World Diabetes Day

Sir Frederick Banting was a Canadian scientist whose pioneering work using insulin to treat diabetes earned him the Nobel prize. He only lived to be 49 but on November 14 - what would have been his 125th birthday - Google has celebrated him with a commemorative Doodle.

WDD

World Diabetes Day (WDD) is celebrated annually on November 14. Led by the International Diabetes Federation (IDF), World Diabetes Day was created in 1991 by IDF and the World Health Organization in response to growing concerns about the escalating health threat posed by diabetes. World Diabetes Day became an official United Nations Day in 2006 with the passage of United Nation Resolution 61/225.

The World Diabetes Day campaign aims to:

• Be the platform to promote IDF advocacy efforts throughout the year
• Be the global driver to promote the importance of taking coordinated and concerted actions to confront diabetes as a critical global health issue

The campaign is represented by a blue circle logo that was adopted in 2007 after the passage of the UN Resolution on diabetes. The blue circle is the global symbol for diabetes awareness. It signifies the unity of the global diabetes community in response to the diabetes epidemic.

The theme of World Diabetes Day (WDD) 2016 will be ‘Eyes on diabetes’. The key messages guiding the campaign are:

• Screening for type 2 diabetes is important to modify its course and reduce the risk of complications.
• Screening for diabetes complications is an essential part of managing all types of diabetes.

Trade in Your Lotions for Body Oils

We Americans are lotion lovers. But in Europe and other parts of the world, oil is actually the more popular option for hydrating dry skin... The truth is, most natural oils are easily absorbed, not greasy, and noncomedogenic; that is, they have a low potential to clog pores, which makes oils perfect for all skin types.

Moisturizers often contain the most synthetic chemicals and petroleum by-products, many of which are linked to health concerns. Seeing as moisturizers work by deeply penetrating skin, it's smart to consider using green products, which contain fewer synthetic chemicals that may enter your bloodstream.

If you are looking for a natural brand that is effective, look no further than Province Apothecary. 

An alluring body oil ideal for all skin types, their blend of beautiful plant-based essential oils quickly absorb deep into the skin to effectively nourish and soften, boost cellular circulation, and gently detoxify the body. The light and invigorating botanical fragrance will enliven and empower your spirit, leaving you balanced and revitalized.Organic Argan Kernel oil is considered one of the most valuable and sustainable oils in the world. It is an extremely moisturizing oil, high in Vitamin E, Omega-6 fatty acids and antioxidants. It is abundant in plant sterolins, which help restore skin’s lipid layer, improving its ability to retain moisture and resulting in softer, smoother skin.

Black Cumin Seed oil is long recognized in the Middle East as a medicinal oil. It soothes and moisturizes the skin and is high in vitamins and minerals, including vitamins A, B, and C, potassium, copper, zinc and selenium. Avocado oil is rich in antioxidants, Vitamins A, D, and E and omega-3 fatty acids which deeply penetrate skin to fight dryness, dullness, and dehydration.

October is #LiverAwarenessMonth

Liver Life Walk Dallas/Ft. Worth Texas

Fragrance is in the Air

Although we may not think of our sense of taste as one of our most vital senses, it actually may be more important than you think. We all know that our sense of sight and sound are blessings but actually our sense of smell also helps us stay safe. Smell is an important sense as it can alert us to danger like gas leaks, fire or rotten food but also it is closely linked to parts of the brain that process emotion and memory. Unpleasant and bad smells actually send pain signals to the brain to warn us of possible danger.

The limbic center, or the area of the brain that processes emotions, is tied to the brain’s olfactory bulbs, which process smells. This close connection in the brain helps make the relationship between smells and moods, scents and memories, quite strong. Smell is also important as it can affect our sense of taste. Researchers say 80 percent of the flavors we taste come from what we smell, which is why foods can become flavorless when you have a blocked nose. Taste buds on our tongues can only identify four qualities being sweet, sour, bitter and salt and the remaining ‘tastes’ are actually distinguished by smell.

