How much water is enough?
Working in women’s health often feels like two steps forward and one step back on a journey that has already been delayed too long. And sometimes one step forward and two steps back.
So we look to focus on the steps forward as well.
We’re following the FDA approval of a first ever pill to treat postpartum depression. The approval or denial should take place by August 5, 2023.
We were alerted to this by Rachel Braun Scherl, who is an excellent person to follow on LinkedIn if you want to keep up to date on all things women’s health.
The journey continues
- Maggie Ruvoldt & Stephanie Majercik
The Tasting Menu
What is Neurodivergence? (Inspired by Reader Feedback)
Hydration Recommendations. What’s the Real Deal?
Folic Acid 5 Facts
What is Neurodivergence? (part 1)
In the late 1990s and early 2000s the term neurodivergence gained popularity. Thanks largely to folks who are neurodivergent self-advocating to increase awareness, acceptance and inclusion, the medical model has been changing and the term has become better known.
Another term - neurodiversity - has also become more commonly used. It’s broader and meant to encourage us to embrace and value the range of ways our brain functions. We think that’s a beautiful thing!
Our learning and language continues to evolve and change. This week and next, we are going to share what we’ve learned about neurodivergence in women and some resources to learn more.
Understanding the words
Neurodivergence refers to variations in brain development and functioning that differ from what is considered neurotypical. It includes a range of conditions, including autism, ADHD (Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder), dyslexia, and differences in sensory processing.
Historically, diagnostic criteria and research focused mostly on how neurodivergence presents in caucasian males. That has led to underdiagnosis or misdiagnosis in women and people of color.
Neurodivergence in women
For example, women with autism may exhibit different characteristics or they may develop coping mechanisms that mask their difficulties in social situations, making it harder for them to receive an accurate diagnosis. Girls with ADHD may often present with inattentive symptoms rather than hyperactive behaviors, which can result in their struggles being attributed to daydreaming or disinterest.
The experiences of women with neurodivergence are also influenced by gender-specific expectations and pressures. Women are often expected to conform to societal norms of behavior, appearance, and social interactions, which can be particularly challenging for those who are neurodivergent. The struggle to fit in and meet expectations can lead to anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, and a higher risk of mental health conditions.
Raising awareness, challenging stereotypes, and promoting research on the unique experiences of neurodivergent women can help address disparities in diagnosis, support, and understanding.
Next week, we’ll talk about supporting neurodiversity in the workplace.
Resources
What does it mean to be neurodivergent?
Unlocking creativity by making space for neurodiversity in the workplace.
Figuring Out Your Water Intake
A quick Google search of “how much hydration do I need” brings up three results that all say different things.
“3.7 liters (15.5 cups or 125 ounces) for men.”
“...six to eight 8-ounce glasses of water per day.”
“64 ounces (8 cups) of water per day.”
Trying to understand how much water you should be drinking on a daily basis can seem a little confusing. There are general guidelines for males and females that can give you a good place to start. But there are other factors to consider when planning your water intake.
The general rules:
15.5 cups or 3.7 liters (for men)
11.5 cups or 2.7 liters (for women)
These general measurements include all ways that you intake water – like through coffee, tea, and even food. So no, you don’t need to drink 2+ liters per day as we get water in many different ways.
What else influences your hydration needs?
Other factors can impact how much more (or less) fluid you should take in on a daily basis. This includes:
Weight – the surface area of a body impacts how much water you’ll need. The more bodyweight, the more fluids you may need to intake
Your current life stage – at different periods of life, you may need more water than usual. For example, if you’re pregnant or breastfeeding you’ll need to drink more water to help aid in the creation of breast milk
What you’re eating – if you’re taking in appropriate amounts of fruits and vegetables, those are a natural source of water and can influence how much you need. Or if you’re like Stephanie and love soup, that can also count towards that overall total
Exercise and activity – how much you exercise or sweat on a daily basis will deplete your water levels and you’ll need to be replenished. You also lose electrolytes when you sweat. There’s no exact formula though, as everyone has a different sweat rate, everyone’s sweat has different salt make up. There are tests you can take to measure your sweat rate to know how much you need (this is something we learn about a lot in endurance training)
It’s also important to know that you can drink too much water also. This can lead to a life-threatening condition called hyponatremia which happens when your sodium levels are too low/become watered down. Finding your exact fluid amount will be a bit of trial and error. We recommend starting with the general guidelines and tweaking based on your lifestyle and other needs. Let us know how it goes!
Folic Acid - 5 Facts
Folic acid is a form of vitamin B9 and is a vital nutrient that supports cell growth, prevents some birth defects and even promotes mental health. Most women hear about it as part of a prenatal vitamin supplement. But it’s important for all of us.
Here are 5 facts about Folic Acid
Essential for Cell Growth and Development
It plays a vital role helping to form new cells and tissues.
Prevention of Neural Tube Defects
One of the most well-known benefits of folic acid is its role in preventing neural tube defects (NTDs) in developing babies. NTDs occur when the neural tube, which eventually forms the brain and spinal cord, does not close properly during early development, sometimes before you even know you are pregnant. By taking folic acid before and during pregnancy, women can significantly reduce the risk of these serious birth defects.
Promotes Red Blood Cell Formation
Folic acid is essential for the production of red blood cells. If you don’t have enough it can lead to a type of anemia known as megaloblastic anemia, characterized by abnormally large and immature red blood cells that cannot function properly.
Supports Mental and Emotional Health
It is involved in the production of neurotransmitters, such as serotonin and dopamine, which regulate mood, sleep, and overall brain function.
Food Sources and Supplementation
Folic acid is naturally found in a variety of foods, including leafy green vegetables (such as spinach and kale), citrus fruits, legumes, fortified cereals, and organ meats. It is often recommended to take folic acid supplements to ensure you are getting enough especially during pregnancy in case you aren’t through diet alone.
Medical Term of the Week
We talk a lot about hormones here at Eve Was Framed. There is another important set of chemicals our bodies produce to send messages and control various aspects of our bodies - Neurotransmitters.
Our nerves release neurotransmitters to regulate functions like heart rate, breathing and concentration. Some of the most commonly known are dopamine, endorphins and serotonin.
Aren’t our bodies amazing?
The Latest
Ever wonder why skin gets crepey as you get older. Wonder no more.(From HuffPost)
The case for inclusion of BIPOC women in femtech and women’s health research and solutions (From the World Economic Forum)
Looking for a new podcast? Check out this one for women’s health and fertility (from Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health)