Dr Art Hister - Exercise makes you better

I know you’re probably sick of hearing by now about how you need to exercise more in order to prevent so many conditions, especially, of course, cardiovascular problems like heart attacks, heart failure, and strokes.

In fact, exercise is such an effective “preventer” of illness, if it came in the form of a pill, everyone would be lining up to get more than their fair share to swallow.

But what’s so amazing about the benefits of exercise to me is that it’s not only the best weapon we have to fight off many conditions, it’s an effective tool to make a person feel better even after they’ve become sick with such conditions, and the latest evidence of that comes from a Spanish study presented at the recent American Stroke Association meeting.

In this study which involved 159 patients, the researchers concluded that the higher the level of fitness in a stroke victim, the better their chances of surviving the stroke with less damage.

That is, if you are unlucky enough to suffer a stroke, the wee bit of good news is that the more fit you were to begin with, the more effectively the anti-clotting drugs that prevent stroke damage if given shortly after a stroke will work on you.

I'm wearing pink today!

Well, today I'm wearing pink with purpose—the fifth annual PinkShirtDay.ca.

Think pink today.

 Five years ago two grade twelve boys from Nova Scotia stood up for a younger boy who was being bullied for wearing the colour pink. They encouraged their schoolmates to wear pink and send a message against bullying.

Here are some sad facts about bullying from an earlier blog post:

• Bullying happens to someone in Canada every 7 minutes on the playground (bullying.org)50% of Canadian school children report being bullied and 45% of children surveyed do not feel safe when they go to school (Bullying Study, University of Guelph)
• Bullying can affect all ages—35% of workers have experienced workplace bullying first hand
• Children who are bullied are at risk for impaired social development, mental and physical illnesses, suicide and school absenteeism

If you're wearing pink too, way to go! Header over to the London Drugs Facebook Page, and let us know.

Nala
London Drugs Fan

Nala Henkel, a former employee and current contract proofreader for London Drugs, is a self-confessed fan of our store. We've invited her to share her quirky perspective on all things London Drugs from a consumer's point of view.

What is Coconut Water?
Coconut water is the water found inside the coconut, where it is protected by the outer shell and meat of the coconut. It is here inside the coconut, where the water develops its valuable nutritional characteristics of minerals and electrolytes. Coconut water can also be referred to as coconut juice.

Where is Blue Monkey coconut water sourced?
Blue Monkey coconut water is sustainably sourced and harvested year round in South East Asia- particularly the Philippines, Indonesia and Thailand. The sweet coconut water comes from young coconuts that are green in color instead of the typical brown that is found in grocery stores, which is a mature coconut. Blue Monkey’s coconuts arrive from nearby plantations for processing, after being selectively screened for optimum quality and sweetness. In addition to the quality standards set forth by Blue Monkey, the ethical treatment and environmental conditions of the coconut growers and processors, is a key requirement of the brand.

What are some of the health benefits of coconut water?
Coconut water is a natural isotonic beverage high in natural minerals and electrolytes. It is loaded with potassium and magnesium, making it a great way to naturally hydrate your body. Coconut water has been dubbed the natural energy drink. The electrolyte balance found in coconut water is similar to that found in our blood. It is beneficial for athletes as it provides the essential salts, sugars and vitamins needed for a rigorous workout. Coconut water is characteristically low in fat and calories, has no cholesterol, and has a natural balance of sodium, potassium, calcium and magnesium- making it a very healthy and naturally fat free beverage. It is also naturally gluten free. Whether drinking coconut water for daily health or consuming after a night on the town, Blue Monkey may help alleviate fatigue. It naturally assists the body in replenishing lost vitamins and minerals.

Blue Monkey coconut water is available at London Drugs

Dotto Tech - Smart TV's

Chris Gibson of London Drugs talks about Smart TV's

Introducing the Nikon D800

The arrival of the Nikon D800 and D800E heralds a new era in stunning pixel count featuring incredible image detail. In deciding between the two D800 models London Drugs photo experts are standing by to assist your decision process. Nikon has designed the E series to be a special purpose camera that should only be used by very disciplined photographers that know the type of images to select for the special 800 E qualities. The Nikon engineers have removed the scene and image handling optical low pass filter that exists in most digital slr products (including the D800 which includes this special purpose feature).

The 800E can offer better sharpness but it requires the photographer to be prepared for higher blur issues, moire effect on repetitive items such as clothing and potential increased color artifacts. If you do not understand these terms our experts will explain the factors to you. In simplifying the results of removing the low pass optical filter we suggest that the D800 E requires that you shoot most pictures at f 8 maximum to have the best balance between sharpness and depth of field. The photographer will also need in most cases to use a faster shutter speed with the D800E to insure the least amount of image motion blur. When you consider the factors the recommendation is that most photographers will be best suited to utilize the D800 version. Both Nikon and London Drugs cannot accept any returns of the D800E for image issues that are described in the Nikon technical briefing document on the D800E series You can gain access on this document at www.nikon.ca . Both of these models are going to be in very short supply. The worldwide demand is considerably beyond the ability of the factory output so if you wish to obtain this model you need to purchase as soon as possible and London Drugs will make sure that Nikon knows you have a prepaid order for the soonest delivery date.