Colognes and Perfumes are marketed all the time and people buy them because of the way they make them feel. A scent can prove efficient when trying to attain a partner but even as well when simply changing your own mood. A spray of a citrus based scent can boost energy levels and make you feel more alert. Vanilla based scents can ignite feelings of joy and relaxation (also in the case of pine) Come on into Cedra and we will help you find the right scent to put you in that mood you're looking for. 

You know how they say the most beautiful thing that you can wear is a smile, well that all starts with being in the right mood. Every time you walk into one of our stores, you are guaranteed to leave happier than when you came in. 

Best Bug Buster

During the summer we always complain that there are more bugs than usual. For the most part, many bugs and insects go into some form of hibernation during the colder months. Other insects migrate someplace warm to wait out the colder months. Still others decide the best way to stay out of the cold is to camp out in your home. 

It’s important to be aware of the common bugs that you are sure to see in summer months, as some of them may actually pose a threat to you or your loved ones. Mosquitoes, which are certainly some of the most annoying insects out there, can actually be quite dangerous. These pesky creatures are known to spread diseases, some of which may actually be deadly. West Nile Virus spread by mosquitoes has become a serious threat in the United States in recent years. Other diseases that one may suffer from after a mosquito bite include malaria, dengue fever and chikungunya. And not to mention the now popular threat of the Zika Virus. 

Stay ahead of the disease-carriers with these tips for keeping the bugs at bay:

1. Get rid of stagnant water. 
2. Hire a pro to check hidden spots. 
3. Cover exposed skin. 
4. Eat indoors when possible. 

One of our popular baby brands in our store "Erbaviva" makes this wonderful organic bug repellant called 'Organic Buzz Spray'
Star ingredients: Catnip and Citronella
This spray is organic, and it contains the Lemon Eucalyptus listed above, citronella AND catnip! The EPA recommends a few different skin-applied ingredients to deter mosquitos  including Catnip and Citronella, so this spray covers a lot of bases!  This was also recently featured in Well Rounded Ny

And yes you read correctly above, Catnip...Researchers report that nepetalactone, the essential oil in catnip that gives the plant its characteristic odor, is about ten times more effective at repelling mosquitoes than DEET the compound used in most commercial insect repellents. Due to the ingredient lemon eucalyptus oil, this should be used on children 3+. If any questions on use please feel free to contact us!

Womanhood Vs. Motherhood

Motherhood is a real spectacle. The thought of the actual process still seems to leave me in disbelief. One of the true miracles of life. When preparing for the baby it seems like here begins the stage when the change begins to happen. Women begin to form attachment to the life that is growing inside of them, and they realize that "Wow, Im about to be someone's mother!" A man can be there for his wife but they can never fully understand what they are going through.

Whether you decide to go back to work after giving birth or to stay at home, that should be your personal decision, and you should feel no pressure from anyone else because at the end of the day, you and your child's life has nothing to do with them. Motherhood is a full time job, when your partner is out all day at work and socializing with co-workers and friends, you are at home taking care of your child, cleaning up after them and ensuring their safety and wellbeing. Never let your partner expect that when they come home from work that you should dote on them hand and foot because You've been working all day as well! How would they like it if they had to be at work 24 hours a day. Exactly. 

Take time to cherish the first year of your baby because it is true "They really do grow up fast" take photos of them at monthly intervals and marvel at the miracle that you created (with some help of course). As I've said, motherhood is a job and who wants to work 7 days a week? Not anyone that I know. You need to remember to take some time to yourself. Take one day out of the weekend or when your partner is off and go hang out with your friends, get your hair done or do some shopping for YOU. The baby is also your partners, so make sure they get their one on one time so that you can spend some time with your original number 1 (yourself). 

