December 18, 2023 - Women's Journal

Turning Storytelling into Empowerment: Meet Faith Abraham, The 6-Year-Old Philanthropist Making an Impact

Women's Journal Staff on December 18, 2023

By: Lamourie Media

At only six years old, Faith Abraham is a tour de force. Named the Go Daddy Young Entrepreneur of the Year, the award-winning author from Toronto notches countless accolades under her belt – including Success Magazine’s Women of Influence 2022. She is also a globally acknowledged philanthropist who has graced the screens of CityTV, Global News, The Financial Post, and Toronto Caribbean News among others.

Faith Abraham is not your average child. She declares herself an author, an entrepreneur, and an animal activist. Her belief that every child deserves an education and a healthy life, and her commitment to empowering women and children worldwide through her books, attests to her maturity beyond her years. Led by a strong mission to care for animals and nurture the planet for future generations, she has rightfully cemented her place in the hearts of many.

The saga of Faith is incomplete without Sparkle, her sidekick in her book series, and a constant companion. Sparkle, a lovable, special needs pup suffers from bone deformities, tummy issues, and arthritis. Yet, Sparkle brings invaluable joy to Faith’s life, turning every day into an adventure waiting to be lived.

The Faith and Sparkle book series, recommended by authors, speech therapists, and educators alike, feature Faith and Sparkle on various missions. From rescuing Grandma from a sore tummy and the dread of Brussels sprouts in “Superhero Faith”, to providing emotional support to others in “Doctor Faith”, this young author goes beyond words, encouraging emotional growth in children.

Faith extends her mission to empower children to social and cognitive development workshops. These workshops offer interactive activities intended to boost creativity and self-confidence within children, all under her watchful eye. In addition, she also conducts workshops that provide crucial mentoring to modern parents, advocating a healthier approach to raising confident and creative children. Faith’s workshops cater to not just individuals but also educational institutions and community centers.

Faith’s philanthropic ventures stretch as far as North America and Europe, raising awareness and funds for multiple charitable organizations. This young philanthropist has not only left her mark with her books but also through her tireless efforts to uplift communities and succinctly showing the world the power of kindness. Her motto emphasizes this commitment effectively—Faith believes in making generous acts of kindness within the community to help make a positive impact in the lives of others.

With accomplishments including being named Go Daddy Young Entrepreneur of the Year, Success Magazine Women of Influence 2022 winner, spotlight in Canadian SME Magazine/UPS, Brainz Magazine, and being a speaker at various conferences, her recognition is extensive.

Faith’s work extends beyond the pursuit of personal success. Her ultimate goal is to create a safe space of empowerment for parents, caregivers, and children. Under Faith and Sparkle, she strives to support animals alongside the planet. Her initiatives include a Creative Writing Workshop and a mentorship program that aids children’s emotional growth, and helping parents and caregivers guide their children to reach their utmost potential.

Faith Abraham’s message is clear. In her work, and her wholesome fascination with empowering children, supporting animals, and healing the planet, lies the secret to her success. Empowerment comes from within, and every child – our future – deserves to tap into that power, because, as Faith beautifully puts it, “an empowered child, needs an empowered caregiver.” As a philanthropist and animal activist, through her books, she continues to support education and well-being for children around the world.

Today, Faith Abraham stands as not just an author, but also an inspiration— a beacon of change and symbolizes the potential that kindness and empowerment hold for future generations.

Follow Faith and her adventures at : http://www.faithandsparklesworld.com/

Picks for Cyber Monday’s Beauty and Wellness Offers

Women's Journal Staff on December 18, 2023

Image commercially licensed from: Unsplash

Cyber Monday is an exceptional time for consumers to explore and acquire products in the beauty and wellness category. This year, numerous retailers have rolled out significant discounts across various segments such as beauty and wellness items, home and furniture, fitness equipment, televisions, and more. Let’s delve into the details of the most prominent deals in beauty and wellness.

