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An estimated 100 million women around the world use the contraceptive pill everyday.

They give us the option to plan and control our reproductive choices, but they can also bring on some pretty awful side effects.

In a recent study, scientists at the Karolinska Institutet in Sweden confirmed that this popular form of contraception can actually have a negative impact on a woman's quality of life. 

Researchers gave 340 healthy women aged between 18 and 35 either hormonal contraceptive pills or placebos over a three month period.

The results found that the women who took the hormonal pill reported reduced feelings of overall well-being, including negative impacts on mood, self-control and energy.

However, researchers did note that despite these findings, the pill didn’t actually appear to increase the participants’ risk of depression.

In a slightly concerning statement on the institute’s website, the scientists admitted that the medical community knows “surprisingly little” about how the pill can effect a woman’s health, and emphasized the need for further studies into the subject.

They also noted that because the changes observed between the participants were relatively small, the results should be interpreted cautiously. 

However, the study's co-author, Dr. Niklas Zethraeus, did encourage women to take these findings into account when choosing a method of contraception. 

So, if you reckon your pill is making you feel a bit worse for wear, you're not the only one. 

 

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Emma Quinlan, is best known for her work as a promotional model, but now she is speaking out about the adverse effects her Insta-worthy body has had on her health.

According to The Independent, the Dubliner has previously struggled with body image, and admitted to only learning how to love her body at the age of 30.  

Now, Emma's Instagram feed is packed with fun and active lifestyle shots. 

 

When siblings do #gaelforce #running #fitfam #irishfitfam #runners #racing #ireland #mountainrunning

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However, the model recently revealed that she suffered from Hypothalamic Amenorrhea (no menstrual cycle) for almost four years, and is now encouraging other young women to practise the art of balance in their lives.

''Balance is not flex bowls and clean eats – Balance is a bar of chocolate if you want one, sleep, eating and drinking in moderation and maintaining a shape…'' 

 

**read and forget the pic** Wasn't gonna post it but decided it was important to – before insta for a young (ish) lady i would have been described as slim. Now maybe not so much or at least not "lean". I am not lean but I am maintainable and well, I may not be insta fit but a dairymilk is worth more to me now. When I was lean I was missing something fundamental that so many "lean" and apparently inspirational girls suffer with and some wear as a badge of honour. Hypothalamic Amenorrhea (no cycle) and for almost 4 years – (1.5 years of that was recovery which is horrendous@- And that's how long it took to recover!). The irony is I was never thin, I never looked unwell just Low in bodyfat. All these things lead (not may lead, they actually happen) to osteopenia, infertility, anxiety, insomnia, easier weight gain, depression etc etc… I say this only as so many here see people as an inspiration because they're starving to get into a bikini. Balance is not flex bowls and clean eats – Balance is a bar of chocolate if you want one, sleep, eating and drinking in moderation and maintaining a shape… since I've "recovered" I've been able to reduce some body fat I'm about 1.5kg less now than that…exercise 3 days max (you don't need more), eat, sleep and somewhat feel – because when your hormones stop working you lose "all the feels". Saying the gym helps you mentally (I call BS for most) may be the case but not if you're hormones are suffering, sleep or a mindful walk may help you more. Disclaimer – if you are on the pill you will have a withdrawal bleed but may not be able to alone. It's a topic that needs to spoken about with PT's, the media and should make you question what is defined as inspirational. Sorry to preach but it was a long journey I'd not wish on anyone and posts I've seen off young girls the last few days made me really sad. Disclaimer 2 – I never wear matching anything to the gym because I not much of a sap #fitfam #irishfitfam #ukfitfam #fitgirls #bikinigirls #running #heathy #loveyourbody #bodypositive #womenshealth #crossfitgirls #curves

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She said: "When I was lean I was missing something fundamental that so many 'lean' and apparently inspirational girls suffer with and some wear as a badge of honour.''

"Hypothalamic Amenorrhea (no cycle) and for almost 4 years – (1.5 years of that was recovery which is horrendous – And that's how long it took to recover!). The irony is I was never thin, I never looked unwell; just low in bodyfat."

''All these things lead (not may lead, they actually happen) to osteopenia, infertility, anxiety, insomnia, easier weight gain, depression etc etc… I say this only as so many here see people as an inspiration because they're starving to get into a bikini.''

Emma concluded: ''If you are on the pill you will have a withdrawal bleed but may not be able to alone. It's a topic that needs to spoken about with PT's, the media and should make you question what is defined as inspirational.''

''Sorry to preach but it was a long journey I'd not wish on anyone and posts I've seen off young girls the last few days made me really sad.'

It's an issue that effects women of all ages, and people have been praising Emma for addressing the issue in such a public way. 