It is true that your priorities shift in life, after marriages, and then after you have children but that doesn't mean that you should forget about how important your wellbeing and sanity is to you and those around you! You need to be taking time to refresh and recharge. Make yourself look good for you because that outward confidence will remind you how you were blessed with your wonderful family in the first place, because you are beautiful inside and out. 

World Breastfeeding Week 2016

        This year's WBW theme is Breastfeeding: a key to Sustainable Development. 2016 commemorates the start of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). A broad approach using the sustainability theme is thus relevant and inclusive. It will enable the breastfeeding movement (and beyond) to connect with a variety of development issues over the next 15 years (2030) for maximum impact.Breastfeeding is linked to the SDGs in several ways. 
        The WBW materials will cover the main link areas between breastfeeding and the SDGs along 5 broad themes:

1. nutrition/food security,

2. health, well-being and survival,

3. environment and climate change,

4. work productivity, empowerment, social protection,and

5. sustainable partnerships and rule of law. Watch this space for more information and updates. 

In honor of our mommies to be and their little bundles of joy, Cedra retail stores will be giving a 15% discount for this week Aug 1st-6th in honor of World BreastFeeding Week. Making your joy even more joyful, one smile at a time. 

World Hepatitis Day

Today is World Hepatitis Day. Hepatitis is an inflammation of the liver. It may be caused by drugs, alcohol use, or certain medical conditions. But in most cases, it's caused by a virus. This is known as viral hepatitis, and the most common forms are hepatitis A, B, and C.

Testing is important for anyone with the risk factors particularly injected drug users and people who have had multiple sex partners. Health advocates are also urging people of Asian heritage to get tested. Stanford University's Asian Liver Center estimates that 1 in 10 Asians living in the U.S. has chronic hepatitis B. Many of them have probably had the virus since birth.

If you have chronic hepatitis, there are steps you can take to keep your liver resilient. Avoid alcohol, which can cause additional liver damage. Check with your doctor before taking any medications or supplements, because some are tough on the liver or may not be safe in people with liver disease. Most importantly, keep your appointments for regular monitoring. By watching for any changes in your liver, you and your health care provider can stay one step ahead of the virus.

This is why you should be going in for your annual check ups and if there are any other issues or mishaps that come up, make sure to contact your doctor as soon as possible. Prevention Before Cure.

Every action is an action towards elimination of viral hepatitis. This year sees the first ever World Health Organization’s Global Strategy for Viral Hepatitis, which sets a goal of eliminating viral hepatitis as a public health threat by 2030.

Let's join together on this World Hepatitis Day to make the elimination of viral hepatitis our next greatest achievement.

Drink Your Stress Away

And no, I don't suggest testing out alcoholism. Although, alcohol is believed to be a stress reducer, it can also add to your stress as well as creating various other problems, so remember to drink responsibility. 

This post is to tell you some drinks that can keep your stress levels down and help you get though the week a little bit easier. 

Water: I know you probably hear about this one all of the time. But it is true!  The link between water and stress reduction is well documented. All of our organs, including our brains, need water to function properly. If you’re dehydrated, your body isn’t running well and that can lead to stress. On average, the adult body consists of 50-65% water, stay hydrated. 

Tea: Have a cup of tea to help relax. While all teas can be relaxing, certain herbs are scientifically proven as the best for relieving stress. Some of the best to drink in your tea are valerian, passion flower, and St. John's wort.

Fruit: Juice: Juices high in vitamin C, including orange juice, grapefruit juice, and strawberry juice, help reduce stress levels by lowering levels of the body’s stress hormones such as cortiso

Reduce Your Stress Levels

As you may have seen on our twitter page today we have been discussing stress and how it's not all bad. Some levels of stress which you are accustomed to handling can help keep you focused and challenge your abilities. There are those times however when stress can be overwhelming and we can begin to feel like we are out of control. 