We have run extensive test shots with this new D800 camera – the results are absolutely stunning. This camera is definitely a must buy for the discriminating photographer that wishes to produce the very best in imaging. To achieve the results of these new cameras we suggest you should team the raw files produced by this camera with London Drugs Photo Labs double the resolution photographic printing technology which is leading the photographic industry in Canada. Our technology leadership is enhanced by our skilled long-term photographic professional lab personnel that is the leader in Canada for quality (www.londondrugs.com/photolab)

For both models you will need to upgrade any lenses that do not meet the minimum requirements of the 36 megapixel sensor. This is a new era in digital slr photography that requires an investment in the correct lenses, filters and tripods to achieve the incredible results featured by this leap in technology standards. The current list of recommended lenses are as follows:

AF-S NIKKOR 14–24 mm f/2.8G ED
AF-S NIKKOR 24–70 mm f/2.8G ED
AF-S NIKKOR 70–200 mm f/2.8G EDVR II
AF-S NIKKOR 16–35 mm f/4G ED VR
AF-S NIKKOR 24–120 mm f/4G ED VR
AF-S NIKKOR 200–400 mm f/4G ED VR II
AF-S NIKKOR 24 mm f/1.4G ED
AF-S NIKKOR 35 mm f/1.4G
AF-S NIKKOR 85 mm f/1.4G
AF-S NIKKOR 200 mm f/2G ED VR II
AF-S NIKKOR 300 mm f/2.8G ED VR II
AF-S NIKKOR 400 mm f/2.8G ED VR
AF-S NIKKOR 500 mm f/4G ED VR
AF-S NIKKOR 600 mm f/4G ED VR
AF-S Micro NIKKOR 60 mm f/2.8G ED
AF-S VR Micro-Nikkor 105 mm f/2.8G IF-ED

Pre-Order your Nikon D800 now

London Drugs is excited to partner with the Rick Hansen Foundation during its 25th Anniversary Relay across Canada!

Twenty-five years ago Rick Hansen wheeled through 34 countries to complete the Man In Motion World Tour.  Since then, he and his team have been working tirelessly to raise awareness and funds for the Rick Hansen Foundation, which supports spinal cord injury research and helps build accessible communities for all. Now, to commemorate the original Tour and celebrate the accomplishments of Canadians who are making a difference in their communities, the Rick Hansen Foundation is re-tracing the Canadian portion of Rick's original journey.

The Foundation supports the two big dreams of Rick's original Tour – the search for a cure for paralysis after spinal cord injury, and building accessible and inclusive communities.

Rick Hansen and London Drugs in Calgary

Come out and support London Drugs Calgary employee and community volunteer Sean Lundy, who has been selected as a Medal-Bearer for the Rick Hansen 25^th Anniversary Relay! Sean will be bearing the Relay's medal down MacLeod Trail, making a brief stop at the Heritage Plaza London Drugs location this Sunday, February 26^th at 10:50am.

The Relay features 7,000 Medal-Bearers who have made a difference in the lives of others. Sean has been a difference maker in the Calgary community for a number of years. He volunteers at the Calgary Distress Center, a non-profit social agency that delivers 24-hour support and counselling to those in crisis.  He is now a Leadership Volunteer, helping to train others to operate distress lines such as 403-266-HELP and 1-800-SUICIDE.

Beyond his important work with the community, he is also finds ways to make life a little easier for his sister who has been diagnosed Lupus, a serious long-term autoimmune disorder. He helped her to raise funds for the 2011 Lupus Run / Walk. He also participates in a variety of other fundraising walks/runs throughout the city. 

How YOU can help!

• Make a donation to the Rick Hansen Foundation at your local London Drugs as the relay comes through your community. For relay dates, check out: www.rickhansenrelay.com. In return you'll receive a Rick Hansen 25^th Anniversary commemorative pin.
• Purchase Rick Hansen's Man in Motion book and 25^th Anniversary medallions at any London Drugs

Visit rickhansen.com for more information.

Get in the Pink—Pink Shirt Day Feb. 29!

Five years ago, two grade twelve boys from Nova Scotia stood up for a younger boy who was being bullied for wearing the colour pink. They encouraged their schoolmates to wear pink and send a message against bullying. CKNW heard of the story and started running editorial dedicated to anti-bullying. Over time, this became a movement. Its goal is to discourage bullying by encouraging the wearing of the colour pink, and today we all know it as Pink Shirt Day.

2012 is the fifth year for Pink Shirt Day (PinkShirtDay.ca), which will be held on Wednesday, February 29. This is London Drugs' fourth year of participation, and all locations will be selling pink shirts and buttons to raise awareness and funds for anti-bullying programs supported by the Boys and Girls Clubs of South Coast B.C. as well as the CKNW Orphan's Fund.

