#Ahlgrimm

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How Science Studies The Invisible | Marla Ahlgrimm

As women, we hear a lot about our hormones. We have progesterone, estrogen, testosterone, cortisol… the list goes on and on. But, did you know that hormones are so small that they can’t be seen by a microscope? So, how do doctors, researchers, and others study these tiny chemical messengers? Marla Ahlgrimm says it takes a lot of work.

According to Marla Ahlgrimm, trying to pinpoint hormones in your blood is like trying to find a single grain of sand on a giant beach. But, hormones are important, especially considering that they affect every cell in the body. So scientists have come up with many ways to read and interpret information that helps us know more about our hormones.

Biochemical techniques

Marla Ahlgrimm says that the first way that scientists look at hormones is through biochemical techniques. This involves isolating hormones from bodily fluids or tissues. These hormones are then purified to identify their structure.

Immunological methods

Some hormones produce antibodies, which are proteins generated by the body to help bind certain hormones. Marla Ahlgrimm says that healthcare researchers can then study these antibodies to help detect and measure hormone levels with fairly high precision.

Molecular biology

Molecular biology is simply a science term for studying how the cells target hormone actions. Breaking biological processes down to their smallest and simplest structures allows scientists to know how hormones interact with specific cells.

Animal models

Marla Ahlgrimm admits that scientific study of animals is still a gray area. However, there’s no denying that studying animals with manipulated levels helps to provide insight into human hormone function. Further, genetic engineering, which has been refined over the last 25 years or so, allows researchers to make precise modifications to an animal’s hormone production. This reduces the potential for damage to the animal and exponentially increases the scientific value of these hormone studies.

Clinical research

Observing hormone levels and effects in human populations is another way that scientific researchers study hormones, says Marla Ahlgrimm. Research studies can follow a select demographic of individuals to find out how precisely administered or suppressed hormones can affect overall health.

Marla Ahlgrimm says that getting to understand hormones is important in the world of women’s health. Since hormones control everything about us, including our ability to reproduce, we can never have too much information. And although hormones can’t be seen with the naked eye even under a powerful microscope, clever scientists and other healthcare researchers continue to find ways to ensure we know as much about hormones as possible.

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Why Vacations are Essential for Women’s Well-being | Marla Ahlgrimm

As women, we juggle multiple responsibilities from work and family to childcare and social commitments. According to Marla Ahlgrimm, staying on top of things can lead us straight into a world of self-neglect. But it doesn't have to be that way, and even a quick weekend away can have huge benefits for women's overall well-being.

Mental health

Marla Ahlgrimm says that chronic stress is a huge concern for women. It impacts our mental and physical health from the moment we wake up until we fall into a fitful sleep. A vacation offers a much-needed escape that allows us to reduce stress, boost our mood, and spark creativity.

Stepping away from daily pressures lowers cortisol levels. Marla Ahlgrimm says this can quickly lead to an improved mood and reduced anxiety. Further, new experiences, such as seeing beautiful scenery and relaxing in a location you don't feel obligated to clean, can significantly improve symptoms of depression. Additionally, a change of environment can do wonders for our creativity. Sometimes, all it takes is a quick disconnect from routine to give us a fresh perspective and renewed vigor for our everyday lives.

A recharge for the body

Beyond mental well-being, Marla Ahlgrimm says that taking a break can have a positive impact on our physical health. Not only can a vacation improve sleep, but it can also increase energy levels.

Vacations provide an opportunity to break from the norm. This includes stepping away from sleep disruptions caused by unpredictable work schedules and/or rigid daily routines. Marla Ahlgrimm says that establishing a new sleep pattern in a more relaxed environment can improve sleep quality, which is invaluable to our mental and physical health alike. And, disconnecting from our daily demands allows our minds and bodies to engage in true rest and relaxation.

Body and soul

Vacations can also help nurture our emotional well-being, from our relationships to our ability to engage in self-care.

According to Marla Ahlgrimm, the quality time we spend with loved ones during vacation can help strengthen bonds and create memories that foster deeper connections. Something else to consider: vacations provide dedicated self-care space. Whether you are lounging on the beach or hiking through the mountains, you are free to focus on you and your wants and needs.

