesterone and fertility).
Weight loss
Improving insulin sensitivity (for example metformin increases progesterone levels 246%, chromium supplementation can help in regulating blood sugar in combination with a low sugar and low carbohydrate diet)
Replacing saturated fat in the diet with unsaturated fat
Eating a high protein, low carbohydrate diet
Lowering TSH levels in subclinical hypothyroidism
Chinese herbal medicine
Some Chinese herbal medicine /formula may help assist in balance your hormone. Contact us for details.
In order to ensure that you remain safe while visiting our clinics, we’ve implemented the appropriate measures in our clinics.
Here is our updated Infection Control and Prevention Protocol.
We’ve committed to make sure that you are safe.
Infection control and prevention protocol
All our staffs will:
Self check temperature on arrival of clinic;
Wear mask and gloves at all time;
Wash hands thoroughly after servicing each patient.
All patients:
Screen when making appointment
We will make sure that you are not returned from overseas in the last 14 days, or are suffering from cold or flu symptoms or been in contact with someone who has COVID-19 symptoms.
We will reschedule patients who are currently unwell or have been in contact with someone who has the virus.
Telehealth phone or video consultation is open if you are unable to attend our clinics. Chinese herbal medicine can be dropped in your car while you are waiting. We can also post herbs to your address as your choice.
Screen on arrival of clinic
Check your temperature;
You will be offered a mask to wear;
Hand sanitiser station for anyone attending the clinic. It is important that you wash hands thoroughly during your visit.
Clean – hourly cleaning of all public areas including:
Reception desk/herbal room:
Computer keyboard/mouse/hicaps/ftpos machine, and herbal room desk tables
Waiting room:
Mop floor at least 2 times per day
Toilet – spay wipe with disinfectant every one hour and after each usage
Clinic door handles, waiting room chairs – spray clean after each patient’s visit
Treatment/consultation Room:
Single used disposable cover sheets are used in all treatment;
Chairs/ desk/ treatment bed/table: spray clean with disinfectant after each visit;
Towel: all cover towels are washed and put in the cabinet – not left on treatment tables;
Gowns: wash after each visit and put inside the cabinet;
Face hole cover /paper cover: single sued disposable cover sheet. Change and spray clean the face hole after each patient;
Suction cups: wash and spray wipe with alcohol sanitiser after each using
Social distance
Ensure adequate social distancing by:
Spacing out chairs in waiting room and
Staggering appointment times. Allow adequate time for cleaning as well as appropriate social distancing.
Iron plays a crucial role in fetal development. It supporting blood, brain, and bone formation, as well as overall growth. It’s also vital for a healthy immune system and fertility. Low iron levels can lead to anovulation, hindering fertility. In a Harvard University study of 18,500 women, those supplementing iron were 40% less likely to have fertility problems.
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During pregnancy, iron requirements increase due to greater blood volume. It’s essential to boost iron intake in the 2nd and 3rd trimesters as the fetus relies on maternal iron stores. Deficiency raises the risk of anemia, preterm delivery, and low birth weight.
Women with low iron are advised to supplement 10-20mcg daily. Liquid supplements are gentler on the stomach. Organic iron supplements are preferable as they’re better absorbed. Vitamin C aids iron absorption.
Natural sources of iron
Natural sources include green leafy vegetables, dried beans, black strap molasses, lean meat (organic/chemical free), dried apricots, almonds, egg yolk, seaweed, wheat germ, parsley, pumpkin, sesame and sunflower seeds.
Folic acid (B9) and B vitamins
Folic acid (B9) and B vitamins are essential for DNA formation, crucial for preconception and early pregnancy. Supplementation is recommended, especially for women on birth control pills. Deficiency can lead to infertility and birth defects.
Natural sources of B9
Natural sources include dark green leafy vegetables, i.e., uncooked spinach, kale, beet greens; asparagus, broccoli, corn, lima beans, parsnip, mung beans, soy beans; wheat germ; oranges, pineapple, banana. It’s best to consume these foods fresh and raw to preserve B9, as it’s heat-sensitive.
Vitamin D – The sunshine vitamin
Vitamin D, known as the sunshine vitamin, is crucial for fertility. Testing vitamin D levels is recommended, as deficiency is common, affecting 23-49% of Australians. Supplements are advised for levels under 50.
Omega 3 fatty acids
Omega-3 fatty acids are essential for hormonal balance, ovulation, and fetal development, supporting both fertility and healthy pregnancies. In a study, couples receiving 1000mg of omega-3 had a fertilization rate of 76.5%, significantly higher than the 50.4% rate in those without omega-3.
During pregnancy, a deficiency in DHA, a type of omega-3, may lead to various complications, including premature birth, low birth weight, chromosomal defects, spontaneous abortion, hyperactivity, and childhood asthma. We recommend 500-1000mg of DHA daily to support a healthy pregnancy.
