Marla Ahlgrimm: Health Changes Largely Triggered By Hormones

Around the age of 40, most women begin to feel a bit “different” than they did in their 20s and 30s. According to Marla Ahlgrimm, this is partly psychological, but there is a bigger picture that many women don’t think about at first. A woman’s hormones begin to change with age, and this can trigger anything from a low libido to weight gain to irritability and fatigue. 

Marla Ahlgrimm explains that the primary culprit for most of these changes is estrogen. Estrogen is also responsible for the major changes that pubescent girls experience, including pubic hair, breasts, and the beginning of her menstrual cycle. In addition to estrogen’s known necessity to childbearing, it also protects the bone, affects mood, and works to keep cholesterol controlled. Estrogen is also found in tissues throughout the body, including the skin and heart. 

 

Marla Ahlgrimm explains that the primary source of estrogen is the ovaries. This is where eggs are made. Estrogen is also produced by the adrenal gland, a small gland located at the top of each kidney. Marla Ahlgrimm notes that estrogen moves to the bloodstream and impacts every cell in the body. Although estrogen levels change throughout the month, they are highest mid-menstrual cycle and lowest once a woman’s period begins. 

Marla Ahlgrimm Discusses A Common Brain Cancer In Today’s Q&A

According to Marla Ahlgrimm, brain cancer is actually quite rare. However, when a woman or man does get cancer of the brain, there is around a 20% chance that it will be glioblastoma. Unfortunately, although science does know quite a bit about this condition, it’s highly aggressive, and there is no cure. 

 

Q: Where does glioblastoma form? 

 

Marla Ahlgrimm: Typically, a glioblastoma cancer will begin around the cerebrum. This is the largest part of the brain. As an astrocytoma, glioblastoma grows in star-shaped cells that turn into tumors that do not require an outside blood supply; they make their own. This contributes to the aggressiveness and mortality rates. 

What Is A Nickel Allergy?

Nickel allergies are common among men and women alike. However, some women experience nickel allergies after undergoing routine medical treatments, says Marla Ahlgrimm. 

 

According to Marla Ahlgrimm, contact dermatitis is a common condition that affects millions of people. And nickel is one of the most common allergens. Although usually a harmless substance, some people’s bodies simply reject contact with nickel and nickel alloys. Nickel can be found in everything from cosmetics to costume jewelry to your laptop and eyeglasses. 

 

Marla Ahlgrimm explains that some people have an idiopathic allergy – idiopathic means there is no known cause. However, women who have undergone certain implanted birth control procedures may develop a nickel allergy over time. 

Marla Ahlgrimm: Tips To Help You Curb Eating Your Emotions

We all get hungry. That’s a natural, biological function. However, self-help author Marla Ahlgrimm explains that many of us also eat during times of high stress. Emotional eating can cause bloating, weight gain, and gastrointestinal issues. Fortunately, there are ways to step aside and walk right past the stress snacks. 

 

Today, Marla Ahlgrimm shares tips. 

 

Pay attention. 

 

Awareness in the moment is crucial to curb emotional eating, says Marla Ahlgrimm. As you reach for that bag of chips, ask yourself if you are eating for hunger or if you are simply looking for a distraction. Pay attention to the days and times you reach for empty calories, and keep a journal to help you pay attention to the pattern so that you can make lifestyle changes to help overcome all that ails you. 

 

Determine if your cravings are linked to your menstrual cycle. 

 

Marla Ahlgrimm explains that some women experience an increased appetite in the luteal phase of their menstrual cycle. For women with PMS, their levels may be elevated, and they might think their added hunger is due to their emotions. Pay attention to patterns here as well. If you notice that you're hungry and eating more often in the days leading up to your period, then it may be hormonal and not stress. 

 

Plan your snacks. 

 

One of the most effective techniques to avoid stress eating is to plan breakfast, lunch, dinner, and snacks. Marla Ahlgrimm says that you don’t necessarily have to follow conventional eating times. You may want breakfast closer to 10 AM and then choose to have a light lunch a few hours later. Plan your eating times around when you’re hungry and you need the most energy, not just based on the clock. 

Marla Ahlgrimm: Safe And Smart Ways To Improve Your Energy Levels

While there’s nothing wrong with taking a supplement to improve your nutrition, the chances that these can live up to their promises of boosting your energy and stamina are slim. According to Marla Ahlgrimm, those that do work are likely just caffeine disguised as a healthy product. The retired pharmacist and self-help author says there are better ways to grow your energy levels. 

