Growlife Medical Health Blog

ADHD Assessments in Australia: Who Should You See - a GP or a Psychologist?

Wed, 29 Apr 2026 04:48:22 GMT

ADHD Is More Common Than You Think

ADHD, or Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder, affects a significant number of Australians. Around five to seven per cent of children and two to five per cent of adults meet criteria, which translates to roughly 200,000–280,000 children and 400,000–1 million adults living with ADHD. It’s not simply about being distracted or energetic - ADHD reflects differences in the way the brain regulates attention, impulse control, and organisation.

Recognising Symptoms: When Everyday Challenges Become ADHD

You might notice your child struggling to follow instructions at school, or find yourself constantly forgetting appointments or struggling to finish work projects. Almost everyone misplaces things or gets distracted from time to time. For ADHD, however, these patterns are persistent, appear across multiple areas of life, and have a significant impact on school, work, or home responsibilities.

Symptoms generally fall into two broad categories: Inattention, and hyperactivity/impulsivity, though many people experience a combination. Inattention might look like trouble focusing on tasks that feel repetitive or uninteresting, frequent forgetfulness, or difficulty organising and prioritising responsibilities. Hyperactivity and impulsivity often show up as restlessness, talking or acting impulsively, difficulty waiting turns, or struggling to relax. In adults, hyperactivity may present more as mental restlessness or constant task-switching rather than overt fidgeting. Emotional regulation, sleep challenges, and co-occurring conditions such as anxiety, depression, or learning difficulties often add complexity.

Why Start With a GP?

For many, the GP is the first point of contact. They can take a detailed history, ask about symptoms across different settings, and check for medical factors that might affect attention. GPs can also prescribe and manage medication and provide a brief report confirming a diagnosis. If ADHD seems fairly clear and the main goal is confirmation or treatment, a GP is often a practical first step. They can also refer to a psychologist if a more comprehensive evaluation is needed.

What a Psychologist Can Offer

Psychologists provide a more in-depth look at how ADHD affects daily life. Their assessments typically involve structured interviews, cognitive testing, and information from parents, teachers, partners, or the individual themselves. A psychologist can produce a detailed report that outlines strengths, challenges, and practical strategies for school, work, or home life. This level of assessment is especially useful when the diagnosis is uncertain, symptoms are complex, or formal documentation is needed for support or funding purposes.

Working Together: GP and Psychologist Collaboration

GPs and psychologists often complement each other. While the GP can confirm a diagnosis and manage medical treatment, the psychologist focuses on functional impact and strategies to improve daily life. Deciding where to start depends on your situation. If ADHD seems likely and the main goal is confirmation or medication, a GP may be the most practical first step. If there is uncertainty, complex symptoms, or a need for a detailed report, a psychologist may be the better starting point. Many people benefit from seeing both, using the expertise of each professional collaboratively.

ADHD is more than occasional forgetfulness or restlessness. It’s a persistent pattern of attention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity challenges that can significantly affect everyday functioning. Understanding the roles of GPs and psychologists can help you choose the right first step and ensure you get an assessment and support that meet your needs.

You can learn more about ADHD screening & assessments at Growlife Medical here .

Disclaimer: This information is NOT medical advice and is for informational purposes only. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice and should not be relied on as health or personal advice. If you’re seeking more personalised advice tailored to your pregnancy management, Growlife Medical GPs, Nurses, Midwives & Lactation Consultants are here to support you.

A Guide To Iron For Babies Starting Solids

Mon, 27 Apr 2026 04:17:34 GMT

Starting solids can be an exciting milestone – watching your little one explore new flavours and textures as they embark on this food journey. At the same time, however, it can also raise plenty of questions for mums and dads alike, especially when it comes to making sure your baby is getting all the nutrients they need.

One nutrient that deserves special attention during this stage is iron. At around six months of age, babies’ natural iron stores begin to decline, which is why it’s recommended to include iron-rich foodswhen introducing solids.

The good news is that meeting your baby’s iron needs doesn’t have to be complicated. With a few simple strategies and right food choices, you can help support your baby’s growth and developmentduring this exciting time.

Why Is Iron Important For You Baby?

Iron is an essential mineral that supports healthy growth and development in babies. It plays several important roles in the body, particularly during the first year of life when growth and brain development are happening rapidly:

Brain development: Iron supports cognitive development and learning during the early years of life.
Oxygen transport: Iron helps form haemoglobin, the protein in red blood cells that carry oxygen around the body.
Energy and growth: Adequate iron helps babies maintain energy levels and supports normal growth.

