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Domestic Violence Awareness Month |
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Domestic violence, also known as "intimate partner violence" is widely prevalent throughout the world. Chances are very high that you or someone you love dearly is currently (or has been in the past) suffering from abusive and/or violent behavior.
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Prevalence: Approximately 1 in 3 women and 1 in 4 men have experienced some form of physical violence by an intimate partner within their lifetime.
Fatal Consequences: Globally, an estimated 137 women are killed by a partner or family member every day. This accounts for nearly 40-50% of all female homicide victims.
Impact on Children: Children who witness domestic violence are more likely to experience behavioral, emotional, and cognitive problems. They may also be at a higher risk of becoming victims or perpetrators of violence in their adult lives. Domestic violence IS child abuse, whether or not the violence is directed at the child.
Underreporting: Domestic violence is highly underreported. Many victims fear retaliation, stigma, or lack knowledge about available resources.
Financial Abuse: Financial abuse, where an abuser controls a victim's access to finances, affects nearly 99% of domestic violence cases. This can make it difficult for victims to leave abusive situations.
Teen Dating Violence: About 1 in 3 adolescents in the United States experiences physical, sexual, emotional, or verbal abuse from a dating partner.
Impact on Mental Health: Survivors of domestic violence are more likely to suffer from depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and other mental health issues.
Reproductive Coercion: Reproductive coercion, where an abuser controls a victim's reproductive choices, affects 1 in 4 women in abusive relationships. This can include birth control sabotage and forced pregnancy.
LGBTQ+ Individuals: Rates of domestic violence are similar or higher within LGBTQ+ relationships compared to heterosexual relationships. LGBTQ+ individuals may face unique barriers when seeking help due to discrimination.
Economic Costs: Domestic violence has significant economic costs, including medical expenses, legal fees, lost productivity, and the costs of providing social services and shelters to victims.
Domestic violence is a serious and widespread problem with far-reaching consequences.
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| Learn More about Domestic Violence |
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| Domestic Violence Resources |
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WE NEED YOUR OPINION
Group Health Classes are a fantastic way to improve health educate patients, manage chronic health conditions, improve health outcomes, form meaningful relationships, and have fun. We are planning to offer group health classes, and want your opinions to help us design the most meaningful format.
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| Give us your opinion here |
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Are you on a weight loss journey? Do you wonder if you are losing water or fat or muscle? There's an easy, painless way to find out: come into our office for a body composition analysis. It takes 5 minutes and costs $35 and feels like you are standing on a fancy scale. You will receive a printed report with your number of pounds and percent for body water, muscle, bone and fat, and you can track your progress over time to determine if your are gaining/losing water, muscle, bone or fat. This is important information for anybody on a weight loss journey, because the goal is fat loss for health optimization, not muscle loss...and a regular scale doesn't tell you what kind of weight you are
losing.
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| Learn about body composition analysis |
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Breast Cancer Awareness Month |
Breast cancer is the #2 most commonly diagnosed cancer in women, after lung cancer. There are strategies to reduce your risk of being diagnosed, as well as strategies to improve early detection and survival. Here are the top 10:
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Maintain a Healthy Weight: Obesity and/or high body fat percent is linked to an increased risk of breast cancer, especially after menopause.
Regular Physical Activity: Regular exercise, such as brisk walking, jogging, or swimming, can lower the risk of breast cancer. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity activity per week.
Limit Alcohol Consumption: Drinking more than two alcoholic drinks per week can significantly increase the risk of developing breast cancer.
Healthy Diet: Studies suggest that diets high in fiber and antioxidants can reduce breast cancer risk. Aim for 6-12 servings per day of brightly colored fruits and vegetables.
Breastfeeding: Breastfeeding can lower the risk of both the mother and child developing breast cancer.