Dyson Supersonic Hair Dryer: This product stands out with its 4.5-star average rating, based on 3,742 reviews. It’s designed to cater to all hair types, featuring multiple speed and heat settings, and comes equipped with five styling attachments. These include a diffuser, wide-tooth comb, styling concentrator, flyaway attachment, and gentle air attachment. Experts highlight its ability to prevent heat damage, reduce frizz, and enhance hair shine.
T3 Micro Lucea Professional Straightening & Styling Iron: This flat iron, recommended by experts, has garnered a 4.3-star average rating from 864 reviews. It boasts ceramic plates for a shiny, frizz-free finish and offers nine heat settings suitable for various hair types and textures. A built-in digital display shows your preferred heat setting, and its rounded edges are ideal for creating curls and waves.
Dyson Airwrap: With a 4.2-star average from 334 reviews, this styling tool is celebrated for its versatility in creating curls, waves, and adding volume, all while minimizing frizz and avoiding heat damage. It includes six attachments, such as a round volumizing brush and a smoothing brush, packaged with a convenient storage case.
Shark HyperAir Blow Dryer: Achieving a 4.2-star average rating from 1,477 reviews, this hair dryer is equipped with sensors to detect hair thickness and texture, automatically adjusting airflow and temperature. It offers three preset heat and airflow settings and includes a concentrator and a styling brush. A separate purchase option includes a diffuser for those with curly hair.
Laneige Lip Sleeping Mask: Dermatologist-recommended and boasting a 4.7-star average rating from 36,132 reviews, this overnight lip mask features a blend of antioxidants and hyaluronic acid. It’s praised for its hydrating properties and longevity, with users noting that it remains effective throughout the night.
Farmacy Beauty Green Clean Makeup Meltaway Cleansing Balm: With a 4.7-star average rating from 6,412 reviews, this cleansing balm is both a staff favorite and expert-recommended. It efficiently removes dirt, makeup, and more, containing antioxidants and papaya enzymes for gentle exfoliation, alongside turmeric extract and glycerin for soothing and hydrating the skin.
Elemis Pro-Collagen Cleansing Balm: Garnering a 4.5-star average rating from 13,324 reviews, this product is noted for its blend of oils that effectively break down makeup while leaving the skin feeling moisturized. It’s particularly favored for use in double cleansing routines.
Youth To The People Kale + Antioxidant Superfood Cleanser: With a 4.7-star average rating from 6,332 reviews, this cleanser is rich in antioxidants and effectively removes makeup, oil, and grime. Its gel-to-foam formula uses plant-based surfactants, ensuring that it doesn’t strip the skin of its natural moisture.
Cosrx Advanced Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence: Featuring a 4.6-star average rating from 59,597 reviews, this essence uses snail mucin as its main ingredient. It aims to improve skin tone and texture while providing hydration. Additional ingredients like hyaluronic acid, panthenol, and allantoin work together to hydrate and reduce skin irritation and redness.
Dae Hair Cactus Fruit 3-in-1 Styling Cream: With a 4.5-star average rating from 479 reviews, this multitasking cream is suitable for both wet and dry hair. It aids in smoothing styles, adding shine before blowouts, and defining curls. The sulfate-free, color-safe cream is noted for leaving hair polished, taming frizz and flyaways without leaving any residue.
Briogeo Don’t Despair, Repair Deep Conditioning Hair Mask: Rated 4.3 stars from 4,132 reviews, this hair mask is ideal for damaged or dry hair, providing hydration without a greasy feel. It includes ingredients like rosehip oil, algae extract, and B vitamins, each contributing to frizz control, hair strength, and damage repair.
Glossier Super Bounce Serum: This serum, with a 4.5-star average rating from 681 reviews, combines hyaluronic acid and pro-vitamin B5 to hydrate and soften the skin.

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7 Factors Increasing the Risk of Lifestyle Diseases in Women

Women's Journal Staff on December 18, 2023

Chronic illnesses are a major global health concern. According to the World Health Organization, by 2030, 70% of worldwide deaths will be due to chronic lifestyle diseases. Women are particularly at risk due to unhealthy living habits. Many women prioritize their families’ well-being over their own, leading to health neglect. This is even more challenging for working women who are juggling both home and work responsibilities.

The primary lifestyle diseases that affect women include heart disease, stroke, diabetes, obesity, metabolic syndrome, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and certain types of cancer. These diseases can result in loss of independence, years of disability, or death, and place a significant financial burden on healthcare systems.

How to Prevent Lifestyle Diseases

To prevent these diseases, it’s crucial to maintain a healthy weight, exercise regularly, eat a balanced diet, and abstain from smoking. These measures can reduce the risk of chronic diseases by up to 80%. Lifestyle diseases often begin in childhood and develop silently over years, making them “silent killers.”

Factors Contributing to Lifestyle Diseases in Women

1. Unhealthy Eating Habits

Irregular meal timings and unhealthy eating lead to “hidden hunger,” which is a lack of essential micronutrients.

2. Stress

Stress, inadequate sleep, and lack of physical activity contribute to weight gain. Elevated cortisol levels due to stress and lack of sleep lead to body inflammation, increased hunger, and ultimately weight gain.