When we are stressed, our bodies produce this hormone called Cortisol; high levels of this could lead to diabetes, high blood pressure, weight gain or inability to lose weight, and various other detrimental health issues. When there isn't enough time for you to get out and have a workout there are vitamins and supplements. We live in an age where we are becoming more conscious of what it is that we put into our bodies, especially anything that might alter our state of being. 

We have our own line of vitamins and supplements to help your every need. Our "Calm" line of supplements are designed to address your daily stress by increasing the production of the neurotransmitters serotonin and gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) in the brain. The formula includes ingredients historically used to promote a state of calm and centered relaxation. While many other alternatives providing GABA-agonist effects may cause dependency over time, out natural GABA support found in our formula is non-habit forming.

Stop by today and have a chat with our friendly pharmacy team and see what we can do for you!

July is Juvenile Arthritis Awareness Month

Juvenile arthritis (JA) is not a disease in itself. Also known as pediatric rheumatic disease, JA is an umbrella term used to describe the many autoimmune and inflammatory conditions or pediatric rheumatic diseases that can develop in children under the age of 16. Juvenile arthritis affects nearly 300,000 children in the United States.

Although the various types of juvenile arthritis share many common symptoms, like pain, joint swelling, redness and warmth, each type of JA is distinct and has its own special concerns and symptoms. Some types of juvenile arthritis affect the musculoskeletal system, but joint symptoms may be minor or nonexistent. Juvenile arthritis can also involve the eyes, skin, muscles and gastrointestinal tract.

The Arthritis Foundation understands the needs of families with juvenile arthritis are unique and pressing. Learn more about their research efforts through their work with CARRA and their involvement with PARTNERS.

National HIV Testing Day

We have come a very long way in our achievements in modern medicine and although we may have a lot of products and services now that can allow you to live a full and regular life, you should always take prevention as primary care. Protect yourself and others by knowing all of the facts. If there is something that you begin to describe as "Well, I think..." then you need to ask your doctor or healthcare professional more information. 

There are many options out there now to keep you safe and one of the most popular in the recent years is PrEP: Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis, and it’s the use of anti-HIV medication that keeps HIV negative people from becoming infected. PrEP is approved by the FDA and has been shown to be safe and effective. A single pill taken once daily, it is highly effective against HIV when taken every day. The medication interferes with HIV’s ability to copy itself in your body after you’ve been exposed. This prevents it from establishing an infection and making you sick.

Around 1.2 million people in the United States are living with HIV, and one in eight people don't know they have it. Nearly 45,000 people find out they have HIV every year.

HIV testing is the gateway to prevention and care.

• People who test negative have more prevention tools available today than ever before.
• People who test positive can take HIV medicines that can keep them healthy for many years and greatly reduce their chance of passing HIV to others. Learn more about living with HIV.

More than 90% of new HIV infections in the United States could be prevented by testing and diagnosing people living with HIV and making sure they receive early, ongoing treatment.

Get tested Today!

Make Everyday National Cancer Survivors Day

Today I post because today is the day that someone very close to me was diagnosed with Breast Cancer. National Cancer Survivors Day is actually June 5th but I think that selecting only one day to remember those we have lost or to appreciate those whom we almost lost is just not acceptable. We must be grateful on a daily basis because those who we love can be taken from us in the blink of an eye. 

According to the National Cancer Survivors Day Official Website 

This year marks the 9th annual National Cancer Survivors Day®. We celebrate the millions of Americans who are cancer survivors. We honor these patients and survivors, as well as their family members, health care providers, and friends.

As part of the leadership team of the National Cancer Institute (NCI), we also commend the tireless efforts of the researchers who are working to find new and better ways to control and treat cancer more effectively and safely. This is a vitally important task. Although more and more cancer survivors will return to active and productive lives following their cancer diagnosis, for many of them, the long-term physical, psychological, and social effects of cancer and its treatments remain serious and challenging. Recognizing this, survivorship research remains a key component of NCI’s research portfolio.

