The ideal waist size,

silent killers, and old songs

“Sometimes it’s hard to be a woman”. Let’s stop the lyric right there. If you haven’t heard it before, it’s an old country classic sung by Tammy Wynette. Carrie Underwood sings it too. It runs through my head every time I hear a new health dictate.

The crisis that won’t go away is weight. It’s near and dear to my heart. I am in one of  my “boot camp phases”. This is a month or so when I pay close attention to what I eat. I take only one “cheat day” a week.  I buff up my workout routine and check back-sliding at the door. It works for me. I dread any accumulated weight. At 5 feet tall, it takes very little to put on extra pounds.

Moving to a new city has always been a fattening proposition for me. I confess I hate change. It’s not so much that I overeat as I tend to hibernate. I hole up. I read. I resist. And voila the damage is done. We all have our issues. If you’re reading this, you know what makes you gain weight or lose it.

Actually, I can’t complain. I had almost a free ride until I was 40. Any weight I gained I would lose pretty easily. I really had to work to gain any. We were all super-active in high school.  I was never sporty, but I walked miles and never stopped. I have always walked miles in my sky-high heels, except while I was in Moscow and here in Atlanta. It’s the perfect fitness plan for me. It’s just killing when I can’t do it. I am still looking for a solution here. Some people like parks and tracks, not moi; I’m an urban girl. I need the thrill of a destination to keep me propelled.  I still have yoga and weights, so for now I resort to DVDs and a brisk bounce around my house. One adapts.

Issues of weight and fitness haunt even those in their 20s. I think we have good reason to worry. Articles about fitness are scary enough, but the comments they elicit are even more frightening.

It seems the emphasis on health and fitness divides women into camps. Some feel defensive and others feel aggressive or even self-righteous. I find it disconcerting. Now there is new evidence that people who carry excess weight around their waist may be courting serious health problems. The ideal waist measurement is roughly less than half of a person’s height or less. I'm sure the doctors who are promoting this information mean it to be helpful. And it is, for those who found their BMI or body mass index a bit high, due to having a bit more muscle. (To calculate your BMI www.nhlbisupport.com)

But for many women it was just another thing to worry about, or fail at. It seems many women are, by nature “soft in the middle”. It’s no surprise; we are designed to be soft curvy and “bring forth life”.  It’s quite a trick to reconcile that feminine function and the body’s evolutionary desire to hoard  with our need to stay healthy and lean. Yes, it’s hard to be a woman.

None of this is meant to be an excuse. Many women stay fit. It’s just not easy all the time. I think we need to hear that some time. No matter what age you are, the pressures today are crazy, and it doesn’t seem to be getting better.

Fighting pounds is just one of many issues we face. It seems in our battle for equality we have gotten just as bad as men. How fabulous is that? Young women now actually smoke more than young men. Horrors. And it seems we can knock back the cocktails like the boys. Don’t get me wrong, darlings, I love a party too. What I am talking about here is sad “Bridget Jones’ Diary” type behavior. Binge drinking and smoking often stem from the same stress that triggers over-eating and lethargy.

Long work hours and too many obligations leave many women exhausted. Excess weight is just one outward manifestation of bad health. Some women are physically fit or even thin, but nervous as cats. As opposed to thriving on their multitasking, BlackBerry-clacking existences, they are actually driving their tired bodies and minds into the ground. And let’s remember that some women who exercise and feel terrific might just be genetically-engineered to be a bit bigger.

I think a tape measure might be a handy tool for some, but not for all. I also know a BMI index and a bathroom scale can work wonders in the hands of the right people. But some well-muscled gals will tip it. And, don’t count on the average doctor to know how to give good advice. Many doctors are woefully ignorant about fitness and diet. Find someone who really knows whether you need help. Beware of anyone who hands you a printed food plan or work-out guide; your needs are very individual! And if you are tempted to ignore these issues, I beg you don’t. There are no guarantees, but losing a man as young as reporter Tim Russert at 58 has to make us all think twice about relaxing - stress doesn’t help - and looking after the basics.

