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September 03, 2010
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FAQs
Where are the femMED products manufactured?
All femMED products are manufactured in Canada, in a state of the art pharmaceutically licensed manufacturing facility that is registered with Health Canada.
Are the products tested on animals?
No. We use only the finest ingredients – vitamins, minerals and herbs – and none of our formulas have been tested on animals.
What do you mean by “products are complementary”?
All of our products have been designed for women only, and during the development process, we were careful to ensure that our products could be used together. Therefore a woman needing support for her menopause symptoms, breast health and prevention of osteoporosis, for example, can use 3 femMED products together – Menopause Relief, Breast Health and Bone Health without worrying about contraindications. The only 2 products that should not be used together are our Sleep and Energy formulas.
Why do you use vegetable capsules instead of gel capsules?
We set out to create the highest quality solutions in the marketplace today. We were very much against the use of gel caps because of the process by which they are manufactured. Gel caps are derived from primarily pig and bovine skin and bones. Gel caps are commonplace in the supplement and pharmaceutical markets, but as a company, we believe that vegetable caps are the better choice.
What are additives?
When it comes to choosing a nutritional supplement what is NOT in the product is just as important as what is. Be sure to carefully examine the NONMEDICAL ingredients, sometimes called excipients or additives. Many popular brands contain fillers, preservatives, glazes, sweeteners, artificial colors, binders, deodorizers, chemicals and potential allergens, such as lactose, gluten, dyes and gelatin. Some products include chemicals like titanium dioxide and sodium benzoate, which can be associated with significant health risks. So it is important to read the label carefully before you buy.
femMED offers a range of top quality nutritional supplements designed specifically for women that are free of these undesirable additives.
What makes Bone Health different from other calcium supplements?
femMED Bone Health uses calcium citrate not calcium carbonate. Studies have shown that citrate is more readily absorbed into the body than most other types of calcium. It also contains MSM and glucosamine to keep your joints healthy and strong, and magnesium and vitamin D to help with calcium absorption. Finally, it contains herbs that are full of nutrients that have been shown to help the formula absorb into bones and tissue better and stay there longer.
At what age should women start taking Bone Health?
Depending on your daily intake, calcium supplementation should begin in adolescence. Maintaining adequate calcium levels helps ensure healthy bones and reduces the risk of osteoporosis. Bone Health not only provides essential calcium and minerals but also helps with the joint aches and discomforts that often accompany aging.
I’m in my early 40’s and in good health. How critical is it for me to take preventative measures to reduce the risk of osteoporosis?
The statistics are staggering: In women over 45 years of age, osteoporosis accounts for more days spent in hospital than many other diseases, including diabetes, myocardial infarction and breast cancer. One Canadian suffers an osteoporosis- related hip fracture every 18 minutes, and by 2030, the number of hip fractures is expected to quadruple! So taking charge of your health in every way that you can is a positive approach worth undertaking. In addition to adequate Calcium and Vitamin D intake, bones require physical activity to stay strong and healthy. An active lifestyle plays an integral role in both preventing and treating osteoporosis. Attaining a high peak bone mass during the early years provides a good foundation for skeletal health in later life. Impact exercises such as walking, jogging and dancing help to build a strong skeleton. Weight-bearing exercises and muscle strengthening (resistance) exercise have a beneficial effect as well. Also, ensure you get enough protein, avoid excess caffeine, alcohol and salt, and increase fruit and vegetable intake, which have been shown to reduce bone loss.
What is Indole-3-carbinol?
Indole-3-Carbinol (I3C) is a naturally occurring phyto-nutrient (plant based compound) found in vegetables like broccoli, kale, cabbage and cauliflower. I3C helps protect breast tissue by stimulating your body’s natural detoxifying enzymes. This aids the body in eliminating harmful estrogens and promoting a healthy estrogen balance.
I am 46 years old and suffer with pain and tenderness in my breasts. My doctor said that it is fibrocystic breast disease. Can Breast Health help?
