Brandpoint Health
2026-10-06T08:01:00
(BPT) – Medicare open enrollment runs from October 15 to December 7. State Health Insurance Assistance Programs (SHIPs) provide free, unbiased support to Medicare-eligible individuals, their families, and caregivers. Whether you are new to Medicare, reviewing plan options, or have other questions, SHIP can help. A local certified counselor will provide one-on-one guidance tailored to your situation and needs.
2026-10-05T16:19:00
(BPT) – At 16 years old, Terese “Reese” Termulo was a healthy, active honors student and dancer with a bright future ahead of her, when she suddenly became ill with the flu.
On Jan. 9, 2020, her father, Dr. Cesar Termulo, a pediatrician in Dallas, Texas, received a call from her school that she was feeling sick. Termulo — who suspected she could have contracted the flu — quickly brought her to his office, where she tested positive for influenza B, was given antivirals, and went home to rest and recover.
“Reese wasn’t as sick as many of my other patients who had influenza B,” said Termulo. “She seemed to be improving — no fever, and she didn’t show signs of pneumonia or other serious flu complications.”
The next morning, Reese felt ready to go to school, but her father insisted she stay home. Before he left for work, Termulo used his stethoscope to listen to his daughter’s heart and lungs so that he could check for serious complications and concluded she was on the mend.
“The last thing I ever said to Reese was that I thought she would get better,” said Termulo.
No one could have suspected that Reese’s symptoms would rapidly progress, and her condition would take a turn for the worse. Later that morning, Reese’s mother found her upstairs, passed out, and she had stopped breathing. The flu virus had quickly attacked her lungs, and she eventually became septic. Reese passed away less than 24 hours after her diagnosis.
Serious flu complications
Influenza (or flu) is a contagious respiratory illness caused by flu viruses that infect the nose, throat and sometimes the lungs.1 People can begin spreading the flu to others one day before symptoms start and up to a week after symptoms appear — and some, especially young children, might be contagious to others for even longer.1
The flu can impact every person differently. Symptoms can appear suddenly and can include fever (or feeling feverish/chills), cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, muscle or body aches, headaches and fatigue.2
While most people who get the flu will recover within a few days to less than two weeks, some may develop complications like pneumonia and even death.2
The 2025-2026 flu season followed one of the most severe flu seasons in recent U.S. history, with record-breaking pediatric deaths and overwhelming levels of illness and hospitalization.3 In fact, from Oct. 1, 2025, through May 9, 2026, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimated that there were at least 32 million illnesses, 390,000 hospitalizations and 24,000 deaths from the flu in the U.S.4
“The harsh reality is that anyone can get sick from the flu — even people who are or feel healthy — and serious problems related to flu can happen at any age,” said Dr. Luis Romano, GSK’s US Medical and Clinical Affairs Lead for Flu Vaccines. “That said, some people are at higher risk of developing serious flu-related complications if they get sick.”
Groups at higher risk of serious flu-related symptoms include1:
The flu does not affect all communities equally, and the 2025-2026 season once again exposed deep and persistent disparities in flu-related outcomes among racial and ethnic minority groups.5 According to the CDC, Black and Hispanic communities consistently experienced higher rates of flu-related complications and death, often due to lower vaccination rates and delayed access to care.6
Why you should speak to your provider about annual flu vaccination
The flu is a serious illness and should be taken seriously. The best way to help protect yourself and your loved ones from the flu every season is to vaccinate everyone 6 months of age and older annually.3
“Decades of data confirm that flu vaccines have an excellent safety record,” said Romano. “In fact, hundreds of millions of Americans have received flu vaccines over the past 50 years, and ongoing monitoring consistently reinforces their strong safety profile.”7
Since Reese’s passing, Termulo and his family have made it their mission to educate families on the potential dangers of the flu and urge people to get vaccinated against the flu every year.
Now is a good time to think about flu vaccination
Fall can be a busy season for many people, but it’s vital to make time to get your flu shot. The CDC recommends that most people receive their flu vaccine in September or October, ideally by the end of October.8 The good news is that getting a flu shot is typically quick and convenient.
If you already have a yearly wellness visit scheduled, ask your primary care provider about receiving your flu shot during your visit. You can also get a flu shot in pharmacies, urgent care clinics, college health centers and even some schools or workplaces.9 Some locations like your local pharmacy may accept walk-ins, so you can help protect yourself and your loved ones from the flu with minimal time commitment.
To learn more about the flu and flu prevention, visit CDC.gov/Flu.
“The flu can disrupt your life and your family’s lives,” said Termulo. “Losing my daughter is a heartbreaking reminder that the flu can have devastating consequences. As both a father and a physician, I hope our family’s experience encourages others to recognize the seriousness of the flu and the profound impact it can have on families.”
