Five Minutes with Mina Moussa – Pharmacy Manager at CCC North Geelong

What made you decide to become a pharmacist? 

I've always wanted to be in a position where I can help people. Pharmacists tend to be the first point of call for customers.  As a pharmacist, I am able to interact with many customers daily to offer health advice and education as well as identify the most suitable treatments for their specific condition.  It is very satisfying to receive positive feedback from customers in regards to treatments which I've recommended.

How long have you been a pharmacist?

I've been a pharmacist since 2005.

What brought you to CCC?

I actually interviewed for this job earlier this when I was still residing in the U.S.  I believe that the CCC model is ideal in the sense that it ensures that all customers entering our stores have the opportunity to interact with pharmacists who are highly approachable.  CCC places a lot of emphasis on the continuous training and development of its pharmacists.

CCC is able to provide the best health outcome for customers by offering a variety of professional services delivered by a diverse team that includes pharmacists, naturopaths and a diabetes educator.  I'm not aware of any other pharmacy group which offers such a holistic treatment approach.

What are you most passionate about in healthcare?

I am passionate about providing people with health-based solutions.  Every customer who steps into the pharmacy can benefit from a solution. They may need a better understanding of their regular medications, a remedy for troublesome symptoms or a treatment for the underlying cause of recurring issues.  The clinical areas that I’m most interested in are dermatology, eye & ear, as well as weight loss.

What is a fun fact about you that not many people know?

I lived in the U.S for nearly 2 years and my wife is a U.S citizen.

I love my footy and I've attended the last 3 AFL grand finals involving Collingwood.

Protect Your Skin From The Winter Blues

Geelong’s cold and blustery winter can play havoc with our skin. Here are some natural remedies to protect our skin winter blues, provided by our Naturopaths Beverley Windsor & Claire Lewtas.  

Beverley Windsor

Claire Lewtas

Zinc*

Most of us know that zinc benefits the immune system. However did you know zinc plays a wide and diverse role in the body including maintaining a healthy digestive system, blood glucose control, liver detoxification, improving taste sensitivity and maintaining healthy skin at all ages?  

Zinc is required to build all new tissues in the body including regeneration of skin cells.

It can be especially helpful at improving acne due to its ability to inhibit enzymes that can lead to hormonal imbalances. Conditions such as rosacea and psoriasis, which have an auto-immune element, may benefit particularly from zinc supplementation as it also supports the immune system as well as helping to regenerate skin cells.

Zinc also plays a role as one of the most important and powerful antioxidants in the body. Antioxidants have been highlighted as key elements in reducing and preventing the aging process. They have a long history of use in skin care products and may be just as useful when consumed. 

One of our favourites is Ethical Nutrients Zinc fix powder, which has a combination of zinc and vitamin C (another skin nourishing nutrient due to its role in collagen production). 

Vitamin E*

Vitamin E is another powerful antioxidant in its own right and has the ability to regenerate other antioxidants. Vitamin E can neutralize free radicals that can cause inflammation and damage to many surfaces of the body, inside and out. Vitamin E is a fat soluble nutrient which means it’s often found in an oil form. It also means it’s particularly useful in preserving cell membranes of all cells, including skin cells. The oil itself can be quite hydrating and rejuvenating for the skin.  

It is a popular ingredient in many moisturising preparations, is used to alleviate dry and cracked skin, assist in skin repair, prevent stretch marks and diminish the appearance of scars. It is involved in many biological processes in the body and is particularly important during tissue inflammation and tissue injury.

There are eight different forms of vitamin E so to get the best out of your vitamin E supplement look for one which contains all eight. Vitamin E capsules can be taken orally or pierced and applied directly to the skin. We recommend practitioner products available in-store.  Alternatively you might try Blackmore’s Natural Vitamin E cream applied directly to the skin.

Vitamin C*

Vitamin C assists wound healing and also assists the assimilation of zinc. In some clinical trials topical applications have been found to be beneficial for sun damaged skin after three months of use. Vitamin C’s antioxidant properties play a key role in collagen production. Clinical trials have also shown a significant decrease in hyperpigmentation of the skin. Its anti-ageing properties are related to it being an antioxidant and its reduction of reactive oxygen species that interfere and destroy collagen and connective tissue structures. Vitamin C has been found to improve fine wrinkles, tactile roughness, laxity and tone. 

We recommend Moo Goo Vitamin C Eye Serum that has a 50% olive oil derivative, 25% vitamin E and 25% vitamin C in a highly absorbable fat soluble form. Also try Ethical Nutrients Zinc fix (with vitamin C).

