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 natural 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.
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.
Breast Health
What is Indole-3-carbinol?
Indole-3-Carbinol (I3C) is a naturally occurring phyto-nutrient (plant based) 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 releasing excess estrogen safely.
Can the Breast Health Formula prevent breast cancer?
Breast cancer risk arises largely from diet and lifestyle, environmental factors and genetics. Breast Health has been formulated to assist your body in safely lowering levels of estrone - the promiscuous estrogen which has been linked to increased risk in breast and reproductive organ cancers. Note: It is important to continue conducting monthly breast exams at home and receive a regular mammogram screening.
I am on thyroid medication and your product label advised that I should not use Breast Health, although my doctor advised me differently. What should I do?
We will be changing our caution statement on our label in the near future. Our apologies for the confusion. In the mean time, yes, your doctor is correct. Indole-3-carbinol is derrived from cruciferous vegetables (broccoli, cauliflower, kale, cabbage etc) -- these are known as "goitrogens" and in mass quantities can sometimes affect an overactive thyroid if the person is not on thyroid medication. If you suffer from hyperthyroidism and are on thyroid medication or if you suffer from hypothyroidism, Breast Health is completely safe to use.
Bone Health
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 to help with calcium absorption. Finally, it contains herbs that are full of nutrients and 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 all the calcium and minerals you need but also helps with the joint aches and discomforts that often accompany aging.
Energy
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, or taking prescription medications, should consult a health care practitioner prior to use.
Will I feel jittery with Energy?
No, Energy has been developed to release energy in a gradual and sustained manner.
Hair, Skin & Nails
I already take a multi vitamin…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 contain ingredients not typically found in a multi vitamin that are specific to hair, skin and nail health such as MSM [Methylsulfonylmethane] and Hyaluronic acid. These ingredients along with 18 other ingredients combine to specifically support healthy, hair skin and nails.
Do I have to keep taking Hair, Skin & Nails everyday to keep the benefits?
Yes, like any vitamin 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 would benefit from the Hair, Skin & Nails. Many women experience some hair loss during menopause. This is due to the drop in estrogen in the body. A supplement like Menopause Relief will help to naturally 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 hair loss 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 hair loss nutrition can make a big difference in the health of your hair.
Following are some of the vitamins included in our Hair, Skin & Nails formula.
* Vitamin A - This vitamin is found in broccoli, cabbage, carrots, spinach, apricots, peaches, milk, meat, and cheese. It helps produce oil in the scalp, which keeps the skin healthy.
Niacin (Vitamin B 3) - This vitamin is found in whole grains, wheat germ, brewer’s yeast, nuts, and meat. It improves circulation to the scalp. Without adequate circulation to the scalp, hair cannot grow.
Pantothenic Acid (Vitamin B 5) - This vitamin is found in whole grains, brewer’s yeast, egg yolks, and organ meats. It prevents hair loss, and also helps to prevent hair from turning gray.
Vitamin B 6 - This vitamin is found in vegetables, whole grains, brewer’s yeast, egg yolks, and organ meats. It helps prevent hair loss and also helps create melanin, which helps give hair its color.
Vitamin B 12 - This vitamin is found in meat and dairy products. It helps prevent hair loss.
Vitamin C - This vitamin is found in citrus fruits, strawberries, kiwi, pineapple, cantaloupe, potatoes, tomatoes, green peppers, and dark green vegetables. It promotes healthy skin and hair. Healthy skin of the scalp is important, because it helps the hair grow and prevents it from falling out.
Biotin - This vitamin is found in whole grains, brewer’s yeast, rice, milk, egg yolks, and liver. It helps produce keratin, a protein helps make up hair.
Heart Health
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 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 will 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. It reduces your “bad” cholesterol and decreases blood pressure.
Coenzyme Q10 (ubiquinone) is a powerful anti-oxidant which can slow down the age-related declines by scavenging free radicals and stabilizing cell membranes.
Vitamin B12 (specifically methylcobalamin) and folic acid are of particular importance for their methylation properties. Our bodies depend on methylation to detoxify carcinogens and other poisons, to repair damaged DNA, to form new cells, and to manufacture important anti-aging hormones. When your ability to methylate is impaired, all of these functions are impeded, leading to accelerated aging and degenerative disease such as heart disease, Alzheimer’s, cancer, diabetes, and others.
