March 1 marks National Dress in Blue Day. On the first Friday of March, those who are afflicted with colon cancer – along with their allies and supporters – wear blue to bring awareness to this disease and promote Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month.
Though highly preventable, colon cancer is often a silent and deadly disease. While colorectal cancer affects both men and women, there are specific nuances and considerations regarding its impact on women that we should be aware of.
What is colorectal cancer?
Colorectal cancer, often referred to as bowel cancer or colon cancer, originates in the colon or rectum. It may start as benign growths called polyps, which can become cancerous if not detected and removed. The disease ranks as the third most common cancer diagnosed in both men and women and is the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the United States.
Colorectal cancer in women
While historically seen as a disease primarily affecting men, colorectal cancer is increasingly affecting women. In fact, recent studies suggest that women may be at higher risk of dying from colorectal cancer than men due to factors such as hormonal differences and unique symptoms that may delay diagnosis.
What are the symptoms of colon cancer in women?
It’s important to identify the signs and symptoms of colorectal cancer in women to identify the disease and treat it effectively. Though the symptoms noted below may seem just part of normal gastrointestinal distress or indigestion, it’s important to take note of them as they can signal the early stages of colorectal cancer. Symptoms may include:
Changes in bowel habits
- Some of us may find it uncomfortable to pay attention to or discuss our bowel habits. However, if you notice changes — such as persistent diarrhea, constipation, or stool consistency – mention these to your doctor right away. It’s important to screen for and identify (or rule out) colon cancer when these changes occur.
- Rectal bleeding or blood in stool
- Again, this may be uncomfortable to discuss, but it’s important to note unexplained bleeding or blood in your stool and make an appointment with your primary care provider to investigate it further.
- Abdominal discomfort
- Persistent abdominal pain, cramping, or bloating may signal colorectal issues.
- Unexplained weight loss
- Significant and unexplained weight loss – without changes in diet or exercise – warrants medical attention.
- Fatigue or weakness
- If you feel more tired and rundown than usual, make an appointment with your doctor. Chronic fatigue or weakness not attributable to other factors should be evaluated.
What are the treatment options for colorectal cancer?
Treatment for colorectal cancer varies depending on the stage and individual patient factors, but often includes a combination of surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and targeted drug therapy. Early detection significantly improves treatment outcomes, highlighting the importance of regular screenings and awareness of symptoms.
Screening guidelines for women
Given the increasing incidence of colorectal cancer in younger populations, screening guidelines have evolved to recommend earlier initiation of screenings. While guidelines may vary slightly, most medical organizations recommend regular colorectal cancer screening starting at age 45 for average-risk individuals. However, women with certain risk factors, such as a family history of colorectal cancer or inflammatory bowel disease, may need to begin screening earlier.
As we observe Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, it’s essential to recognize that colorectal cancer impacts women uniquely. Increased awareness, early detection, and proactive screening are crucial steps in reducing the burden of this disease on women’s health.
By understanding the signs and symptoms, advocating for timely screenings, and supporting ongoing research and education efforts, we can make significant strides in the fight against colorectal cancer for women and all individuals at risk. Let’s empower ourselves and our communities to prioritize colorectal health and save lives.
Balance Hormones & Metabolism with Plant-Based Protein
Why Protein Is More Important Than Ever
Protein has long been associated with building muscle, but its importance goes far beyond physical fitness. Research now shows that protein plays a key role in hormone production, metabolic health, immune function, and overall wellbeing. Increasingly, experts highlight the importance of protein for women’s health, particularly as hormonal changes can influence metabolism, energy levels, and body composition.
At the same time, the way people consume protein is evolving. Rising food prices have encouraged many households to explore affordable protein sources such as beans, lentils, and chickpeas. These foods provide high nutritional value while remaining accessible and budget friendly.
Moreover, the food industry is responding to changing consumer needs. A growing category of “protein plus” foods combines protein with other functional ingredients designed to support digestion, and metabolic balance. Together, these shifts are changing how protein fits into modern diets.
Why Protein Matters for Hormone and Metabolic Health
Protein plays an essential role in hormone regulation because amino acids act as the building blocks for many hormones and signaling molecules. Hormones involved in metabolism, appetite regulation, and stress response all depend on adequate amino acid availability.
For this reason, protein for women’s health is particularly important. Hormonal changes during different life stages can affect muscle mass, metabolic rate, and energy balance. Adequate protein intake helps maintain lean muscle tissue, which supports metabolic health and helps stabilize blood sugar levels.