 

These include: 

• Address chronic inflammation. If you have a condition that causes your body to stay in a state of low-grade inflammation, it’s time to address these concerns. Type II diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and other health conditions can leave your body out of whack. Marla Ahlgrimm says that one sure way to help reduce inflammation is to eat foods that have a calming effect on the body. These include almonds, collard greens, and salmon. 
   
• Eliminate unnecessary “to-do” tasks. There’s no way around it, we all take on too much. Unfortunately, being the “yes” man (or woman) for everyone else can leave our bodies depleted of the energy we need to take care of ourselves. Marla Ahlgrimm recommends lightening your load. Start by making a list of your priorities each day. Time to rest should be in your top five. Everything below that might be considered optional, and it’s time to evaluate whether these duties are essential or not. 

Marla Ahlgrimm: Health Concerns Every Woman Should Be Aware Of

While men and women are equally at risk of becoming sick or injured, Marla Ahlgrimm says that women should pay attention to signs of any of the following: 

 

Heart Disease. 

 

Heart disease is easily the top cause of death for females. And, unlike men, women may not experience the typical symptoms. Women are more likely to notice vomiting, shortness of breath, or nausea. Although chest pain is also common in women, it is often chalked up to heartburn, especially when accompanied by nausea. According to Marla Ahlgrimm, lower estrogen, higher blood pressure, and elevated cholesterol put women at a higher risk of heart disease after menopause. 

Why Is “That Time Of The Month” So Painful?

We’ve all had cramps, but some women have them worse than others. According to Marla Ahlgrimm, science is not 100% sure what causes excruciating pain in some women. However, there are several things that we can all do to ease discomfort. 

 

Is Cramping Caused By Hormones? 

 

Marla Ahlgrimm explains that the most likely cause of most menstrual cramps is in excess of certain hormones released from the endometrium (the uterine lining). Some cramping may be caused by secondary conditions, such as endometriosis or polycystic ovary syndrome. 

Women’s Mental Health Matters

Marla Ahlgrimm discusses the differences in mental health between the genders. 

 

There are obvious physical differences between the sexes. However, there are also differences that are not as easy to see with the naked eye. According to Marla Ahlgrimm, men and women develop differently from birth, and everything from societal roles to hormones impact their mental health. There are significant differences that are worth exploring. 

 

Depression and anxiety 

 

Marla Ahlgrimm says that women tend to experience depression twice as often as men. In addition to genetics and expected roles, gender biases that result in lower wages and thus greater economic struggles also contribute to the higher instances of major depressive disorders. 

Marla Ahlgrimm on Graves Disease

The hormone disorder hypothyroidism can be caused by many conditions, says Marla Ahlgrimm. One of these is Graves’ disease. 

 

According to Marla Ahlgrimm, when you have Graves’ disease, your thyroid gland becomes vulnerable to attacks by your immune system. Your body is then forced to make more thyroid hormones, and certain functions speed up. Around 90% of all cases of hyperthyroidism are caused by Graves’ disease, which is most common in women aged 30 and older. 

Marla Ahlgrimm Explains Microneedling

Micro-needling is a popular cosmetic procedure, says Marla Ahlgrimm. However, it also has healing benefits for women with certain skin issues. 

 

What is microneedling? 

 

Marla Ahlgrimm explains that microneedling is the process of using a device to poke thousands of thin, shallow holes in the face or other part of the body. The body then gets to work sending collagen to repair the damage. Many people use this procedure to reduce the appearance of wrinkles and to promote skin elasticity. 

 

Beyond Vanity 

 

While microneedling is mostly associated with anti-aging, there are other skin conditions that it can help treat. Marla Ahlgrimm explains that women with adult acne, hyperpigmentation, scars, and sun damage may find that microneedling can reduce these issues. It may also be helpful for women suffering from alopecia to help regrow hair. 

Marla Ahlgrimm On The Physical Symptoms Of Anxiety

We often think of stress and anxiety as only affecting our mood and emotions. However, there are many physical symptoms that can’t be ignored. According to Marla Ahlgrimm, anxiety disorders, including PTSD and social anxiety, can take a toll on the body. Keep reading for more insight. 

 

Q: What are some of the physical side-effects of anxiety? 

 

Marla Ahlgrimm: One of the first is a racing heart. When you are feeling anxious or stressed, your adrenal glands kick in and produce more adrenaline than normal. This gives your body the ability to flood your muscles with blood, which is a biological advantage that gives you a bit more strength so that you can fight or flee from threat. Shortness of breath and stomach pain are also common. 