Sources
1. About Influenza (Flu). Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Reviewed Feb. 26, 2026. Accessed July 17, 2026. https://www.cdc.gov/flu/about/index.html
2. Symptoms and Signs of Flu. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Reviewed Aug. 26, 2024. Accessed July 17, 2026. https://www.cdc.gov/flu/signs-symptoms/index.html
3. Influenza Activity in the United States During the 2024-25 Season and Composition of the 2025-26 Influenza Vaccine. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Reviewed Sept. 26, 2025. Accessed July 17, 2026. https://www.cdc.gov/flu/whats-new/2025-2026-influenza-activity.html
4. Weekly U.S. Influenza Surveillance Report: Key Updates for Week 18, Ending May 9, 2026. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Published May 15, 2026. Accessed July 17, 2026. https://www.cdc.gov/fluview/surveillance/2026-week-18.html
5. Weekly U.S. Influenza Surveillance Report: Key Updates for Week 25, Ending June 27, 2026. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Published July 6, 2026. Accessed July 17, 2026. CDC FluView Week 25
6. Flu and Healthy Lives for All. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Published Jan. 17, 2025. Accessed July 17, 2026. https://www.cdc.gov/flu/healthy-living/index.html
7. Influenza (Flu) Vaccine Safety. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Reviewed October 2023. Accessed July 17, 2026. https://www.cdc.gov/vaccine-safety/vaccines/flu.html
8. Interim Estimates of 2025-26 Seasonal Influenza Vaccine Effectiveness—United States, September 2025-February 2026. MMWR Morb Mortal Wkly Rep. 2026;75(9):116-123. Published March 6, 2026. Accessed August 6, 2026.
9. Where to Find Vaccines. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Published July 10, 2024. Accessed July 17, 2026. https://www.cdc.gov/vaccines-adults/recommended-vaccines/vaccine-planning.html
2026-10-01T11:35:00
(BPT) – If your child has trouble seeing the board at school, squints at things across the room or needs to sit closer to the television, myopia could be the reason. But myopia is more than simply needing glasses to see far away — and today, parents have more options than ever to help manage it.
What is myopia and why is it becoming more common?
Myopia, commonly called nearsightedness, is a condition in which objects further away appear blurry, while close-up objects are usually clear. It often begins during childhood and may continue to progress or worsen as a child grows, usually stabilizing in late teens or early adulthood. Parents think myopia means blurry vision because the prescription is increasing but it’s more than that — it’s not a benign condition. Myopia leads to the eyeball growing too fast and too long — leading to the abnormal stretching of the eye and potentially other eye health complications in future. Correcting vision alone does not address the excessive eye growth in myopia.
Myopia is becoming increasingly common. In the United States, its prevalence has increased from 26% to 42% between 1972 to 2002,1 and worldwide estimates suggest that nearly half of the population may have myopia by 2050.2
The increase in school-age myopia we are seeing today is predominantly driven by lifestyle factors while genetics can predispose a child.3 Children with parents who have myopia are also at greater risk of developing myopia.3 Studies show that children should spend at least 2 hours outside daily and it is the lack of time outdoors that is a major risk for myopia development as well as prolonged near work.3,4 Children today often spend more time doing close-up activities and less time outdoors.3,4. The role of digital devices in myopia is not clear but it is good to establish good visual hygiene and limit screen time, according to the screen guidelines set by the American Academy of Pediatrics.7
The good news is that there are steps families can take.
Why “just knowing” isn’t the finish line
Recognizing the signs of myopia is important, but awareness alone doesn’t protect a child’s vision. The next step is making sure vision concerns lead to appropriate eye care. Vision screenings at school or at the pediatrician’s office can identify some children who may have a vision problem, but a screening is not the same thing as a complete evaluation of a child’s eyes and vision.
Keep in mind that children may assume their vision is normal because it is the only vision they know. Through comprehensive eye examinations, eye care professionals can identify myopia and assess children who may be at increased risk of developing it as well as other childhood conditions. Factors such as family history, near-work habits and time spent outdoors can help provide a more complete picture of a child’s risk.3,4 The doctor can also help parents recognize vision-related signs that might otherwise be attributed to behavior, attention or school performance.
What early intervention actually looks like
For generations, the usual response to childhood myopia was straightforward: When a child’s vision became blurrier, the prescription was increased. But today, the conversation has changed. Traditional single-vision glasses and contact lenses correct blurry vision, but myopia management is intended to do something more: slow the rate at which myopia progresses.3,5
Myopia should be managed as soon as it is detected given that the fastest rate of increase tends to be at the earlier ages and thus is the critical time to intervene.3 Today there are a number of options available to manage myopia: there is an FDA-authorized myopia management spectacle lens called Essilor® Stellest® lenses6 and an FDA approved contact lens called Coopervision® Misight® 1 Day.3 These correct myopia while slowing its progression at the same time. In addition, there are also overnight reshaping lenses.3 Your eye care professional will determine the appropriate treatment for your child based on their clinical and lifestyle factors as well as age.
Since Essilor® Stellest® Lenses were approved by the FDA in September 2025, we have trained more than 30,000 eye care professionals on myopia management and the role of Essilor® Stellest® to help address this growing public health concern. Essilor® Stellest® Lenses were authorized by the FDA with language recognizing myopia progression as a disease, helping elevate the conversation beyond simple vision correction toward proactive disease management.
Small daily habits can make a difference
Healthy visual habits can start today. Spend more time outdoors. Research has consistently demonstrated that increased outdoor time delays the development of myopia in children.3,4
Most importantly, these habits should complement — not replace — professional eye care or prescribed myopia management.
Why does acting now matter?
Myopia often progresses throughout childhood. That means the changes that occur from year to year can add up. Higher levels of myopia later in life are associated with a greater risk of several eye diseases and that risk increases as the amount of myopia increases.5,8 That’s one reason the goal today isn’t simply to help a child see clearly with the next pair of glasses. When appropriate, it is also to slow the progression of myopia while the eyes are still growing.