Many women experience breast tenderness that is cyclic or continuous throughout the month. This is often caused by high levels of estrogen. Fibrocystic breast disease (FBD) is a condition also caused by high estrogen levels, resulting in pain, tenderness, lumps and a feeling of fullness in the breasts. Symptoms may range from mild to severe and typically peak before each menstrual period and improve immediately afterwards. FBD is estimated to affect over 60% of all women. It is particularly common in women between the ages of 30 and 50, and rare in women who have gone through menopause because estrogen levels decline in menopause. Breast Health contains ingredients that promote a healthy estrogen balance and help to reduce breast pain and tenderness.
Does your product contain any soy?
No, there is no soy or soy products in Breast Health. This product also does not contain any dairy, egg, gluten, yeast, artificial colours and flavours. Breast Health does contain indole-3-carbinol, milk thistle, calcium-D-glucarate, schizandra, stinging nettle, lignans and vitamin D.
Is Energy safe to take over a prolonged period of time?
While Energy is safe for use when you are feeling fatigued and in need of extra energy, if you consume this product for longer than 12 consecutive weeks, you should consult a health care practitioner.
Can Energy be taken with other medications?
Do not use this product in combination with other stimulatory agents including ephedra. Do not use this product if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, taking anti-coagulant drugs or MAO inhibitors. Individuals with a pre-existing medical condition, such as heart disease or diabetes, or those taking prescription medications should consult a health care practitioner prior to use. Do not use this product in combination with femMED Sleep.
Will I feel jittery with Energy?
No, Energy has been developed to release energy in a gradual and sustained manner.
I already take a multi vitamins, why do I need to take Hair, Skin & Nails as well?
While it's great to take a high quality multi vitamin for your overall health, Hair, Skin & Nails contains ingredients not typically found in a multivitamin that are specific to hair, skin and nail health such as amino acids, the antioxidant alpha lipoic acid, and silicon.. These ingredients along with various vitamins and minerals in this unique formula help support healthy, hair skin and nails.
Do I have to keep taking Hair, Skin & Nails everyday to keep the benefits?
Yes, like any nutritional supplement the benefits are only realized with ongoing use.
I am in my 50's and I am experiencing thinning hair. Will this formula help with this?
If you are suffering from hair loss, you will likely benefit from the Hair, Skin & Nails. Many women experience some hair loss during menopause. This is due to hormonal changes, specifically the drop in estrogen and sometimes testosterone, which occurs during menopause. A supplement like Menopause Relief will help to safely balance your hormones plus taking Hair, Skin & Nails will provide your body with the essential nutrients it needs to maximize hair health. Many people do not realize it, but poor nutrition can greatly contribute to thinning hair. It can also cause hair to be unhealthy, to be brittle, and to break easily. Hair, Skin & Nails contain a number of hair loss vitamins that can help your hair become healthy and strong. Good nutrition can make a big difference in the health of your hair, along with your skin and nails.
I am healthy and don't have heart disease. Why should I take Heart Health?
Heart Health OMEGA 3 + CoQ10 is specially formulated to provide an essential blend of omega-3 fatty acids and coenzyme Q10 which can help to support and maintain cardiovascular health. Even if you don't have heart disease, supplementation with Heart Health may help reduce your chances of developing heart disease.
The fish oil provides omega-3 fatty acids, which are needed to maintain healthy cell membranes and are particularly important to the health and function of the brain, heart and blood vessels. Omega-3 fatty acids help reduce cholesterol, blood pressure, blood clotting and inflammation. Coenzyme Q10 (ubiquinone) is a powerful anti-oxidant involved in energy production within the cells. It supports heart health in many ways. It strengthens the function of the heart muscle, helps prevent LDL (bad) cholesterol oxidation, reduces blood pressure and reduces free radical damage.