Limit Hormone Therapy: Hormone therapy can influence breast cancer risks. Many factors are involved, including specific hormones, duration of use, timing of use (example: peri/postmenopausal vs premenopausal), and route of administration (example: pills vs creams). A hormone specialist can help you understand your specific risks.
Regular Screening: Early detection is key. Women aged 40 and older should have regular mammograms. Women with dense breast tissue need to have 3D mammograms. Discuss the appropriate screening schedule with your healthcare provider.
Know Your Family History: If you have a family history of breast or ovarian cancer, consider genetic testing and counseling to understand your risk better.
Avoid Environmental Toxins: Minimize exposure to chemicals that may be linked to breast cancer, such as pesticides, plastics, BPA found in some canned foods and plastics, phalates/parabens/sulfates (found in many cosmetics).
Optimize Vitamin D: Vitamin D deficiencies are extremely common, and increase the risks for many cancers (including breast cancer). Know your vitamin D level by obtaining a blood test, and aim for a blood level of 60+. Vitamin D3 is more readily absorbed than Vitamin D2.
Remember that while these strategies can help reduce the risk of breast cancer, there are no guarantees. Regular check-ups, mammograms, and staying informed about breast health are important.
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| Learn more about breast cancer |
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Horizons Wellness Academy |
Dr. Aslami has created an online academy to provide in-depth knowledge, tools and training to help you attain your health goals.
"Intimate Health & Satisfaction" explores all aspects of improving sexual relations, including libido, arousal, orgasm, and pain.
"Trust your Gut" explores how to address chronic health symptoms by improving the function of your gastro-intestinal system.
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| Explore Intimacy Mini-course |
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| Explore Gut Health Course |
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WEIGHT LOSS PROGRAM
PRICE REDUCTION! |
We have completely redesigned our weight loss program to make it 60% LESS expensive, more time efficient, more convenient, and more comprehensive! Our new program is built on 5 pillars:
**online self-paced 6 month curriculum
**weekly Zoom coaching calls
**FaceBook private support group
**optional membership after 6 months
**monthly medical appointments (billed to insurance)
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Chickpea & Quinoa Bowl with Roasted Red Pepper Sauce
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Time: 5 minutes prep, 5 min total
1 servings
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| Get Recipe |
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Ingredients |
1 (7 ounce) jar roasted red peppers, rinsed
¼ cup slivered almonds
4 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, divided
1 small clove garlic, minced
1 teaspoon paprika
½ teaspoon ground cumin
¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper (optional)
2 cups cooked quinoa
¼ cup Kalamata olives, chopped
¼ cup finely chopped red onion
1 (15 ounce) can chickpeas, rinsed
1 cup diced cucumber
¼ cup crumbled feta cheese
2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh parsley
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Nutrients per serving |
calories: 479
fat: 25g
saturated fat: 4g
carbs: 50g
sugars: 3g
added sugars: 2g
protein: 13g
sodium: 646mg
potassium: 443mg
fiber: 8 grams
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Skincare & Monthly Specials |
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Most skincare and cosmetic products contain a variety of chemicals called "endocrine disruptors" (meaning hormone disruptors). These contribute to a wide variety of medical problems in women (and men and children!) Many other ingredients in skincare products are also toxic to the environment to produce. BeautyCounter has eliminated all of these chemicals from their products.
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| Learn about BeautyCounter |
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Erase skin aging |
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Its not too late to erase the signs of sun damage such as sun spots, freckles and red patches. Showcase your natural glow by using photofacials!
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| Learn about photofacials |
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| See anti-aging specials |
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Laser Hair Removal |
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Permanent hair removal is possible! Laser hair removal in our Bridgewater office is one of our most popular services. Most people require 6-10 treatments spread out over several months. Buying packages can save you time and money, and winter is the best time to start laser hair removal and enjoy a summer of no shaving!