There is no single approach that’s right for every child. But there is an important first step for every parent who has concerns: Don’t just watch and wait. Start the conversation. Schedule an eye examination with an eye care professional.
A simple parent action checklist
Myopia may be common, but that doesn’t mean parents have to simply watch it progress. Knowing the signs, building healthy visual habits and starting the conversation with an eye care professional can help families act earlier.
For more information, visit essilor.com.
References
1. Vitale S, Sperduto RD, Ferris FL 3rd. Increased prevalence of myopia in the United States between 1971-1972 and 1999-2004. Arch Ophthalmol. 2009;127(12):1632-1639. doi:10.1001/archophthalmol.2009.303.
2. Holden BA, Fricke TR, Wilson DA, et al. Global prevalence of myopia and high myopia and temporal trends from 2000 through 2050. Ophthalmology. 2016;123(5):1036-1042. doi:10.1016/j.ophtha.2016.01.006.
3. Gifford KL, Richdale K, Kang P, et al. IMI – Clinical management guidelines report. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci. 2019;60(3).
4. Morgan IG, Wu PC, Ostrin LA, et al. IMI risk factors for myopia. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci. 2021;62(5):3. doi:10.1167/iovs.62.5.3.
5. Bullimore MA, Brennan NA. Myopia control: why each diopter matters. Optom Vis Sci. 2019;96(6):463-465. doi:10.1097/OPX.0000000000001367.
6. U.S. FDA. FDA authorizes marketing of first eyeglass lenses to slow progression of pediatric myopia. Sep 2025. https://www.fda.gov/news-events/press-announcements/fda-authorizes-marketing-first-eyeglass-lenses-slow-progression-pediatric-myopia
7. American Academy of Ophthalmology. Computers, digital devices and eye strain. American Academy of Ophthalmology. Accessed August 26, 2026.
8. Haarman AEG, Enthoven CA, Tideman JWL, Tedja MS, Verhoeven VJM, Klaver CCW. The complications of myopia: a review and meta-analysis. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci. 2020;61(4):49. doi:10.1167/iovs.61.4.49.
2026-10-01T10:01:00
(BPT) – If you’ve ever endured a power outage for any length of time, you know what a hassle it is. And one of the biggest issues? The loss of food and/or medications in your fridge and freezer. What you may not know is that you don’t have to buy a big, general purpose power station that provides more capacity than you’ll ever need. Before the next power outage, be prepared with a smart solution designed just for your refrigerator, even if you have a limited budget and minimal space.
Here are four key areas to keep in mind when choosing backup power for your kitchen’s most essential appliance.
1. Focus on fit and placement
Especially if you live in a small home or apartment, every inch counts. You’ll need a backup power solution that fits easily in a narrow gap whether that’s beside, behind or on top of your refrigerator. Unfortunately, many dedicated fridge backup units on the market today run close to 2.9 inches thick, which can make it challenging to fit in a narrow space.
One great solution is the ultra-slim 2.6-inch FridgeGuard from Jackery, a global leader of essential home backup, innovative solar generators and portable power stations. This unit comes with a gravity sensing display that automatically adjusts between portrait and landscape, depending on which way you want to mount it. FridgeGuard also weighs nearly half of what many competitors’ models weigh, making it easier to fit anywhere in your kitchen.
2. Choose design that makes a difference
Because your fridge backup may be highly visible in your kitchen, you’ll want a design that looks good and easily blends into the room.
FridgeGuard was developed with the award-winning industrial design studio Huge Design in California, and is the winner of five international design awards: iF Design Award, MUSE Design Awards, Green Good Design Award, A’ Design Award and Competition and SHOP Design Award. The unit boasts a paint-free metal injection molded front cover with a quick release, customizable design.
3. Seek technology created with purpose
The last thing you want in a backup system is to pay for a huge amount of capacity your fridge will never use, that can’t act quickly enough to ensure your fridge won’t lose power, or that puts undue strain on your refrigerator’s motor.
Instead of the significantly higher output most comparable units carry, FridgeGuard’s 800W rated output and 1600W surge capacity are sized specifically to what a refrigerator actually draws, roughly 100W to 200W continuous with startup surges up to 800W.
FridgeGuard’s Delay Start mode also gives your refrigerator compressor a moment before restart, easing strain on the motor and extending backup runtime. You can choose Delay AC mode to relieve the refrigerator compressor or a sub-10ms UPS to seamlessly restart your refrigerator so that the compressor won’t stop at all.
The result? A system built around one job: making sure your refrigerator retains power.
4. Select an accessible, well-priced unit
The last thing you want is to spend money on an electrician on top of buying expensive backup power that’s more than you need. Unlike other units that require installation, FridgeGuard simply plugs in and is ready to go, no installation or electrician required, making it a practical choice for renters and first-time buyers.
And unlike the roughly $900 price point of other major dedicated fridge backup systems currently on the market, FridgeGuard starts at $549.99 at Costco, providing a more accessible, affordable unit to protect your fridge through an outage.
Backup you can count on
With FridgeGuard you’ll also get a five-year warranty, plus a LiFePO4 battery rated for 6,000 charge cycles at 70% capacity retention, which translates to 16 years of reliable daily use. Choosing a smart solution can give you peace of mind, even during an extended power outage.