One of my oldest friends is a stunning woman in her fifth decade. She has weighed herself every day since her marriage. It’s a trick she learned from her in-laws. She eats and she drinks, in moderation. She loves the good life. She is a sophisticated lady. She also had four children. You’d never know it to look at her.

Another lovely friend had gathered a few pounds around her waist over the years. Her family doctor used to terrorize her with a tape measure. He had no effect. She was never fat, but she had a few extra pounds to lose around her middle, the danger zone. I am sure he was worried for health. He has known her for years. Finally, she made up her mind and dropped the weight on her own. She looks even more gorgeous. And more importantly, she has moved out of the health danger zone.

It’s the not just the over 40’s who have struggled. My favourite workout pal is a stunner in her 20’s.  It’s no secret that many girls gain the “freshman fifteen.”

The stories of women battling stress are just heartbreaking. And it’s all so connected.  We all know that stress makes some of us overeat, but science now tells us it can actually make some women hold that weight around their middles. How scary is that? 

On a regular basis, I talk to women who don’t have even 15 minutes a day to themselves.  They have no time to think, dream, or recharge.  Many - but not all - of these women are young mothers. Last week, I told one desperately tired young women to stop for just 15 minutes before returning home to collect her thoughts.

Her mother-in-law watched her children for her during the day. She worked often six days a week and her husband worked nights. I suggested that, just a few times a week, she stop at a drive-in fast food place to have just 15 minutes to think before retuning home. She looked at me as if I had given her the secret to winning the lottery. Everyone needs a few minutes alone.

Often, by chance, I meet women who can’t nourish themselves emotionally.  I speak to women who need permission, even from a stranger, to take any time for themselves. This is as serious a health problem as any that can be measured by a tape or scale.

Darlings, sometimes it’s hard to be woman. It helps to be strong and healthy. We need to take care of ourselves and each other. It’s not easy. Sometimes I think old songs really do say it all - “girls just want to have fun.” As important as it is to eat healthfully, and exercise, it is just as important to take time to “dream a little dream” and “wish upon a star”.

Are you losing your hair,

or is it just your imagination?

Do you worry that you are losing your hair? Many women do these days. I frequently get questions on the subject. According to the American Dermatology Association, up to 40 percent of women report hair loss. How scary is that?

Women I know who have suffered hair loss often complain that friends and family refused to believe them for the longest  time. They insist it’s all in the afflicted one’s imagination. In one case, a women I know had to fly to another city to visit a dermatologist that I recommended; after two of her doctors had dismissed her hair loss. It turned out she was losing her hair. The reason was a potentially serious hormone disorder.  She was treated successfully.

There are many real reasons that can cause hair to thin or fall out. We went to internationally-recognized specialist Dr. Antonio Armani for answers. If you or a family member have any serious hair concerns, don’t miss a word of the most comprehensive article you will read anywhere on hair loss and prevention. Dr. Armani is a top expert and gives DolceDolce readers all the latest info on this important issue.

DD: An increasing number of women seem to be experiencing hair loss. Is there a reason for this?

Dr. A: Many factors may be causing this. Stress - both emotional and physical - and environmental factors can contribute to hair loss. Other factors include genetic predisposition and an increased use of hair chemicals, colorants, hair dryers, curling irons, and relaxers.

DD: Are there many different reasons for hair loss?

Dr. A: Yes. Genetics plus environmental; diet, disease, medications and stress are all factors. Any genetic predisposition will contribute to hair loss. Even genetics is multifactorial, and different triggers will start the onset of gradual or more acute hair loss.

DD: Is hair loss hormonal?

Dr. A: It can definitely be related to hormones. Women may note a difference in the quality of hair during the monthly cycle. It may be worse during PMS and improved during ovulation. Post-pregnancy hair loss is very common. Thyroid and ovarian hormonal diseases will directly affect the hair and cause permanent or temporary hair loss.

DD: Is hair loss worse after menopause?