Silica*

This mineral provides nutritional support for collagen formation, which is important for healthy connective tissue including hair, skin, nails, bone and cartilage. Silica can be used internally and externally. When topically applied it may provide symptomatic relief of mild to moderate acne. Liquid silica is best or try Q-Silica capsules.  

Fish Oil

Fish oil contains omega 3 fatty acids which have been found to be useful in atopic dermatitis. Some clinical trials have found up to 30% improvement after four months in the overall severity of atopic dermatitis and reduction of scaling. A high strength clean fish oil liquid is best and available in-store.

Probiotics

There is also very promising research with probiotics and atopic eczema. Significant improvements have been found with some of the Lactobacillus strains. Probiotics also improve digestion and immunity. Emerging evidence is showing how important the microbiome of the gastrointestinal tract is. Antibiotic use reinforces the importance of replacing the friendly bacteria for our optimal health including our skin health.  A good multi-strain probiotic that has 9 strains of friendly bacteria and is dairy and gluten free is available in-store. 

For more information or to find out if these supplements are suitable for you, visit Community Care Chemist and speak to our friendly professional pharmacists and naturopaths. After all, the best skin care begins with a WHOLE HEALTH TREATMENT.

*Use only as directed and always read the label

*Vitamin supplements should not replace a balanced diet

*Vitamin supplements can only be of assistance if the dietary vitamin intake is inadequate

Experienced Naturopath and Diabetes Services Geelong

Diabetes is a condition which can distress the entire body. It is a chronic but manageable disease that effects over two million Australians. If not taken seriously and treated regularly, diabetes can pose a risk to life. With proper education and effective management, patients with diabetes can lead a healthy and normal life. There are different types of diabetes; type 1, type 2 and gestational diabetes, all complex and serious.

There are health care professionals in Geelong with experience and expertise in diabetes education and management. The Geelong storeprovides an in-store certified diabetes educator who is available to assist people in better understanding the disease, as well as providing customers with ways to control the illness, and make positive lifestyle changes through incorporating healthier choices into their life to manage diabetes more effectively.

Health care professionals in Geelong assist and support diabetes patients with diabetes through a whole health approach. They provide advice on medication, nutrition, and lifestyle factors such as pregnancy, travelling with insulin, instructions on diabetic devices and advice for carers. They also provide diabetes related advice and support online, in person and over the phone.

A wide range of diabetes care services are available at various centres in Geelong. They provide caring and efficient support to their patients in a safe and respected environment. Patients can also get memberships at these centres and receive different kinds of privileges which include discounts and rewards.

There are different kinds of remedies available for various ailments both natural and non-natural. Nowadays, people’s beliefs in natural medicine is increasing day by day. Naturopathy adopts a holistic approach towards the patient and their condition. In this, treatment is done through natural therapies which taps into body’s self-healing abilities. It is believed that every person has a self-healing mechanism which can nourish, repair, detoxify, rejuvenate, hydrate and heal the body provided that the right care is given.

The naturopaths in Geelong try to understand and activate the patient’s bodies intelligent innate healing mechanism to provide the right kind of treatment. Naturopathy aims to eliminate body toxins and ensures that a person feels mentally, physically and emotionally healthy. In order to complement natural treatment, Geelong’s qualified naturopaths use nutritional medicine which includes flower essences, herbs and an extensive selection of practitioner-only products.

To get the most of the customer’s experience, Geelong’s naturopaths provide a consultation where they work personally with them, guiding the treatment for various health issues including weight loss, stress, improving the immune system, fatigue, allergies, sleep disorders, depression, digestion, and degenerative illnesses such as arthritis, hormonal imbalances, fertility, skin problems; as well as preventative health measures and strategies. The naturopaths provide quality service and advice and genuinely care for the health of their patients and the Geelong community. 

For more information, visit: http://www.communitycarechemist.com.au

Real and Effective Geelong Naturopath and Diabetes Programs

The advancement of our society has stemmed from our understanding of the human body and the ability to treat disease effectively. However, with every ailment we cure or provide a cure for, there is another one discovered. Whilst conventional medicine is important and valuable, for a preventative approach many people turn to naturopathy. 