Learn more at Jackery.com.
2026-10-01T07:01:02
(BPT) – Erik Lofstrand never expected a routine physical to change his life. But when he was diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes, Erik suddenly found himself navigating a life-changing condition.
“I went through all stages of grief,” Erik said. “At first, I was in denial. I thought if I exercised more and ate healthier, it would just go away.”
Although he made healthy lifestyle changes, managing his glucose still felt like guesswork. Traditional fingersticks offered only snapshots of information, leaving him without a clear understanding of how his daily decisions impacted his glucose levels.
“I didn’t want to guess — I wanted information I could actually use,” Erik said.
Erik grew frustrated that diet and exercise alone weren’t giving him the answers he needed. As someone who embraces technology in all aspects of his life and work, he began researching additional tools and learned about continuous glucose monitors (CGMs).
As he explored his options, Erik realized he would need a prescription and a conversation with his doctor to determine whether a CGM was right for him. Armed with what he learned, he was able to have an informed and specific conversation with his doctor, about his goals and diabetes management. Together, they decided Abbott’s FreeStyle Libre 3 Plus sensor was a good fit, enabling him to follow his glucose levels in real time and gain insight into how his food intake, activity and daily habits affected his glucose levels.
By taking the initiative to ask about CGM technology, Erik was able to play an active role in his care and have an informed, collaborative conversation with his doctor. His experience reflects a common barrier: research shows that one in five people living with diabetes feel they need their doctor to suggest or recommend new tools, rather than feeling empowered to ask about those options themselves1.
What is a CGM?
A continuous glucose monitor (CGM), like Abbott’s FreeStyle Libre 3 Plus sensor, is a small, discreet sensor worn on the back of your upper arm that continuously measures your glucose levels every minute, day and night2. It sends glucose readings directly to a compatible smartphone app3 or reader4, providing real-time information and trends.
Rather than relying on a single glucose reading obtained from prior methods like fingersticks, a CGM provides a complete picture of how meals, activity and medication affect glucose levels over time.
Why switch to a CGM?
For Erik, seeing those trends, not just individual numbers, gave him the insights he needed to make changes in his daily routine that made an impact.
“Having access to this data is empowering. It allows me to manage my diabetes proactively and avoid challenges that could set my whole day off course,” said Erik. “My CGM is a huge reason why I feel more confident and in control of my health.”
Research continues to demonstrate the benefits of CGM technology. In a recent study, people with Type 2 diabetes using a CGM lowered their HbA1c, a key marker of blood sugar levels, by 0.6% more than those using traditional fingersticks and spent about 2.5 additional hours each day in a healthy glucose range6.
Like Erik, many people with diabetes find that having continuous glucose information can provide a clearer understanding of how food, activity and other daily habits affect their glucose levels, helping them make more informed decisions5.
How to talk to your doctor about CGM
If you or someone you love is living with Type 2 diabetes, consider talking to a doctor about options and whether a CGM is technology to consider. Not sure how to start the conversation? Check out these helpful tips:
For Erik, taking that first step to ask his doctor about a CGM changed the way he lives with diabetes.
“Talking to my doctor about a CGM was one of the best decisions I made after my diagnosis,” Erik said. “I’m healthier now than I’ve ever been. You can’t manage what you can’t measure — data is power. The more you understand your diabetes, the more you can take charge of your life.”
To learn more about CGMs and Abbott’s Libre systems, click here.
The views expressed should not be used for medical diagnosis or treatment or as a substitute for professional medical advice. Individual symptoms, situations and circumstances may vary.
For U.S. residents – Important Safety Information Product for prescription only, for Important Safety Information please visit FreeStyleLibre.us.
ADC-2697391 v1.0
2026-10-01T07:01:02
(BPT) – How whole-person support helped one woman navigate the physical and emotional realities of metastatic breast cancer
When Tia Newman was diagnosed with metastatic triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC), a cancer that has spread to other parts of the body,1 it was already deeply personal. The 55-year-old Washington, D.C., area native had lost her mother and sister to the same aggressive disease.
Losing family members to TNBC fundamentally changed how Tia experienced her own diagnosis and underscored the burden this disease places on Black women.2 As she began navigating metastatic TNBC, she quickly learned that her care would involve much more than medical treatment.
Black women are diagnosed with TNBC at nearly three times the rate of white women3 and are 38% more likely to die from breast cancer than white women, highlighting ongoing differences in breast cancer care and survival.2 As efforts continue to address these disparities, the goal is to ensure people have access to trusted guidance and practical support throughout their care journey, alongside advances in treatment.
For Tia, support came through Care for HER, a national initiative from Unite for HER and TOUCH, The Black Breast Cancer Alliance. Care for HER connects Black women with free resources including integrative therapies, health education and around-the-clock, culturally tailored nurse navigation.
Support for the Whole Person
Through Care for HER, Tia received support tailored to what she needed outside of the doctor’s office, supplementing the caregiver support she received from her husband and children. The program’s “Wellness Passport” fully funds and delivers services such as professional counseling, nutrition consultations, exercise classes and fresh grocery deliveries.
As Tia dealt with severe weight loss and fatigue during treatment, she worked with a dietitian and used meal kits tailored to her pescatarian diet, helping her regain strength.
“When you have cancer, support is bigger than just medical appointments,” Tia shared. “Having an outside navigator and real people to talk to who guide you through the tears makes a massive difference.”