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A recent study by the University of Washington's School of Social Work, has revealed that married same-sex couples enjoy a higher quality of life than single LGBT adults.

In 2014, 1,800 LGBT people over the age of 50 were surveyed in the 32 states of America where same-sex marriage was already legal at the time.

Of those who took part, one quarter were married, one quarter were in long-term relationships and the remainder were single.  

The results were published to Eurekalert last week.

The research revealed that in general, participants in relationships (married or long-term), showed better health outcomes than those who were single, with those who were married faring even better, socially and financially.

The study also found that single LGBT adults were more likely to have a disability and reported lower physical, psychological, social and environmental quality of life.

It is thought that the tax exemptions, and social benefits enjoyed by married couples may be a contributing factor. 

As same-sex marriage was only legalised in Ireland and across the United Sates in 2015, research on the subject is quite limited, however, researchers say they will continue to examine the influence same-sex marriage has on the health and well-being of the LGBT community.  

Oh, and while we have you; don't forget to have your say in the inaugural SHEmazing Awards this May! It's time to vote, and you can do it right here!

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Surgeons in the United States are urging the public to consider the ramifications of constant phone use as the number of young patients presenting with spinal problems increases.

According to a study published in The Spine Journal, individuals, whose age suggests they shouldn't be experiencing back and neck ailments, are complaining of various issues which experts believe is related to the use of mobile phones.

Written by Dr. Todd Lanman, a spinal neurosurgeon, and Dr. Jason Cuellar, an orthopedic spine surgeon, – both of Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles – the study indicated that prolonged phone use takes its toll on an individual's posture which ultimately results in health issues.

"In an X-ray, the neck typically curves backward, and what we're seeing is that the curve is being reversed as people look down at their phones for hours each day," Dr Lanman explained.

'The real concern is that we don't know what this means down the road for kids today who use phones all day."

Speaking to Reuters Health, he added: "'By the time patients get to me, they're already in bad pain and have disc issues."

Determined to address the issue at the source, the surgeons advise the public to adopt certain positions when using their phone or laptops.

From holding your phone in front of your face and ensuring that your computer is at eye level to allowing your head to hand over the edge of your bed in an extended stretch, the surgeons are keen to address the issue of 'text neck' before a whole generation is plagued with disc issues.

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At this stage, there are very, very few among us who don't know the benefits of breaking a sweat on the regular.

And while you may look, feel and sleep better by incorporating an exercise regime into your life, did you know that some forms of cardio can actually increase your life span?

According to scientists at Iowa State University, 60 minutes of running ultimately provides you with an extra seven hours of life.

Developing on a study which established that 10 minutes of running a day reduces the risk of cardiovascular disease, Duck-chul Lee, a professor of kinesiology at Iowa State, focussed further on the benefits of the exercise.

Data published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology indicated that running decreased the risk of premature death by 40 per cent, and that the activity in itself increases a person's life span.

But how did researchers arrive at a figure of seven hours per 60 minute-run?

According to The New York Times, two hours of training per week translated into less than six months of your life, and ultimately increase your life expectancy by almost three years.

Simply put, runners – in comparison to non-runners – tended to live three years longer no matter their pace, their weight or their smoking habits.

Not too shabby.

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Did you know that almost half the women diagnosed with ovarian cancer every year are under the age of 65?

Many of us consider medical check-ups and smear tests as a problem for ‘future me’ to deal with, but with over 315 Irish women diagnosed with the disease every year, it's high-time we started to take notice of our health. 

And one 16-year-old model is urging young women to do just that. 

 

Bettering myself more and more everyday

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Peyton Linafelter began experiencing some unusual symptoms shortly after signing her modelling contract.

Speaking to Fox News she explained: ‘‘I couldn’t keep anything down.’’

‘‘My stomach was a little expanded. But I just thought I was eating a lot of carbs. I didn’t think anything of it… but each week my stomach got bigger and bigger. My lower back hurt a lot and my abdomen was in pain’’ she added.

 

Love your melon | Love your body | Love your life

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Peyton went to get herself checked out and on her 16th birthday she was diagnosed with stage four ovarian cancer.

‘‘I was in disbelief. I had thought they were in the wrong room or it was a mistake.’’

She immediately began chemotherapy as part of her treatment, and admitted that losing her hair was one of the most devastating parts.

Thankfully, after surgery and treatment, Peyton caught the disease on time.

She has now teamed up with UCHealth for a cancer awareness campaign, and is encouraging young women to go to their doctors if they notice anything unusual, no matter how trivial they think it may be.

 

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You'd be forgiven for thinking it was a satirical depiction of the media's obsession with weight loss.

You'd like to assume it was an exaggerated version of the importance society places on the scales.

