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.
The Power of Chosen Families Redefining Love Support and Belonging
Found family, also known as chosen family, is a beautiful concept that comes up in conversation a lot at FemmePharma—both within our team and in our community! It’s a common theme in popular culture—in movies as varied as Lilo & Stitch to throwback How Stella Got Her Groove Back, as its own hashtag on social media, and found in book series like the storied The Babysitters Club. The definition of found or chosen family is about connecting with people you want to share your life with in the most intimate of ways—the ups and downs, the in-betweens, the markers of time.
We would love to know: who is in your family? How do you find the special people you call your loved ones, the ones you depend on, and look to in all of times? If you want to comment here, we would love to hear about them! You can also email us at [email protected].
Chosen Family: Embracing Deep Bonds Beyond Blood
Our CEO and founder, Gerie DiPiano, shares some of what her found family experience has been. She reflects, “I feel incredibly blessed to expand my already vibrant Italian family. Starting with my godson, who holds a special place in our hearts, he’s practically like our son. Every decade brings new additions; for instance, I’m grateful for my dear friend from graduate school and his wife—my “older brother” and adopted sister. Recently, we welcomed a wonderful couple and their three adorable children into our lives. Now, I proudly embrace the role of Nonna!” One of our writers, Dina Paulson, shares, too. “I don’t have siblings, but my female best friends are my extended family. We remember special things about each other’s lives; we are each other’s emergency phone numbers. They are absolutely family to me.”
We talk a lot at FemmePharma about our community. What we mean by that are people who support the journey we are on, as a pharmaceutical and healthcare company, to provide products and information that will help and enrich the lives of women. Our community means the women who buy our products, and anyone who buys our products for the women who need and use them. We welcome everyone, from all genders, who boost the work we do, by sharing our product information and research, forwarding our blog articles, and sharing their own stories with us.
It is a privilege to gain another’s trust, and we take that gift seriously. We hope, over time, to build a ladder of stories that reflect the vastness of life and medical journeys women go on, and through sharing these stories, reflect on the power of perseverance through hard times and the importance of people going to bat for each other.
Chosen Family as a Powerful Act of Agency and Belonging
At an organizational level, there are groups, such as Found Family Collective supporting LGBTQ+ individuals, who come together to make up for birth family networks. As Healthline writes, “The concept of chosen family is purposefully e-x-p-a-n-s-a-v-e because it exists to expand the rigid definition of what society typically understands ‘family’ to be.” In a way, electing to be part of a chosen family is a statement of agency that says, I am going to form my family in the best way it can exist for me.
The term has roots. For people of color, the concept is linked to children seeking and finding new ‘parents’ when their biological parents were killed or enslaved. The term also has meaning in the LGBTQ+ movement. For individuals ostracized by their birth families when they come out, finding a new group of people who support them and vice versa can be life-changing (and saving).
Prairie Care writes, “The basis of a chosen family is love, free from judgment, since it comes from your choice rather than obligation. By choosing your family, you can explore and validate some of the most important parts of your life and connect with people who share similar morals or perspectives. Not relating to your family of origin is common, so ‘finding your people’ elsewhere can be incredibly freeing.” Recognizing that, as individuals, we have the option to seek out those who match us energetically and want our success, and for whom we feel the same, is freeing, because it opens up our world.
When the definition of family gets redefined—you choose who sits at your table! —there are more possibilities for connection, and cross-connection, as maybe some of us integrate our birth families with our chosen families. The most important piece of the concept, it seems to us, is that we value mental health individually and collectively. We want to build units that support the individuals inside of them the most, because when we are at our most, is when we can be and give the most, aka the best of ourselves. “Love, Mia Vita.”
Are Fitness Communities The New Trend?
The rise of fitness communities.
Fitness communities have become a growing trend, bringing together individuals, online or in person, who share an interest in movement, strength, and health. Instead of following highly individualized routines, people are seeking a shared experience. They want accountability, a connection, and most importantly, to feel like they belong to something bigger than themselves (Clejan et al., 2022).
This new wave is about a significant shift from solo workouts and programs to something more sustainable and progressive: community workouts and programs.
What Is a Fitness Community and How Are They Formed?
A fitness community is a group of people with common goals joining together to complete a fitness routine. It could be a group of moms supporting each other in regaining their strength postpartum, or a group of midlife women encouraging each other in their fitness journey. These groups often form around a common interest or goal, like training for a marathon, navigating postpartum recovery, or gaining strength during perimenopause.