Dr. A: Most people naturally experience hair loss as they get older. Age and fluctuating hormone levels - both pre-menopausal and post-menopausal - can cause some people to lose more hair than others.

DD: Is thinning hair just another inevitable part of aging? Can it be prevented?

Dr. A: It is a part of aging, but if care is taken, hair thinning can be prevented to a certain extent. Taking generally good care of one’s health is very important. Good nutrition, exercise, and stress relief is crucial. In addition, avoiding excessive chemicals on the hair and damaging heat with rollers, dryers, and curling irons is important. Using safe, organically-based shampoos, conditioners, and other hair products is also very important.

Here are some general rules for good hair care:

If your hair is dry and brittle or too curly, shampoo less often and use a deep conditioner.

If your hair is oily, too thin, and limp, shampoo daily, but avoid conditioning shampoos and deep conditioners. Use fewer chemical treatments. Be gentle in drying and styling.  Avoid direct exposure to the elements, sun and rain.  Avoid exposing your hair to swimming water.

And finally decrease smoking!

DD: Does coloring your hair make hair loss worse?

Dr. A.: It can be due to strong ammonium in coloring agents, especially if used frequently and for long periods of time.  Ammonium and hydrogen peroxide damage the DNA of the follicle, which causes telogen effluvium - temporary hair loss. All the chemical treatments, such as dyes, tints, bleaches, hair straighteners, and permanent waves - when used excessively or improperly - can cause hair to become weak and brittle, and eventually fall out. The rule of thumb with these chemical treatments is to use them as little as possible, and avoid them altogether if possible.

DD: Do hair extensions contribute to hair loss?

Dr. A.: They can, due to manipulation and pressure exerted on hair roots. Traction alopecia can be caused by pulling the hair back too tightly when styling.

DD: What are the effective treatments for hair loss besides hair transplants?

Dr. A: First determine the cause. Good nutrition. Avoid harmful chemical agents. Avoid excessive manipulation of the hair (braiding, curling, ponytails that are tight). Avoid applying excessive heat directly to the hair. Use organically-based shampoos, conditioners and styling agents. Avoid hairsprays and mousse.

Medically for women, Minoxidil 2% twice per day is recommended.  5% is better but there has been no clinical trial on this for women and as such 2% is only recommended.

DD: How can a woman tell if she is losing too much hair before she has actual bald patches? Often she is told it is her imagination by friends and doctors?

Dr. A: Normal hair loss is 100 hairs per day. If greater shedding is noted and there is generalized thinning that doesn’t improve over 3-6 months with any identifiable cause, then we can say there is significant hair loss that needs to be treated.

DD: Is there a type of family history or other trait that makes you more vulnerable to hair loss?

Dr. A: Family history from the mother’s side and grandparents will definitely contribute. Hair loss on both sides of the family will contribute more. There are too many factors contributing to hair loss, and thus a direct link to one type of trait is difficult to elucidate.

Women need to get a thorough evaluation to determine causes of hair loss. Generally, the majority of men have genetic pattern hair loss. For women, hormonal, metabolic, and environmental factors need to be evaluated and treated before labeling them genetic pattern hair loss. Despite this 40-50 percent of hair loss will be genetic and thus treatable through either Minoxidel or hair transplantation.

Is your skin stressed?

Have you been working too hard - or maybe playing too hard? Late nights, a bad diet, and too much of the dolce vita will show on your complexion. Too many summers in the sun or even a life that demands you log air miles can wreak havoc with your face. Skyn Iceland Artic Brighten Serum in a compact little bottleis the solution to stressed skin.

It’s a complex of Siberian ginseng, Kombucha, Reishi mushroom, i-peptides, arctic berries, and a biospheric complex derived from Iceland’s famed mineral-rich glacial waters. There is also retinol to stimulate collagen. This product is fantastically light and refreshing to use. It's a perfect solution for anyone who wants gentle but effective brightening and firming in a one-step regime. 

What’s in a name?