I am currently taking blood thinners after a heart attack last year. Can I still take Heart Health?
Yes, it is a great complementary treatment, but bring it to the attention of your health care provider. High doses of fish oil (well beyond what is in this product) may have a thinning effect on the blood, which may require adjustment in dosage of anti-coagulants, or blood thinners you are currently taking. Fish oil will also help in the reduction of hypertension or high blood pressure therefore it may have an additive effect to any hypertensive medications you might be taking. It is important to have your blood viscosity and blood pressure checked regularly if you are on medication as well.
I am currently taking Statin drugs to help lower my cholesterol. Can I still take Heart Health?
Yes, statin drugs (HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors) reduce levels of CoQ10, and this can lead to side effects of statin therapy such as muscle fatigue and weakness. Deplete CoQ10 levels may also impair the function of the heart. Statin drugs have been shown to reduce plasma CoQ10 by 40% and therefore it is very important to supplement with CoQ10 if you are taking any statin drugs.
I already take an Omega 3 supplement daily. Do I still need to take Heart Health?
An omega-3 fish oil, which contain the biologically active compounds EPA and DHA, may be sufficient in our earlier years at protecting the cardiovascular system, but as we age the concentrations of CoQ10 that our bodies produce decrease significantly. Coenzyme Q10 (ubiquinone) is a key nutrient in protecting not only the heart, but also the brain as we age. Supplementation with CoQ10 reduces oxidative stress and also increases cellular levels of vitamins C and E. CoQ10 is best absorbed when taken with foods or supplements that contain fats such as vitamin E or fish oil. As well, Heart Health contains many other key ingredients that support healthy heart function, including vitamin B12, vitamin B6 and betaine.
What does this formula do?
The ingredients in Hormonal Balance work together to gently balance your hormones and reduce symptoms associated with PMS and pre-menopause such as cramping, boating, mood swings and breast tenderness. By improving hormone balance, this formula may also help in regulating menstrual cycles.
Who should take this formula?
This formula was designed to help women with hormonal imbalances, particularly premenstrual syndrome and perimenopause (women 18 and over) who are experiencing hormonal imbalance symptoms including cramping, boating, mood swings and breast tenderness. This formula is not recommended for girls in puberty or pregnant women.
If I have a heavy menstrual flow should I continue taking Hormonal Balance throughout my period?
Yes, Hormonal Balance will not increase menstrual bleeding.
I have really severe cramping, heavy periods and migraines so my doctor recommended the pill. I am worried about side effects...what do you suggest?
Oral contraceptives, which contain synthetic hormones, can cause significant side effects for some women, such as an increase in the risk of heart attacks, breast cancer and stroke. Weight gain, blood clots, breakthrough bleeding, nausea, headaches, depression, vaginitis, urinary tract infection, breast changes and skin problems have also been associated with the use of oral contraceptives. It is important to remember that the birth control pill does not correct the underlying problem that is causing the symptoms in the first place. By balancing hormones naturally, many women have reported improvement in the symptoms of PMS without the troubling side effects that can be associated with the birth control pill.
When I was younger, I had very easy menstrual cycles. Now, at 38, I suffer from insomnia, I get anxious, and I break out in acne! How can this be? Any suggestions?
PMS can make life miserable, and for some women, it can last for 14 days each month until menstruation begins. Your experience is common in that PMS symptoms at one age can be very different than at another. Often women will notice these changes after life events like childbirth, and by the same token, PMS can also be aggravated by stress, sugar, alcohol and caffeine intake, and a deficiency in progesterone. Using natural ingredients to help balance your hormones can alleviate symptoms associated with hormonal imbalances or fluctuations at any age.
I am 43 years old and have been noticing some changes in my monthly cycles. My breasts get very tender, my cycles are much shorter, I get really moody and I’ve even had the occasional hot flash! Am I in menopause?