Shirts are available at all
London Drugs locations

Last year, net proceeds of shirt sales at London Drugs totalled $75,000. This year we want to contribute even more, and hope to spread the word even farther that "Bullying stops here."

Some facts about bullying:

• Bullying happens to someone in Canada every 7 minutes on the playground (bullying.org)
• 50% of Canadian school children report being bullied and 45% of children surveyed do not feel safe when they go to school (Bullying Study, University of Guelph)
• Bullying can affect all ages—35% of workers have experienced worplace bullying first hand
• Children who are bullied are at risk for imparied social development, mental and physical illnesses, suicide and school absenteeism

So dig out your pink shirts, pants or socks and have them ready for February 29th. Or visit a London Drugs store for the official Pink Shirt Day t-shirts or buttons. We'll be rallying on our Facebook Page (www.facebook.com/LondonDrugs) and on Twitter (www.twitter.com/LondonDrugs) so follow us there for more information.

Working exercise into an already-full schedule

One of the difficult things about working exercise into a busy schedule, is trying to decide what you're going to eliminate from your daily routine. After all, how else will you fit that hour in at the gym? A better option to keep you on track with a fitness plan is to layer in some simple things that can be done WHILE you're going about your day-to-day life.

Tips to fit activity into your day

Here are some easy ways to elevate your fitness level while you're watching TV or driving to work.

• In the car—While you're driving, practise a few isometric exercises. As you approach a stop light, breath in and gently draw your belly button towards your spine as you exhale. Do this until traffic moves again. At the next light, contract and hold your abs and glutes until the light changes.

• Almost at the office—Park farther away than you normally do, and if you have the option, take the stairs instead of the elevator. Another tip for break time is to find an empty hall or meeting room and do wall sits. Lean your back against the wall and slide downwards until your knees are bent at a 45 degree angle. Hold as long as you can and then slide back up.

• At work—When getting up from your desk, do it with a pushup! Put both hands on your desk and slowly push yourself up as you lean forward. Do this slowly 5-10 times. This works the large latissimus dorsi muscle as well as other back muscles.

• At home—Bringing groceries in? Carry two bags up—and then back down—and then up the stairs again. If you can manage to squeeze 10 free minutes, talk a brisk stroll. Or bring your kids along and challenge them to mini sprints.  

How will YOU find time to get active?

You can get the best advice by making an appointment with your family doctor, or registering for a Nutrition Clinic at London Drugs. You can download the schedule and store information  at http://blog.londondrugs.com/2011/12/london-drugs-nutrition-clinics.html, and call to book your one-on-one consultation for a nominal fee.

Also, take part in our conversation by following us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/LondonDrugs. We have daily topics that we'd love your thoughts on.

Watch for next week's article, "How to maintain your diet & exercise regime"

Dr Art Hister - The More you burp, the worse you drive?

I have suffered from a pretty significant case of stomach acid reflux (GERD) for over 25 years now, and the only thing that controls it enough for me to enjoy my life is the constant use of a drug known as a proton pump inhibitor (PPI), which suppresses acid production.

Because long-term use of PPIs has been linked to all sorts of negative health outcomes (higher rates of osteoporosis, fractures, and infections are the ones that stand out), I have made regular intermittent attempts to get off my PPIs. It’s a very hard thing to accomplish since (as so many of us – but not all - have found out) once you’ve used a PPI for even a few weeks, your body becomes so used to it that it swamps you with a rebound outpouring of acid when you don’t give it its regular dose of PPI.

But that’s not the point of this item: the point here is that although most people think of reflux as a nothing more than a pain in the gut (and those who don’t have reflux invariably think of “refluxers” as being a pain elsewhere because of their regular complaints about not feeling well), reflux can actually be a serious health problem.

Not only have some studies related chronic reflux to higher risks of esophageal cancer, but chronic reflux also has more immediate health effects, such as interfering with sleep, and that can have huge potential consequences on health.

So the news is that in a recent small study (presented as a poster at the American College of Gastroenterology annual meeting) 11 patients with reflux who were subsequently treated with a PPI not only reported much better sleep as a result, but they also performed much better on simulated driving tests as a result of sleeping better.

Now, as a GERD aficionado, I have to underline that you definitely want to try treating GERD without resorting to drugs (you can read more about this in my other blogs) but if lifestyle adjustments don’t work, then you should not just put up with the symptoms but you should discuss with your doctor as to which drug can offer you the best quality of life at the minimum risk to future health.

Nutrition and You

Food is delicious. It smells, looks, and generally tastes incredible. It is at the center of many important events and special occasions in our lives. We plan the buying of it, the preparing of it, and the eating of it. Some of us think about it too much, and some of us don't think about it enough. But the simplest thing to remember about food is that, no matter how great it looks and tastes, it is the fuel that makes our bodies run.