Babies are born with natural iron stores that are built up from their mother during pregnancy. In the first few months of life, these stores – together with breastmilk or infant formula – are usually sufficient to meet your baby’s iron needs.

However, from around six months of age, these natural iron stores begin to decline. At the same time, your baby’s iron requirements increase significantly due to rapid growth and brain development. As a result, breastmilk or infant formula alone is no longer sufficient to meet these increased iron needs, and iron-rich foods can play an important role of your baby’s diet when starting solids.

In fact, babies aged 6-12 months have some of the highest iron requirements of any stage of life.

How Much Iron Does Your Baby Need?

Iron needs change quickly during the first year of life. The recommended daily intake (RDI) of iron varies depending on age:

Age Group

Birth–6 months

RDI of Iron

0.27 mg/day (from breastmilk/formula)

Age Group

7–12 months

RDI of Iron

11 mg/day

Source: https://www.eatforhealth.gov.au/nutrient-reference-values/nutrients/iron

As shown above, iron requirements increase significantly from 6 to 7 months of age. This reflects the rapid growth and development occurring during this stage of life. While breastmilk or infant formula continues to be an important source of nutrition, solid foods provide the additional iron needed to meet these requirements.

Including iron-rich foods regularly once solids begin can help support your baby’s nutritional needs and healthy development.

Different Types Of Iron In Foods

There are two types of iron found in foods:

Haem Iron (Best Sources of Iron):

Haem iron is found exclusively in animal products such as meat, poultry, and fish. This type of iron is more easily absorbed by the body, making it a well-absorbed source of iron when introducing solids.

Non-Haem Iron (Good Sources of Iron):

Non-haem iron is found in plant-based foods like legumes, spinach, tofu, and iron-fortified cereals. While these foods are still great sources of iron, non-haem iron is not absorbed as efficiently as haem iron.

Offering a variety of both haem and non-haem iron foods can help support adequate iron intake for your bub as they begin exploring solid foods.

Iron-Rich Foods For Babies Starting Solids

When introducing solids, it is important to offer iron-rich foods regularly to bubs as part of their daily meals to help support their nutritional needs. Here are ten excellent iron-rich foods suitable for bubs beginning solid foods:

1. Pureed red meat

6. Nut butters

2. Poultry

7. Iron fortified cereal

3. Fish (no bones)

8. Sweet potato

4. Dark leafy greens

9. Green peas

5. Tofu

10. Wholegrains

How To Prepare Iron-Rich Foods For Your Baby

When preparing iron-rich foods for bubs, it’s important to consider both safety and nutrient retention. Choose fresh, high-quality ingredients like lean meats, legumes, vegetables, and iron fortified cereals, and prepare them in ways that are appropriate for your baby’s developmental stage.

In comparison to frying or grilling, cooking methods such as boiling, steaming, or baking are ideal for preparing baby foods as they help retain nutrients (including iron) while keeping foods soft and easy to eat. For meats, ensure they are cooked thoroughly and then finely minced, shredded, or pureed to a texture that suits your bub’s ability to chew and swallow safely.

Some families may also choose to introduce iron-rich foods through a baby-led weaning approach, where bubs are offered appropriately sized finger foods (e.g., soft-cooked beans or meat) to self-feed and explore different textures and options at their own pace.

For plant-based iron sources such as beans or lentils, soaking and cooking them well can improve their texture and digestibility. Pairing these foods with vitamin C-rich foods such as tomatoes, berries, citrus fruits, or capsicum may help support iron absorption

Importantly, introducing new iron-rich foods gradually and in small amounts can help parents monitor for any adverse reactions or allergies. Offering a variety of iron-rich options over time can also encourage bubs to explore different tastes and textures as they become more familiar with solid foods.

Simple & Practical Meal/Snack Ideas

Here are some simple meal and snack examples to show you how iron-rich foods can be included throughout the day.

Fun fact – pairing these with vitamin C-rich foods like citrus fruits, berries, or capsicum can help your baby absorb iron more effectively. Vitamin C acts like an iron helper, converting iron into a form that is easier for the body to absorb.

Disclaimer: This information is NOT medical advice and is for informational purposes only. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice and should not be relied on as health or personal advice. If you’re seeking more personalised advice tailored to your pregnancy management, Growlife Medical GPs, Nurses, Midwives & Lactation Consultants are here to support you.