Natural Sources of Opmega 3
Natural Sources include deep sea ocean/cold water fish (ie. salmon, cod, herring, trout), mono-unsaturated cold-pressed oils (flaxseed especially, walnuts, hemp and chia seeds.
Vitamin E
Vitamin E supports conception, regulates estrogen levels, and aids circulation. Deficiency can lead to complications like spontaneous abortion.
Natural Sources
Sources include sunflower seeds, almonds, organic cold-pressed wheat germ oil, cold-pressed vegetable, seed and nut oils. Best not heated or cooked, i.e., use in salad dressing.
Protein/Amino Acids
Vital for the number and quality of the ovum (eggs) produced the fertilisation process, and the early development of the embryo.
Natural sources
include deep sea fish, tofu, legumes ie. lentils, soy beans, kidney beans, eggs (free range), lean organic chemical-free meat and poultry, nuts and seeds, sprouted grains.
Calcium
Calcium is essential for fetal bone development, nerve function, and muscle tone. Deficiency can lead to complications like hypertension and bone loss.
Natural Sources
Natural sources include leafy greens, nuts, and seeds.
Dairy foods are another source of calcium; however, since they are not as easily absorbed, it is best to vary your sources of calcium as widely as possible.
Royal jelly
Royal jelly is rich in amino acids, vitamins, and minerals, beneficial for hormone balance and reproductive health. Some evidence exists that royal jelly might also:
Improve egg and sperm health
Increase libido
Reduce inflammation
Support the immune system
Decrease signs of aging
Helps women with irregular cycles
PLEASE DO NOT TAKE IF ASTHMATIC OR ALLERGIES TO BEE’S
Co Q10
CoQ10 supports energy production and cellular health. Supplementation may enhance egg quality and IVF success rates.
Managing PCOS
Chromium and magnesium supplementation, along with a low-GI diet, can help manage PCOS symptoms and improve glycemic control.
“Women seven and men eight” is the Chinese statement on the growth cycle of human being from the “Yellow Emperor’s Canon of Internal Medicine“- The “Bible” of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM).
That is, the number of women’s life cycle is seven and the number of men’s life cycle is eight. Every seven or eight years, women or men’s life change.The 7 year life cycle is so obvious for woman, and her fertility status changes every seven years too.
The physical change of women occurs obviously every seven years; and men’s change occurs every eight years. – “Yellow Emperor’s Canon of Internal Medicine”
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7 year old:
A moman’s kidney energy growing strong, teeth change and hair grows longer and stronger. (the 1st 7 years).
Kidney is a special term in Traditional Chinese Medicine. It not only has the function of controlling the urinary system, but also has a very important role – control the developing, growing, and reproduction. In terms of reproduction, you can think Kidney as a “Small Kidney”- the ovaries or testis.
At the age of 7, a woman’s reproductive system start to develop.
14 year old:
Her menstruation appears as the Ren meridian (the sea of Yin/Essence) flows and the Qi and blood in the Chong meridian (the sea of blood) becomes prosperous, she can have a child. (2nd 7 years)
At the age of 14, her menstruation appears and she is able to have a child. In Traditional Chinese Medicine, the age of menarche is one important factor to help make diagnosis. If menarche is later than 14 year old, often indicate lower fertility energy.
21 year old:
Her kidney energy is balanced, her adult teeth completely developed and her body grows to full height. (3rd 7 years)
A woman’s energy especially fertility energy is full at the age of 21.
28 years old:
Her bones and muscles are strong, her hair grow to full length, her body is at optimal condition. (4th 7 years)
From the age 21 to 28, a women’s fertility energy reach the peak. This is the best time in her life to have children.
35 year old:
Her peak condition declines gradually. Her energy in Yangming meridian declines. Her face starts wither and her hair starts to fall. (5th 7 years)
From 35 year old, she start to have wrinkles on the face, and her general energy and fertility start to decline. She still able to have children.
42 year old:
Sanyang energy declines. Her face wanes and she starts to have white hair. (6th 7 years)
From the age of 42, her physical energy and fertility energy declines and difficult to conceive.
49 year old:
The Ren meridian (Conception Vessel) and Chong meridian vital energy declines, her menstruation dried up, her physique turns old and feeble; She is no longer to conceive. (7th 7 years)
From the 7-year-life cycle, we can see that the good age for a woman to have children is from 21 to 35. And the best age is around 28 year old.
The 7-year life cycle provides a framework for understanding the various phases and developmental milestones in a woman’s life. Each stage presents unique challenges, opportunities, and transitions. By recognising and embracing the changes that accompany each phase, women can navigate their life journeys with self-awareness, resilience, and a focus on their overall well-being.
Additionally, by understanding the women’s 7-year life cycle and following the guidelines for women’s health and natural fertility treatment, women can make informed decisions, maintain their overall health, and address specific needs related to fertility at each stage.
Question
Iron