The number of people living after a cancer diagnosis and treatment in the United States increased from 7 million in 1992 to 15.5 million in 2016, and is expected to rise to more than 20 million by 2026. Thus, whereas cancer survivors accounted for about 2.5 percent of the U.S. population in 1992, it is estimated that they will account for more than 5 percent of the population in 2026.

NCI-supported researchers agree that, as any cancer survivor will tell you, cancer is not ‘over’ when treatment ends; cancer has the capacity to affect all aspects of survivors’ lives, effects that can have profound and lasting import on their psychological and social health. Looking to the future, we are going to see growing efforts to find targeted and tailored cancer therapies that have the best chance of curing the illness, with the least toxicity to the survivor.  

Cancer not only affects the person but their family and friends as well. We must work together to help do what we can because we never know who it could happen to next. Cancer has no Bias. Everyday we should reflect on those who Cancer has taken from us and appreciate those that it has left with just the scars. 

#LiverLifeWalk

See how you can be a part of the change here

Cinco De Mayo with Cedra X ALOHA

HAPPY CINCO DE MAYO

 

 Todays date is observed to commemorate the Mexican Army's unlikely victory over French forces at the Battle of Puebla on May 5, 1862, under the leadership of General Ignacio Zaragoza. This attack resulted in the unlikely victory for the Mexican Army. On September 16, 1862, President Juarez declared that the date of the Battle of Puebla would be made an annual holiday. Hence, Cinco de Mayo became a popular holiday in Mexico and in areas where there is a large Mexican population. In the United States, Cinco de Mayo is popularly mistaken to be Mexico's Independence Day; the most important national holiday in Mexico, which is celebrated on September 16.

ALOHA is now being sold at Cedra Pharmacy and as a gift to you all, buy any ALOHA product instore and receive 10% off your entire purchase as a welcome gift. In the Hawaiian language, aloha means “sharing the breath of life.” At ALOHA, we aim to do this by making health simple, fun, and accessible. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle has become needlessly complicated. False claims, conflicting messages in the media, and weak regulations in the wellness industry are constant sources of confusion. We are increasingly exposed to stress and environmental toxins that compromise our health. ALOHA works to address these challenges and make an impact.

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Spicy Macha Margarita Recipe

Ingredients

1. 3 ounces green tea
2. 2 ounces tequila blanco
3. 1 ounce Aloha coconut powder
4. 1 ounce freshly squeezed lime juice
5. 1 teaspoon honey simple syrup (1 teaspoon honey melted with 1 teaspoon water)
6. 1/4 teaspoon matcha powder
7. 2 slices jalapeño

For an added tangy kick, rim the glass with Sriracha and salt if so desired. Blend with Ice and enjoy!

Now that you have knowledge on why it is that you are drinking and celebrating, go ahead and enjoy this tasty, spicy yet sweet cocktail! Always remember, drink responsibly and never drink and drive. 

American Liver Foundation/ Liver Life Walk

         The American Liver Foundation is a non-profit organization that promotes liver health and disease prevention. The mission of the ALF is to facilitate, advocate and promote education, support and research for the prevention, treatment and cure of liver disease
The Liver Life Walk Houston will be the American Liver Foundation - Desert Southwest Division 7th Annual dog friendly walk. Join us and help raise awareness to one of America's growing epidemics, Liver disease!
        Liver Life Walk allows people affected by liver disease to come together and raise critical funds and awareness for the American Liver Foundation, all while having a good time. Each Liver Life Walk location features a festival-type atmosphere including activities for kids, food, entertainment and information about the American Liver Foundation.
        Although liver disease is among the ten major causes of death in the United States, there was no national voluntary health agency devoted exclusively to combating liver diseases until 1976, when the American Liver Foundation was created by the American Association for the Study of Liver Diseases (AASLD). This organization of scientists and healthcare professionals was concerned with the rising incidence of liver disease and the lack of awareness among both the general public and the medical community. The mission, the programs and the services provided by American Liver Foundation complement the great work of AASLD.