More Information About Iron For Babies

Please note that the above information and recommendations provided are general in nature. If you have questions about introducing iron-rich foods, starting solids, or supporting your bub’s nutrition, the team at Growlife Medical is here to help.

For more individualised guidance, we recommend booking an appointment with one of our Growlife dietitians or GPs, who can provide tailored advice to support your bub’s feeding and development.

Nausea and Vomiting in Pregnancy

Mon, 27 Apr 2026 04:07:13 GMT

Support from Growlife Medical through GP and an endorsed midwife shared care.

Nausea and vomiting are very common in pregnancy . For many women, symptoms are mild to moderate and improve with time. For others, it can become much more disruptive, affecting hydration, nutrition, sleep, work, parenting, and emotional well-being.

At the more severe end of the spectrum is hyperemesis gravidarum (HG), where nausea and vomiting become so intense that keeping food or fluids down can be difficult and medical treatment may be needed.

You do not have to just push through. Early support can make a real difference.

At Growlife Medical, we offer practical, compassionate support through a shared care approach between your GP and Endorsed Midwife Alison Chambers , including regular clinic-based IV rehydration for suitable patients.

When to seek extra support

It is worth arranging a review early if you are struggling to keep food or fluids down, vomiting frequently, losing weight, feeling faint or weak, passing less urine, or finding it hard to manage day-to-day life. Early treatment can help prevent dehydration, worsening exhaustion and repeated hospital visits.

Early assessment

Your GP or pregnancy care team can help with early assessment. They can help you work through whether initial tests, such as urine or blood tests, may be helpful, and whether issues such as reflux, constipation, infection, or another medical problem may be contributing.

Simple strategies that may help

Vitamin B6 may help some women, and it can be discussed with your Growlife Medical GP or Growlife Medical Midwife .
Ginger can help some people with nausea and may be a worthwhile format for you.
If plain water is hard to manage, other fluids such as oral rehydration drinks, diluted juice, flat lemonade, clear soup, ice chips or icy poles may be easier to tolerate.
Small sips and small amounts more regularly are usually easier than large meals or large drinks.
Rest, a calm environment and avoiding triggers such as strong smells, heat and travel can also help.

Treatment options for nausea & vomiting during pregnancy

Treatment often works best when a few areas are managed together rather than focusing solely on nausea.

Anti-nausea treatment: your GP and midwife can recommend safe, commonly used options during pregnancy.
IV fluids and rehydration: if you cannot drink enough, IV fluids may be needed to treat dehydration and help you feel better.
Nutrition and vitamin support: when intake has been poor for a prolonged period, extra vitamin support may be important while nutrition is rebuilt gradually.
Reflux management: reflux and excess stomach acid can make nausea and vomiting worse and are often worth treating.
Bowel management: constipation is common with dehydration, reduced intake and some anti-nausea treatments, and can worsen nausea and discomfort.
Mental health support: persistent pregnancy sickness can be emotionally exhausting, and regular check-ins or counselling support may help.

How Growlife Medical can help

At Growlife Medical, we know that significant nausea and vomiting in pregnancy often need more than a brief appointment. Our team offers coordinated GP and Endorsed Midwife shared care so that support is practical, familiar and ongoing.

Endorsed Midwife Alison Chambers can support suitable patients alongside their GP, including with regular IV rehydration in clinic where appropriate. This is provided in a calm, supportive setting that allows time to rest, recover and feel cared for while symptoms are being managed.

Key steps may include:

early assessment and treatment planning
monitoring of hydration and nutrition
support with reflux, constipation and emotional well-being
clinic-based IV rehydration for suitable patients
care closer to home with a familiar team

When to seek urgent help

You cannot keep fluids down.
You feel faint, confused or severely weak.
You are passing very little urine.
You are losing weight.
You are getting worse despite treatment.
You feel unable to cope.

You do not have to just push through.

Pregnancy sickness can range from unpleasant to truly debilitating, and anyone experiencing challenges with their symptoms deserves prompt treatment and support.

At Growlife Medical, our team can help you better manage your symptoms by providing early intervention and affordable, collaborative appointments (including IV rehydration when needed) in a calm, supportive environment.

To book an appointment, book online or call Growlife Medical to speak with our team about available support options.

