Marla Ahlgrimm on Seasonal Changes That Affect Hormones

Fall is almost here, and that means a major shift in temperatures, daylight hours, and, surprisingly, our hormone balance. According to Marla Ahlgrimm, the changing of the seasons can have a profound impact on a woman's hormonal cycle, affecting her melatonin, serotonin, and reproductive hormone levels. This can lead to changes in mood, energy, and even her menstrual cycle.

Hormones Affected by Seasonal Changes

Melatonin

Melatonin is a hormone that helps to regulate the sleep-wake cycle. Marla Ahlgrimm says that shorter, darker days allow the body to produce more melatonin. This can lead to increased sleepiness and fatigue.

Serotonin

Often referred to as a "feel-good" hormone, serotonin is influenced by the amount of sunlight our bodies receive each day. Marla Ahlgrimm points out that as days become shorter, some women may feel more irritable or even experience Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), a condition linked to decreased sunlight.

The Lowdown on High Heels

As women, we often like to dress up to give ourselves a little confidence boost. Marla Ahlgrimm says it is important to pay attention to how some aspects of our attire might affect our safety, health, and well-being, specifically high heels.

High heels are a stylish way to elevate any outfit, from jeans and sundresses to formal attire. However, comfort should never trump safety. Marla says that ill-fitting shoes, particularly high heels, can lead to long-term foot problems and potential injuries. Understanding the risks and learning how to choose and wear the right shoes can help you look and feel your best without compromise.

Marla Ahlgrimm on the Changes Made by Motherhood

Motherhood is the ultimate goal for many women. However, one thing that many moms don't realize is that having a baby can change the body permanently, down to a cellular level. Today, women's health expert and self-help author Marla Ahlgrimm touches on just a few ways that motherhood has an effect that lasts a lifetime.

DNA Exchange

Pregnancy includes a two-way exchange of cells between a mom and baby. The immune system eliminates most of these postpartum, but Marla Ahlgrimm says a woman may carry her baby's DNA for decades after birth in a phenomenon known as fetal microchimerism. 

Breasts

One of the most noticeable changes during pregnancy and in the postpartum era are in the breasts. According to Marla Ahlgrimm, this is because pregnancy causes hormonal changes that trigger swelling and other changes in preparation for lactation. And thanks to sagging, ligament stretching, and other physical changes, some women's breasts will never look the same. Marla Ahlgrimm says they can become larger or up to a cup size smaller.

Marla Ahlgrimm Explains Ovarian Cysts

Many women get ovarian cysts, often without even knowing it. However, according to Marla Ahlgrimm, some ovarian cysts can rupture, causing pain, discomfort, and bleeding. Today, the women’s health expert explains what cysts are and what happens if you experience a rupture.

What is an ovarian cyst?

Marla Ahlgrimm: An ovarian cyst is simply a sac of fluid that forms somewhere within the body. Women develop functional cysts each month as part of their natural menstrual cycle. This happens when follicles don't release the egg and continue to grow. This is often an unknown process with no complications.

Reasons Your Hormones Might Feel "Off" | Marla Ahlgrimm

As women, our bodies experience a flood of hormone fluctuations at pretty much every stage of life. According to self-help author and hormone expert Marla Ahlgrimm, this ever-changing wave of different hormones doesn't always feel the same. However, aside from just a natural ebb and flow of these chemical messengers, there are many reasons your hormones might make you feel a bit off. We'll explore a few of those in today's brief post.

Menstrual Cycle Fluctuations

Marla Ahlgrimm says that a woman's menstrual cycle consists of the rise and fall of estrogen and progesterone. This can lead to a noticeable and sometimes swift shift in energy levels, mood, food cravings, and physical sensations. This is, for the most part, natural and to be expected.

Marla Ahlgrimm: A Rocky Road Ahead For Women’s Health

Women's health care advocate and expert Marla Ahlgrimm says that there's been a lot in the news lately about budget cuts initiated by the new DOGE agency appointed by President Donald Trump. Unfortunately, many of these cuts may affect women's health in the short term. Today, Ahlgrimm takes a look at the potential consequences and benefits of cutting government spending in the healthcare sector.

The Negative

Marla Ahlgrimm explains that there are some concerns about healthcare research budgets being cut. She says that around 1700 of these, which were funded by the National Institutes of Health and other agencies, have been terminated. These include programs targeting maternal health, such as the New York Community-Hospital-Academic Maternal Health Equity Partnership (NY CHAMP). This program works to address maternal mortality and morbidity. It has halted enrollment.

Further, massive layoffs throughout the public healthcare sector may result in a dramatic loss of institutional knowledge. Marla Ahlgrimm explains that this may limit the ability of some federal agencies to address gaps in healthcare. Globally, the US budget cuts have also eliminated family-planning programs and cut around 50 million women off from access to contraception.

Marla Ahlgrimm: Pamper Your Feet for Your Health

We often overlook the hardest-working parts of our bodies: our feet. As our undisputed foundations, they carry us through our daily lives and deserve just as much care and attention as any other part of our body. Marla Ahlgrimm says that now is the perfect time to put your feet on a pedestal with a pedicure. And it's not just for the simple pleasure of perfectly polished toes.

Health Advantages of a Pedicure

According to Marla Ahlgrimm, a pedicure is not just a cosmetic indulgence. It can be a crucial step in maintaining foot health. Regular pedicures can help prevent many different foot problems. This includes:

• Guarding Against Infections: Marla Ahlgrimm says that fungal infections and ingrown toenails are more than just painful and unsightly. They can cause issues as you go about your day-to-day life. A skilled pedicurist will meticulously clean and trim your nails, which can significantly reduce the risk of these problems. Further, exfoliation, which is one of the more pleasurable parts of a pedicure, eliminates dead skin cells that harbor bacteria.

• Detecting Foot Issues Early: When you go to the right pedicurist, they are trained to spot potential problems. Marla Ahlgrimm says that a keen-eyed technician can alert you to discoloration, corns, and calluses. While these might be minimal issues now, left untouched, each may escalate into a more serious concern.

Nurturing a Healthy Lifestyle

Marla Ahlgrimm explains that pedicures are essential for healthy nails. But they are so much more than that. She explains that a foot massage, a standard part of a normal pedicure, can stimulate blood flow and promote healthy circulation in the lower legs and feet. This alleviates discomfort and promotes overall well-being. Furthermore, Marla Ahlgrimm says that the gentle touch of a massage can help relieve stress. Plus, when you choose the right salon/spa, it's a sanctuary for stress relief. Just as important as all of the above, Marla Ahlgrimm stresses that the simple and effective process of a pedicure is essential self-care that can promote mental well-being.

Pedicure Perks

According to Marla Ahlgrimm, a pedicure will also work to moisturize your feet and legs, reduce calluses, and leave your feet feeling smooth, beautiful, and ready for the summer sunshine.

Even if you're not one to indulge, Marla Ahlgrimm reminds us that a pedicure is more than just a cosmetic treat. It is part of a holistic approach to foot care that benefits you physically and mentally. So treat your feet and experience the power of the perfect pedicure.