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| See laser hair removal specials |
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Cellulite Reduction |
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CBD for pain management |
CBD products can be used as part of a comprehensive treatment approach for chronic pain. CBD products come in many forms, including topical rubs, patches, pills and even vaginal products! One of my favorite products is Solace Lavendar Comfort Cream from Athena's. Rubbing it into my aching neck muscles provides decent pain relief after a day on the computer. Athena's products are free from THC (the active ingredient in marijuana that makes people high). Athena's CBD products are also sulfate free (which is great for people with sulfa allergies), as well as free from hormone disrupting chemicals (such as phthalates).
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| Shop Athena's CBD cream |
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Wrinkle Reduction |
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Wrinkles occur over time due to loss of collagen below the skin surface. Adequate nutrition, hydration, sleep and toxin avoidance are necessary to reduce and delay the appearance of wrinkles. But once they appear, smoothing them out can be challenging. TempSure Envi treatments obtain beautiful results without injecting fillers. Most people require a series of treatments to reverse existing wrinkles, and then occasional maintenance treatments.
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| Learn about wrinkle reduction |
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| See wrinkle reduction specials |
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Body Contouring |
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Did you know we offer body contouring in our Bridgewater office? These treatments can reduce stubborn belly fat, shrink annoying love handles, and tighten loose skin that appears after losing weight. Most people require a series of treatments (not just 1) to obtain desired results
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| Learn about body contouring |
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| See body contouring specials |
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Cellulite is a type of scar tissue, and can be a frustrating process to reverse. Most people need repetitive treatments to smooth out the appearance of cellulite, followed by occasional maintenance treatments. We offer cellulite reduction packages using a unique radio-frequency energy device.
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| See cellulite reduction specials |
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The amazing MonaLisa Touch Laser revitalizes the vagina, and corrects the loss of elasticity, moisture and sensitivity that comes along with menopause and causes sexual pain.
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| Learn about MonaLisa Touch |
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Are you experiencing pelvic floor muscle pain? Sharp, shooting pains in your vagina? A deep aching pain in your pelvis? Endometriosis pain? SoLa pelvic therapy is a painless, infra-red laser treatment for chronic pelvic pain. Treatments take less than 5 minutes, 2-3 times/week for a total of 9 treatments, with 80% of patients experiencing significant pain relief.
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| Learn More about SoLa Pelvic Therapy |
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Trouble with decreased libido? Decreased sexual arousal? Decreased satisfaction? Delayed, absent or blunted orgasm? Oftentimes, this is due to vascular aging. Cliovana is a painless in-office treatment which uses high frequency ultrasound to improve genital blood flow, sensation and function.
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| Learn about Cliovana |
Topical arousal creams can be a low cost solution to the "I feel dead down there" complaint many post-menopausal women have. A high quality arousal cream can be very effective for enhancing sexual pleasure. The Athena's line does not contain any hormones, hormone disrupting chemicals, and are made in the USA.
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| Topical Arousal Creams |
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Confused about where to start to jumpstart your sex life? Too many options here? Dr. Aslami created an online 3.5hr class which you can take from the privacy of your own home. This class will present you with all of the available information for treating low libido, low arousal, sexual pain, orgasm dysfunction, dryness, boredom and yes...how to use sex toys to enhance your sex life.
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| Learn about Dr. Aslami's Sexual Wellness Class here |
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World Depression Screening Day: 10/6 |
14% of teens and 8% of adults have had a major depressive episode in the last year alone.
Even more people suffer from chronic dysthymia (low mood), and this can significantly negatively impair relationships, work environments and school progress.
Many people don't recognize their own depression or know how to access help.
The top 10 symptoms for major depression are:
Depressed mood: Feeling sad, empty, or hopeless most of the day, nearly every day.
Loss of interest or pleasure: Markedly diminished interest or pleasure in all or almost all activities, most of the day, nearly every day.
Significant weight change: A noticeable weight loss or gain (when not intentionally dieting) or a decrease or increase in appetite.
Insomnia or hypersomnia: Difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep (insomnia) or sleeping excessively (hypersomnia), nearly every day.