Q: Why do I have trouble sleeping when I’m anxious? 

 

Marla Ahlgrimm: Adrenaline might be a culprit here as well. In addition to your mind racing, your body produces more hormones when you’re stressed. Cortisol is another potential contender when it comes to placing blame on your sleepless nights. The added coffee drink in the mornings after you don’t get enough sleep can also contribute to your lack of sleep the next night. 

Why Do Mosquitoes Bite Certain People? Marla Ahlgrimm

It’s springtime, and that means warmer weather, more sunshine, and mosquitoes. Unfortunately, while some people will be blissfully unaware of their presence, others experience mosquito bites every time they open the front door. 

 

According to Marla Ahlgrimm, there are many different reasons why mosquitoes favor one individual over another. Two of these are size and blood type. Larger humans, such as men or people who are overweight, have more surface area and also emit more carbon dioxide. Blood type plays a role as well, with type O individuals getting bit twice as often as their type A friends and family. Regardless of blood type, people who secrete chemicals (not everyone does) that mosquitoes can smell that show their blood type are more likely to get bitten. 

Marla Ahlgrimm: What Is A Basic Metabolic Panel?

Most of us have had our blood drawn at some point in our lives. But, Marla Ahlgrimm says we often don’t question what our healthcare providers are looking for, we just close our eyes, grit our teeth, and let them take the blood. 

 

According to Marla Ahlgrimm, the most common blood draw is for a basic metabolic panel. This is a simple examination of your blood that takes a look at eight different substances. Your healthcare provider will measure glucose to check that your body is getting enough (but not too much) sugar to ensure that your brain and body can function correctly. 

 

Marla Ahlgrimm explains that a basic metabolic panel also looks for calcium, a crucial mineral. If your blood does not contain enough calcium, you may have difficulty clotting during an injury. Lesser-known but equally important is blood urea nitrogen, also known as BUN. This is a waste product that’s removed from the blood by the kidneys. 

 

A basic metabolic panel further measures electrolytes, including chloride, bicarbonate, potassium, and sodium. 

Are You Allergic To Henna? | Marla Ahlgrimm

As winter fades into spring and spring moves in the summer, more and more women will look for ways to enhance their increasingly swimsuited bodies. According to Marla Ahlgrimm, one way that women do this is by using henna tattoos. Unfortunately, some henna body decorations can cause unwelcome side-effects. 

 

According to Marla Ahlgrimm, henna is a type of coloring, which is actually only approved for hair dye, that many people use on the body to create a temporary “tattoo.” Most henna tattoos have other dyes and colors added to them to create a brown, red, or black tint. While these can make for a more attractive design on the skin, many women are allergic to certain components. 

Marla Ahlgrimm: Depression And Woman

Men and women experience depression at vastly different rates. According to Marla Ahlgrimm, women are twice as likely to be depressed than their male counterparts. But, why? 

 

Q: How does puberty affect a young woman’s mood? 

 

Marla Ahlgrimm: Puberty is difficult for both sexes. However, for young girls, hormones associated with preparing her body for fertility can have a significant impact on herself-image. In addition to forming breasts, girls around the age of 13 also usually begin their menstrual cycle. This, combined with emerging sexuality and increased pressure to look a certain way while achieving in sports in school, can take a significant toll. 

 

Q: Are PMS problems associated with depression? 

 

Marla Ahlgrimm: They can be, yes. Women often report issues, such as headaches, irritability, and bloating during “that time of the month.” While this is normal and to be expected, some women experience extreme changes and can suffer from a condition known as PMDD. This can trigger or exacerbate a depressive disorder. 

Marla Ahlgrimm Opens Up About Sex-Related Issues With Age

We like to think that when we are young, our sex lives are amazing. But, according to women’s health expert Marla Ahlgrimm, approximately 25% of women in their early sexual years, between 21 and 30, actually have a low sex drive. When looked at a broader scale, women between 21 and 80, around 66% reported some level of female sexual dysfunction. 

 

Hypoactive sexual drive 

 

Marla Ahlgrimm explains that the most common female sexual function is hypoactive sexual drive. This is a lack of sexual desire and is considered a disorder when this low libido takes a toll on your emotional health. Women with hypoactive sexual drive may not even have fantasies or may shun their partner’s sexual advances altogether.