Most likely you are in perimenopause (or pre-menopause), which is the transition to menopause. This doesn’t happen overnight. It is the 5 to 10 years before menopause when a woman’s ovarian function is waning, resulting in fluctuating levels of estrogen. This hormonal imbalance, can lead to these, and other symptoms of perimenopause. Perimenopause can start in a woman’s late 30’s or early 40’s.
I am 46 and within the past year I’ve started having heavy periods, including one episode of flooding, some night sweats, and PMS that has worsened quite a bit. I get very nauseous and get migraines right before my period, too. I was wondering if Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) would help, but my best friend had breast cancer and I am concerned about increased risks...
You are right to be concerned. Recent research has shown that while HRT does help to control and manage some of these symptoms, it can also increase the risk of stroke, heart attack, blood clots, cardiovascular disease, breast cancer and Alzheimer’s disease. The ingredients in Hormonal Balance work together to help balance your hormones and reduce the symptoms associated with PMS and pre-menopause. It can also help to regulate menstrual cycles and alleviate symptoms associated with PMS and perimenopause.
Q. How do I take the Libido formula?
We recommend that you start by taking 1 capsule 3 times per day with or without food. After 1 month of use, you may wish to decrease your daily dosage by 1 capsule per day. Some women find that 1 or 2 capsules per day is sufficient, others find that the full dose is required.
How does Libido work?
Libido is a blended herbs and nutrients that work together to improve many aspects of sexual function and desire. Libido increases sexual response time, boosts libido, intensifies sexual sensations and orgasm, and improves vaginal lubrication.
Can I expect instant results from Libido?
Unlike Viagra, Libido is taken over time to encourage pelvic blood flow, increase free testosterone, and increase sexual desire. It does not work when taken just before sex is anticipated. Though there are some initial increased sensations, most women find that responses improve progressively with daily use over a period of time, usually 3-4 weeks.
I have never had a strong sex drive and seem not to have much sensitivity in the genital area. Can Libido help?
It's difficult to say exactly what may be behind your lack of interest in sex and lack of sexual response. You may wish to consult your practitioner if you want to understand the underlying causes. For most women who describe themselves as you do, however, Libido is very helpful. Women can experience the benefits of a healthy sex drive and proper sexual functioning with Libido.
Are there any side effects?
All of the ingredients in Libido are non-toxic substances that typically do not cause any adverse effects. Do not take this product if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. If you have a pre-existing medical condition, or are taking prescription medications, consult a health care practitioner prior to use.
Q. Is Libido safe to take if I'm trying to get pregnant?
Yes. Once you confirm your pregnancy, you should always check with your practitioner regarding any supplements or medications you are taking -- even vitamins.
My doctor suggested I use Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) but I don’t like the idea of being on a medication with a long list of side effects. What are my options?
You are right to be concerned. Recent research has shown that while HRT does help to control and manage menopausal symptoms, it can also cause an increase in strokes, heart attacks, blood clots, cardio vascular disease, breast cancer and Alzheimer’s disease. Fortunately, there are natural ingredients like black cohosh that can help to alleviate the symptoms of menopause without all the troubling side effects associated with traditional HRT.
I am 47 years old and my friend recently told me that my migraines, allergies and insomnia could be a sign that I am in menopause. Is that true?
About 70% of women who are in the early stages of menopause are affected by multiple symptoms, even if they still have their period. While the most commonly talked about symptoms of menopause include hot flashes and night sweats, many women experience lesser known symptoms like mood swings, depression, anxiety, loss of libido, vaginal dryness, weight gain, bloating, joint pain and yes...migraines, insomnia and allergies. There are 34 possible symptoms in all!
I have read that women who are in menopause are more susceptible to osteoporosis -- should I be concerned?
Yes. Not enough women are aware that a potential consequence of menopause is osteoporosis. Estrogen, a key hormone that aids the process of calcium absorption into the bones, drops off during menopause. This causes a loss of bone density, which leaves women more susceptible to breaks and fractures. For women 45 years of age and over, osteoporosis accounts for more days spent in hospital than many other diseases including diabetes, myocardial infarction and breast cancer.