Communities can be created in various ways: through a gym or studio, an online platform, or a private group on social media. Regardless of where they’re hosted, most fitness communities have three key things in common:
- A shared goal (like building postpartum strength, running a race, or staying strong through midlife);
- A shared identity (moms, midlife women, beginner lifters); and
- Shared values such as inclusivity, body neutrality, showing up imperfectly, and progress over perfection are the foundation of many fitness communities. These values create an inclusive and supportive environment where everyone’s journey is respected and celebrated.
These are not just workout groups but intentional spaces where people connect through more than reps and routines (Golaszewski et al., 2022).
Why Fitness Communities Work
Being part of a fitness community allows individuals to build meaningful connections. It helps to reduce the loneliness that often comes with starting, restarting, or trying to maintain a fitness routine, especially when balancing other life demands.
It also helps with consistency. When you know someone is expecting you to show up or someone is rooting for you, it becomes easier to follow through, even on the hard days. That kind of support and accountability creates a space where people can ask questions, get feedback, vent, and celebrate wins.
There is also a significant mental shift when you are part of a community. The intimidation that often comes with starting something new begins to fade when you see others navigating it with you (Whiteman-Sandland et al., 2018). You feel less alone and more encouraged. Motivation is boosted by friendly challenges, seeing others stay committed, or knowing you’re not the only one making the effort.
Fitness communities also play a crucial role in supporting personal growth. They create space for mindset shifts, confidence building, and long-term mental resilience, not just physical gains. This empowerment is a key aspect of their appeal (Golaszewski et al., 2022; Whiteman-Sandland et al., 2018).
The Bigger Picture
While this may seem like another fitness trend, it reflects something bigger. Culturally, we are moving away from perfection and toward belonging. Fitness communities highlight progress over aesthetics. People in these groups focus on feeling stronger and more capable in their everyday lives (Clejan et al., 2022).
You can see this shift in the way programs are being delivered:
- Fitness apps now include messaging features to foster connection
- Studios are introducing group boards and shared events.
- Coaches build programs around shared values and identity, not just sets and reps.
The future of fitness isn’t just about working harder. It’s about being part of something that supports you while you grow mentally, emotionally, and physically.
Where to Find (or Start) a Fitness Community
If you want to join a fitness community, you don’t have to look far. There are more options now than ever:
- Gyms and studios often host group classes or small training groups that foster connection beyond the workout. Some even have member boards or challenges to bring people together.
- Online platforms like fitness apps or coaching programs often include community features like group chats, message boards, or coaching circles, so you’re not training in isolation.
- Social media can be a great place to connect with like-minded individuals. Facebook groups, local meetups, and Instagram communities built around shared goals or identities can offer support and encouragement.
And if you don’t see the kind of community you are looking for? You can start your own. If that’s your choice, start small. Gather a few friends or clients who are working toward similar goals. Choose a space to connect—maybe a group text thread, a private Facebook group, or a recurring Zoom meetup. Set a common focus, whether walking three times a week, strength training, or just sharing how workouts are going. The key is consistency, mutual support, and space for honest conversations, not perfection. Fitness does not have to be lonely, rigid, or performance-based. A strong community can change how we feel about movement, motivation, and ourselves, and that is a trend worth following.
References
1. Clejan I, Congleton CD, Lerch BA. The emergence of group fitness. Evolution. 2022 Aug;76(8):1689-1705. doi: 10.1111/evo.14549. Epub 2022 Jul 15. PMID: 35767747.
2. Whiteman-Sandland J, Hawkins J, Clayton D. The role of social capital and community belongingness for exercise adherence: An exploratory study of the CrossFit gym model. J Health Psychol. 2018 Oct;23(12):1545-1556. doi: 10.1177/1359105316664132. Epub 2016 Aug 23. PMID: 27553606.
3. Golaszewski NM, LaCroix AZ, Hooker SP, Bartholomew JB. Group exercise membership is associated with forms of social support, exercise identity, and amount of physical activity. Int J Sport Exerc Psychol. 2022;20(2):630-643. doi: 10.1080/1612197x.2021.1891121. Epub 2021 Mar 1. PMID: 35494549; PMCID: PMC9053316.
