Marla Ahlgrimm: Do Vaccines Raise Miscarriage Rates?

Everyone age 12 and older is eligible for the coronavirus vaccine. However, many women are reluctant to accept this potentially life-saving injection. Why? Marla Ahlgrimm says that this stems from fears that the vaccine may spur a miscarriage. 

 

According to Marla Ahlgrimm, this is, very fortunately, not true. Data collected from December 2020 through June 2021, suggest that, although miscarriages happen in approximately 13,000 of 100,000 pregnancies, the rate was not higher in women who received the vaccine. 

Marla Ahlgrimm | Women and Oral Health

Obviously, men and women both need to worry about their oral health. However, according to Marla Ahlgrimm, because of pregnancy, menopause, and the menstrual cycle, women are prone to more health problems associated with poor oral health than men. Keep reading as the author and women’s healthcare expert answers a few questions about oral health and the fairer sex. 

 

Q: How does the menstrual cycle affect a woman’s oral health? 

 

Marla Ahlgrimm: Each month, your menstrual cycle causes a spike in progesterone, a sex hormone. This can lead to swelling in the gums. During this time, your gums may be red, irritated, and they can bleed unexpectedly. Some women also experience canker sores, which are painful spots in the mouth. Hormone fluctuations throughout a woman’s life can also affect inflammation, which can potentially lead to periodontal concerns. 

Marla Ahlgrimm On Pregnancy And Anxiety

Pregnancy is one of the most joyous times in a woman’s life. However, Marla Ahlgrimm explains that it can also be filled with anxiety. Between physical changes, roller coaster hormones, and fears about parenthood, women often find it necessary to manage their anxiety as they await the arrival of their little one. 

 

Unfortunately, the thought of taking anxiety medication often adds to a woman’s concerns. Questions, such as “are these medications safe?” are always on an expectant mother’s mind. So, are they? Retired pharmacist Marla Ahlgrimm says yes, in most cases. 

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.