To keep our bodies in their peak healthy condition, we need to make sure the food that we eat contains the proper nutrients. Nutrients are defined as a substance or chemical that an organism needs to live and grow. According to Health Canada, nutrients can be broken into six categories; vitamins, minerals, protein, energy (carbohydrates), fats and water. Each category plays an important role in nourishing, building, healing, energizing, cooling, and protecting the cells that make up our bodies.

These nutrients can be found in a variety of foods, such as vegetables and fruit, grains, milk and dairy, and meat or meat alternatives. The Canada Food Guide, which is included in the Nutrition Clinic package, breaks down the required servings from each group to ensure our body is getting the combination of nutrients it needs to run at its healthiest.

Most of us understand what we need to eat to be healthy, but emotional food decisions can get in the way. Despite our brains knowing what our bodies NEED, we sometimes get hung up on what we WANT. While we all deserve treats once in a while, here are some tips to help us stay on track for the most part.

• Plan to eat breakfast. Eating early will give you energy and alertness, and will help you feel full so you wont overeat by lunch time.
• Keep a food journal. If your goal is to eat healthy, having to write down your food choices helps you be accountable and easily see where you need to come up with new eating strategies.
• Eat slowly. By taking smaller bites of food and chewing your food more thoroughly, you'll feel full longer, and better digest the food you eat.

What are YOUR nutrition plans?

You can get the best advice by making an appointment with your family doctor, or registering for a Nutrition Clinic at London Drugs. You can download the schedule and store information here, http://blog.londondrugs.com/2011/12/london-drugs-nutrition-clinics.html, and call to book your one-on-one consultation for a nominal fee.

Also, take part in our conversation by following us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/LondonDrugs. We have daily topics that we'd love your thoughts on.

Watch for next week's article, "Working exercise into an already-full schedule"

What’s Your Perfume Personality?

With so many scents to choose from, finding a new perfume can be downright intimidating. But don’t give up! Many experts believe that by paying attention to your unique personality traits, you can find a fragrance that’s perfect for you. Which fragrance family do you belong to?

Floral

You know how to get the party started. Once the fun starts, you can be found smack-dab in the centre of it all. For you, romance is spelled with a capital “R,” and you’re a natural at using your girlie-girl wiles to flirt and play. You are sweet yet confident—an irresistible combination.

Florals are the most popular fragrance family, and they’ve come a long way in recent years. New cloning technology allows perfumers to create fragrances as bright and lively as the modern girls who wear them.

You may want to focus on a single floral note, or you can revel in a heady mixed bouquet. Floral scents can be soft and powdery, sultry with hints of vanilla and moist amber, or seductive when base notes of spice are added.

Floral Fragrances To Try:

• Anais Anais Eau de Toilette Spray
• Chloe Eau De Parfum Spray
• Daisy by Marc Jacob Eau de Toilette
• L'air Eau de Parfum

Oriental

You are a one-of-a-kind creation, and you wouldn’t have it any other way! Rich, exotic Oriental perfumes suit your level of sophistication, sensuality, and mystery. A passionate dreamer, you are daring enough to make those dreams come true.

In the world of perfumery, exotic Orientals reign supreme. They are made of everything that is warm, sensual, and opulent—such as sandalwood, musk, vanilla, mahogany, cinnamon, clove, cardamom, nutmeg, rosewood, and patchouli.

In recent years, a delicious new subclass of Orientals has been introduced called Gourmands. These perfumes highlight mouthwatering notes of caramel, dark chocolate, white chocolate and even hints of cappuccino.

Oriental Fragrances To Try:

• Jean Paul Gaultier Classique Eau de Toilette 
• Katy Perry Meow Eau de Parfum Spray
• Dolce and Gabbana The One Eau de Parfum
• Bebe Eau de Parfum Spray
• Loverdose Eau de Parfum
• Pink Sugar Eau de Toilette Spray

Woody

Free-spirited and self-assured, you know what you want, and you usually get it. You are wise beyond your years. This makes you deeply compassionate and a rare friend. Your combination of down-to-earth common sense and sensuality makes you a compelling person to be around.

Woody fragrances have become very popular recently. The classic woody scent is dominated by blends of cedar, patchouli, pine, and sandalwood. Mossy woods include forest notes of oak moss, amber, and citrus chypre, while drier woody fragrances play with notes of cedar, tobacco, and burnt wood. Often called Leather, dry woods perfumes are usually lightened by fresh citrus notes.

Woody Fragrances To Try:

• Obsession for Women Eau de Parfum
• Belle D'Opium Eau de Parfum
• Euphoria for Women Eau de Parfum

Fresh

The word “cool” was invented for you. Laid back, low-key, and fun loving, you are ready for adventure whenever the opportunity presents itself. People have called your style sporty or natural, and they are often amazed by how you make it all seem so effortless.