That whole-person approach is at the heart of Care for HER.
“Our vision is that every Black individual diagnosed with breast cancer will feel supported and have access to comprehensive integrative oncology care that manages arduous side effects, supports treatment adherence and gives those we serve their lives back,” said Sue Weldon, CEO and Founder of Unite for HER.
“Care for HER’s nurse navigation program aims to directly address a considerable need among Black breast cancer patients, providing services and support that they might not be able to access otherwise,” said Ricki Fairley, CEO of TOUCH, The Black Breast Cancer Alliance. “Together, we’re ensuring these women receive the comprehensive care and guidance they deserve.”
Care for HER’s focus on helping people navigate needs beyond treatment aligns with Gilead Sciences’ Community Cancer Collective (CCC), which supports the program alongside other sponsors.
“Gilead’s CCC brings together community organizations, healthcare providers, advocates and local leaders to help reduce barriers to cancer care, with patient navigation as a core pillar of its work,” said Darren Tayama, MD, Vice President, U.S. Medical Affairs, Oncology at Gilead. “Through Care for HER, we are proud to support a program that is delivering whole-person support, an often-overlooked but essential aspect of addressing persistent disparities for Black women facing breast cancer.”
Removing Barriers to Care
During Breast Cancer Awareness Month this October, Tia is encouraging other women to pay attention to their bodies, ask questions and seek support from the beginning of their cancer experience.
That includes asking care teams about navigation programs and other resources that can help with the emotional, nutritional and practical challenges that may come with treatment.
“Don’t let cancer absorb your mind,” Tia advised. “Pushing through with the right support in your corner makes all the difference.”
To learn more about free patient navigation, integrative therapies and holistic support through Care for HER, visit uniteforher.org/careforher. For additional information and resources from Gilead Sciences, Inc., for people living with metastatic breast cancer and those who support them, visit expose-mbc.com.
1. National Cancer Institute. Triple-Negative Breast Cancer Treatment. Published December 2, 2025. Accessed September 23, 2026. https://www.cancer.gov/types/breast/treatment/triple-negative-breast-cancer
2. ACS Medical Content and News Staff. More Black women die from breast cancer than any other cancer. American Cancer Society. Published February 14, 2022. Accessed September 23, 2026. https://acsjournals.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/epdf/10.3322/caac.21874
3. McCarthy AM, Friebel-Klinger T, Ehsan S, et al. Relationship of established risk factors with breast cancer subtypes. Cancer Med. 2021;10(18):6456-6467. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34464510/
Gilead is a trademark of Gilead Sciences, Inc. All other marks are the property of their respective owners.
2026-09-30T16:47:00
(BPT) – By Lauren Manaker, MS, RDN, LD
As a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist navigating perimenopause, I’m always thinking about how to best support my body and mind as I age. I’m also selective about supplements. I don’t take many, so if something earns a place in my routine, there has to be a good reason.
Creatine monohydrate is one of the few that has made the cut. Every morning, I mix a scoop into my orange juice. It’s a simple habit, but one I’ve come to rely on because of the strong research behind it and the way I feel when I take it consistently.
Many people still think creatine is only for bodybuilders or people trying to bulk up, but that’s a limited view. Beyond supporting muscle performance, strength and recovery, creatine also plays an important role in cellular energy and may benefit cognitive function during menopause. That’s one reason why I think it deserves more attention, especially during life stages like perimenopause, menopause and andropause. Healthy Aging Month is a great opportunity to learn more about this natural energy source.
How creatine powers your cells
To understand how creatine works, let’s take a quick step back to high school biology. You might remember the Krebs cycle and ATP (adenosine triphosphate). ATP is the primary energy currency your cells use for everything from moving a muscle to solving a puzzle.
However, your body’s ATP stores are limited. They deplete quickly when energy demands rise. This is where creatine steps in. It helps your cells regenerate ATP more efficiently, acting as a rapid energy reserve.
This mechanism makes creatine valuable well beyond the gym. One question I hear often is: Does creatine help with perimenopause fatigue? Based on the available evidence, there’s reason to think it can, particularly by supporting cellular energy during periods of hormonal flux, poor sleep or mental strain. It won’t replace good sleep or a balanced diet, but for women navigating menopause-related muscle loss and energy dips, it’s one of the more well-researched tools available. By helping to ensure your cells have a steady energy supply, creatine supports resilience when your body is working harder to maintain it.
Does creatine help during perimenopause and menopause?
Hormonal changes during perimenopause and menopause bring noticeable shifts. Energy levels can dip, workouts often feel harder to recover from and mental clarity might not come as easily. These frustrating changes highlight exactly why creatine is so relevant right now.
Throughout a woman’s lifespan, hormonal fluctuations influence how the body produces, transports and uses creatine.1 In other words, the times when you need steady energy and resilience the most are often the same times when your body’s natural creatine dynamics are shifting.
Additionally, women may naturally produce less creatine and consume less of it through food compared to men.2 This makes supplementation particularly relevant, especially as hormonal changes during menopause can impact areas like bone density, cognitive sharpness and muscle strength, which are key aspects of health that often feel more vulnerable during this transition.
Emerging research suggests creatine may help support muscle strength, cognitive function, energy metabolism and exercise recovery during menopause.3 While it is not a treatment for menopause symptoms, it may help address some challenges associated with hormonal changes.