B6 (pyridoxine hydrochloride) helps to: reduce blood pressure in patients with hypertension; promote a healthy nervous system; form red blood cells; and detoxify homocystiene.
B1 (thiamine) assists with carbohydrate digestion and promotes healthy functioning of both the heart and nervous system.
Betaine (trimethylglycine) is a vitamin-like compound that occurs naturally in the body and in some foods, and lowers the levels of homocysteine in the body. Homocysteine is a naturally occurring amino acid that can be potentially toxic to blood vessels thereby contributing to the development of heart disease, stroke, and peripheral vascular disease. It can be metabolized by re-methylation using B12, folic acid and betaine.
Furthermore supplementation of betaine has proven useful for people with high homocystiene who don’t respond to vitamin B6.
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 family doctor, cardiologist and naturopathic doctor. High doses of fish oil have a thinning effect on the blood which may result in your ability to reduce or eliminate the amount 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.
“Statin” (HMG-CoA reductase inhibitor) or cholesterol lowering drugs deplete the body of CoQ10 and therefore leave the body and heart particularly open to free radical damage. 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, maybe 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 is CoQ10 and why do I need it?
Coenzyme Q10 is a fat-soluble nutrient that is vital to virtually all aerobic organisms. The therapeutic benefits of CoQ10 are primarily attributed to its role in the production of cellular energy (ATP) and its antioxidant effects. The levels of CoQ10 produced in the body however can drop by as much as 50% as we age.
CoQ10 has a particular affinity for organs with high energy demands, such as the heart and brain. When CoQ10 is taken as a supplement, it seems to concentrate specifically in the cells of the heart and the brain, protecting the mitochondria from damage-causing free radicals and toxins. It can restore energy production in weakened brain cells to nearly normal levels, preventing cell death.
Coenzyme Q10 also acts throughout the body as a free radical scavenger and membrane stabilizer. In addition to being a powerful antioxidant itself, CoQ10 helps to preserve higher levels of vitamins C and E in the body.
Hormonal Balance
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 balancing your hormones, this formula also helps in regulating menstrual cycles.
Who should take this formula?
This formula was designed to help women of all ages who are experiencing hormonal imbalance symptoms including cramping, boating, mood swings and breast tenderness. This formula is not recommended for girls in puberty.
If I have a heavy menstrual flow should I continue taking Hormonal Balance throughout my period?
If you have a light to moderate/normal flow you may continue this product throughout your cycle. If you have a heavy flow you can choose to stop taking this formula during menses.
Libido
Q. How do I take the Libido formula?
A. 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 herbal formula that comes in capsule form. Each ingredient was specifically chosen for its beneficial effects on the female reproductive system and ability to create overall relaxation and a sense of well being. Libido increases sexual response time, boosts libido, intensifies sexual sensations and orgasm, and can play a role in helping to balance the hormonal system for proper functioning.
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 work to take 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.
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 9 of the ingredients in Libido are non-toxic substances that typically do not produce 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.
Menopause Relief
Will Menopause Relief work for women who have had a hysterectomy?
Yes. Menopause Relief is a natural way to balance hormones. Even women who suddenly experience menopause due to a hysterectomy should experience relief from their symptoms.
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?
No. You must stop taking your HRT and then start the Menopause Relief. Simply stop taking your HRT and the very next day you can begin taking Menopause Relief.
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; repairs damaged hormone receptor sites and flushes artificial hormones from the body.
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.
Sleep
Is Sleep a sleeping pill?
No, Sleep is a natural sleeping aid pill. Drugs such as sleeping pills should not be used regularly, as they require a prescription and can be addictive. Sleep can be taken regularly to aid your body when falling asleep.
Do I need a prescription for Sleep?
No, Sleep is a 100% natural sleeping aid pill. Because it is non-habit forming and has no side effects, Sleep 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. As Sleep calms your central nervous system by promoting healthy levels of serotonin and other neurotransmitters (5-HTP), the Melatonin hormone 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?
Yes. 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?
Yes. Based on historical data, Sleep is 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. 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 100% natural and based on herbs that have been used for years to promote rest and relaxation. There are no known serious side effects of using this formula.
Weight Management
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 will be 1-2lbs 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 the ingredient Glucomannan (the key ingredient in Weight Management) that indicates it’s 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.