What product would you recommend for someone with symptoms of menopause and a concern about bone loss and osteoporosis? I am leery of mixing many supplements together.
Menopause Relief helps to alleviate the most common symptoms of menopause such as hot flashes, night sweats and mood swings. Hormonal Balance can help manage symptoms of bloating, cramping and mood swings. Menopause Relief and Hormonal Balance work well in harmony and can be taken together if you are experiencing severe menopause symptoms that have not been sufficiently reduced by using Menopause Relief on its own. All femMED products are designed to work synergistically. If you are concerned about osteoporosis, you can add Bone Health and safely take it with other femMED supplements.
How soon should I expect to feel relief?
Some women report almost immediate relief from their symptoms. Since every woman’s symptoms, and the severity of those symptoms are different, it’s more common to experience relief within 30 days. femMED products are formulated to gently balance your hormones and for some women this takes time.
If I am currently taking Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) can I also take Menopause Relief?
Menopause Relief is generally not recommended for use with HRT, unless under the recommendation and supervision of your health care provider. Abruptly stopping HRT can cause a worsening of menopausal symptoms, such as hot flashes. Some practitioners advise that HRT be weaned off gradually while another therapy is initiated. Again, it is best to work with your health care provider on this.
Can I take Menopause Relief in conjunction with Hormonal Balance?
Yes. Menopause Relief and Hormonal Balance work well in harmony and can be taken together if you are experiencing severe menopause symptoms that have not been sufficiently reduced using Menopause Relief on its own. Menopause Relief helps alleviate the most common symptoms of menopause such as hot flashes, night sweats and mood swings. Hormonal Balance helps with additional symptoms such as cramping and bloating.
Can I take this product with medications?
This product should not be taken with HRT (Hormone Replacement Therapy), blood thinners or beta blockers.
How do I take this product?
The recommended dosage for Menopause Relief is one capsule twice daily, on an empty stomach. If you suffer from gastrointestinal difficulties you can take with food.
I am very careful to eat a healthy diet. Do I still need to take a multivitamin?
Yes. Nowadays, it's nearly impossible to obtain the necessary level of nutrients from food alone. The mineral content in our soils has diminished over the years due to changes in agriculture. Pollution and pesticides, use of prescription medication, stress and certain forms of cooking can deplete vitamins and minerals. A quality multivitamin will provide all of the essential vitamins, minerals and antioxidants required for optimal health and it can fill in the gaps where your diet falls short. Multivitamins do not replace healthy eating, but rather they complement an already healthy diet.
I've heard that capsules are better than tablets. Is this true?
There are many advantages in taking capsules over tablets. Most tablets take a long time to dissolve resulting in key nutrients often not being absorbed, whereas capsules dissolve quickly, so the body is able to absorb virtually every nutrient. You should also consider vegetable-based capsules. Many manufacturers have switched to vegetarian capsules or vegetarian caplets/tablets. Vegetable-based capsules are preferred by many for dietary, religious and health reasons. They are also easier to swallow than larger tablets!
Free radicals are unstable oxygen molecules generated by normal bodily functions such as breathing and eating, and they are also produced in response to stress, sun, pollution, and chemical exposure. These unstable molecules are seen as dangerous because they seek out and attach to molecules from healthy cells, causing damage – a process known as oxidation. Numerous age-related diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, cancer, arthritis and cataracts have been associated with an excess of free radicals or a deficiency of antioxidants. For example, the oxidation of cholesterol in our blood vessels leads to inflammation and atherosclerosis. Sun or chemical exposure can lead to free radical damage of the cornea of the eye and development of cataracts and it can also take a toll on our skin, causing premature aging and wrinkling. Antioxidants act as "free radical scavengers," neutralizing the damaging effects of free radicals. Antioxidants are abundant in fruits and vegetables, as well as in other foods including nuts, grains and some meats, poultry and fish. Examples of some good antioxidants include pomegranate, cranberry, blueberry, grape seed extract and lycopene.