Like you, fresh fragrances exude cool. Citrus fragrances come from the zest of lemons, mandarins, bergamot, oranges, and grapefruit. These tangy aromas are often blended with floral, spicy, and woody notes, or even with musk and tea accents.

Water fragrances, hinting of sea breezes and wet air after a thunderstorm, are used to bring life to floral, oriental, and woody perfumes. Green notes can be either formal or fresh and light, and they speak to the scent of fresh-cut grass or violet leaves. If you enjoy the scent of peaches and pears, apples, plums, and berries, then a fruity fragrance may be for you.

Fresh Fragrances To Try:

• Acqua di Gioia Eau de Parfum 
• D & G Light Blue Eau de Toilette
• Tresor Midnight Rose Eau de Parfum 
• Daisy Eau So Fresh Eau de Toilette Spray 
• Miss Dior Cherie Eau de Toilette Spray
• Betsey Johnson Eau de Parfum Spray

If you need help selecting the right fragrance to match your personality, your London Drugs beauty advisor will be happy to help you

Dr. Art Hister - Cell Phones and Stress

In this medical business, for every person who thinks some new finding is a “yin”, there’s another one who thinks it’s really a “yang”.

Take this recent report about cell phone use from a group of British psychologists which was presented at a meeting of the British Psychological Society.

In this study based on testing more than 100 study subjects, the researchers reported that although most people who use cell phones start off using them appropriately (for some reason, they concluded that most people start using cell phones for business purposes; try telling that to any 10- or 12-year-old texting her  friends endlessly; but that’s a small quibble about the findings), most people soon end up being governed by their cell phones, that is, they compulsively check their phones for messages, and the end up exhibiting stress-related symptoms as a consequence of needing to be in touch all the time.

That, I suggest, is the yin interpretation of these findings.

The yang comes from an American psychologist who was asked to critique these findings and who said that she didn’t really see that compulsively checking a cell phone was a bad thing.

First, not only is it likely, she said, that it’s basically people who are pre-destined to be more stressed who are also those who end up allowing their cell phones to govern their lives (that’s certainly true) but also, she said, the great thing about checking a cell phone regularly means that we’re more “in touch” with the world. Although if you ask me, anyone who needs to check their cell phone or email every 5 minutes – and there are so many people who do exactly that or equally annoying, those that set their cell phones to beep as a new message comes through– are not really in “touch” so much as they are being tackled. She says that we can also multi-task more which is just plain wrong, as anyone who has ever been behind a driver talking on a cell phone and trying to drive at the same time know that this can’t be done well, folks.

Let's geocache!

I don't have a GPS. There were some good deals on these at London Drugs recently, but I am hard-pressed to buy one because 1) I am cheap and 2) my iPhone map has been consistently accurate and helpful. Friends of mine have a GPS, though. They offered a while ago to take us geocaching, but the timing just hasn't worked out.

So...I got this great idea to find a free geocaching app and try it myself. Out of the blue. Without a heck of a lot of planning. (NOTE: If you're going into a wooded area, have a buddy and/or make sure you tell someone where you're going, etc. Also, dress for the weather. Luckily it only rained on us, and the trail was pretty dry.)



Geocaching is FUN FUN FUN! It's like a treasure hunt, and who DOESN'T want to be a pirate?! Next time I will

• wear a hat with a brim to keep rain off my phone
• look for the obvious instead of making it harder than it is
• plan ahead to bring something more interesting to leave behind in the cache

Do you geocache?

Nala

London Drugs Fan

Nala Henkel, a former employee and current contract proofreader for London Drugs, is a self-confessed fan of our store. We've invited her to share her quirky perspective on all things London Drugs from a consumer's point of view.

Top 5 movies for Valentine's Day

You knew it was coming, so don't look surprised.

I really hope some of you violently disagree with some of my choices, and tell me the OBVIOUS ones I missed in the comments. Plus, if you can find a truly romantic movie with zombies in it, I swear I'll figure out some kind of prize to award you!

Here are my personal top 5, counted down of course:

5) True Romance—A fantastic look at romance from a different perspective, and I mean different. Like killing your true love's pimp, kind of different.

 4) While You Were Sleeping—Don't you think Sandra Bullock and Bill Pullman should be married in real life? I love "Joey" and his brilliant line "I seen how you look at him. Like you just seen your first Trans Am." Confused Peter Gallagher is great too.

 3) The Wedding Singer—I watch this movie over and over. The Boy George guy? The "take of my Van Halen shirt before you jinx them and they break up!" line? Billy Idol? Robbie's Cult-inspired song? All good reasons this is #3. But mostly the music! Ah, the music.

2) The Notebook—I didn't just put this in here because of Ryan Gosling, but let's just thing about him for a minute anyway. Ahh. Ok, Rachel Mcadams is great in it, and Canadian, so ding-ding. But you're fixated on them and forget that Sam Shepherd, Gina Rowlands and Jim Rockford, er, James Garner are also in it and heartbreakingly wonderful. This would have been my number one but it was sad and didn't have Harry Connick Jr. music in it.