Protein also supports satiety. Meals that contain sufficient protein help people feel fuller for longer and may reduce cravings later in the day. Stable blood sugar and balanced nutrition help maintain healthy hormone signaling and consistent energy levels. Research has also shown that higher protein intake supports muscle preservation as people age, which is closely linked to metabolic health and long-term wellbeing.
Affordable Protein Sources Are Driving the Shift to Plant Based Eating
Rising grocery prices have encouraged many households to rethink how they build meals. As a result, plant foods are becoming increasingly popular as affordable protein sources that offer both nutritional value and versatility.
Beans, lentils, and chickpeas are excellent examples. These foods provide plant protein along with fiber, iron, magnesium, and other important nutrients. They are inexpensive, easy to store, and can be added to soups, salads, or stews. In addition, legumes provide dietary fiber that supports gut health and helps regulate blood sugar levels. Studies have linked regular legume consumption with improved metabolic health and a reduced risk of chronic disease.
Other affordable protein sources include tofu, tempeh, peas, nuts, and seeds, although beans and lentils remain among the most economical options. These foods also supply valuable nutrients such as healthy fats, antioxidants, and minerals.
Importantly, eating a variety of plant proteins throughout the day naturally provides the full range of essential amino acids needed by the body.
Anti Inflammatory Protein: Why the Type of Protein Matters
While the amount of protein you eat matters, the type of protein matters too. Some protein rich foods also provide nutrients that help calm inflammation and support overall health. For example, lentils, beans, nuts, seeds, tofu, tempeh, and edamame offer protein along with fiber, polyphenols, and antioxidants that support gut, heart, and metabolic health. These plant-based choices are an important part of the shift toward more affordable and functional protein.
Some non-plant proteins can also offer anti-inflammatory benefits. Fatty fish such as salmon, sardines, and canned mackerel provide protein along with omega 3 fats, which help regulate inflammatory pathways and support heart health. Fermented dairy foods such as plain Greek yogurt and kefir can also add protein while supporting gut health.
Choosing a mix of protein foods that also deliver anti-inflammatory nutrients can support metabolic health, hormone balance, and long-term wellbeing.
Quick List: Top Anti-Inflammatory Proteins
- Lentils and Chickpeas (High Fiber)
- Fatty Fish (Omega-3s)
- Fermented Dairy (Probiotics)
- Tofu and Tempeh (Isoflavones)
The Rise of Protein Plus Functional Foods
Another emerging trend in nutrition is the rise of functional protein products. These foods combine protein with added ingredients designed to support specific health goals.
For example, some products pair protein with probiotics or prebiotic fiber to support digestive health. Others include collagen peptides for skin support, omega 3s for heart health, or added fiber to improve fullness and help balance blood sugar. Some protein products also contain greens, vitamins and minerals, electrolytes, or botanical ingredients and adaptogens aimed at supporting energy, recovery, and stress resilience. These “protein plus” products reflect growing interest in foods that offer more than protein alone.
However, while these products can be convenient, they should complement rather than replace whole foods. Whole protein foods provide a wider range of nutrients that support health and overall wellbeing.
Practical Ways to Add More Protein Without Increasing Your Food Budget
Increasing protein intake does not require expensive supplements or specialty products. In fact, some of the most nutritious options are also among the most economical. First, adding beans or lentils to soups, salads, and grain bowls can significantly increase protein intake. These foods remain some of the most reliable affordable protein sources available. Second, replacing part of the meat in recipes with legumes can reduce food costs while maintaining nutritional value. For example, adding lentils to pasta sauces or chili increases both protein and fiber.
Third, while not plant based, eggs, yogurt, and cottage cheese provide convenient and budget friendly protein options that also supply important nutrients such as calcium and vitamin B12. Finally, nuts and seeds can easily be added to meals such as oatmeal, salads, yogurt, or vegetable dishes to boost protein intake while providing healthy fats and antioxidants.
The Future of Protein
Protein continues to play a central role in supporting metabolism, hormone balance, and long-term health. At the same time, eating patterns are shifting toward more plant-based foods and affordable protein sources.
Meanwhile, innovations in functional nutrition are creating new ways for protein to support overall wellbeing. When paired with a balanced diet built around whole foods, these changes offer exciting possibilities for the future of nutrition. By prioritizing anti-inflammatory protein foods and getting enough protein overall, individuals can support metabolic health, steady energy, and long-term vitality.