I currently take a multi once a day but I heard this might not be enough?
Our bodies are not designed to utilize nutrients in one large single dose. Research has proven that eating smaller, more frequent meals allows for better utilization of the nutritional value of our food. The same principle applies to vitamins and minerals. Divided doses ensure that we have a constant supply of nutrients throughout the day for improved absorption. A one-size-fits-all multivitamin formula, taken once a day, cannot possibly satisfy our varied nutritional needs.
I have heard about morning sickness and I am concerned I may get it. Is there anything natural I can take?
femMED Pregnancy + Ginger contains ginger to help prevent nausea and vomiting associated with pregnancy. Ginger is a clinically proven antinauseant with no drowsiness reported.
What is the difference between femMED Pregnancy Before, During & After and Pregnancy + Ginger?
Pregnancy + Ginger contains ginger root to help prevent nausea and vomiting associated with pregnancy. Ginger is a clinically proven antinauseant with no drowsiness reported.
We recommend that you take Pregnancy + Ginger if you are experiencing mild to moderate morning sickness and switch to Pregnancy, Before, During & After for the duration of your pregnancy once your morning sickness has stopped. For most women, mild to moderate morning sickness is experienced only during the first trimester. For severe nausea or if symptoms persist or worsen you should consult your health care practitioner.
What are prenatal vitamins and why do I need to take them?
They are specially formulated multivitamin and mineral supplements designed to support the increased needs of a pregnant woman and her growing baby. A prenatal supplement will contain many of the same nutrients found in a regular multi, but it will have higher amounts of folic acid, iron, calcium, magnesium and vitamin D to support the needs during pregnancy. The recommend dosage of femMED Pregnancy Before, During & After is one capsule 2 times daily with meals and femMED Pregnancy + Ginger is one capsule three times daily with meals. This will help reduce the risk of nausea and improve absorption and assimilation of the nutrients. Studies have shown that folic Acid, which is part of the Vitamin B family, can significantly reduce the risk of serious defects to the baby's brain and spinal cord (e.g. spina bifida) occurring in the first four weeks of pregnancy. The evidence suggests that 70% of the defects of this type could be prevented if the mothers were to take a daily dose of folic acid. To be effective, folic acid should be taken before pregnancy occurs and continued into the pregnancy.
Researchers at The Hospital for Sick Children (SickKids) have found that taking prenatal multivitamins fortified with folic acid can reduce the risk of three common childhood cancers: leukemia, brain tumours and neuroblastoma and can reduce the risk of a wide range of serious birth defects, including cardiovascular and limb defects, cleft palate, oral cleft, congenital hydrocephalus and urinary tract anomalies.
I am very careful to eat a healthy diet. Can't I just supplement with folic acid?
Nowadays, it's nearly impossible to obtain the necessary level of nutrients from food alone. The mineral content in our soils has diminished over the years due to changes in agriculture. Pollution and pesticides, use of prescription medication, stress and certain forms of cooking can deplete vitamins and minerals. A quality prenatal supplement will contain all of the vitamins and minerals that should be a part of your regular diet and fill in the gaps where your diet falls short. Prenatal vitamins do not replace healthy eating, but rather they supplement an already healthy diet.
When should I start taking prenatal vitamins?
The first trimester is the time during pregnancy when all of the baby's major organ systems are forming and developing. Evidence shows that the mother's body will need adequate nutrition "on board" in order for the baby's growth to be on track, especially when it comes to vitamins such as folic acid.
The baby's neural tube will begin to close within the first month of pregnancy, during a time when few women even realize they are pregnant! For that reason, it is very important that you start taking prenatal vitamins 2-3 months before you begin trying to conceive.
