In this nanosecond age, an extremely busy lifestyle can take its toll on women’s health. Stressed-out females complain about tiredness and weakness, and off moods before their period. Sometimes they can’t tell the difference between normal fatigue and anemia.
When the symptoms are prolonged and hinder your ability to function normally, gynecologist Sylvia Carnero recommends checking the level of the hemoglobin, the protein that transmits oxygen in the red blood cells. A hemoglobin level below 12 for women is considered anemic.
At a press event organized by the organic iron supplement Sangobion, Dr. Carnero said many women in their childbearing years suffer from anemia. One of the most common classifications is nutritional deficiencies in iron and folic acid or vitamin B12. (Other causes are bleeding and diseases with inflammation.) The inadequacy of these nutrients can lead to birth defects.
Hence, most gynecologists recommend an iron supplement for women, especially in combating fatigue or when they lose blood.
Louie Roxas, general manager, Merck Consumer Healthcare Philippines, said previously, its iron supplement, Sangobion, was prescribed by doctors. Studies on its safety profile have proven that Sangobion can be availed as an over-the-counter medicine.
As an organic iron, Sangobion’s main component is ferrous gluconate, a type of iron which is gentler on the stomach. Because it is easily absorbed, the hemoglobin level increases in a short time.
Sangobion also contains sorbitol, which prevents constipation, and folate, which plays an important role in bodily functions. Folate or B12 stimulates the production of red blood cells, repairs and maintain cells and helps in metabolism. Regular intake of iron and B12 can enable one to perform activities with more energy.
Sangobion recently launched its “Go Love Life” campaign, which featured active women. Although their lives revolve around family and work, they make the time to take care of their well-being.
Multitasking
Stylist and blogger Jenni Epperson said she is first and foremost a multitasking mother. Frequently photographed in red carpet events for her distinctive style, Epperson maintained that her life revolves around the home.
Her parents taught her to be independent in doing household chores. She has put her creativity to good use by producing a book on entertaining and writing a lifestyle blog.
Despite their busy schedules, she and her husband, Tom Epperson, a prominent photographer, make sure they are home early. “As hands-on parents, we cook dinner. This is a very important meal in which the whole family connects,” said Epperson.
What’s keeping her busy is the complete renovation of their new home, including plumbing and wiring. “You don’t renovate for cosmetic purposes. It’s more expensive if you didn’t take care of the basic utilities in the first place,” she said.
The responsibilities of managing the resources, time and workers, and looking after her children Arianna, 17, and Dylan, 4, can be stressful. Her greatest fear is getting sick, especially in the midst of the renovation.
“You have to take care of the mind and body. At night, I have my ‘me’ time—a cup of tea or a glass of wine. I try not to think of anything.”
Epperson took the two-week Sangobion challenge and observed that the supplement boosted her immune system. “It has helped me cope with the pressure. I haven’t been getting sick. But it also goes with good lifestyle habits such as sleeping early, eating better and being well-hydrated.”
Kelly Misa wears many hats as a model, endorser, beauty columnist for the Philippine Daily Inquirer and LOOK magazine, fashion and beauty director for an online shopping website, and TV host for ANC’s lifestyle show “Trending.” Working from home, she can spend time with her husband, Carlos Fernandez.
“The tricky part is finding the time for myself,” said Misa.
Fortunately, in her media assignments, the hosts of these events provide pampering. “My lifestyle show enables me to travel. I get to experience pampering and good food. That’s my ‘me’ time, even though it’s still work.”
Misa noticed that her energy level improved after taking Sangobion. “I used to feel very sluggish. It was difficult to pull myself out of bed to exercise or walk the dog. Now I’m energetic and I can do more things in one day. We’re trying to have a baby, and the doctor says Sangobion is complete in nutrients when preparing for pregnancy.”
Bathroom sanctuary
More than a year after giving birth to her youngest son, model-actress Cheska Garcia Kramer lost 36 lbs of her postnatal fat. Although she diligently did weight resistance with a trainer, Kramer attributed the weight loss to breastfeeding.
Asked how she juggles motherhood and career, Kramer replied that she’s fortunate to have several family-oriented endorsements which involve her children, Kendra, Scarlett and Gavin, and husband Doug Kramer of the San Miguel Beermen. The commercial shoots provide an opportunity for her to work and play with her children between takes.
“Yesterday, I had a shoot with Kendra and Scarlett. I brought Gavin with me to this event so nobody missed out. The girls are with my husband now,” she said.
Kramer advised mothers that they shouldn’t complain about being busy. “Be thankful for the blessing, and make time for yourself.”
To regain her equanimity, she finds solace in the bathroom. “We have a big bathroom that’s like a hotel’s, so nobody can bother me. I can either read my Daily Devotion or watch TV. That’s my ‘me’ time.”
After taking Sangobion for over a year, she felt an improved endurance. “I don’t get tired easily. I used to get dizzy on heavy days of my monthly period. I had to rest in bed. Not anymore. I can go from one event to another or go through a whole-day shoot with my husband and kids.”