Disclaimer: This information is NOT medical advice and is for informational purposes only. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice and should not be relied on as health or personal advice. If you’re seeking more personalised advice tailored to your pregnancy management, Growlife Medical GPs, Nurses, Midwives & Lactation Consultants are here to support you.

Part 2: Endometriosis & Nutrition: Let's explore the connection!

Wed, 18 Mar 2026 01:00:47 GMT

Endometriosis affects millions of people worldwide and continues to be widely misunderstood, often leaving many people confused about their symptoms and uncertainties about how to manage it. One common struggle is wondering if the food you eat is helping or worsening the symptoms. This is completely understandable, especially considering the lack of conversations and the amount of conflicting information online!

Welcome to part 2 of our 2-part blog series on endometriosis. Part 1 of this blog series explored what endometriosis actually is and talked through how to overcome some common barriers to seeking help. In this blog, we will focus on what we can do from a nutrition perspective to support symptom management.

What is Endometriosis?

If you haven’t read part 1 of this blog series, now would be a good time to do so, as the answer to this question is explored in much greater detail. Common symptoms are also outlined in part 1.

In short, endometriosis is a chronic inflammatory condition in which tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows outside of other areas of the body. It is also what we call an “estrogen-dependent disease” as it is associated with higher circulating estrogen. This, in turn, can promote growth of this endometrial-like tissue, which may contribute to inflammation, debilitating pain and discomfort, and in some instances may also impact fertility.

Diet & Endometriosis.

With that in mind, let’s dive into how food can support endometriosis management. We will break this part into 3 sections – inflammation, gut microbiome, and estrogen regulation.

Inflammation.

While there is no one-size-fits-all approach to nutrition for endometriosis, research consistently demonstrates that an anti-inflammatory dietary pattern is beneficial for symptom management. Remember, endometriosis is an inflammatory condition.

All of the tips we discuss below related to inflammation are really nicely summarised by what’s known as “the Mediterranean diet”. For more information on this eating pattern, click here.

Increase intake of healthy fats: olive oil, nuts and seeds and oily fish.

“Unsaturated fats” are commonly referred to as the “healthy fats”. Foods that are higher in these “unsaturated fats” are generally shown to have promising anti-inflammatory effects. In particular, omega-3 fats (a specific type of “unsaturated fat”) play a key role in reducing inflammation. What foods contain these “omega-3 fats” you may ask... Oily fish (e.g., mackerel and salmon), nuts (eg, walnuts and pecans) and seeds (eg, flaxseeds and chia seeds) are all great choices! As a rule of thumb, aim to have oily fish at least 2x per week.

Besides what we eat, how we cook also plays a significant role in endometriosis management. Small changes in our cooking style can have a big impact if done consistently! Olive oil has been shown to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. Try using it in salad dressings, for roasting, grilling, or for general cooking!

Prioritise whole foods: variety of colourful fruits, vegetables, legumes and wholegrains.

“Oxidative stress” is a common term referenced in relation to endometriosis. This is generally characterised by high levels of pro-inflammatory markers circulating throughout our bodies and low levels of anti-inflammatory factors (e.g., antioxidants). This imbalance can contribute greatly to inflammation and the progression of endometriosis.

Whole fruits and vegetables, specifically dark leafy greens (e.g., kale, spinach, broccoli, and collard greens), are packed with fibre and antioxidants, which help reduce this “oxidative stress”. They also contain some crucial vitamins and minerals, such as magnesium (which may reduce muscle cramps and ease period cramps) and iron (which replenishes blood loss during menstruation), making fruit and veg particularly important for endometriosis management.

Compared to refined grains like white rice and white bread, whole grains (e.g. oats, brown rice, rye, quinoa, buckwheat, and whole wheat bread/pasta/wraps) contain a higher level of antioxidants, fibre, and phytonutrients. You guessed it – this may help support lower inflammation and assist with symptom management.

Reduce saturated and trans-fat intake: excess red meat and processed foods.

Many processed foods (e.g., fast food, fried food, and packaged foods) contain ingredients that can worsen inflammation, such as saturated fat, trans fat, and added sugar. These types of foods also generally have lower levels of healthy fats, fibre, vitamins, and minerals. Freshly home-cooked meals are always the way to go! This is easier said than done, of course – organisation is key to operationalising this one.

