Alive Pharmacy Warehouse - Live+ April 2023

live+

Your guide to staying healthy, happy, alive

GREATEST GIFT

THE GREATEST GIFT IS MUM

Advice from the best BUB HEALTH

Key factors to keep in mind

INFANT FORMULA

The safe and regulated alternative to breast milk

K EEPING HAIR

YOUTHFUL WITH AGE

Top-7 tips and tricks

HAPPY MOTHER’S DAY

Sending out my best wishes for Mother’s Day early this year. To celebrate, this month’s catalogue is a special feature on women’s health. We discuss the life as a mum, babies’ and children’s health, and tips on how to take care of your hair.

The team at Health Management Dietitians have also written an awesome article on page 4 about baby formula and what it really is. Nutrition in the early stages of life have lasting effects on the immune system and cognitive development. Prebiotics for example are an essential nutrient that supports a baby’s development. Inside the gastrointestinal tract there are millions of microorganisms that can affect the immune system and gut microbiome. It is important to have a balance of good and bad bacteria – this is where prebiotics can be beneficial. Breast milk is a natural source of prebiotics; it is encouraged to find a suitable replacement for breast milk’s nutritional value in a good baby formula. Approaching May, we will also be anticipating the winter cold and flu-season as influenza-A becomes dominant this season. 2023 Flu Vaccinations are available in our stores and bookings can be made online via our website (www.alivepharmacy.com.au). The Australian Government recommends that all people over the age of 6 months have an annual influenza vaccination to prevent influenza and its complications. The influenza vaccination is especially important for the more vulnerable, including our first nations people, the elderly and pregnant women. Your Alive Pharmacy can now administer the flu vaccination for anyone from the age of 6 months. Please confirm booking times and availability online or in your local Alive Pharmacy.

The end of the month also marks World Immunisation Week 2023. This year’s theme is ‘The Big Catch-Up’ which I’m sure most people can relate to. It’s important to stay on top of all your vaccine preventable diseases - we list some common ones for young children on the next page. Some children are less fortunate and are unable to access such vaccines. The goal of World Immunization Week is to spread the word about children and adult vaccines to protect the wider community against avoidable diseases.

Our Alive pharmacists have been involved with the North Queensland Community Pharmacy

Full Scope of Practice Pilot. They are excited to be embarking on a higher education and training program that will allow them to prescribe medicines for common conditions (this may include nausea, mild skin conditions, weight management, among others). Consultations will commence in 2024 after they graduate their course so watch this space!

Managing Director

THE GREATEST GIFT IS MUM

There’s no denying that the greatest gift one could receive is the love and guidance of a mum. They are always looking out for us and offering their best advice. In honour of the endless support our mums provide, let’s take a moment to reflect on some common health tips that mums are always sharing with us, to keep us happy and healthy.

Vitamin C

Mum’s are always looking out for our best interests at heart, offering advice to prevent us from getting sick. A common go-to is Vitamin C, playing a crucial role in maintaining healthy functioning of our body’s tissues such as our gums, bones, and blood vessels. Furthermore, it can act as an antioxidant reducing the formation of free radicals within our body. Vitamin supplements like Nature’s Way Vitamin C Gummies are a great way to ensure we get the recommended daily amount.

Toothpaste

Mums always emphasise the importance of brushing teeth to their children, and with good reason. Regular brushing helps prevent cavities, gum disease, and bad breath. Though it may be challenging to get children to brush their teeth, parents can encourage them by letting them pick out their toothbrush and toothpaste in fun colours and flavours. Additionally, singing a little song or using a fun-flavoured toothpaste can make the experience more enjoyable for children. Inevitably, children have a sweet tooth, but parents should limit their sugar intake to maintain good oral health. Establishing a consistent brushing routine will help children develop essential oral hygiene habits that they’ll carry into adulthood.

Water – icy poles when sick

Nature’s Way Vitamin C Gummies

125 Chewable Tablets

Fish Oil

As you hurry to get ready for school in the morning, your mom reminds you not to forget your fish oil supplement. This is because omega-3 fatty acids play a crucial role in supporting children’s academic performance. Our bodies cannot naturally produce omega-3, so taking a supplement can be a good idea. It can aid in the essential developmental process of your child’s brain, particularly during the primal stage from birth to around 2 years of age when their DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) forms their sensory, perceptual, cognitive, and motor neural systems. Multiple studies confirm that incorporating omega-3 into a child’s diet can enhance their academic results as they grow older.

