Marla Ahlgrimm On Gymnastics Safety

Olympic gymnast Simone Biles recently made headlines when she pulled out of the postponed 2020 Olympics. According to Marla Ahlgrimm, Biles asserted that mental and physical health issues spawned her decision. This has brought sharply into focus the types of dangers faced by athletes, and gymnasts in particular. 

 

Marla Ahlgrimm explains that gymnasts, especially those with Olympic aspirations, face injuries each time they get on the mat. From strains and sprains to broken bones and physical and emotional fatigue, potential risks are everywhere. But, with a few safety precautions, many young athletes can have an enjoyable and minimally painful experience. 

Marla Ahlgrimm: White Vinegar Is More Than A Salad Dressing

White vinegar has been around for as long as all of us can remember. Our mothers used it for cleaning and cooking, but Marla Ahlgrimm says that vinegar may even have some health benefits. 

 

Marla Ahlgrimm explains that white vinegar, and specifically the acid component of it, might help control blood sugar. She explains that a few teaspoons of vinegar is thought to lower blood sugar levels after eating. Vinegar may also be helpful for women trying to lose weight. A quick drink of white vinegar changes the way the stomach empties, which can lead to feelings of fullness and subsequently a lower caloric intake. 

Marla Ahlgrimm: The Reason Your Periods Are Worse In Winter

Hate your period? You’re not alone. Marla Ahlgrimm says most of her former clients did, too. But, one thing she and many other women’s health services providers have noticed over the years is that menstrual cycle complaints tend to skyrocket in the winter. 

 

Q: Does weather affect your period? 

 

Marla Ahlgrimm: When the sun goes down before dinner time and the temperature drops to single digits, many women say their periods are much worse. The truth is that it’s not the weather per se but the lifestyle differences between summer and winter that leave a more negative perception about our menstrual cycles. The opposite is true during the warm weather months. Our periods might feel less bothersome. 

Marla Ahlgrimm on Healthy Eating Habits For Better Health

Most healthcare experts recommend approximately 2000 cal every day for women. While that might sound like a lot, it’s actually very easy to go over this allotment if you aren’t paying attention. Here are a few tips from Marla Ahlgrimm to help you stay on track. 

 

Choose high-fiber, starchy carbohydrates. 

 

Fiber and carbohydrates work together to keep your body working at optimal. Marla Ahlgrimm says to choose high-fiber foods, such as skinned potatoes or whole-wheat pasta to fill you up and keep you satisfied longer. Be cautious of added butter, sauces, and oils as these add little to no nutritional value but increase calorie count significantly. 

Marla Ahlgrimm: Diet, Hormones, and Skin Changes

Our hormones control the majority of our bodily functions. However, hormone expert Marla Ahlgrimm says that, despite this, we actually know very little about the invisible chemical messengers running through our veins. What we do know is that hormones affect not only how we feel but how we look as well. No other area is this more prevalent than in our skin and hair. 

 

Q: How do hormones affect skin health? 

 

Marla Ahlgrimm: Hormones play a crucial role in the overall health of your skin. If you have hypothyroidism, for example, which is low thyroid hormone levels, you may experience dry skin. Too much androgen, which is a male hormone similar to testosterone, and your skin gets oily. 

 

Q: Do hormones cause eczema? 

 

Marla Ahlgrimm: Hormones may not cause eczema, but low levels of estrogen can trigger a flare up. Women undergoing menopause may experience a sharp decrease in estrogen levels. This can cause dry skin since estrogen is responsible for keeping our skin “plump” and smooth. 

Marla Ahlgrim Offers Updates On CDC COVID Guidance

The coronavirus vaccine has proven effective, and, as of May 13, 2021, the Centers for Disease Control has updated its guidance for fully vaccinated people. Here, Marla Ahlgrimm shares a few of these updates. 

 

According to Marla Ahlgrimm, the CDC has now stated that vaccinated individuals don’t need to wear a mask, even indoors. The only exception to this is in areas where local law mandates mask wearing. The retired pharmacist explains that mask wearing guidelines may remain in effect in some areas in times of viral surge. 

 

Marla Ahlgrimm: Are Fish Oils The Modern Day Snake Oil?

Fish oils are found in salmon, trout, mackerel, and other fatty fish. According to Marla Ahlgrimm, the vast majority contain a high quantity of vitamins A and D along with fatty acids and other nutrients vital to human health. But, is taking a fish oil supplement or adding extra fish to your plate really that beneficial? 

 

Q: What are omega-3 fatty acids? 

 

Marla Ahlgrimm: Omega-3 fatty acids are a type of chemical used by the human body. They are found in the brain and retina. Unfortunately, we do not produce our own, so it is necessary to extract this nutrient from our food or, in more modern times, an omega-3 supplement.