3. Age

Women are at a higher risk of cardiovascular diseases and diabetes starting as early as 35 years of age.

4. Menopause

After menopause, women have higher overall cholesterol levels compared to men, affecting their risk of lifestyle diseases.

5. Diabetes

Diabetes increases the risk of heart disease more in women than in men. It also doubles the risk of a second heart attack and heart failure in women who have already had one.

6. Metabolic Syndrome

Women with metabolic syndrome are more likely to develop heart disease, stroke, and diabetes.

7. Smoking

Women smokers are more likely to have a heart attack compared to male smokers. Smoking also leads to other diseases due to persistent, low-grade inflammation.

To reduce the risk of lifestyle diseases, women should adopt healthy behaviors, increase physical activity, quit smoking, follow a high-fiber, low-fat diet, maintain good sleep habits, limit alcohol consumption, manage stress, and seek necessary support.

NSAID Use Tied to Higher Blood Clot Risk in Women of Reproductive Age, Particularly on High-Risk Contraception

Women's Journal Staff on December 18, 2023

Image commercially licensed from: Unsplash

A New Study Examines the Potential Link Between NSAIDs and Hormonal Contraception on the Risk of Blood Clots

The use of hormonal contraception (HC) and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) is widespread among women today. As the risk of cardiovascular disease continues to rise, it is important to reevaluate the implications of their combined use. A recent study published in The BMJ investigated the potential effect of using these drugs simultaneously on the risk of venous thromboembolism (VTE), a condition characterized by blood clots in the veins.

Exploring the Association Between NSAIDs and Hormonal Contraception

Both NSAIDs and HC have been identified as independent risk factors for VTE, but it is unclear how their combined use impacts the risk. HC, which includes estrogen, increases the likelihood of VTE in the deep veins of the lower limb and the lungs. This is because estrogen stimulates the genes responsible for blood coagulation.

When taken at high doses, such as with progestin-only contraception, the risk of VTE is elevated. However, the levonorgestrel intrauterine device (LNG-IUD) poses a lower risk due to the minimal amounts of hormones released into the bloodstream.

The current study classified HC into low-, medium-, and high-risk categories. High-risk HC includes the combined estrogen and progestin patch, vaginal ring, and tablets containing specific hormones. Medium-risk HC includes other combined oral contraceptives and depot medroxyprogesterone injections. No- or low-risk HC includes progestin-only oral contraceptives, implants, and LNG-IUDs.

NSAIDs are also associated with a higher risk of VTE, including both venous and arterial thrombosis. This adverse effect is linked to the activation of platelet aggregation. As a result, NSAIDs carry a warning that they may increase the risk of strokes and heart attacks.

The study, conducted in Denmark, included women aged 15-49 without known arterial or venous thrombotic conditions, cancer, thrombophilia, or relevant gynecologic conditions. The research period spanned from 1996 to 2017.

Out of the two million women included in the study, approximately 530,000 used both HC and NSAIDs simultaneously. Among these women, almost 60% used high-risk HC, 25% used medium-risk HC, and less than 20% used low-risk or no-risk HC.

Throughout the study period, over 8,000 cases of VTE occurred, with less than 3% resulting in death within a month of the event.

The researchers compared the use of NSAIDs among women on different types of HC. They excluded periods when women may have been at higher risk of VTE due to pregnancy, surgeries, or the use of other drugs associated with thrombosis.

On average, women on HC had two NSAID prescriptions within a year of starting HC use. The most commonly used NSAID was ibuprofen, followed by diclofenac.

The findings revealed that the risk of VTE was four times higher among women using high-risk HC compared to those not using HC or NSAIDs. The risk increased by three times among women using medium-risk HC, but there was no significant increase in risk among those using low-/no-risk HC.

Additionally, the use of NSAIDs alone, without HC, was associated with an eight times higher risk of VTE compared to non-users. Diclofenac was identified as the primary NSAID contributing to this increased risk.

When women used both NSAIDs and HC simultaneously, the risk of VTE was significantly higher. The risk was 51 times higher for high-risk HC users and 26 times higher for medium-risk HC users compared to 6 times higher for no- or low-risk HC users.

Even after adjusting for potential confounders such as migraine, inflammatory disorders, hypertension, and diabetes, the use of high-risk HC alone was still associated with a six-fold higher risk of VTE, while medium-risk HC alone had a four-fold higher risk.

Among women not using HC, the risk of VTE was seven times higher for those using NSAIDs. The risk increased to 11 times higher for women on medium-risk HC and 23 times higher for those on high-risk HC. However, even the use of low-risk or no-risk HC still increased the risk of VTE by 4.5 times.