And you'd hope that Cosmopolitan's astonishing decision to frame a story about cancer with a clickbait headline about weight loss was an ill-advised, but genuine attempt to highlight society's misplaced priorities, but it wasn't.  

How This Woman Lost 44 Pounds without *ANY* Exercise was a genuine article written by Elizabeth Narins about a woman who survived cancer.

As a magazine typically aimed at women, the headline suggests that Cosmopolitan believes the attention of their target demographic will only be piqued if the content effects our aesthetic.

In just 42 characters, Cosmo revealed what they really believe of their readers. In their eyes, we are – beneath it all –  people who rate weight, size and body measurements above health, vitality and quality of life.

We'll only read about Simone Harbinson's battle with cancer if it's prefaced with a few 'before and after' weight loss snaps, and we'll endure the grim reality of a life-threatening illness if we ultimately learn that Simone is now rocking a pair of size 8 jeans.

While the article itself does indeed focus on Simone's prognosis, diagnosis and unbalanced relationship with food as a result of her illness, the idea that Cosmopolitan felt it must frame a story about cancer with what appears to be a weight loss incentive is indicative of their perception of the female demographic.

And as Cosmo clearly didn't get the memo that women don't, in fact, consider weight loss the be-all and end-all, Twitter wasted no time informing them.
 

 

 

 

 

The publication has since changed its headline to A Serious Health Scare Helped Me Love My Body More Than Ever, but the damage is already done.

Note to Cosmopolitan and Elizabeth Narins: a story about a woman's battle with cancer is entitled to be just that.

Don't insult us – and more importantly, her – by assuming we need a cryptic message about a three-stone weight loss to care.

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There’s no doubt that the diet industry has come on leaps and bounds over the past few years. The focus has shifted somewhat, and many young people are focusing on their overall health and fitness goals rather that achieving that ‘perfect’ body.

However, with our social media feeds filled with to the brim with pictures and videos depicting this perfect lifestyle, the pressure is still on.  

 

Good morning, and my goodness it is a beautiful morning to wake up to I was up super early for my course today and so kept breakfast relatively light as I'll want to eat again soon! This morning I had poached eggs on grilled mushrooms with fresh chopped spinach, chilli, tomatoes, crumbled feta and seeds. For those asking, today's course is on postural restoration or PRI and is a two day intensive course. I'm feeling pretty lucky as it's the first time this course has come to the UK, and I can't wait to see some of my favourite faces in the industry there @shona_vertue @olliefrostpt @lbp_adamwillis So now, it's time to get my geek on and wish you all a wonderful weekend! #Breakfast #EatWellEveryday #Eggs #EverydayFitness

A post shared by Alice (@clean_eating_alice) on

Some so-called ‘clean-eating’ regimes recommend dropping certain food groups, such as carbs and dairy, and while these programs may offer short-term results, deep down we all know that it’s not sustainable, nor good for our health.

A survey conducted by the National Osteoporosis Society in the UK found that four in 10 young adults, aged between 18 and 24, have attempted at least one of these trendy diets. While two in 10 admitted to restricting their intake of milk and cheese which are major sources of calcium.  

The charity warned of the potential risks these nutrient deficient diets may have on our health later in life, including osteoporosis and brittle bones.

Speaking to The Daily Telegraph, charity advisor, Susan Lanham-New warned: ‘'By the time we get into our late twenties it is too late to reverse the damage caused by nutrient deficiencies.''

So, turns out your mother was right all along. 

Them bones, them bones need calcium girls! 

Oh, and while we have you; don't forget to have your say in the inaugural SHEmazing Awards this May! It's time to vote, and you can do it right here!

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Whether it’s your admiration of their goals, their attitude to health and fitness or your take on their second-to-none squats, nominating for the #FitFam Award was your chance to remind your nominee that they’re absolutely killing it on the health and fitness front in Ireland.

And you guys did not hold back!

Our panel of judges trawled through thousands of very worthy nominees before settling on this incredible shortlist.

And now they need YOU to make the final decision on SHEmazing’s #FitFam Award.

Let’s take a look at the five finalists.

The Food Medic

A junior doctor and qualified personal trainer, Dr Hazel Wallace has educated, inspired and motivated you guys across various realms.

From nutrition to exercise, and everything in between, The Food Medic schools us on food, fitness and how to do it the fun way.

Siobhan O’Hagan

Having switched career paths and overhauled her lifestyle, Siobhan O’ Hagan is perfectly positioned to motivate anyone who thinks a certain lifestyle is out of their reach.

Between motivating the masses and coaching clients, Siobhan gives much of herself, and reminds us that you take one day at a time when it comes to fitness and nutrition goals.

Maeve Madden

With an Instagram full to bursting with posts, snaps and videos which motivate and inspire, it’s no surprise Maeve Madden has made it on to our shortlist.