1) When Harry met Sally—It may be cliche in movie land (or romance world) that the person you dislike becomes your soul mate, but so what. This movie is responsible for so many things that creep into my day-to-day life, it's ridiculous. In fact, here's the top 5 things I use from this movie (no particular order):

• You're so HM (high maintenance) My daughter said I made this up, so I'm not allowed to use it in real conversation. I finally showed her the part in the movie, and now I'm good.
• Men and women can never be friends. I don't use the phrase as much as believe the sentiment. I would qualify this though by saying can't be best friends. I've seen this in action, and have thought "Billy Crystal was right."
• The rebound guy. Also true.
• "I just want you to know, I will never love that wagon wheel coffee table." I've actually said this to a fellow WHMS fan about something different, and they totally got it. SO much better than having to say "I hate that shirt. That stupid, button-downed, flowered, garage-sale shirt!"
• "He's never going to leave her." Again, when a friend makes the same discovery repeatedly, that everyone else knew after the FIRST discovery…this phrase comes out.

You might be surprised I don't have Titanic on this list, but while I like the movie, I just never thought there was chemistry between Leo and Winslet. And since this is my list, well, there it is.

What are YOUR 5 faves?

Nala

London Drugs Fan

Nala Henkel, a former employee and current contract proofreader for London Drugs, is a self-confessed fan of our store. We've invited her to share her quirky perspective on all things London Drugs from a consumer's point of view.
 

What is CanesOral®?

 CanesOral® is an effective, clinically proven single-dose oral treatment, available without a prescription. Its active ingredient, fluconazole 150 mg, will work systemically to stop the growth of Candida albicans that may be responsible for vaginal yeast infections. CanesOral® relieves itching, burning, and discharge associated with vaginal yeast infections. Symptom relief usually begins within 24 hours. CanesOral® is available in single pill and Combi-Pak formats from the makers of Canesten®.

CanesOral® Combi-Pak
Since CanesOral® takes several days to cure your yeast infection internally, the CanesOral® Combi-Pak contains two products: the CanesOral® pill, described just above, and also an external cream that can be applied to the irritated area. Its active ingredient, clotrimazole, will help relieve irritating external symptoms while the CanesOral® pill works internally to eliminate the vaginal yeast infection itself.

Many women experience vaginal yeast infections
Vaginal yeast infections are fairly common. In fact, 75 percent of all women have experienced at least one such infection in their life. You’re really not the only one!

Fortunately, such a frequent problem has become easy to diagnose, treat and cure. There’s no reason to worry. Like you, other women with vaginal yeast infections have been successfully cured by using products like CanesOral® any time, anywhere.

Common Causes
Yeasts, which include the strain known as Candida albicans, are tiny organisms that can be found in small numbers on the skin and within the vagina. Normally, the naturally acidic pH of the vaginal environment helps keep yeast cells from proliferating. However, if the pH becomes less acidic, yeast cells may start to proliferate and result in a vaginal infection.

There are many factors that can cause variations in the acidity of the vaginal environment, including menstruation, diabetes, pregnancy, certain antibiotics, contraceptive pills and steroids. Humidity also seems to promote the proliferation of yeast.

See a Doctor
Since the symptoms of a yeast infection can be similar to those of other conditions, it is important to consult your family doctor or gynaecologist, especially if this is your first yeast infection.

You should also see your doctor if:

• you have frequent yeast infections or the infection returns in less than two months;
• you are pregnant or breastfeeding;
• you frequently change your sex partners or have several;
• you are under 12 years old;
• you have a temperature, and experience chills, nausea or vomiting;
• your vaginal discharge has an unusual odour;
• you have abdominal pain;
• you have had an allergic reaction to other drugs prescribed for yeast infections;
• your symptoms do not improve in three days or do not disappear after a week;
• you are taking any other drugs.

The Pharmacist’s Role
Yeast infections are probably not a topic you want to discuss with everyone. Your pharmacist is an excellent resource; he or she will listen to you and give you good advice. This healthcare professional has already advised many women in your situation and will do so again often throughout his or her career.

You can be fully confident in the professional and informed advice your pharmacist can give you in complete confidentiality. He or she will provide you with all the information you need about the various forms of treatment (capsule, creams, tablets, suppositories), and days of treatment (one, three or six days), explain the difference between regular treatments and the combination packs, and help you select the treatment that suits you best.

CanesOral® is available at London Drugs

Source: Canesten Global Brochure, Vaginal Yeast Infections Information and Tips for Patients, 2008.

For more information on CanesOral® or vaginal yeast infections, visit www.canesoral.ca or speak to your London Drugs pharmacist.

To be sure this product is suitable for you, always read and follow the label. Cures most vaginal yeast infections. First time sufferers see your doctor.