Staying hydrated is crucial for children, as it helps maintain their immune system and reduces the risk of catching a cold. While dehydration does not directly cause a cold, it weakens the immune system and makes it harder for the body to fight off infections. Drinking water and other hydrating fluids throughout the day can help keep children’s immune systems strong and reduce the likelihood of catching a cold. Icy poles can also be a helpful way to soothe the throat and increase fluid intake, especially if they contain electrolytes and vitamins. Hydralyte ice blocks are a convenient option, and their Strawberry Kiwi flavour has become increasingly popular. Encouraging children to drink water regularly and consume hydrating fluids can help support their immune system and overall health.

Hydralite Strawberry Kiwi Flavoured 16 Ice Blocks

Bub health

As a new parent, it’s important to consider multiple factors for your newborn’s health as they have little to no immunity and are more vulnerable to illnesses. Below, we have listed a few of them along with some key facts.

Whooping Cough

Whooping cough is caused by a bacterial infection, specifically the bacterium Bordetella pertussis. It may initially appear like a common cold, but it is characterised by coughing that lasts for weeks or even months. Symptoms typically arise within 5-10 days of coming into contact with the bacteria. The infection is highly contagious until appropriate antibiotics are taken, or the body clears the bacteria. Recovery requires sufficient rest and monitoring of symptoms. It’s important to ensure that dehydration is prevented due to excessive coughing.

Chickenpox

Chickenpox is characterised by an itchy, red rash that appears all over the body. It can be extremely contagious, so it’s important to practice good hygiene and frequently wash your hands. Paracetamol and calming lotions can help ease itching, but most blisters resolve within 1-2 weeks. To prevent further itching and harm to the skin, it’s important to ensure that your children’s fingernails are cut short. Additionally, drinking lots of fluids can help with the recovery process.

Common cold

Typical common cold symptoms include nasal congestion and a runny nose. Although it can be uncomfortable when your baby catches a cold, it is a natural part of the development process and can help build their immunity. To help your baby feel more comfortable, offer them plenty of fluids and add some moisture to the air to help gently open their airways.

Newborn Infection Prevention

Newborns have little to no immune system, making them more susceptible to infections. To reduce the risk of infections, it’s important to ensure that your baby receives all appropriate vaccinations before being introduced to others and taken to busy populated areas. If your baby does get an infection, it’s important to seek medical advice from your doctor for appropriate treatments.

WORLD IMMUNISATION WEEK

Immunisation is important for people of all ages. Adults can receive extra vaccinations to prevent passing illnesses onto those who are more vulnerable.

Administered at

Birth

2 months (can be given from 6 weeks of age)

4 months

6 months to less than 5 years (given annually)

6 months

12 months

18 months

4 years

Protection against

Hepatitis B (usually offered in hospital)

Diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis (whooping cough), hepatitis B, polio, Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib), Rotavirus, Pneumococcal

Diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis (whooping cough), hepatitis B, polio, Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib), Rotavirus, Pneumococcal

Influenza

Diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis (whooping cough), hepatitis B, polio, Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib)

Meningococcal ACWY Measles, mumps, rubella, Pneumococcal

Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib), Measles, mumps, rubella, chickenpox (varicella) Diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis (whooping cough)

Diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis (whooping cough), polio

https://www.health.gov.au/topics/immunisation/when-to-get-vaccinated/immunisation-for-infants-and-children

Routine Vaccines for Children

Always check the latest advice from a healthcare professional.

Allabout

BABY FORMULA

Infant formula is the only safe substitute for breastmilk until your baby is at least 12 months old. While we know that breast milk is best, for some women, this may not be an option due to external factors or personal preference. Fortunately, in Australia, all infant formula products are required to adhere to strict standards to ensure that they are formulated to imitate breast milk and are completely safe for use.

Why do babies require formula instead of cow’s milk?

Although cow’s milk-based formula is commonly used for growing infants (aside from those requiring special formulas), regular cow’s milk cannot provide complete nutrition for infants. While typical formulas have a cow’s milk base, they have been specifically fortified with essential vitamins, minerals, and healthy fats that are vital to your infant’s growth and development. Furthermore, the protein content in cow’s milk is too high for infants to digest and absorb until they are at least 12 months old.

When purchasing formula, what should I be looking out for?

For healthy full-term babies who are not being breastfed, it’s important to choose a cow’s milk-based formula primarily as this is recognised as the closest option to breast milk in terms of nutrition. Other types of formula can be considered if necessary, but it’s always best to consult with a healthcare provider before making any changes.

If my baby isn’t tolerating a cow’s milk-based formula, what should I do?

It’s important to have a discussion with your paediatrician and dietitian about switching to another formula if your infant is showing signs or symptoms of intolerance.