Be a part of the solution and stand with us April 30th, find out more here

National Walking Day

With all today's craziness with Hover boards and the over abundance of cab services, it can be easy to forget the importance of simply getting up and walking. Well today is National Walking Day and the American Heart Association is encouraging people to lace up their sneakers and take 30 minutes out of their day to get up and walk. 

Exercise can come in various forms, it doesn't have to be at the actual gym! You can make any excuse to burn a few extra calories and better your heart health. If you have some extra time after you get off work, get off at the stop before and walk the remainder of the way. If you live close to work try walking there, a few small alterations to your daily routine and your body and mind will greatly benefit. 

Walking and exercise have various benefits from toning up your body and core, to aiding in fighting dementia as well as fighting depression. You’ll get more done with more energy, and a brisk walk is one of the best natural energizers around. It boosts circulation and increases oxygen supply to every cell in your body, helping you to feel more alert and alive. Try walking on your lunch break to achieve more in the afternoon.

Find more information on how to improve yourself and help fight for those who can't for themselves click here

Make Tomorrows Breakfast Count

Açai Bowl topped with Straw/Blue-berries and Bananas 

        People seem to always be talking about antioxidants, and just like when people are asked about gluten, people seem to have the general idea, but still don't fully understand what it is. Lets start off with a definition. An antioxidant is a molecule that inhibits the oxidation of other molecules. And what is Oxidation you might ask... well this is a is a chemical reaction that can produce free radicals, leading to the potential of cell damage.  It's much like the chemical reaction that creates rust on a bicycle or turns the surface of a cut apple brown.

        The acai ; pronounced (ah-sigh-EE) berry is a grape like fruit harvested from acai palm trees, which are native to the rainforests of South America. Acai berries are widely touted as a so-called superfood, with proponents claiming that they are helpful for a variety of health concerns, including arthritis, weight loss, high cholesterol, erectile dysfunction, skin appearance, detoxification and general health. I try to work these super berries into my daily diet, and can get them in by way of morning juice, smoothie or bowl. 
        Not everyone has the time to prepare a meal or eat an entire fruit salad but eating breakfast everyday is very important. Beginning each day with a well balanced meal can help with exhaustion during the day, hunger cravings, weight loss and various other concerns. If you are one of the people who can't get these in naturally, Cedra does carry our line of dietary supplements and one of them is the "AntiOxidant Essentials: With Vitamins C & E" as always you should consult with a professional before taking any medication or supplements. Remember that our pharmacists are here 6 days a week to help with any questions that you may have. Be sure to stop by for a friendly consultation. I promise you wont regret it.

Pledge Omega-3 This Year

According to Paleo-Leap Bone-in sardines are an excellent source of calcium. A 3.75-ounce can provides 35% of the RDA, probably higher than any other Paleo food. It’s true that calcium isn’t the end of the story for healthy bones and teeth, but that doesn’t mean it’s not important at all; if you don’t react well to dairy, sardines are your bones’ best friend.

Their high calcium content is usually the star of the show, but don’t let it blind you to everything else in the can. Sardines also deliver:

• Selenium (69%)
• Phosphorus (45%)
• Iron (15%)
• Magnesium (9%)
• Copper (9%)

Sardines are something like a fish oil supplement, if fish oil supplements also delivered protein, vitamins, minerals, and an easily portable snack food. Unlike supplements, canned sardines don’t need to be refrigerated, and you don’t have to worry about whether they’ve been sitting around going rancid on the grocery-store shelf. So between the supplement and the fish, the fish are the clear winners. Fish may have earned its reputation as “brain food” because some people eat fish to help with depression, psychosis, attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder (ADHD),Alzheimer’s disease, and other thinking disorders. 

If you have an issue reaching your daily requirement of these types of nutrients that the body requires, Cedra has its own line of vitamins. Come in and have a chat with a pharmacist and let us assist you and recommend what daily vitamins you should be taking.