When should I stop taking prenatal vitamins?
If you are planning to breastfeed, you should continue taking your prenatal vitamins until your baby is weaned.
What if taking prenatal vitamins makes me sick?
Many women who are bothered by nausea, stomach pain and even vomiting are often taking their daily prenatal supplement in the morning and find that taking their prenatal a little later in the day with a snack or meal helps.
Do I need any other supplements or nutrients in addition to prenatal vitamins?
Some women mistakenly believe that if they take prenatal vitamins, they don't have to worry so much about their diet. However, one of the most important building blocks during pregnancy is protein. Prenatal vitamins do not include protein. You should be sure you have at least 60 g of protein or 6 oz of meat or other protein (such as nuts, seeds, beans, and soy) every day. Having a healthy pregnancy diet plan is one of the best ways to be sure your body is getting all necessary nutrients.
Some women may also need additional calcium and iron, especially in the later months of pregnancy when the needs for these minerals are greatest or if they are on special diets. Be sure to check with your health care provider to see if you need any other supplements.
What are prenatal vitamins and why do I need to take them?
They are specially formulated multivitamin and mineral supplements designed to support the increased needs of a pregnant woman and her growing baby. A prenatal supplement will contain many of the same nutrients found in a regular multi, but it will have higher amounts of folic acid, iron, calcium, magnesium and vitamin D to support the needs during pregnancy. The recommend dosage of femMED Pregnancy Before, During & After is one capsule 2 times daily with meals and femMED Pregnancy + Ginger is one capsule three times daily with meals. This will help reduce the risk of nausea and improve absorption and assimilation of the nutrients. Studies have shown that folic Acid, which is part of the Vitamin B family, can significantly reduce the risk of serious defects to the baby's brain and spinal cord (e.g. spina bifida) occurring in the first four weeks of pregnancy. The evidence suggests that 70% of the defects of this type could be prevented if the mothers were to take a daily dose of folic acid. To be effective, folic acid should be taken before pregnancy occurs and continued into the pregnancy.
Researchers at The Hospital for Sick Children (SickKids) have found that taking prenatal multivitamins fortified with folic acid can reduce the risk of three common childhood cancers: leukemia, brain tumours and neuroblastoma and can reduce the risk of a wide range of serious birth defects, including cardiovascular and limb defects, cleft palate, oral cleft, congenital hydrocephalus and urinary tract anomalies.
I am very careful to eat a healthy diet. Can't I just supplement with folic acid?
Nowadays, it's nearly impossible to obtain the necessary level of nutrients from food alone. The mineral content in our soils has diminished over the years due to changes in agriculture. Pollution and pesticides, use of prescription medication, stress and certain forms of cooking can deplete vitamins and minerals. A quality prenatal supplement will contain all of the vitamins and minerals that should be a part of your regular diet and fill in the gaps where your diet falls short. Prenatal vitamins do not replace healthy eating, but rather they supplement an already healthy diet.
When should I start taking prenatal vitamins?
The first trimester is the time during pregnancy when all of the baby's major organ systems are forming and developing. Evidence shows that the mother's body will need adequate nutrition "on board" in order for the baby's growth to be on track, especially when it comes to vitamins such as folic acid.
The baby's neural tube will begin to close within the first month of pregnancy, during a time when few women even realize they are pregnant! For that reason, it is very important that you start taking prenatal vitamins 2-3 months before you begin trying to conceive.
When should I stop taking prenatal vitamins?
If you are planning to breastfeed, you should continue taking your prenatal vitamins until your baby is weaned.
What if taking prenatal vitamins makes me sick?
Many women who are bothered by nausea, stomach pain and even vomiting are often taking their daily prenatal supplement in the morning and find that taking their prenatal a little later in the day with a snack or meal helps.
I have heard about morning sickness and I am concerned I may get it. Is there anything natural I can take?
femMED Pregnancy + Ginger contains ginger to help prevent nausea and vomiting associated with pregnancy. Ginger is a clinically proven antinauseant with no drowsiness reported.