Excessive intake of dietary sugar (eg, soft drinks, energy drinks, and confectionery items) can increase the number of pro-inflammatory markers in our body. If you’re after that refreshing carbonation, you could try soda water, or if you’re after a fun taste, you could try adding fruit to your water (e.g., lemon or lime).

Some research suggests higher intake of red meat (e.g. Beef, lamb, pork) may be associated with increased risk or symptom severity in endometriosis, as it is generally higher in saturated fat. A good starting point could be for you to try having no more than 2 serves of red meat per week, as this is what lots of the evidence in this space suggests. Of course, this should be considered on a case-by-case basis, so be sure to chat to your health professional to see if this suggestion is appropriate for you.

The important thing to remember here is the word “reduce”, not “eliminate”! Being overly restrictive with our eating patterns often means the changes made will be less sustainable in the long-term (and also can make food in general much less interesting and enjoyable – which is never the outcome we want!). What these changes actually look like will change from person to person, so we need to put our detective hats on and figure out what works for you!

Reduce alcohol consumption: wine, spirits, mixers.

Excessive alcohol consumption is shown to interfere with estrogen production. This may increase the risk of endometriosis or may exacerbate your symptoms. Again, to what extent your alcohol consumption should be reduced is totally individualised. We recommend working with your dietitian to see what changes are most effective for you.

Gut health

Research suggests that a high proportion of people (85%) with endometriosis experience digestive issues. Interestingly, our gut microbiome can influence the status of our endometriosis, while the inflammation from endometriosis can also affect the gut microbiome.

(Source: pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/)

We have trillions of gut bacteria living in our large intestine (yes, living – they are alive!), which help our body out in a range of different ways. That being said, some are more helpful than others. “Estrobolome” is a specific group of gut bacteria capable of regulating estrogen levels by metabolising and modulating the body's circulating estrogen.

Chronic inflammation can disrupt the gut, which may lead to decreased diversity of our gut bacteria, it may make the function of the “estroblome” less effective and may increase levels of some of those less helpful (or even harmful) bacteria, which can further exacerbate inflammation and pain. Great news is that by implementing all of those tips we discussed in the “inflammation” section of this blog, you will be in good standing to hopefully make sure this isn’t the case for you!

Book in with your Growlife dietitians , Jessica or Nikki, for individualised dietary advice at https://www.growmedical.com.au/bookings .

Prebiotics

So, at this point, we know a happy gut can help keep our endometriosis symptoms at bay and prevent disease progression. One of the best ways we can keep our gut happy is through diet diversity. Having a wide range of plant-based foods is helpful as it literally feeds our gut bacteria, making for more resilient and varied beneficial gut bacteria. The foods that our gut bacteria feed off are called “prebiotics” - and these are generally fibre-containing foods. When we have a diverse gut microbiome, our “estroblome” can be supported, which can help with estrogen regulation and, therefore, symptom management and disease progression. A great number to aim for would be to have 30 different types of plant foods per week.

Probiotics

While prebiotics feed our gut bacteria, “probiotics” actually are bacteria. These don’t just come in supplement form - foods that contain probiotics can include yoghurts, sauerkraut, kimchi, and even kombucha! These foods contain beneficial bacteria that will make their way to our gut and reside there, further improving the quantity and diversity of our gut bacteria. Having a good mix of prebiotics and probiotics is important for endometriosis management.

Estrogen regulation

The good news is that a lot of the tips we have already discussed can support estrogen regulation. For example, reducing saturated fat intake (discussed under the “inflammation” section) can help lower circulating estrogen and inflammation.

We also discussed the importance of fibre-containing foods in the “gut microbiome” section, explaining how it can help nourish our “estroblome”. Fibre can also bind to estrogen in our intestines and facilitate its excretion from our body, highlighting its role in regulating our estrogen levels. One particular group of fibre-containing foods – the brassica vegetables – contain a chemical which is shown to further support estrogen regulation. What on earth are brassica vegetables? We are talking about broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage, brussels sprouts (everyone’s favourite), bok choy, and so on.

One final little hack to help regulate your estrogen levels is to have regular bowel movements, as this can also help remove excess estrogen. Having some sort of structure or routine around toilet time can go a long way in endometriosis management!

Summary

Although Endometriosis currently has no cure, the right foods can help alleviate some of the symptoms you experience. We hope this blog has equipped you with the knowledge needed to manage this condition!

More information

Below are some helpful websites to learn more about managing Endometriosis.