The study suggests that the use of NSAIDs by women of reproductive age is linked to a higher risk of VTE. The extent of this increased risk depends on whether NSAIDs are used in combination with HC and the specific type of HC being used.

Most women on HC used NSAIDs for short-term indications, raising the possibility of a synergistic effect between these drug categories in promoting blood clot formation. However, it is important to note that the absolute risk of VTE remains low, despite the elevated risk during the first week of NSAID use.

Further research is needed to better understand the association between NSAIDs and HC and their impact on hypercoagulability. Given the widespread use of hormonal contraception and NSAIDs, particularly among regular NSAID users, investigating this association would be of public interest. Identifying the potential risks and benefits of different hormonal contraceptives in relation to NSAID use could help guide healthcare decisions for women in their reproductive years.

Women should be aware of the potential risks associated with the combined use of NSAIDs and hormonal contraception. It is advisable to consult healthcare professionals for personalized advice and to consider alternative contraceptive options with lower associated risks when necessary.

The Essure Device: Women Seek Legal Action for Permanent Contraception Complications

Women's Journal Staff on December 18, 2023

Image commercially licensed from: Unsplash

Hundreds of women in the UK who experienced pain and complications after having the Essure permanent contraception device implanted now have the opportunity to take legal action against its manufacturer. The women claim that the device has caused them irreparable physical and mental damage. German manufacturer Bayer defends the safety of Essure, which was withdrawn from sale in 2017. Despite the claims made by these women, the UK medicines regulator states that there is no risk to safety.

The Essure device, launched in 2002, is a small metal coil inserted into a woman’s fallopian tubes. It is designed to create scar tissue around the coil, forming a barrier that blocks the tubes and prevents sperm from reaching the eggs. Marketed as a simpler alternative to surgical sterilization, some women who opted for this device have reported constant pain, heavy bleeding, and other complications. In severe cases, some women have required hysterectomies or removal of the device altogether.

Women’s Experiences: Physical and Mental Damage

Deborah Chalk, aged 39, had the Essure device fitted after the birth of her third child. Soon after the procedure, she began experiencing a range of health issues. Headaches, abdominal pain, heavy bleeding, rashes, extreme itching, and mood changes became a part of her daily life. At one point, she woke up with a numb face, leading neurologists to suspect multiple sclerosis. However, it was only when she had a CT scan and the doctor mentioned the presence of the device that she considered it as a potential cause for her health issues. Deborah opted to have the device privately removed as part of a hysterectomy, and experienced immediate relief. Her mood improved, and she no longer faced any health issues.

Bayer, the manufacturer of Essure, states that the safety profile and efficacy of the device remain strong. The company claims that the device underwent extensive testing in ten clinical trials and over 70 real-world observational studies involving thousands of women. While acknowledging that all birth control methods carry risks, Bayer believes that the overall benefit-risk profile of Essure is positive. The company expressed sympathy for those who experienced health problems but maintains that it will vigorously defend itself against the claims made by the women seeking legal action.

Law firm Pogust Goodhead represents the 200 women in the UK who have initiated legal action against Bayer. Lisa Lunt, head of medical-product claims at the firm, points out that thousands of women worldwide have been fitted with the Essure device, many of whom have suffered adverse effects. The hope is that Bayer will agree to compensate the affected women for the pain and suffering they have endured unnecessarily.

Bayer is facing legal action in multiple countries regarding the Essure device. In the United States alone, the company has paid out over $1.6 billion to settle claims from nearly 39,000 women. However, Bayer does not admit any wrongdoing or liability. The US Food and Drug Administration advises that women successfully using the device should continue to do so.:

The Essure device, once hailed as a simpler alternative to surgical sterilization, has come under scrutiny due to the reported pain and complications experienced by some women who chose this form of permanent contraception. While the UK medicines regulator maintains that there is no safety risk associated with Essure, women who claim to have suffered physical and mental damage are seeking legal action against Bayer, the manufacturer. The outcome of this legal battle will shed light on the validity of these claims and potentially impact the future use of Essure as a contraceptive option.

Get Healthy-Looking Skin with Vibriance Super C Serum: A Product That Actually Works

Women's Journal Staff on December 18, 2023

Image commercially licensed from: Unsplash

In a world where beauty trends come and go, one constant remains the universal desire for vibrant, healthy-looking skin. In the very competitive skincare arena, Vibriance Super C Serum stands as a beacon of hope. It doesn’t just promise results. It delivers them – revolutionizing the skincare game with its cutting-edge formulation.