Beyond Cholesterol: Checking Your Calcium Score
Calcium Score vs. Cholesterol: A Critical Heart Health Guide for Women
While February is often the focus for heart health, at FemmePharma, we believe clinical literacy is a year-round commitment. As a pharmaceutical company serving women’s mind, body, and sexual health, we know that establishing scientific equity requires moving beyond “one-size-fits-all” screenings. To truly define female cardiovascular health, we must look at specific markers—starting with the Calcium Score for women.
One of the most powerful, yet underutilized, tools in our diagnostic arsenal is the Calcium Score.
At FemmePharma, we encourage every woman to be the CEO of their health. Understanding your Calcium Score is a critical step in closing the clinical research gap that often leaves women’s heart disease under-detected and under-treated.
What is a Calcium Score?
A Coronary Artery Calcium (CAC) score is a non-invasive tool—think of it as a specialized CT scan—that measures the amount of calcified plaque in your heart’s arteries.
Unlike a standard cholesterol test, which measures the “potential” for heart disease in your blood, a Calcium Score shows us the “reality” of what is happening inside your vessels. It identifies the hardened plaque that has formed, giving your medical team a clear, pharmaceutical-grade picture of your risk level.
Why You Should Track Yours
The reason we advocate for this test is simple: traditional risk calculators often fail women. Many women with “normal” cholesterol levels can still have significant plaque buildup.
By tracking your Calcium Score, you stand to gain:
- Early Discovery: Identifying heart disease years before a “traditional” heart attack symptom might appear.
- Personalized Intervention: Moving away from “guessing” treatments to forming a plan with your doctor based on your biological data.
- Clinical Integrity: Having a baseline number means you can measure—and make necessary changes—the effectiveness of your lifestyle and pharmacological interventions over time.
Understanding Your Results
A Calcium Score is usually ranked on a scale:
- 0: No plaque detected (low risk).
- 1-99: Mild plaque buildup.
- 100-399: Moderate plaque buildup.
- 400+: Extensive plaque buildup (high risk).
If your score is anything above zero, don’t panic—but, plan! Remember that getting your medical data opens up the opportunity to work with your clinical team to make a plan that supports your needs.
And, alas…Your Heart
One of the most important insights we share with our community is the link between your annual breast cancer screening and your heart.
Make sure you ask if your mammogram shows evidence of Breast Arterial Calcifications (BAC). While BAC is not related to cancer, it is a marker for coronary artery disease. If you see this on your report, use that data to ask your provider for a Calcium Score test.
In other words, use one screening to inform another.
Women’s Health Clinical Literacy: A Guide to Reliable Data
In our social media “digital waiting rooms,” the challenge isn’t finding information—it’s finding up-to-date, science-backed information. We believe women’s health clinical literacy is our ultimate tool for self-advocacy. Between wellness hacks and an increase in “AI slop”—low-quality content that doesn’t rely on clinical accuracy—we find ourselves in a land of information chaos. When you’re going online to research your symptoms or treatment options, here’s a 4-step guide on how to filter for pharmaceutical-grade truth.
How do you spot credible health information?
- Check for research updated within the last 10 years.
- Verify medical definitions against clinical glossaries.
- Identify the authors and their funding sources.
- Prioritize peer-reviewed studies over search engine algorithms.
1. Check the “Expiry Date” of the Science
Verify the publication date. In women’s health, data ages fast. As we saw with the recent shift in the Hormone Replacement Therapy label, the label disappeared—but no new data was presented. When you are reading a study or an article, always look for the publication date. If the foundational research hasn’t been refreshed in over ten years, it may not reflect the current data coming from well controlled clinical studies.
2. Get the Correct Definition of Terms
Broad terms like “hormonal balance” are often used as marketing buzzwords, so they may not come with an explainer. Remember, you need to understand the clinical definitions of terms, so you can advocate for clinical diagnoses and solutions for yourself and others. When you find a health claim, look up the medical definition. Use a trusted glossary to ensure the terms used are based in physiology.
3. Research “Who” and “Why”
In our era of AI-generated content, we need to know who conducted the research and who funded the platform that the research is published on. Is the article written by a pharmaceutical researcher, or vetted by a Medical or Scientific Advisory Board? Clinical integrity requires transparency in authorship. Look for peer-reviewed citations and professional credentials.
4. Move Beyond the Algorithm
Search engines prioritize what is popular (and paid for), not necessarily what has been proven by current science. To find your health solutions, look for research-driven organizations who are committed to scientific equity and women’s health clinical literacy. In other words, don’t let the algorithm decide what you decide on.
Friends, the internet should be a tool for us to get smarter, not a place where we get anxious and are unsure about what we’re learning. By applying these filters, you are being smart in your search—thorough—and your health will thank you.