Mental agitation or slowness: Observable restlessness or being slowed down in movements or speech that are noticeable by others.
Fatigue or loss of energy: Feeling tired or having a lack of energy, nearly every day.
Feelings of worthlessness or excessive guilt: Feelings of worthlessness or excessive or inappropriate guilt, nearly every day.
Decreased concentration: Diminished ability to think or concentrate, or indecisiveness, nearly every day.
Recurrent thoughts of death: Recurrent thoughts of death, recurrent suicidal ideation without a specific plan, or a suicide attempt or a specific plan for committing suicide.
If you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms of depression, it's crucial to seek help from a mental health professional. A proper diagnosis and treatment plan can greatly improve the individual's well-being and quality of life.
Massachusetts offers many mental health screening and treatment options. Services can be accessed 24hrs/day, 365 days/yr via text/chat/phonecall.
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| Access Massachusetts Depression Resources |
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For immediate access to resources regarding suicide prevention, DIAL 988 OR visit the national suicide prevention site:
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| 988LIFELINE.ORG |
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World Osteoporosis Day: 10/20 |
Osteoporosis is a medical condition characterized by the progressive weakening of bones, resulting in reduced bone density and increased susceptibility to fractures.
The term "osteoporosis" literally means "porous bones." It occurs when the body loses bone mass faster than it can be replaced, leading to a decrease in bone strength and quality.
Normally, bones undergo a continuous process of remodeling, where old bone tissue is broken down and new bone tissue is formed. Osteoporosis disrupts this balance, causing bones to become brittle and prone to fractures, even from minor stresses or accidents. Common sites for fractures due to osteoporosis include the hip, spine (vertebrae), and wrist.
Osteoporosis is often considered a silent disease because it can progress for many years without causing noticeable symptoms until a fracture occurs. However, some individuals may experience back pain, loss of height, and a stooped posture.
Several risk factors contribute to the development of osteoporosis, including:
- Age: The risk of osteoporosis increases with age.
- Gender: Women are at a higher risk, especially after menopause due to hormonal changes.
- Hormonal changes: Reduced estrogen levels in women and low testosterone levels in men can accelerate bone loss.
- Genetics: A family history of osteoporosis increases the likelihood of developing the condition.
- Lifestyle factors: A sedentary lifestyle, lack of exercise, poor nutrition (especially low calcium and vitamin D intake), and smoking can contribute to bone loss.
- Certain medical conditions and medications:
Conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis and the prolonged use of corticosteroid medications can increase the risk of osteoporosis.
To diagnose osteoporosis, specialized x-rays called dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) are used to measures bone mineral density. This is a painless imaging study.
Treatment and management of osteoporosis typically involve lifestyle changes, such as a diet with adequate calcium and vitamin D, regular weight-bearing exercise, and quitting smoking.
Additionally, medications may be prescribed to slow down bone loss and/or increase bone formation. This improves bone density and reduce the risk of fractures.
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| Learn More About Osteoporosis Here |
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Mammograms save lives, pure and simple. Mammograms are special x-rays, designed to detect breast cancer at early stages, before they become life-threatening. Mammograms are recommended every year starting at age 40. Some women need to start getting yearly mammograms prior to age 40, due to their family history of early age breast cancers. Mammograms can have false positive and false negative results, but they are still the most accurate screening tools for the early detection of breast cancer. Breast MRI, ultrasound, and thermography have also been evaluated as screening tools, but they have not proven to be as accurate as mammograms. Mammograms can be
uncomfortable, yes...but they are very quick tests and truly save lives. Mammography centers will typically conduct standard SCREENING mammograms. If a woman has symptoms, such as breast pain or nipple discharge, or they have dense breast tissue, then more specialized mammograms are needed (such as DIAGNOSTIC or 3D mammograms). It is important for women to know if their own breast tissue is dense, and if they are getting the right type of mammogram for their body.
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