Female Health

Question 1

Candidiasis (thrush)

3 x

Answer 1

OTC antibiotics can exacerbate the problem.

1. Add probiotics to restore healthy balance of bacteria in the GI.
2. Oregon Grape has natural antibiotic and anti fungal properties.
3. Increase fibre to help speed elimination of candida from the body.

Question 2

Cystitis (urine infection in the bladder)

2 x

Answer 2

1. Cranberry extracts help prevent bacteria from attaching to the urinary tract.
2. Hibiscus has potent antioxidants with additional antibacterial properties that provide support for a healthy urinary tract.

Question 3

Endometriosis (disease in which tissue that normally grows inside the uterus grows outside the uterus)
4 x

Answer 3

1. Eat less fat, meat and dairy foods.
2. Increase fruit, veg and fibre intake.
3. B vitamins help regulate hormones by supporting a healthy liver.
4. Antioxidant vitamins including carotenoids and Vitamin C can be helpful.

Question 4

Fibroids (non-cancerous growths in the womb (uterus)

2 x

Answer 4

1. Milk thistle and B complex vitamins support hepatic detoxification.
2. Other useful supplements include golden flaxseed oil, antioxidants and zinc.

Question 5

Which food based supplement can help relieve the symptoms of PMS?
1 x

Answer 5

Saffron

Question 6

Which vitamin has been shown to help normalise period frequency and rates of conception?
1 x

Answer 6

Vitamin B6

Question 7

Why might iron be helpful for improving fertility?

1 x

Answer 7

It is required for healthy cells and improves oxygenation of tissues.

Question 8

Infertility (failure to achieve pregnancy after 12 months of unprotected sex)
7 x

Answer 8

1. Folic acid is required for DNA and RNA production (ideally use a B complex)
2. B6 can normalise period frequency and rates of conception.
3. Zinc is necessary for the body to attract and hold oestrogen and progesterone.
4. Selenium is crucial for antioxidant defence and preventing chromosome breakage.
5. Vitamin E and C have been shown to reduce age-related ovulation decline.
6. Vitamin C is involved in collagen synthesis, hormone production and its ability to protect cells from free radicals.
7. Good stores of Vitamin A around the time of conception are crucial for the developing embryo.

Question 9

Menopause - nervous disorders, nervous exhaustion

1 x

Answer 9

A common side effect is an elevation of LDL cholesterol as oestrogen levels fall. Oats contain beta glucan which binds to LDL cholesterol carrying it out of the body via the bowel.

Question 10

Menopause - hot flushes, night sweats, palpitations, nervous tension, joint pain and headaches
1 x

Answer 10

Dong Quai has plant based oestrogen’s.

Question 11

Menopause - declining oestrogen levels

1 x

Answer 11

Fennel contains significant levels of phytoestrogens which can bind to oestrogen receptors, reducing symptoms of declining oestrogen levels

Question 12

Menopause - sluggish detoxification

1 x

Answer 12

Milk Thistle helps detoxification of unwanted and used up hormones/toxins through the liver and out of the body.

Question 13

Menopause - general symptoms

1 x

Answer 13

Red clover contains high levels of isoflavones which have weak oestrogen like properties which may help alleviate menopausal symptoms.

Question 14

Menopause - hot flushes and excessive perspiration

1 x

Answer 14

Sage

Question 15

Menopause - menstrual cramps and regulation of uterine function
1 x

Answer 15

Shatavari (female adaptogen)

Question 16

Menopause - anxiety, lack of menstruation

1 x

Answer 16

Motherwort has a sedative quality

Question 17

Menopause - hot flushes, vaginal dryness, palpitations, joint and muscle pain.
1 x

Answer 17

Vitamin E (pumpkin seed oil is a good source).
Many nutritionists utilise 800iu/day in treatment programmes

Question 18

Menopause - energy, detoxification, stress tolerance

1 x

Answer 18

B complex also exercises a supportive action to the adrenal system.

Question 19

Menopause - dry lifeless skin and hair, fatigue, depression and breast pain.
2 x

Answer 19

EFA’s deficiency is often equally a common reason for these symptoms especially if a women has been following multiple low fat diets.
Golden Flax Seed Oil and Hemp Oil

Question 20

Why may vegetarians and vegans be sensitive to the use of HRT?
1 x

Answer 20

HRT can be derived from mare’s (horse’s) urine!

Question 21

Which herb may help the body adapt and adjust to menopausal changes?
1 x

Answer 21

Rhodiola

Question 22

Osteoporosis

4 x

Answer 22

1. Calcium and Magnesium are essential to proper bone maintenance.
2. Boron has been shown to raise post menopausal levels of oestrogen and also to aid calcium retention and absorption.
3. Vitamin K2 activates the bone building process - osteocalcin.
4. Vitamin D maintains normal blood levels of calcium and phosphorus. Aids in the absorption of calcium helping to form and maintain strong bones.

Question 23

Polycystic Ovaries (PCOS)
6 x

Answer 23

1. EFAs help weight loss, help reduce BP and help with skin problems.
2. Echinacea boosts the overall immune system (acne)
3. Antioxidants help fight free radical damage, boost healing, aid tissue growth and repair, improve circulation and support the adrenal system.
4. B complex vitamins support adrenal system and reduce anxiety.
5. Zinc essential for the health of the reproductive system and healthy skin.
6. Milk Thistle is a major detoxifier of the liver (major ctr of female hormones) and aids repair and new growth of liver cells.

Question 24

Pregnancy

2 x

Answer 24

1. Folic acid

2. DHA

Question 25

Why would you suggest that animal fats and sugar would be detrimental in female hormonal issues?

Answer 25

Calorie dense foods resulting in obesity can disrupt hormones.