What are the benefits of creatine for brain and muscle health?
What I find most compelling about creatine is how its benefits overlap. We don’t experience muscle health, mental clarity, recovery and mood as separate systems. They’re interconnected!
When creatine supports ATP production, it provides fuel for muscle contractions. This can improve your training quality and help preserve lean muscle mass. At the same time, it fuels your brain cells. The brain is an incredibly energy-hungry organ. Some data link creatine supplementation to improved memory, attention and processing speed in adults, and it may enhance cognitive performance by increasing cellular energy reserves and reducing oxidative stress in the brain.4
Creatine for men and andropause
Creatine isn’t just a conversation for women. Men also experience age-related hormonal shifts, often referred to as andropause. As testosterone declines, men may notice losses in muscle mass, reduced strength, lower energy and changes in focus or mental sharpness.
Because creatine supports ATP regeneration, it can help address these challenges. For aging men, this means support for strength, training capacity and lean mass, while also helping maintain mental energy and cognitive performance. The underlying biology is the same: when cells can produce and recycle energy more efficiently, both physical and cognitive performance benefit.
How much creatine should you take?
Most research on creatine monohydrate uses a maintenance dose of 3–5 grams per day. Experts generally recommend taking creatine consistently each day to maintain elevated muscle creatine stores.5
Keeping it simple
When I talk with clients about supplements, I encourage simplicity. But creatine is one of the few supplements I consistently recommend during this life stage because the research is broad, the mechanism makes sense, and it’s easy to use.5
When choosing a product, I recommend a third-party-tested creatine monohydrate without unnecessary additives. Doctor’s Best Creatine Powder is a great example; it’s unflavored, vegan and easy to mix into orange juice, water or a smoothie, making it a seamless addition to your routine.
The bottom line
Creatine isn’t just a supplement; it’s a small but powerful way to support your body and mind through life’s transitions. Whether you’re navigating the hormonal shifts of perimenopause or menopause, or simply looking to maintain strength, energy and clarity as you age, creatine offers a science-backed solution that’s easy to incorporate into your routine. For me, it’s not about chasing perfection; it’s about feeling strong, capable and clear-headed in the moments that matter most. And that’s why creatine has earned its permanent spot in my morning orange juice, and I encourage clients in this life-stage to explore it too.
Frequently Asked Questions
These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product and information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. This content is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not intended to provide medical advice or to take the place of such advice or treatment from a physician. Consult your physician or healthcare provider before beginning any supplement or lifestyle program.
References
1 Smith-Ryan, A. E., Cabre, H. E., Eckerson, J. M., & Candow, D. G. (2021). Creatine Supplementation in Women’s Health: A Lifespan Perspective. Nutrients, 13(3), 877. https://doi.org/10.3390/nu13030877
2 Smith-Ryan, A. E., DelBiondo, G. M., Brown, A. F., Kleiner, S. M., Tran, N. T., & Ellery, S. J. (2025). Creatine in women’s health: bridging the gap from menstruation through pregnancy to menopause. Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition, 22(1). https://doi.org/10.1080/15502783.2025.2502094
3 Smith-Ryan, A. E., Cabre, H. E., Eckerson, J. M., & Candow, D. G. (2021). Creatine Supplementation in Women’s Health: A Lifespan Perspective. Nutrients, 13(3), 877. https://doi.org/10.3390/nu13030877
4 Xu C, Bi S, Zhang W and Luo L (2024) The effects of creatine supplementation on cognitive function in adults: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Front. Nutr. 11:1424972. doi: 10.3389/fnut.2024.1424972
5 Kreider, R. B., Kalman, D. S., Antonio, J., Ziegenfuss, T. N., Wildman, R., Collins, R., … Lopez, H. L. (2017). International Society of Sports Nutrition position stand: safety and efficacy of creatine supplementation in exercise, sport, and medicine. Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition, 14(1). https://doi.org/10.1186/s12970-017-0173-z
2026-09-29T00:01:00
(BPT) – When I was diagnosed with breast cancer at 36, I didn’t think of a mastectomy as an amputation. But that’s exactly what it is. A part of my body was removed to save my life. And with it went something I had not expected to lose: the ability to feel my chest.
I’d been told I could be numb. I didn’t understand what that reality actually meant.
Before my mastectomy, sensation wasn’t something I thought about. The warmth of someone’s hand or the pressure of a seatbelt across my chest didn’t require conscious attention for me to know it was there. My body simply told me what was happening.
Until it didn’t.
When Your Body Doesn’t Feel Like Your Body
During a mastectomy, nerves that provide feeling to the breast and chest are cut as part of the procedure. It is necessary to remove cancerous tissue. Without surgical intervention to reconstruct those nerves, the majority of women are left numb after a mastectomy. I was only told the day of my surgery that I might experience numbness. But it was an afterthought, just another side effect on a long list of risks and complications I was already trying to understand and reconcile. It sounded temporary. Manageable. Certainly not something that would fundamentally change the way I experience my own body. After surgery, my chest “healed” according to medical standards, but to me, it still felt unfamiliar and disconnected from the rest of my body. What I saw and what I felt no longer matched.
That disconnect is difficult to explain unless you’ve lived it.