Naturopathy adopts a holistic approach towards the patient. It involves treatments through natural therapies which tap into thebody’s self-healing abilities. Practitioners of naturopathy believe that every person has a self-healing mechanism which can nourish, repair, detoxify, rejuvenate, and heal the body through providing the right conditions and care. This practice tries to understand and activate your body’s innate healing mechanism to provide the right kind of treatment. This style of medicine aims at eliminating toxins from the body and ensuring that the patient feels mentally, physically and emotionally healthy. 

There are many naturopaths in Geelong that will take into account the history of the patient’s health andwork with them to suggest a treatment plan to improve diet and lifestyle. They provide treatment for various health issues including weight loss, stress, improving immune system, fatigue, allergies, sleep disorders, depression, digestion, arthritis, hormonal imbalances, fertility and skin problems. In line with the preference for natural treatment, naturopaths in Geelong recommend medications like herbal medicines, nutritional supplements, homeopathic, flower essences, ear candles, tissue salts, aroma therapy and body work therapies. To bring balance and harmony to mind, body and soul, they may recommend a combination of these treatments. Naturopathy helps to determine what changes need to be made to support the patients’ health and healing.

Although diabetes is not considered an extreme disease, if it is not taken seriously and treated regularly it can pose a risk to life. With proper education about diabetes, one can live a healthy and normal life. There is complete treatment and care available for diabetes in Geelong. With latest treatment and methods patients are provided with highest quality of service. There are community support groups which help people in staying updated towards the disease and the treatments. 

There are health care professionals in Geelong with experience and expertise in the treatment of diabetes through education and management. They assist people in better understanding the disease. They also educate them about how to read and comprehend food labels in order tochoose the healthiest option.There are special programs for those who are new to the disease and need more information.

A Weighty Issue

Maintaining a healthy weight is tough enough.  Losing weight is -even harder, especially on your own. Why not pop in and see us at Community Care Chemist for your own tailored healthy, weight loss program which includes weekly visits to keep you on track with ongoing support and advice.  We use the Ultralite program which is the result of many years of medical research and trials. It is designed to provide balanced amounts of protein, carbohydrates, vitamins, minerals and trace elements in the right combination as you lose weight. You can choose a 5 week or 10 week program depending on where your weight currently stands. Here are a few handy hints for helping you along you way with your journey to a healthy weight range.

1. Preparation and organization are keys to success. Plan your meals in advance, try and do at least a week of meal planning, then you won’t be tempted to get the quick and easy option on your lunch break or pick up some takeaway on the way home from work.
2. Don’t skip meals. This will slow your metabolism and you will burn fat at a slower rate, you may also over eat on your next meal.
3. Move that body. Doing any physical activity is better than doing none. If you currently do no physical activity, start by doing some, and gradually build up to the recommended amount. The Australian guidelines for physical activity suggest 5 hours of moderate activity or 2.5 hours of vigorous activities a week. Walk your dog, join a gym or a sports club and try to make it something you will enjoy, that way you are more likely to stick at it. 
4. If you slip up, don’t beat yourself up. Get back on track.
5. 
   

Weight loss is a lifestyle change, it is not something that is going to happen in a week but something you need to work on for the rest of your life. Your body will be thanking you in more ways than one once you make the decision to look after your weight and steer your health in the right direction.

Visit  communitycarechemist.com.au/category/weight-management to know more about maintaining a healthy weight.

Effective and Optimal Natural Medicine in Geelong

With challenging working lives and rapidly paced lifestyles, and people’s health is challenged as a result. There are different remedies to various ailments and people’s belief in natural medicine is increasing day by day. It has seen its inception in traditional cultures and since then it has spread its roots throughout the world. Natural medicines are comprised of various natural therapies that are effective on both mind and body. Natural medicines are very helpful in alleviating pains and improving overall health. Even if someone is suffering with certain emotional conditions like stress or anxiety, natural medicines can prove to be of help for him. This is because natural medicine has various advantages over other medicines. They are highly cost effective and easy to find. They are milder to the body and can at times be more effective. Despite this they are cheap and clean also. One can feel safe with Geelong natural medicines as they don’t have any side effects. They are highly effective in the treatment of conditions, particularly when parnterned with western medicine. 

Geelong is a well-known hub for natural medicines. Here one can find highly qualified and experienced practitioners who apply a holistic approach while treating their clients. They have expertise in treating people of all ages and backgorunds. They are skilled in various disciplines like remedial massage, homeopathy, acupuncture, myotherapy and naturopathy. Natural medicines can provide various health care solutions including bone health, IBS, cramping, allergies, arthritis, pain, eczema, and gastrointestinal complaints including reflux, weight loss, constipation and diarrhoea – even cold and flu and many more. They greatly assist people in attaining optimal wellness. They strengthen and enhance the normal body functions so as to improve immunity and promote a general sense of well-being.