A personal trainer and pro Irish dancer, Maeve’s impact on the Irish #FitFam scene has been nothing short of incredible.

Sarah Godfrey

From sharing pro tips to keeping her followers updated on her personal health and fitness regime, Sarah Godfrey has amassed a huge following on social media.

If you’ve been inspired by Sarah, now is the time to crown her the winner of the category!

Sian Walton

Our fifth finalist comes in the form of self-confessed gymshark, Sian Walton.

With Instagram followers that number in their tens of thousands, Sian’s dedication to health and fitness has had a massive impact on you guys, so be sure to vote if Sian is your number 1 #FitFammer.

Cell Nutrition is proud sponsor of The SHEmazing Awards 2017 #fitfam Category

 

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Look, we’d be lying if we said certain drinks didn’t go hand in hand with a little down-time.

And while getting stuck into a bottle or two of vino with the squad is always a surefire to relax, it’s rare we don’t regret it slightly when a vague headache sets in the following morning.

Thankfully, someone came up with a beverage which lowers stress levels and reduces anxiety, but doesn’t compel you to share your deepest, darkest secrets to a pub full of people.

And if you’re not in the know, it’s about time you got your head in the game because frankly Tranquini is our new savour.

The first global relaxation beverage that offers a healthy and convenient way to de-stress,Tranquini contains a unique blend of extracts from chamomile, lavender, lemon balm and green tea – all of which have scientifically proven efficacy in reducing stress and anxiety, without causing drowsiness.

Oh, and it doesn’t stop there.

Tranquini Water+Juice range was specifically developed for people that want to stop drinking high sugar soft drinks, but do not want to compromise on taste.

 

#tranquini#relaxed#bepositive#goodhappens

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With that in mind, Tranquini Still Drink has, on average, 40 per cent less sugar and calories than other sugar-based soft drinks and fruit juices.

So if you want to chill out, save on calories and actively reduce stress levels it looks like you’ve found your new best friend.

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As a teenager, I – like many other girls my age – despaired of my mother.

Oh, I’d fight anyone who so much as gave her a sideways glance, but when it came to her personal foibles, my patience wore thin.

Very, very thin.

Instead of helping her at the till when she ‘lost’ her credit card for the 14th time that day, I’d roll my eyes at the cashier in a forced symbol of solidarity as the poor woman foostered and fumbled for a card she had squirrelled away for ‘safekeeping’.

When she’d deign to call me ‘trendy’ with a tinge of pride in her voice, I’d deliver a scathing rebuke that basically informed her if she thought I was trendy, I mostly certainly wasn’t. (I was right, in fairness.)

And then there were all those times she attracted the attention of random oddballs in public and instead of keeping her distance, chatted, engaged and made that person feel part.

What a witch – I know.

With the knack of feeling embarrassed by anything and everything as a teen, I saw my mother’s kind approach as something to be embarrassed by, instead of proud of.

And then it started happening.

I started losing my credit card every time I so much as considered leaving the house.

I gawped at teenagers and often pondered their style.

And I found myself falling into animated conversations with strangers who had little to no grasp on reality, and I thoroughly enjoying the exchanges that followed.

Oh, and it doesn’t stop there.

I adopt a ‘pay by wear’ approach when buying clothes, I opt for Avonmore Super Milk over anything else because she’s drilled the importance of bone health and good nutrition into me for as long as I can remember, and I often flash my bra in public by complete accident. (Don’t ask.)

And aside from the potential public indecency charge, every single one of these traits has stood me in good stead.

They have made me more financially aware, health-conscious and…well… empathetic.

Pity I didn’t start morphing sooner, right?
 

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So, who said dogs and babies don’t mix?

Research has found that the unlikely combo may actually be beneficial for your baby’s health!

According to a recent study conducted by The University of Alberta, babies who are born into a house with furry friends are almost twice as likely to have two useful types of gut bacteria.

The study, which looked at 746 mother and babies over 3 years, compared the health of babies who had been exposed to pets (70 per cent were dogs!) either during pregnancy or at an early age and those who had not.

The surprising results found that babies who shared their home with a pet had an abundance of Ruminococcus and Oscillospira – two types of bacteria linked to the decreased risk of obesity and childhood allergic diseases.

It is thought that the gut-friendly microbes, which live in both humans and animals, may be passed on by stroking the fur or simply being in the same environment.

The findings are so significant that we may even see a supplement, or 'dog-in-a-pill', containing these microbes in the not-so-distant future.

Anna Kozyrskyj, researcher and paediatric epidemiologist explained: “It’s not far-fetched that the pharmaceutical industry will try to create a supplement of these microbiomes, much like was done with probiotics.”

So, there you have it, babies and dogs can live in harmony after all! 

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