No traveling companion? No problem

Marla Ahlgrimm knows that not every woman has a companion with whom she wishes to travel. These women may be in an even better position to reap the rewards of getting away. When you travel alone, you are on your own schedule and have no one else to answer to. She recommends looking into safe places, such as Switzerland, Sweden, Vancouver, or Japan, which are all considered reasonably safe for solo female travelers. A little closer to home, Seattle, Sedona, and even some cities in Canada are considered top destinations for companion-free travelers.

If you haven't taken a vacation this year, there's never a wrong time to plan. Even the sheer act of looking forward to time alone can improve your mood from the time you book until departure.

[chromaglitchgaming]

Have You Tried ODDADA?

In ODDADA players can create and collect melodies in a fantasy toy world. ODDADA is a roguelike music builder, where players will go through six random levels to create unique musical pieces. 

Developer: Sven Ahlgrimm, Mathilde Hoffmann

Release Date: August 15th 2024

Price: 9,99€

Platforms: Steam (PC / Mac)

Levels are randomized, meaning each time players create a melody they will have a different set of toy instruments to use each time. There are also unlockables, that players can acquire each time they complete a track, that can affect their melodies. There is also an option in the game settings to unlock everything, for players who want to experience all their options sooner rather than later.

After playing through the levels players can turn their melodies into digital cassette tapes. These cassettes can be given names, and decorated to fit each melody. In ODDADA the melodies players create don’t just disappear, and instead can be saved to each player's computer as a .wav file. This is a great feature because many games don’t always give you the option to keep something you make outside of using a third-party program to record it.

[bahlgrimm]

DJI Test Drive from Bruno Ahlgrimm on Vimeo.

[marlaahlgrimmpharmacist]

Marla Ahlgrimm on the Pituitary Gland

What’s the size of a pea but controls most of the body’s functions? Marla Ahlgrimm says the answer is the pituitary gland.

According to Marla Ahlgrimm, many health experts and endocrinologists refer to the pituitary gland as the body’s “master gland.” Essentially, the hormones it manufactures control so many different aspects of the human body that it is considered essential to life. Among other things, the pituitary gland creates prolactin, a hormone found in nursing women that begins the lactation process.

Marla Ahlgrimm explains that the pituitary gland is also responsible for secreting hormones that work on the testes, thyroid gland, adrenal gland, and ovaries. These, in turn, produce a host of other hormones related to bodily functions, including reproduction. The pituitary gland is additionally important since it controls metabolism, blood pressure, and sexual maturation.

The pituitary gland produces growth hormone, thyroid stimulating hormone, and many others. According to Marla Ahlgrimm,the pituitary gland’s posterior section also works as a storage unit for oxytocin and vasopressin, which are hormones created by the hypothalamus. These hormones are responsible for feeling happy and blood pressure respectively.

Considering that it’s one of the most important components of the body, Marla Ahlgrimm says it’s important to know that there are many different things that can go wrong with the pituitary gland. Cushing’s disease and empty sella syndrome are just two examples. Cushing’s disease is typified by the pituitary gland producing too much of one or more hormones. Empty sella syndrome is a condition that has an effect on the shape and size of the pituitary gland.

Marla Ahlgrimm notes that tumors, both cancerous and benign, can also affect the pituitary gland. Untreated tumors can interfere with vision but rarely do pituitary tumors spread throughout the body.

[dolenteimmagine]

Johann Sebastian Bach, Was mir behagt, ist nur die muntre Jagd, BWV 208 “Jagdkantate”: No. 9, Aria. “Schafe können sicher weiden”

Elisabeth Schwarzkopf, Soprano Josef Niedermayr, Flute Karl Reznicek, Flute Karl Maurer, Cello Isolde Ahlgrimm, Harpsichord 1946

[ions-in-the-ether]

Uwe Ahlgrimm

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Good Morning! A Quick Chat with Marla Ahlgrimm About Coffee

There are few things many of us look forward to as much as our first cup of coffee each morning, says women's health expert Marla Ahlgrimm. But, is that 8-ounce cup of bliss really good for you? We recently sat down with Ahlgrimm, who shed some light on the dark brew in her cup.