How to Eat Healthy Meals on a Budget Despite Rising Food Costs
In today’s economy, maintaining a nutritious diet can feel like an uphill battle. With grocery prices climbing and household budgets tightening, many people are left wondering if affordable nutrition is even possible. The good news? You can absolutely enjoy healthy meals on a budget it just takes a bit of planning and a few smart strategies.
Why Healthy Eating Is Becoming More Expensive
Grocery prices have risen sharply in recent years, and staples like eggs, fresh produce, and dairy are noticeably more expensive. Add in the cost of organic items or high-quality protein, and it’s easy to see why many families are finding it harder to stick to a nutritious diet.
At the same time, ultra-processed foods often remain cheaper and are more visible and readily available in stores. This makes them a tempting option for those trying to save money. However, these convenience foods typically come with a hidden cost, they’re often low in nutrients and high in sugar, salt, and unhealthy fats. In the long run, poor dietary habits can lead to chronic health issues that are far more expensive than the grocery bill.
The Health Impact of Skimping on Nutrition
When people can’t afford fresh vegetables, lean proteins, or whole grains, they often rely on ultra-processed alternatives that are low in nutrients and high in sugar, salt, and unhealthy fats. Over time, this can increase the risk of chronic diseases such as type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and obesity. Nutrient deficiencies are also more likely, which can impact energy, concentration, and immune function. This creates a cycle where individuals may struggle with their wellbeing — all because of limited access to affordable nutrition.
Smart Strategies for Healthy Meals on a Budget
The good news is that eating well doesn’t have to mean spending a fortune. With a few simple tweaks, you can prepare healthy meals on a budget and nourish your body without compromising on taste or quality.
1. Plan Your Meals: Start with a weekly meal plan based on what’s in season and what’s on sale. Use ingredients across multiple dishes to reduce waste and stretch your grocery budget further.
2. Buy Frozen and Canned Foods: Frozen vegetables and fruits can be just as nutritious as fresh, often more affordable, and have a longer shelf life. Choose canned beans and tomatoes without added salt or sugar to boost your pantry staples.
3. Cook in Batches: Preparing meals in bulk can save time and money. Think of soups, stews, curries, and casseroles that use inexpensive ingredients like lentils, beans, and rice.
4. Choose Budget-Friendly Protein Sources: Animal protein can be expensive, but there are affordable and nutritious alternatives. Staples like beans, lentils, tofu, cottage cheese, ground chicken, and canned fish such as sardines, mackerel, or salmon offer excellent protein without a hefty price tag. These options can help you meet your nutritional needs while keeping grocery costs down.
5. Waste Less: According to the USDA, the average American household throws away over $1,500 worth of food each year. Use what you have before buying more, freeze leftovers, and store produce properly to extend freshness.
My Expert Tips for Affordable Nutrition
As a nutritional therapist, I work with clients every day who feel overwhelmed by the rising cost of healthy food. Here are a few additional tips that really make a difference :
- Create a “core list” of budget-friendly, balanced meals your family enjoys — like lentil and vegetable soup, tuna and sweetcorn, potatoes, black bean tacos, wholegrain pasta with tomato and red lentil sauce, or sardines on wholegrain toast. Rotate these regularly to save money and reduce decision fatigue.
- Stretch Your Protein: Protein can be pricey, so make it go further. Add lentils to ground beef, mix tuna with chickpeas, or use shredded chicken in veggie-packed stir-fries. You’ll still get the benefits without using as much.
- Shop smart: Stick to the perimeter of the store where the whole foods are and avoid the temptation of ultra-processed snacks and convenience meals.
- Use herbs and spices to elevate simple meals. A pinch of turmeric, garlic, or cumin can turn humble ingredients into something flavorful and satisfying. You can use dried or frozen herbs — or even grow your own on a windowsill to save money and reduce waste.
- Get savvy with supermarket apps: Many offer digital coupons, loyalty rewards, and advance notice of sales.
- Consider community resources: Farmer’s markets, food co-ops, and even local gardening initiatives can offer access to lower-cost, high-quality produce.
Affordable nutrition is possible when we get creative, stay informed, and make small adjustments to how we shop, cook, and eat. While healthy eating might seem harder to access due to rising food costs, it’s not out of reach. By embracing strategies for healthy meals on a budget, making the most of pantry staples, and prioritizing planning, we can continue to nourish ourselves and our families without overspending. With a little guidance and consistency, affordable nutrition becomes a lifestyle — not a luxury.