The use and preference of natural medicines is increasing day by day due to the various benefits they provide. Natural medicine in Geelong combined with natural therapies can do wonders. Through proper assessment, the condition can be diagnosed properly and based on that adequate natural treatment can be provided to the patient. As there are no harmful effects of natural medicines and therapies, natural medicine provide a positive alternative for those who react poorly to chemicals and are frustrated with a lack of progress with western medicines. All the natural medicines used in Geelong are clinically trialled and are approved as per the guidelines.

Natural medicine in Geelong comprise of the therapeutic use of natural approaches and materials. These include Homeopathy, Naturopathic Manipulation, Herbal Medicine, Hygiene, Clinical Nutrition, or ancient medical systems. They emphasise mainly on the use of herbs and food for medicine. These methods are very famous throughout the world and are believed to be highly effective for attaining overall health and wellness. The approach in natural medicine is holistic i.e. individual's biochemistry, biomechanics, and emotional predispositions are first taken into consideration and based on that, the treatment is done. This type of treatment is first choice in various places due to its long history of success.

TOP FIVE REASONS WHY YOU SHOULD VISIT A NATUROPATH

Naturopathy, which is a holistic approach to wellness, has long been known as nature’s gift to whole health and harmony.

Most of us strive for optimum health and wellbeing.  This usually means accessing the abundance of health services and products available at our fingertips. There is no doubt that traditional prescription medicines will always hold a fundamental place in our health regime.  However, more Australians are striving for a more balanced proactive approach to their health. And this is where naturopathy plays a vital role.

So why should you see a naturopath? There are five great reasons!

1.       Naturopathy focuses on disease prevention

Naturopathy focuses on the underlying cause of a condition and applies treatments that work in alliance with the natural healing mechanisms of the body rather than against them. A naturopath not only treats the health challenge but also provides clear strategies to patients on how to empower and improve their life by minimising illnesses from the outset.

2.       Naturopathy may assist with prevalent health conditions facing most people today

Naturopathy services may assist with prevalent health conditions including cardiovascular health, hormonal imbalance, fertility, menopause, digestion, immune system improvement, stress, sleep disorders, allergies and skin conditions, migraines, degenerative illness such as arthritis and also preventative health strategies.

3.   Naturopathy uses non-invasive and natural treatments

A naturopath uses non-invasive and natural therapies to tap into the body’s self-healing abilities.  Physical symptoms are examined, as well as the influence of lifestyle factors and emotions on the person’s whole health. Nutrition from wholefoods and superfoods can be used to strengthen and nourish the body. There are a range of practioner-only products that are safe to use and are evidence-based.

Naturopathy can work in harmony with traditional western medicine

If you can find a naturopathic practitioner who works alongside pharmacists and GPs to safely integrate evidence based natural medicine with western medicine – then you’ve hit the jackpot! This whole health approach can put your mind at ease knowing that experts have created treatment plans tailored specifically to your health needs.

4.       Naturopathy consultations are affordable

Naturopathy consultations can range from $75 to $100 for an hourly consultation (please note prices may vary). That’s the cost of a facial or massage! And when you think of the benefits to your health and wellbeing, you won’t hesitate.

Go to the experts

Combining both prescription medicine and natural medicine may be a daunting and complex option, but with the right advice from experts – namely pharmacists, GPs and naturopaths; a successful whole health strategy is possible.

The key is to do your research.  Find a pharmacy where pharmacists work closely with naturopaths to be able to safely and effectively integrate prescription medicine and natural medicine for optimum patient outcomes.

Be ready to ask lots of questions as pharmacists are there to help you uncover all your medication choices – both traditional and natural.

Community Care Chemist believes in whole health

Community Care Chemists in Greater Geelong and Apollo Bay values the multidisciplinary approach to healthcare by having an in-house qualified naturopath in the Belmont and North Geelong CCC pharmacies.

Working closely together with pharmacists and GPs, the CCC naturopath is focused on the safe integration of evidence-based, non-invasive natural medicine with pharmaceutical medicine.  The result is creating a treatment plan which is specifically tailored to a patient’s health needs.

 

Patients will have the confidence and reassurance that all health options are presented and covered.

http://www.communitycarechemist.com.au/category/naturopathy-services