Q: Let's get right to the point: Is coffee good for you?

Marla Ahlgrimm: There isn't a simple yes or no answer to that question. Coffee does have some noticeable benefits, though.

Q: Such as?

Marla Ahlgrimm: First is improved alertness and cognitive function. When you drink coffee, you're giving yourself a boost of caffeine, which can help enhance focus, alertness, and memory.

Q: That's fairly obvious. Are there any other health benefits to drinking coffee?

Marla Ahlgrimm: For some women, potentially yes. Some studies suggest that coffee might help reduce a person's risk of type 2 diabetes and even some forms of cancer. However, I wouldn't recommend drinking coffee solely as a preventive measure. Instead, I think most people should enjoy it for what it is and limit themselves to one or two cups a day to elevate their mood and improve their energy levels.

Q: What about the caffeine crash? Is that a cause for concern?

Marla Ahlgrimm: Any time you have an up, there's going to be a corresponding down. The key with coffee is moderation.

Q: What's the latest in the day I should drink coffee?

Marla Ahlgrimm: That really depends on your individual sleep schedule. For someone with a normal circadian rhythm, I would likely suggest not drinking coffee after two or three in the afternoon. This is because caffeine intake can interfere with sleep, which may be problematic, especially for women going through menopause who already struggle with sleep issues.

Q: Can coffee make you anxious?

Marla Ahlgrimm: Not for most people. However, some individuals have a sensitivity to caffeine. When over-consumed, too much coffee can exacerbate anxiety, stress, and irritability.

Q: Does coffee interfere with a woman's hormones?

Marla Ahlgrimm: Anything that changes how your body feels can affect your hormones to some degree. Overall, however, a few cups of coffee (most people shouldn't consume more than 3 cups a day) are unlikely to have long-term negative effects. There are some small studies suggesting a link between excessive caffeine intake and fertility, but more research is needed.

Q: What are some other sources of caffeine?

Marla Ahlgrimm: Aside from coffee, many types of tea, including black and green, contain moderate amounts of caffeine. Sodas can also contribute to your caffeine intake, as many contain up to 40 mg per 12-ounce can. Coffee contains around 95 mg. And if you drink energy drinks, you should be aware that some can contain three times the amount of caffeine in a single cup of coffee.

Q: What about food?

Marla Ahlgrimm: While caffeine is typically thought of as a liquid form, dark chocolate contains almost as much caffeine per ounce as a cup of coffee.

Q: So, should we be swapping coffee for another alternative for our morning pick-me-up?Marla Ahlgrimm: Most women can safely drink a few cups of coffee each day. But, the best advice I can give is to listen to your body and discuss any concerns with your primary care physician.

Bookmark this page for more great content and interviews from women's health expert, author, and retired compounding pharmacist Marla Ahlgrimm.

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Women's Health in the News

With the first presidential debate behind us, women's health professionals are taking a look at how the current administration has handled the issue of women's health. According to Marla Ahlgrimm, there are three major impacts made by the Biden Administration. These are overturning Roe v. Wade, the Women's Health Protection Act (WHPA), and, most recently, the Executive Order on Women's Health Research.

But what does this mean for women's health overall? Keep reading as Marla Ahlgrimm explains.

Roe v. Wade

Roe v. Wade is a 1973 Supreme Court case that outlined women's constitutional right to abortion in the U.S. It essentially allowed abortion during the first trimester. Marla Ahlgrimm explains that the second and third trimesters were more regulated. In 2023, these rights were overturned, allowing each state to create its own abortion-specific laws.

Marla Ahlgrimm says that the result has been complete abortion bans in some states and heavy restrictions by others. Many women are now also required to wait a specific amount of time between making the decision to have an abortion and going through with the act. Some states have also implemented policies that force counseling to promote their anti-abortion views.

The Women's Health Protection Act (WHPA)

The Women's Health Protection Act, or WHPA, is written to establish a federal right to abortion, regardless of individual state laws, says Marla Ahlgrimm. While not yet passed, the WHPA would guarantee healthcare providers a legal right to provide abortion services for medical and nonmedical purposes.