Bayer Cross, Canesten and CanesOral are registered trademarks used under license

Goal-setting—How to set and reach your goals

A study in 2007 by Richard Wisemen from the University of Bristol showed that 78% of those who set New Year's resolutions fail, and those who succeed have 5 traits in common.* Men achieved their goal 22% more often when they engaged in goal setting, while women succeeded 10% more when they made their goals public and got support from their friends.

Goals—specifics vs. generalities

Businesses set goals to achieve growth or profitability over time, and competitive athletes set training goals so they're ready for important competitions. Individuals may have big picture goals, such as eating healthier or becoming more active, but how can you make sure you actually get there?

Setting goals that are specific gives you a long-term vision and short-term motivation. When you set goals that are clearly defined it lets you set milestones and see your progress, giving you the self-confidence to carry on and achieve your objectives.

How to set personal health goals

Think about what your end goal is, and then put it into specific terms. For example, if you want overall health, what does that mean to you? Does it mean you can run five kilometres non-stop, or does it mean you reach a particular measurement such as a lower BMI? Whatever your final goal is, write it down in a journal.

1. What is a reasonable amount of time to achieve this goal? For health goals, you should check with your doctor or London Drugs personal care pharmacist for guidance. Note in your journal the date by which you want to accomplish your goal.
2. Set milestones between today (or your start date) and the date you want to achieve the goal. For example, if running five kilometres is your goal, and you've given yourself two months to do it, break the five killometres into smaller increments over that time period. That may mean you want to run one kilometre after one and a half weeks, two after three weeks, etc.
3. There are certain things you know you'll need to start doing to achieve your goals, and certain things you'll need to stop doing to be successful. For example, to achieve your five kilometre goal you'll need to start running on a regular basis. That may mean you'll need to stop doing other things to make this happen, such as swapping TV watching time in the evening to run. You may also need to change what you're eating to allow your body to literally fuel your goal. Break down the time between your milestones even further to create a step-by-step blueprint to reach your end goal.
4. Reward yourself along the way! When you reach milestones, celebrate them. You could buy yourself new running shoes after you run your first full mile, or treat yourself to a deep tissue massage.
5. Join social groups to help you stay motivated. You could download an app to track and share your results with others who have the same goals. Share your goals with your friends and family and let them know about your success and challenges along the way. Ask their help if you need it—like changing family pizza night to a family swimming night.
6. Be flexible. Sometimes life can get in the way of achieving your goals. Don't give up—just re-work your plan to allow for a new schedule. Your goals are important, and worth pursuing. Stay strong and you'll realize them!

How will YOU reach your goals?

You can get the best advice by making an appointment with your family doctor, or registering for a Nutrition Clinic at London Drugs. You can download the schedule and store information at http://blog.londondrugs.com/2011/12/london-drugs-nutrition-clinics.html, and call to book your one-on-one consultation for a nominal fee.

Also, take part in our conversation by following us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/LondonDrugs. We have daily topics that we'd love your thoughts on.

Watch for next week's article, "Nutrition and You"

* Blame It on the Brain: The latest neuroscience research suggests spreading resolutions out over time is the best approach, Wall Street Journal, December 26, 2009

Pink Shirt Day is February 29

London Drugs is proud to support the powerful Pink Shirt Day campaign with the official Anti-bullying Pink Shirt Day t-shirts available at all London Drugs locations. Net proceeds from the sale of Pink Shirt Day T-Shirts benefit the CKNW Orphans' Fund in support of the Boys & Girls Clubs anti-bullying programs.

“We encourage everyone to take a stand against bullying and wear your pink shirt on Pink Shirt Day, Wednesday, February 29th," said Wynne Powell, London Drugs president and CEO. “We are proud to be supporting the fifth annual Pink Shirt Day with T-shirt sales going directly to Boys and Girls Clubs in each community we serve, helping to foster local anti-bullying programs.”

Pink Shirt Day T-shirts are available at London Drugs in both adult and youth sizes ranging from small to XXL as well as online at www.pinkshirtday.ca.
 
What is Pink Shirt day all about? CKNW started Pink Shirt Day five years ago following an anti-bulling stand of two grade 12 Nova Scotia students. The students took action after witnessing a grade 9 student being bullied for wearing pink to school and encouraged their schoolmates to wear pink to send a message against bullying. Since then, CKNW’s Pink Shirt Day Campaign has sent a powerful message that Bullying Stops Here.

London Drugs would like to thank CKNW, and the CKNW's Orphans' Fund, for their commitment to the campaign for the past five years!

In Canada, every seven minutes someone is bullied on a playground in Canada (www.bullying.org). A recent University of Guelph Bullying Study found that 50% of Canadian school children report being bullied with 45% of surveyed children feeling unsafe when they go to school. Bullying is demoralizing, wrecks self-esteem and has led to shootings and suicides in Canada. Bullying happens in many different forms but its purpose is to make someone else feel bad on purpose. Through awareness and education Canadians can continue to take a stand against bullying.