+ Digestive issues such as colic, reflux, diarrhoea or constipation

+ Skin irritation, including rashes or eczema

+ Respiratory issues such as a chronic cough and runny nose

+ Other general signs such as inconsolable crying and insomnia or irritability

Did you know?

The protein content in cow’s milk is too high for infants to digest and absorb until they are at least 12 months old.

What are my options if my baby has an intolerance to cow’s milk-based formula?

If your baby shows signs of intolerance, it’s worth discussing with your paediatrician and dietitian the possibility of switching to an alternative formula. An elemental or semi-elemental formula may be a good option, as they are hypoallergenic and safe for infants with a cow’s milk allergy. These formulas have proteins that are broken down for easy digestion and absorption, and can help alleviate symptoms such as digestive issues, skin irritation, and respiratory problems.

Where to go from here?

Aptamil’s range of infant formulas are formulated with quality ingredients that are backed by science to provide optimal nutrition for your baby’s early stages of life. Whether you are looking for a cow’s milk-based formula, semi-elemental or elemental formula, Aptamil has got you covered with their wide range of options. Visit your local Alive pharmacy to find the right formula for your baby, with local Australian brands and trusted quality. Always seek advice from your paediatrician and dietitian before changing or starting any formula.

Written by Lauren Mason Accredited Practising Dietitian Health Management Dietitians www.healthmanagement.com.au

By Nature Awaken Lengthening Mascara

with age KEEPING

Hair doesn’t grow on trees; it grows on our heads. As we age, it’s important to take care of our hair to keep it in great shape. Here are some tips and tricks that might help!

BRUSH WITH CARE

For all lengths of hair, make sure you brush it. Even those with short hair can benefit from the massage of the bristles on the scalp. Light combing can stimulate the hair follicle for healthy hair regrowth. When brushing longer hair make sure to brush the knots out from the ends and work your way up. This will cause less strain from all the pulling and yanking.

KEEP IT CLEAN

To maintain fresh-looking hair, it’s essential to remove debris, dandruff, and toxins regularly. Build-up of these substances can block and damage hair follicles. As we age, it’s important to be gentle on our hair, especially if it becomes thinner and drier. Choose a shampoo and conditioner that contains lush ingredients and oils, such as the OGX Argan Oil of Morocco Shampoo and Conditioner, which is free of harmful chemicals and light in texture. Also, avoid washing your hair too often, as this can strip it of its essential oils.

MULTIVITAMINS

As we age, our bodies require more minerals and nutrients to maintain our youthfulness. There are many vitamins that can help with pigmentation and prevent hair thinning, including Vitamin B, D, E, Zinc, and Iron, among others. Multivitamins, such as the Swisse Multivitamins from the Ultivite range, provide a convenient way to replenish a blend of minerals, antioxidants, and herbs to support our bodies and our hair.

AIR DRY

Hopefully you’ve mastered the act of patience and can wait out the hair drying process. Wet hair can be fragile, so brushing it, wrapping it in a towel or drying it with heat can damage it. If you wish you can use a light micro-fibre towel or t-shirt to gently wrap your hair. Even better, simply pat your hair dry with a micro-fibre towel and leave it be. A serum or coconut oil can be a nice treat for the ends of your hair if it’s feeling extra dull.

GREY HAIR AND COLOUR

Some people embrace their greying hair without any regrets, recognizing that aging is a natural process. However, if you’re not ready to embrace the look of grey hair, you can consider dyeing your hair. It’s important to carefully follow the instructions on the dye package, as some dyes can contain chemicals that help the colour adhere to your hair. While dyeing your hair is generally safe, it’s important to be mindful of keeping it away from your face and not leaving it on for too long. If you prefer a more natural option, the Bio Magic Hair Colour Range is a good choice for those looking for an organic-friendly option.

MANAGE HAIR LOSS

As we age, it’s common to experience some form of hair loss, such as thinning or hair becoming finer. In men, hereditary hair loss is also common, with hairline recession and crown thinning being typical symptoms. While there are medicinal products available to help with hair loss, such as the Regaine range, it’s important to consult with a doctor or pharmacist before using them. They can provide advice on whether the product is appropriate for you and how to use it safely and effectively.

NOURISH AND STRENGTHEN

Haircare is essential to keep your hair healthy, and there are many great products available to help. To find the right product for your hair, it’s a good idea to consult with your hairdresser or pharmacist. A new product that you might want to consider is the Growth Bomb Range, which is specifically designed to promote scalp health and protect against hair breakage for stronger and longer hair. The range contains a plant called ‘Yerba Maté’, which is rich in antioxidants and caffeine, making it an excellent choice for those seeking stronger hair.