Do I need any other supplements or nutrients in addition to prenatal vitamins?
Some women mistakenly believe that if they take prenatal vitamins, they don't have to worry so much about their diet. However, one of the most important building blocks during pregnancy is protein. Prenatal vitamins do not include protein. You should be sure you have at least 60 g of protein or 6 oz of meat or other protein (such as nuts, seeds, beans, and soy) every day. Having a healthy pregnancy diet plan is one of the best ways to be sure your body is getting all necessary nutrients.
Some women may also need additional calcium and iron, especially in the later months of pregnancy when the needs for these minerals are greatest or if they are on special diets. Be sure to check with your health care provider to see if you need any other supplements.
Is Sleep a sleeping pill?
No, Sleep is a combination of nutrients and herbs specially formulated to reduce insomnia, wakefulness and restlessness, and can help improve the quality of sleep experienced. Prescription sedatives and tranquilizers (sleeping pills) should not be used regularly, as they cause many undesirable side effects. They can also be addictive (habit-forming) and lead to tolerance (requiring higher dosages over time to be effective). Sleep can be taken regularly to aid your body when falling asleep.
Do I need a prescription for Sleep?
Sleep is a nutritional supplement that is sold in pharmacies and supplement stores and it does not require a prescription.
How does Sleep work? How does it make me catch more sleep?
Sleep is formulated to reduce stress and anxiety, easing your mind and body as you get ready for sleep. Sleep calms your central nervous system by promoting healthy levels of serotonin (through 5-HTP) and Melatonin signals the body that it is time for rest - allowing for you to go into a deep, relaxing sleep.
Will Sleep give me immediate results?
As with any dietary supplement, individual results may vary, however many have reported improved relaxation and sleep the very first night of taking Sleep. Sleep promotes a healthy natural sleep pattern, which is developed over time. Sleep’s effects are typically experienced after several days of taking Sleep, with maximum benefits resulting after one week of use.
Is Sleep safe to take over a prolonged period of time?
Based on historical data, the ingredients in Sleep are well tolerated when used occasionally or intermittently for an extended period of time. You should consult your doctor if you do not experience improved sleep after one month of taking Sleep.
Can Sleep be taken with other medications?
Sleep should not be taken with sedatives, barbiturates, anti-depressants, additional sleep aid medication or herbal sedatives. Do not use this product in combination with femMED Energy. As with any dietary supplement, if you are taking any prescription drugs or any over-the-counter products, please check with your physician first before using Sleep.
How safe is the Sleep Formula?
Sleep is made from herbs that have been used for years to promote rest and relaxation. There are no known serious side effects associated with using this formula.
Why do I need to drink water when I take the formula?
In order to properly activate the glucomannan fiber it must mix with water only. Replacing water with juice could cause stomach upset and will impact the effectiveness of the Weight Management formula.
How much weight will I lose?
Weight loss varies depending on each individual. With Weight Management you have the best opportunity to reach your weight loss goals if you use the product consistently and follow the directions. Average weight loss could be 1-2 lbs per week.
Can you take this product if you have heart disease or high cholesterol/blood pressure?
Yes, Weight Management can help normalize cholesterol and triglyceride levels in many people. There are many studies on glucomannan (the key ingredient in Weight Management) that indicates its effectiveness for many health issues, however, we do still recommend you consult with your healthcare professional.
How does the product work?
Weight Management creates a feeling of fullness. It also traps and binds some of the fat in the foods you eat so that it is not absorbed into your system. As a result, this formulation reduces caloric intake from fat and adds healthy fiber into your diet.
Can I substitute water with juice when taking Weight Management?
No. In order to properly activate the glucomannan fiber it must mix with water only. Replacing water with juice could cause stomach upset and will impact the effectiveness of the Weight Management formula.