Busy moms with expert advice

Better Nutrition, May, 2007 by Nicole Brechka

While putting together this month's feature article, "Womens' Health at Every Age" on p. 42, I came across a handful of healthy living suggestions from female health experts, all of whom are also busy moms. With Mother's Day on May 13th, the timing seemed perfect to share these expert moms' tips for natural living. But, you don't have to be a room to benefit. Here are a few:

* One of the best things I have done for my health is to eliminate all artificial sweeteners. When I was younger, I had no idea that these innocent-looking pink and blue packets were the equivalent of putting toxic waste into my body. I have switched to using honey as my main sweetener for teas and other foods and have passed this advice on to my best women friends, who say they also notice a big difference in how they feel.--Nicki Rubin, co-author of The Great Physician's Rx for Women's Health

* My best tip for women and busy rooms is to break exercise up into 10-minute sessions--and get at least 21 sessions in per week. This averages out to seven days of 30 minutes. This way, if you miss a day, you can mahe it up.--Andrea Metcalf, personal trainer and creator of exercise DVDs and cards

* Start every day with 12-16 ounces of water, consumed within five minutes. Do this before coffee or anything else and it will help keep you regular and cleaned out, not to mention hydrated.--Elizabeth Yamell, CNG, author of Glorious One-Pot Meals

* To help promote a good night's sleep, create an herbal sleep sachet. Place 1/2 cup each of loose hops, chamomile flowers, lavender flowers, lemon balm and rosebuds into a small cloth bag or sachet and place inside your pillowcase at bedtime.--Trevor Holly Cares, ND, director of the Santa Barbara Center for Natural Medicine

* Don't forget that heart disease is still the No. 1 killer for women in the US. The omega-3 fatty acids EPA and DHA from fish oil promote cardiovascular health by helping to maintain normal triglycerides and blood pressure. Use 1-3g daily.--Jamie McManus, MD, author of Your Personal Guide to Wellness

And for more information on women's health issues, see "Sage Advice for Health" on p. 26, "Boost Your Fertility" on p. 30 and "Healthy Living, Family-Style" on p. 64.

Nicole Brechka