The WHPA, despite having passed the House of Representatives, currently faces challenges as it enters into the pipeline of the Senate. If passed, however, Marla Ahlgrimm explains that this new act would be the first major step in restoring women's access to abortion, regardless of reason, nationwide.

Executive Order on Women's Health Research

In March 2024, Pres. Biden signed the Executive Order on Women's Health Research. This is an act that aims to improve women's health research in many different ways. Marla Ahlgrimm says it increases research funding for specific topics, including chronic illnesses and pregnancy complications. The act also encourages the addition of more women in clinical trials to ensure that medications, procedures, and treatments are effective for all genders.

The act also addresses a gender gap in healthcare research leadership positions, a concern that Marla Ahlgrimm and many other female healthcare leaders have noted for many decades.

Ultimately, any presidential orders that aim to promote better healthcare for women are a boon to women. Marla Ahlgrimm acknowledges that the steps are all in the right direction but notes that women's healthcare continues to lag behind. It will take significant resources and many years to right this wrong.

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Marla Ahlgrimm Announces Key Numbers to Good Health http://ift.tt/2CmLVEM

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Presseecho Im Zwiespalt zwischen Beruf und Engagement

Besondere Ehrungen für zahlreiche ehrenamtlich Tätige in Großbeeren Von Marina Ujlaki Großbeeren. „Bitte hör nicht auf zu träumen von einer besseren Welt.“ Mit diesem Song von Xavier Naidoo startete am Freitag der Empfang für ehrenamtlich Tätige in Großbeeren. Mit diesen Worten begrüßte auch Bürgermeister Carl Ahlgrimm die rund 180 aktiven Großbeerener, die zur traditionellen…

[warpdoor]

Balconies of Berlin (Sven Ahlgrimm, Sergei Rachmaninoff)

"Balconies of Berlin is a short experimental Detective Game set in East-Berlin during the cold war." - Author's description

[daydec]

Kulturpalast in Dresden / gmp Architects

centro de ideas daydec (design) Courtesy of gmp architekten Architects: gmp architekten Location: Dresden, Germany Design: Meinhard von Gerkan and Stephan Schütz with Nicolas Pomränke Project Management: Christian Hellmund Competition Design: Verena Coburger Design Team: Clemens Ahlgrimm, Roman Bender, Stephanie Brendel, Verena Coburger, Ivanka Perkovic, Annette Löber, Anna Liesicke, Ursula Köper, Tiago Henriques, Laia Caparo, […] from Kulturpalast in Dresden / gmp Architects

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Marla Ahlgrimm On Sugar And Your Hormones

We all deserve a sweet treat every once in a while. But, Marla Ahlgrimm cautions women to be conscientious about how much sugar they intake. Why? Aside from the potential for weight gain, too much sugar can affect your hormones in many ways.

According to Marla Ahlgrimm, just a few ways that sugar affects women’s bodies include:

Increased estrogen production. It’s possible that eating too much sugar can lead to increased estrogen levels. This has the potential to cause estrogen dominance, which can result in weight gain, fatigue, bloating, excessive PMS symptoms, mood swings, brain fog, and more.

Disrupted insulin production. Marla Ahlgrimm acknowledges that sugar, like everything else we eat, affects our bodies at the cellular level. Eating too much sugar may result in insulin resistance, further disrupting hormone balance.

Increased belly fat. Cortisol is usually the scapegoat when people think about increased belly fat. Marla Ahlgrimm says this is especially true in women who tend to carry stress in the form of extra weight in their bellies. But, eating too much sugar can similarly result in a larger “spare tire.” The more sugar you consume, the more fat cells you create, the more fat cells you create, the more they settle into your midsection and hips.

Worsened PMS symptoms. While not all women suffer with severe PMS, a diet high in sugar consumption is linked to worsened cramping, mood swings, irritability, and depression. Marla Ahlgrimm says that eating too much sugar can also keep you awake at night, which can exacerbate these and other premenstrual symptoms.