Skincare enthusiasts have likely heard about the potential of Vitamin C in skincare. It’s no secret that this essential nutrient is a powerhouse antioxidant, lauded for its ability to brighten skin, reduce hyperpigmentation, and stimulate collagen production. Vibriance takes this knowledge to the next level with its Super C Serum.

What sets Vibriance apart is the careful science, and rigorous research poured into each bottle of Super C Serum. This product boasts a unique, silky formula that delivers hydration and nutrients deep into your skin, unlike traditional serums, which may only sit on the surface.

At the heart of the Super C Serum lies a potent form of Vitamin C, known as Ethyl Ascorbic Acid.

It also utilizes other trademarked key active ingredients like Ultra Filling Spheres® and Synovea HR®, along with a complex of essential skin vitamins and nutrients. This makes Vibriance Super C Serum an all-in-one multi-tasker that can replace an entire cabinet of skincare products.

Vibriance Super C Serum can simplify your skincare routine down to one step, or it can be used as a key part of a multi-step skincare routine.

The effectiveness of this Vibriance Super C Serum derivative is further amplified by the presence of hyaluronic acid and allantoin in the formula. Hyaluronic acid, a naturally occurring substance in our skin, attracts and retains moisture, helping to create a plumping effect that smooths out fine lines and wrinkles. Allantoin, meanwhile, aids in skin softening and promotes healthy cell development, contributing to the overall resilience and vibrancy of the skin.

An important aspect to appreciate about the Super C Serum is its dedication to wholesome beauty. The product is cruelty-free, meaning no animals were harmed in its creation, a commitment reflective of Vibriance’s values. Moreover, it’s free from parabens, sulfates, and phthalates, aligning with the clean beauty movement and ensuring that your skin receives only the best, purest ingredients.

Many users have already attested to the transformative impact of the Super C Serum. Customers report that their skin feels smoother and more radiant after consistent use. Some have noticed a visible reduction in fine lines and sunspots. Others have mentioned the light, non-greasy texture and how the serum absorbs beautifully into the skin, a bonus for those who despise the heavy, sticky feel of typical serums.

Despite the impressive formulation and rave reviews, Vibriance understands that each person’s skincare journey is unique. That’s why they offer a 365-day money-back guarantee, proving that their confidence in the Super C Serum is more than skin deep.

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In conclusion, Vibriance Super C Serum is more than just another product on your vanity. It’s a testament to the fusion of science and nature, meticulously designed to nourish and rejuvenate your skin. It’s a serum that recognizes your skin’s individual needs and works actively to address them. Above all, it’s a serum that helps your skin look and feel its best, unveiling your natural beauty in its most radiant form.

Integrating Vibriance Super C Serum into your daily skincare routine could be the game-changer you’ve been seeking. Its blend of potent ingredients, along with its gentle yet effective nature, offers the potential for significant skin improvement. With its unique, lightweight texture, the serum glides on smoothly and absorbs quickly, making it perfect for both day and night use.

The Super C Serum’s proven results demonstrate its ability to effectively target and correct a multitude of skin concerns, from dullness and dryness to fine lines and hyperpigmentation. With continued use, you can look forward to a brighter, clearer, and more youthful-looking complexion.

In an industry filled with overhyped products, Vibriance Super C Serum stands out as a genuine, high-quality solution that delivers real results. Its comprehensive approach towards skincare – combining proven science, ethical standards, and a customer-first mindset – is what sets it apart. This is a product that truly encapsulates Vibriance’s commitment to providing luxury skincare solutions that are as effective as they are ethical.

This is the future of skincare, a product that delivers what it promises, a serum that works harmoniously with your skin to bring out its natural beauty. With Vibriance Super C Serum, you’re not just investing in a product; you’re investing in the health and beauty of your skin.

The path to healthier, more radiant skin might very well be found in thoughtful formulations like Vibriance Super C Serum.
After all, understanding and meeting the unique needs of our skin can lead to enhanced self-confidence and well-being. In the ongoing journey of skincare discoveries, products like Super C Serum can truly make a meaningful impact, offering a glimpse into the advancements of modern skincare science.

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Company Bio:

Vibriance isn’t just a skincare company with amazing products that get real results for women over 50. Vibriance has a mission to spearhead the Positive Aging Movement, set to inspire every woman to see her outer beauty and to let her inner beauty shine, regardless of age.

To learn more about the mission, you can go to their website to view testimonials and other information exploring the impact of the Positive Aging Movement, and you can view their blog (https://vibriance.com/blogs/vibriance). The products are also available on Walmart.com and Amazon.com.

Website: https://vibriance.com/

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