It can make your body feel foreign. It can change intimacy, how you experience touch, how you move through completely ordinary moments. Numbness isn’t visible. To the people around me, I looked healed. But healing and feeling whole aren’t necessarily the same thing. Without anyone realizing it, I had to navigate an entirely new relationship with my body.
I hug people tighter because I can’t fully feel it against my chest. I’ve burned myself without realizing it. Clothing and seatbelts can feel strange. I pay attention to pressure and temperature in ways I never had to before. Sometimes, there is the simple, unsettling realization that I’m touching my own body and can’t feel it.
For me, one of the hardest parts was the shift from never thinking about sensation to thinking about it every day. Many times a day.
It’s Not Just Me
For a long time, these experiences felt deeply isolating. They weren’t the things people talked about when they discussed breast cancer survival. Then I read the results of a national survey of more than 300 women who had undergone mastectomy, and I saw myself in their shared experiences.
Nearly nine in 10 women reported experiencing chest numbness or loss of feeling. One in four reported burns, cuts or other injuries related to their numbness. More than half reported depression or sadness, and 57% said they no longer felt like the woman they once were.
But one stat struck me especially hard: 54% said they stayed silent because they felt they should “just be grateful.”
I understand that silence. I survived the thing I feared most, yet I still grieve something I never expected to lose. Sometimes I wonder if I should feel that loss so deeply when I am fortunate to still be here.
Gratitude Doesn’t Cancel Grief
There is enormous pressure around survivorship to be grateful. And I am grateful. I am alive. But it’s possible to experience gratitude and grief together. Many of us do.
Grieving what cancer and treatment took from me doesn’t diminish the gift of survival. Talking about numbness doesn’t mean I don’t appreciate the care that saved my life. Missing what my body used to feel like doesn’t make me any less thankful to still be here.
Surviving changed me. And that’s the part of survivorship I wish we talked about more openly. Gratitude and grief aren’t opposites.
When numbness is invisible, it is easy for everyone around you — and eventually even for you — to assume that once the scars heal, you’re okay. But the end of treatment isn’t necessarily the end of what cancer changes for survivors.
There Is Life After Cancer
Maybe you’re facing a mastectomy now. Maybe you had one years ago and you’re trying to find the words for something you’ve felt (or lost) all along. Or maybe you love someone who has survived breast cancer and never realized this could be part of her experience.
What I wish I had understood is that numbness isn’t a small side effect. It’s not a footnote. It changes the way you move through the world and how you experience your own body.
The cancer may be gone, but I still carry the changes it brought into my life.
I don’t share this to diminish survival. I share it because I survived breast cancer, but healing didn’t make me feel whole again. And no woman should have to discover and live with that alone.
Cara Bisegna is a breast cancer survivor and a patient advocate focused on improving education and informed decision-making in women’s health. Cara is a paid spokesperson for Axogen, Inc.
2026-09-14T08:27:00
(BPT) – More than 41 million Americans are caregivers for aging parents, spouses and other loved ones, and for many, it’s becoming part of everyday life. While many new caregivers anticipate helping with medications, doctors’ appointments and transportation needs, some of the most challenging parts of caregiving are the everyday responsibilities families rarely talk about — and often feel least prepared to manage.
The 3 a.m. bathroom trip. The conversation neither person wants to have. The hygiene routine that suddenly takes up the whole morning. These daily moments can take an emotional and physical toll on both caregivers and the people they care for.
“One of the biggest adjustments that I see families face is realizing that caregiving isn’t just about managing a medical condition; it’s about navigating dozens of everyday moments that can quickly become overwhelming,” says Yolanda Rhodes, MSN, RN, CRRN, Senior Clinical Solutions Manager-Home Care, BD Urology and Critical Care. “The good news is that in my experience, with the right preparation and support, families can feel much more confident caring for their loved ones and may be better equipped to manage some of challenges that come with caregiving.”
Here are four everyday caregiving challenges families may not anticipate, and practical ways to navigate them.
1. The Bathroom Challenge
Helping a loved one with bathroom needs is often one of the most physically demanding and emotionally delicate parts of caregiving. Whether due to urinary incontinence, limited mobility or recovery from surgery or illness, toileting assistance can quickly become a daunting part of the daily routine. Beyond the physical demands, it can also be uncomfortable and embarrassing for the person receiving care.
“Caregivers often worry about saying the wrong thing or making their loved one feel embarrassed,” says Rhodes. “In my experience as a nurse, approaching these moments calmly and matter-of-factly can help preserve dignity and puts everyone more at ease.”
What helps: Keeping essential supplies, like wipes, gloves and a change of clothes, within easy reach. Ensure the path to the bathroom is safe and accessible and consider adding grab bars near the toilet or a toilet seat riser to provide support for the person you’re caring for.
2. The Nighttime Disruptions
From helping a loved one safely in and out of bed to responding to overnight bathroom needs or changing bedding after an accident, nighttime disruptions can leave caregivers exhausted and increase the risk of falls or injury when navigating the dark.
“Nighttime can be one of the most challenging parts of caregiving because everyone is tired and simple tasks become more difficult,” Rhodes says. “Many caregivers find that finding ways to minimize overnight disruptions, whether through consistent bedtime routines or tools that help reduce unnecessary trips out of bed, may help make nighttime care smoother.”