Me and my arthritis

Long story short, because this is the Internet and you probably have other browsing to do…I have a degenerative disc (L4-L5) that causes me pain. Nobody could tell me why I got that, I just did. After a car accident, it got worse. Not all the time worse, but an every once in a while worse, like when you decide out of the blue one day to do 100 crunches and other six-pack-type exercises with probably not-very-good technique, and the next day you can barely get out of bed. Not that I did that.

After getting an x-ray, my doctor said everything looked normal (my brain: "How can this pain be normal?!") but said I had arthritis (my brain: "WHAT?!") My mom has arthritis. It's something I associate with the fact that she's 77 years old—and I'm only 45!

So yes, there's a little bit of ego going on here.

Arthritis facts

But like the pseudo journalist I like to think I am, I popped over to London Drugs because I know they have a lot of literature in the pharmacy. Sure enough, I found a handy booklet about arthritis.

There are some interesting things I found out about arthritis. For example:

• Arthritis is a chronic disease. I don't like the word disease, but there it is…right in my back.
• Arthritis affects twice as many women as men. I don't think that's fair at all.
• There are two types of arthritis—rheumatoid and osteo

My arthritis is osteo. Here's what I learned:

Osteoarthritis is caused by a breakdown of cartilage that does not repair itself. Over time, the bones develop spurs (bumps on their ends) or the bones may rub together. This leads to joint damage, pain and stiffness.*

The doctor showed me the spurs on the x-ray, so I know I have osteoarthritis and not rheumatoid arthritis. What's the difference? WELL, let me tell you:

Rheumatoid arthritis is caused by the body's immune system attacking healthy joints. This leads to inflammation, pain and joint damage. Joints on both sides of the body are usually affected. It can also affect other areas of the body, producing inflammation in tissues such as the skin, eyes, heart and lungs.*

Yikes, I think I got off easy.

There's not much you can do about arthritis (so I've been told.) In my case, developing stronger muscles around the area has helped greatly, and I do this by planking (the exercise kind, not this kind) and other core exercises.

I haven't had a flare up in quite a while, but when I do I try an ice pack first, and then reward myself at bedtime with a heating pad. Arg, I cringe as I type "heating pad," something else my 77-year-old mom swears by.

I can vouch for this one—and it hurts to admit it.

 See it here.

I still describe my arthritis as "Oh, sorry, I can't help you move because I have a bad back" instead of 'fessing up to arthritis, but maybe that will change over time.

Or not.

Nala
London Drugs Fan

Nala Henkel, a former employee and current contract proofreader for London Drugs, is a self-confessed fan of our store. We've invited her to share her quirky perspective on all things London Drugs from a consumer's point of view.

* From "My Arthritis Journal" published by London Drugs and Apotex.

Different eye looks with Dara

Dara has a lot of different eyes. Not literally! That would be gross. I guess I should say she has a lot of eye looks. Quite a few, actually, and from what I can tell they are categorized for different occasions.

• Hanging with friends—inside
• Hanging with friends—at a mall
• Taking finals
• Going to school (with several sub-categories depending on the outfit)
• Going out with friends after school
• Going to a party
• Feeling experimental

There may be more, but these are the ones I've figured out so far.

Her eyes always look fantastic, so I asked her to give me some pointers on a few of the different eye looks she has. Here's how she got a few different looks (in her words):

The natural look.

 Natural look: I started with a black liquid liner on upper lid (added wings at the corner.) I added a light browny-purple shade of powder shadow to the eyelid and crease. Next, I added white fat pencil to a bit of the top lid, corner, and half underneath the eye. Last, I added a light brown skinny pencil liner underneath rest of eye. Add mascara.

Two options of intense eyes.

 Intense colour: I started with powder shadow on eyelid, (light or dark vibrant colour.) Next, powder shadow in the crease of your eye (light or dark vibrant colour), then added a white shadow just underneath your eyebrow. Blend colours a bit together. 

Two kinds of blue.

Intense option 1—blue: Add a light shiny or sparkly colour to the corner of your eye and underneath your eye (if you prefer) with a fat stick liner. Add sparkly liquid liner. 

Pink with bright yellow on the lid and in corner.

Intense option 2—for pink eye (hahha): Add the colour you put on your eyelid to the corner of your eye and halfway underneath your eye. Use a white fat pencil liner for the rest of underneath. And last add the mascara.

Smokey eye uses grey and charcoal colours.

Smokey eye: I started with black liquid liner on upper lid (thin or think, whatever you prefer) then added black powder shadow to the lid. For the crease of your eye, go one or two shades lighter than the base of your lid that you are working with (any colour you prefer, I did smokey grey). Just underneath your eyebrow, add white powder shadow. Add mascara on thick.

Nala
London Drugs Fan

Nala Henkel, a former employee and current contract proofreader for London Drugs, is a self-confessed fan of our store. We've invited her to share her quirky perspective on all things London Drugs from a consumer's point of view.

London Drugs Product Showcase - February 2012

London Drugs February 2012 Product Showcase