High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, often goes unrecognized and untreated because there are no symptoms. Your pharmacist can help you reduce your risk for heart attack and stroke, by: 1. Reviewing your medications, helping you take them as prescribed and managing potential side effects. 2. Teaching you how to use a blood pressure monitoring device properly and testing your blood pressure regularly. 3. Advising you how to maintain a healthy weight, and a diet that’s low in sodium. and 4. Guiding you through a step-by-step quit smoking plan. Learn more about how to keep your blood pressure under control by speaking with your pharmacist.
Community News
A Foundation for Care Campaign
The BRHC Foundation’s goal is to raise $4 million toward the community contribution toward the building and equipment needs for the new Critical Care Centre at the Brandon Regional Health Centre. This building will include 16 ICU Suites (up from 10), 30 higher acuity medical beds for patients needing higher level care, modern equipment and technology to enhance treatment outcomes and will include an outdoor courtyard. Please call our office at 204-578-4227 or email [email protected] if you would like more information about this exciting campaign.
Sleep Apnea and Heart Health
Sleep apnea is closely linked to heart health, particularly obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). During apnea episodes, breathing repeatedly stops, causing drops in oxygen levels and surges in stress hormones. These changes strain the cardiovascular system and disrupt normal blood pressure regulation. Untreated sleep apnea significantly increases the risk of high blood pressure, heart disease, heart failure, irregular heart rhythms, and stroke. The risk rises with the severity of the condition. Effective treatment—most commonly with continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP)—can lower blood pressure, reduce heart strain, and improve overall cardiovascular outcomes. Recognizing and treating sleep apnea is an important step in protecting long-term heart health.
Finding Support Together
Experiencing signs or symptoms of dementia or caring for someone living with the disease can raise uncertainty, fears and unknowns. The Alzheimer Society is a place to turn for a community of support. Support groups are a great way for both people living with dementia and care partners to connect with others they can lean on for guidance, encouragement and understanding – which can be a truly grounding and comforting experience. With a variety of groups offered virtually and in person, you can share, laugh and help others who are on a similar path with dementia. View current support group offerings at alzheimer.mb.ca.
Book Club: Just One Heart:
A Cardiologist’s Guide to Healing, Health, and Happiness
In Just One Heart, Dr. Jonathan Fisher, a Harvard-trained cardiologist and mindfulness teacher, offers an evidence-based guide to wholehearted living, grounded in the latest research from medicine, psychology, and neuroscience. Blending Western science and Eastern wisdom, this book shares practical tools and daily practices to reduce stress, build emotional resilience, and reconnect with what matters most—while protecting and strengthening your heart.
Laughter is the Best Medicine
You know you are getting old when “friends with benefits” means having a pal who can drive at night.
Did You Know?
Love reduces stress hormones and boosts immune function. It’s literally good for your health.
Words to Live By
“You should sit in meditation for 20 minutes every day – unless you’re too busy; then you should sit and meditate for an hour.” Zen Proverb
Words To Live By
“Love is letting go of fear. Where there is love there is no fear, attachment, judgement or jealousy.” – Keith Macpherson
Reduce Alzheimer’s Risk with Exercise
Exercise has been shown to have protective effects against Alzheimer’s disease by supporting brain health and cognitive function. Regular physical activity promotes blood flow to the brain, stimulates the release of growth factors, and encourages neurogenesis—the formation of new brain cells. Exercise also reduces inflammation and oxidative stress, which are linked to Alzheimer’s progression. Studies suggest that both aerobic and strength exercises can improve memory, attention, and mental processing. Physical activity may also slow brain aging and reduce risk factors like obesity, diabetes, and hypertension, which are associated with Alzheimer’s. For optimal brain health, a consistent exercise routine is key.
Clean Eating Recipe
Protein Oatmeal Cookies: 2 c oats; 1 c vanilla protein powder; 1 tsp baking powder; 1/4 tsp salt; 1/4 cup stevia; 1/2 c + 2 tbsp melted butter; 2 eggs; 1 tsp vanilla. Preheat oven to 350°F. In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups oats, 1 cup protein powder, 1 tsp baking powder, ¼ tsp salt, and ¼ cup stevia. Mix well. Next, add in ½ cup + 2 tbsp of melted butter, 2 eggs, 1 tsp vanilla. Roll into 12 equal-sized balls and press flat on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake for 10-12 minutes. Enjoy!
