Birch Tree Naturopathic

https://www.nytimes.com/2023/02/01/magazine/menopause-hot-flashes-hormone-therapy.html?searchResultPosition=4
Posting this article again to keep it at the forefront. Menopausal women - there are many treatments available, suffering is not inevitable or necessary!

Women Have Been Misled About Menopause Hot flashes, sleeplessness, pain during s*x: For some of menopause’s worst symptoms, there’s an established treatment. Why aren’t more women offered it?

Magnesium! Many of us are chronically low in magnesium, a critical nutrient that is used everywhere in the body.
Magesium deficiency can lead to fatigue, insomnia, headaches, muscle cramps, vitamin D deficiency and osteoporosis.
Magnesium is found in nuts and seeds, legumes, avocados, whole grains, leafy greens, and, most importantly, chocolate! Many Americans don’t eat enough of these foods and so supplementation can be important. Taken before bed Magnesium can help enormously with sleep and relaxation. Magnesium in a couple of different forms is available in my Fullscript store!

Vitamin B12 is a critical nutrient and also is one of the most common vitamin deficiencies.

    •    B12 is crucial for the formation of healthy red blood cells
    •    It is important for good nerve function and brain health
    •    It is used in the formation of DNA and so is vitally important for cellular replication

Deficiencies happen because Vitamin B12 is difficult to absorb, and some people don’t get it in their diets.
    •    Meat and animal proteins are sources of B12,
    •    Vegans are more at risk for B12 so must supplement
    •    Vegetarians also often need to supplement

Some people just can’t absorb B12 properly, and develop a condition called Pernicious Anemia where the red blood cells get too big and become inefficient.

B12 shots can correct deficiencies and also help with overall energy and wellness! Dr. Pratt offers B12 shots in the office. Schedule an appointment at www.kathleenprattnd.com if you think you might benefit from an injection.

Vitamin D, the sunshine vitamin!

Lots of attention has been paid to vitamin D lately, and for good reason. It is the “sunshine vitamin” because the best source of vitamin D is sun on the skin. Vitamin D is critical to our health, yet many people are deficient.

• Vitamin D helps us absorb calcium and creates strong bones
• It is critical for immune function.
• May reduce the risk of diabetes and cardiovascular disease
• Helps with mood and wellbeing

Vitamin D deficiencies are associated with:
• osteoporosis
• susceptibility to COVID
• frequent illnesses/infections
• depression, especially seasonal affective disorder
• impaired wound healing

Since many of us can’t get enough sun in Washington State for most of the year, supplementation is important! See my fullscript store for some excellent options.