Everything, when that product is called Extreme Anti-Snap treatment by Redken Park Avenue. If like me, you colour, highlight, blow-dry, and heat-style your hair, chances are you know and fear the dreaded snap! Doctors and stylists warn that over-working or processing your hair can cause it to break. But then again leaving it uncolored and unstyled could cause a fashionista to snap! What to do? First, heed the warnings. Don’t overdo colour and highlights; stick to a schedule. Never perm and colour on the same day. Leave strong bleach to the professionals. And try the new Extreme line from Redken Park Avenue. I used the shampoo, conditioner, and Extreme Anti-Snap treatment. It was fabulous. The shampoo worked into piles of soft , delicious lather. The weightless Anti-Snap treatment let me blow dry and heat style with nary a broken bit in sight. The result was full, shiny, and protected hair. Other products I have tried which were designed to protect hair from heat-styling have always weighed down my fine hair. This product is undetectable.  I’m hooked on Extreme Anti-Snap. The name says it all. www.redken.com    

Go green, be chic, and help

Hurricane Katrina survivors

By buying and shopping with an its-laS-tik shopping bag from what’S ur bag you can help Katrina survivors, as well as carry one of the cutest reusable shopping bags we have seen. How fabulous is that that?  Two women started the project to help Katrina survivors. The bags, the labels, and the website are done in New Orleans by local residents.

Using an its-laS-tik shopping bag eliminates plastic bag wastage and helps Hurricane Katrina survivors in New Orleans.

The bags stretch, allowing you to load up and carry more than a normal shopping bag. We managed to stuff the one here with two bottles of wine and lots of pasta and other goodies. The bags are washable. And you can send them back to be recycled when they wear out. Seen in our photo is one of three neon-bright bags in a Pucci-inspired pouch for about US$39.99. Individual bags cost $12.99. Many other colours, patterns, and sizes are also available. They ship to the U.S. and Canada. To order, or for more information, check out  www.whatsurbag-usa.com

Matte that shine in seconds

Horses sweat, men perspire, and ladies glow – or so the old saw goes. If you have oily skin, you know that when it heats up, you shine. Makeup artist Sonia Kushuk has created Eliminate Shine for Target stores. It’s a clever spray-on translucent powder that mattes shine instantly. Spritz it on and brush, and it controls shine all day. No mess, no fuss, no shine. Brilliant. At all Targets. Apologies to my lovely Canadian readers. We try to include only products available in both countries, but this was too good not to share.  It’s definitely a candidate for a cross-border shop!

Savory salad with snap

This week’s recipe comes from our art director and head photographer Karin Pacione. Last week, while we were going over the issue, we started to discuss our mutual love for salads with a difference.  We both adore fruit salads that are both sweet and savory - and we agree a hint of chili makes it even better. Karin’s recipe is for a pineapple salad. I have eaten similar ones in Thailand, often with the additions of grilled shrimp or chicken.

Peel, core and cube a fresh chilled pineapple - or buy one freshly prepared at the store. Salt the pineapple lightly.

Cut a red bird chili (very small chilies) into small pieces and remove the seeds. Do not touch your eyes and wash your hands. (Karin uses the fresh chilies, and they’re best, but I have used a tsp. of dried chili flakes too.)

Toss with the pineapple:

1/4 cup fresh chopped green onion

Add fresh torn mint, about 2 tbsp.

Cover the salad with the juice of two fresh limes and toss.

If you would like to try a Thai-inspired variation, just add 6 simply-grilled large shrimp to half a pineapple per person, or two skewers of chicken for a lunch serving. Halve the amount for a starter. It is easy, elegant, and simply out of this world.

The summer solstice has past and with it the longest day of the year. Those who leave the bright lights of the city can look for summer’s constellations: Pegasus, Cassiopeia, and the Milky Way. It’s a wonderful thing to share with younger people brought up on Xboxes and Wiis. In the city or away; the warm days and nights of summer are tailor-made for spending time with family, friends, and dreams. Have a sweet week and remember always, the next good thing could be just around the corner. 

Remember: please sign-up to DolceDolce if you haven’t already. DolceDolce is free! And forward us to all your friends. Because life should be sweet