How To Improve/Reduce Your Sugar Intake

There is no magic or mystery surrounding how you can reduce your sugar intake. It is simply a matter of being more aware of the foods you eat each day. Marla Ahlgrimm offers these tips:

Reduce your intake of processed foods. Marla Ahlgrimm explains that many processed foods are done so using sugar. Even things you might not expect, such as pasta sauce, can contain added sugars.

Replace refined grains with whole grains. White bread and rice really have no place on your plate. While these things are certainly tasty, Marla Ahlgrimm says they don’t have much in the way of nutrition. Worse, refined grains often contain added sugars and are not as easily broken down by your body as whole grains. Consider long grain rice and seed bread instead.

Eat more fruits and vegetables. If you want something sweet, reach for a banana or an apple instead of a bakery confection. While Marla Ahlgrimm notes that fruits and some vegetables contain sugars, these are natural versions that your body is better able to handle and break down.

Get more exercise. The more you exercise, the better your body feels. And when you feel good, you are much less likely to overindulge in things that make you feel sluggish, bloated, and uncomfortable. Instead of grabbing a sweet snack after work or school, consider taking a quick walk around the block first to get your dopamine levels up, which can help you avoid giving in to cravings.

All of us will reach for something sweet now and then. But, Marla Ahlgrimm says that sugar-laden foods should be considered treats and not everyday additions to our diets. By significantly reducing the amount of sugar you intake, Marla Ahlgrimm says you may see improved PMS symptoms and enjoy overall better health.

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Water Is Wonderful | Marla Ahlgrimm

If you’ve ever felt the pangs of thirst, you know how refreshing a glass of cool water can be. But Marla Ahlgrimm says that drinking enough liquid can positively affect your menstrual cycle and overall health.

Marla Ahlgrimm explains that when dehydrated, your body prioritizes its most essential functions—and that does not always include the menstrual cycle. This can lead to shorter, heavier, or even missing periods. Further, dehydration can thicken the blood, which can make it more difficult for your body to shed the uterine lining during menstruation. You may wind up with heavy cramps and PMS symptoms.

One of the most prevalent symptoms of dehydration is headache. Marla Ahlgrimm explains that women who don’t drink enough water may experience frequent headaches. Those with migraines may find their symptoms worse during “that time of the month” when they are dehydrated.

As far as your overall health is concerned, Marla Ahlgrimm says that water is essential for helping to transport nutrients and even oxygen throughout the body. Being sluggish, tired, and having a general feeling of malaise is one of the first symptoms of dehydration.

Marla Ahlgrimm notes further that headaches, dizziness, and constipation are also significant and unpleasant side effects of skipping liquids. Chronic dehydration can even lead to added strain on the kidneys, which may develop into kidney problems later in life.

Staying Hydrated

Getting enough water is not easy for everyone. Marla Ahlgrimm says that not all women enjoy the taste of plain tap water. Thankfully, there are many ways to fill up with fluids. First, women might consider carrying an infuser water bottle filled with fruit or berries with them throughout the day. Inserting fruits and berries into the bottle may render the most flavor. Marla Ahlgrimm also notes that women can drink sugar-free beverages, such as green and herbal teas, to help ensure their body is well hydrated.

Other ways to reduce potential dehydration are to eat celery, watermelon, cucumbers, and other water-rich fruits and vegetables.

Signs Of Dehydration

Thirst is not the only indication that you may be dehydrated, but usually the first. Marla Ahlgrimm says that women can watch for these other common signs:

Decreased urine output

Dry mouth and lips

Reduced sweating

In severe cases, seizures and fainting

Dehydration Recovery

Dehydration is a common issue that generally poses no long-term threats to your health. But Marla Ahlgrimm says it’s important to know how long it can take to bounce back from this or any other potential threat to your menstrual cycle or health. 

According to Marla Ahlgrimm, mild dehydration, typified by thirst and slightly decreased urination, may go away within a few hours after drinking proper fluids. Moderate dehydration, which may present with a headache, dizziness, and dry mouth, can take up to 24 hours. Severe or heat-related dehydration may require IV fluids and up to 72 hours to recover.