Endometriosis Australia: An Australian charity providing resources for understanding Endometriosis and exploring various related blogs
https://endometriosisaustralia.org
The Endometriosis Foundation of Australia: Providing resources and education around Endometriosis
https://www.endofound.org
Women’s Health Victoria: Offers a variety of resources related to women's health, including Endometriosis
https://www.whv.org.au

Disclaimer: This information is NOT medical advice and is for informational purposes only. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice and should not be relied on as health or personal advice. If you’re seeking more personalised dietary advice tailored to your endometriosis management, Growlife dietitians are here to guide you.

Endometriosis – Overcoming Barriers to Getting Help

Thu, 05 Mar 2026 02:37:19 GMT

Dr Lok Tung Lee – GP at Growlife Highgate Hill

"Have you ever wondered if your pelvic pain – especially during or around your period – is “just normal,” or something more? You’re not alone. Many people wait years before bringing it up with a GP because they may worry about their symptoms being dismissed, remember previous bad experiences with seeking help, feel their symptoms aren’t serious enough, or simply don’t know where to begin. At Growlife Medical, we want our patients to know that Pelvic pain can affect daily life, and support is available.”

Welcome to part 1 of our 2-part blog series on endometriosis. This blog will delve into what endometriosis is, as well as talk through some common barriers to seeking help and how to overcome them. Part 2 will focus more on what we can do from a nutrition perspective to help with symptom management.

What is Endometriosis, really?

Endometriosis is a chronic condition where tissue similar to the lining of the womb grows in places it shouldn’t, such as around the ovaries, fallopian tubes, bladder or bowel. That tissue responds to the hormonal changes that fluctuate during your period and as the lining is shed, this same tissue also bleeds. This bleeding can cause inflammation, pain and scarring that can sometimes also cause issues with fertility. One of the very tricky things is that in someone affected, the spectrum of symptoms and pain can vary wildly and doesn’t necessarily correlate to the amount of “disease” present.

Despite the fact that we know it is extremely common – affecting up to 14% of Australian women under the age of 50 – diagnosis remains challenging and frustrating. (Source: Australian Institute of Health & Welfare)

Recognising Symptoms that Warrant Attention

You deserve support if you’re experiencing any of the following:

· Period pain that interferes with work, school, exercise or daily life

· Pelvic pain outside your period

· Pain during intercourse

· Heavy or irregular bleeding

· Persistent fatigue even despite rest

· Difficulty conceiving or unexplained infertility

· Lower back pain

· Pain during or after bowel movements

Common barriers to seeking care

Normalising Pain

It’s extremely common for people (and even their family or friends) to shrug off painful periods as just “part of life” or “something to deal with”. We know many patients who may have learnt to downplay menstrual symptoms or consider the topic taboo altogether. When the pain disrupts your daily life – you’re skipping days of school, overlooked for promotions at work due to increasing sick leave, dreading being intimate because of pain – these are all signals to pay attention and talk to us.

Feeling unheard or misunderstood

I have many patients who bring up that in the past they have been brushed aside by previous doctors. These experiences can understandably make it daunting to ask for help again.

Symptoms don’t line up neatly

Endometriosis isn’t a one-size-fits-all condition. Pain might be cyclical, or not! Bloating, fatigue, bowel or bladder symptoms might overlap with many other medical conditions. A GP who has followed your health over time can often spot patterns others might miss.

Life gets busy

Between work, uni, parenting and everything else, booking a GP can fall to the bottom of the list. We acknowledge it can be really hard to often find a time to be seen easily and promptly.

Working with a GP you trust can support continuity of care and help you navigate next steps.

One of the biggest advantages in managing endometriosis is having a GP who you’ve built a relationship with - someone who knows your health history, understands your baseline, and listens without judgement. A GP who sees you regularly can:

recognise changes in your symptoms early
track patterns over time
guide you through evidence-based options
coordinate referrals and follow-up
advocate on your behalf within the healthcare system
ensure you don’t slip through the cracks between appointments

Just as importantly, a GP who stays up to date with current guidelines can help you navigate the evolving landscape of endometriosis care - from hormonal treatments to surgical options to allied health support.

Practical Tips to Make Seeking Help Easier

· Keep a symptom diary for 1-2 cycles

· Bring notes or a support person to the appointment

· Mention any impact on daily life, not just in relation to periods

· It’s ok to ask for a second opinion or ongoing review!

· Remember that follow-up is normal; you don’t need all the answers after one visit.