What helps: Keep frequently used items within easy reach and make sure pathways between the bed and bathroom are clear and well-lit. If nighttime urinary incontinence is causing frequent trips out of bed or overnight cleanup, products such as the BD PureWick® Urine Collection System may help. This non-invasive, external urine management option is designed for overnight use and can support more uninterrupted sleep for both caregivers and loved ones. Supporting this benefit, a recent study published in the Journal of Clinical Medicine[1] found that women using the BD PureWick® Urine Collection System reported better sleep and greater overall comfort, highlighting the system’s ease of use and non-invasive design.
3. The Tough Talks
Few caregiving responsibilities are as emotionally difficult as discussing changing care needs with a loved one. Whether it’s accepting help, giving up certain activities or acknowledging that daily tasks have become more difficult, these conversations can be emotional for everyone involved. Rather than trying to address everything in one major discussion, it can help to approach them as a series of smaller conversations over time.
What helps: Try framing each conversation around what your loved one maintains rather than what they’re giving up. Importantly, caregivers don’t necessarily have to navigate these conversations alone. Consider bringing a doctor or nurse in when needs begin to change can provide additional guidance and support during difficult conversations.
4. The Hygiene Hurdles
Daily activities that seem simple, like bathing, dressing and grooming, can often become more complicated than families expect. These routines require close physical assistance while balancing privacy, comfort and a loved one’s desire to remain as independent as possible. Physical limitations, mobility challenges and fatigue can make these routine tasks that once felt automatic take considerably more time and patience.
What helps: Preparing ahead and building in extra time can help make these routines less overwhelming. Gather towels, toiletries and clothing before getting started so everything is within easy reach. Ask your loved one how you can make the process feel most like their own — whether it’s their preferred bathroom temperature, choosing the outfit they had in mind or following the step-by-step skincare routine they’ve always used. Encourage your loved one to do the parts they can safely manage on their own while offering assistance where it’s needed.
Don’t Forget the Caregiver
Family caregivers devote enormous amounts of time and energy to supporting the people they love. Yet many put their own well-being last.
“Caring for someone else starts with caring for yourself,” Rhodes says. “Accept help when it’s offered, lean on your support system and remember that you don’t have to do everything alone. Taking care of yourself can help maintain your well-being while continuing to support a loved one.”
If you’re unsure how to adapt to a loved one’s changing needs, healthcare professionals can help you identify the next steps that best support you both. With the right routines, tools and support, the day-to-day may become more manageable, for both you and your loved one.
Yolanda Rhodes, MSN, RN, CRRN, is a nurse and BD associate. The opinions expressed are based on her professional experience and are not intended as medical advice. Individuals should consult their healthcare provider regarding their specific care needs.
Indications for Use: The PureWick® Urine Collection System is to be used with PureWick® External Catheters which are intended for non-invasive urine output management.
Contraindications for Use: Do not use the PureWick® Urine Collection System with PureWick® External Catheters on individuals with urinary retention.
Safety and Warnings: Always unplug PureWick® Urine Collection System before cleaning or when not in use.
[1] Medina, J. C., Fakih, M., Khalsa, S., Redmond, D., & Kennelly, M. J. (2025). Safety, Efficacy, and Patient-Reported Outcomes of the PureWickTM System Versus Comparator for Nocturnal Urinary Incontinence in the Home Setting: Results of a Randomized Trial. Journal of Clinical Medicine, 14(24), 8699. https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm14248699
2026-09-17T07:01:00
(BPT) – Sponsored by IBSA USA
Demanding careers. Evolving family priorities. Staying connected with partners. These are just a few of the pressures men may face in midlife. If these challenges were not enough, midlife can often be accompanied by the unwanted arrival of erectile dysfunction (ED).1
A private, isolating struggle
Today, ED is becoming more prominent in everyday conversation. Advertisements and other forms of direct-to-consumer marketing are more visible across broadcast media and social channels. However, for some men, ED remains a private condition that can carry emotional and psychological burden.2
“The stigma and uncertainty surrounding ED can make men feel isolated at the very moment they need reassurance most,” said Dr. Ralph Zagha, a board-certified urologist in Tamarac, FL. “It’s a burden that’s not limited to older populations, as we are seeing a number of cases of ED in men aged 18-44.”3
An unsure treatment journey
Many men with ED do not seek or receive care, with U.S. data showing that only a small portion discuss symptoms with a healthcare provider.4 Finding the right treatment is often not a simple, one-step process.
Awareness may begin with frustration or confusion, followed by online searches or conversations with partners. Some individuals eventually consult clinicians in person, while others may turn to telehealth for more convenience, greater privacy and improved access to care.5
As telehealth expands and cultural attitudes shift, men are increasingly turning to ED treatment options that are convenient and discreet. Evidence suggests that embarrassment and privacy concerns contribute to this shift, with telehealth platforms offering more private and accessible care that may encourage seeking treatment.6,7
Modern treatment options, designed for real life
Recent treatment advances are expanding how ED can be managed, potentially offering flexibility to fit individual needs and lifestyles. These features including simple dosing and no restrictions on food or water timing.8
With a range of dosing options and formulations available, care can be tailored based on personal needs and response.9 These innovations may help address common barriers and support men in seeking care.
Talk to your doctor
ED is a medical condition and treatment often begins with a conversation. Men experiencing symptoms or considering new options are encouraged to speak with a healthcare provider to better understand what approaches may be right for them.
Dr. Zagha is a paid consultant to IBSA Pharma Inc.