Diagnosis & Treatment: What to Expect

Your GP may discuss your symptoms, arrange an ultrasound, or refer you to a gynaecologist if needed.

Diagnosis of endometriosis remains difficult, as much of the disease is not identifiable through non-invasive imaging like ultrasound. A normal ultrasound does not exclude endometriosis , although some forms like ovarian endometriosis (endometriomas), deep infiltrating endometriosis and resulting scar tissue can sometimes be identified on scans.

If endometriosis is suspected, a definitive diagnosis is often made via laparoscopy– a keyhole / minimally invasive surgery where a small camera is passed into a cut made into the belly button - to look for endometriosis. It can often be removed at the same time for testing and assessment of the tissue.

Management options can include:

pain relief
hormonal treatments*
pelvic physiotherapy
nutrition, lifestyle and self-care strategies
surgery when appropriate

Together, you and your GP can decide what feels right for you.

* While the idea of side effects can be daunting for people and the “pill” often feels too readily pushed by medical specialists, this remains a very important and effective part of management as the tissue growth and inflammation is hormonally triggered.

Helpful Australian Resources

QENDO App: Track symptoms and generate reports to share with your GP; includes support for partners.
QENDO Support: Peer support, mentoring, and education.
Endometriosis Australia: Evidence-based information and advocacy.

How Your Partner Can Support You

Partners can provide valuable support by:

learning about the condition (QENDO is a great starting point)
attending appointments for support
helping with symptom tracking
validating the person’s experience
offering practical help on flare-up days

You Don’t Need to Do This Alone

If you think you might have endometriosis or you’re not sure where to start - we’re here to help! Book an appointment with your GP, bring your questions, and let’s work together to understand what’s going on and find the right support for you.

Your health matters.

Disclaimer

This article is for general information only and is not intended to replace individual medical or dietary advice. Please speak with your GP or an Accredited Practising Dietitian (APD) for guidance specific to your situation.

Signs You Need To Review Your Asthma Treatment

Fri, 20 Feb 2026 16:02:23 GMT

Many people living with asthma will be used to reaching for their reliever inhaler regularly (commonly called a “puffer”, which likely contains a medicine called salbutamol). But did you know that overuse of an inhaler may be a sign that your asthma needs review ? In some cases, too much reliever can lead to side effects, and studies show that people who only use a reliever often have poor asthma outcomes. In fact, using up three or more relievers in 12 months is associated with an increased chance of an asthma attack.

Is your Asthma well-controlled?

How to use an Asthma spacer and mask with a child

There is a lot of information available to read if you need further support. Asthma Australia is an excellent resource to discover more about asthma triggers, how to stay well with asthma, and asthma medications and how to use them.

Watch our own Growlife medical nurse and co-founder explain how to use a spacer and mask with a child in the video below.

Other Information About Asthma

If you need to reach for your reliever inhaler more than two days per week, you wake at night with asthma symptoms or if your asthma symptoms stop you from doing what you need to do, your asthma may not be well controlled, and you may require a review with your GP to get you back on track.

You can book an appointment to review asthma control with your Growlife Medical GP.

What’s the difference between Rescue vs Preventer inhalers

Asthma medications can be divided into a few groups.

RELIEVERS

Relievers or rescue inhalers are blue or grey inhalers. You may have been prescribed these in past by your Dr to use when you are experiencing asthma symptoms, and require relief from feeling short of breath, coughing or sometimes prior to exercise. These inhalers start to work in a few minutes and will relax the muscles around the airways to allow more airflow.

Relievers are great at treating symptoms, but do not treat the cause. If you are only using a reliever to treat asthma, you are more likely to react to triggers, and may have an increased risk of asthma attack.

PREVENTERS

Preventers are the main treatment for asthma and are coloured orange, brown, red or purple. Preventer inhalers contain inhaled corticosteroids either alone or in combination with a long-acting reliever medication. These medicines reduce inflammation in the lungs to make the airways less sensitive, to reduce swelling and production of mucus. Preventers are available in a variety of inhaler devices, and your GP will select one that is easy for you to use.

Some Preventers are also known as dual-purpose inhalers. These contain both a corticosteroid, and a fast-acting reliever, so they both relieve symptoms, as well as reduce inflammation and flare-ups.

Dual-purpose relievers are a better option instead of just relievers, particularly for people who have mild asthma. Studies worldwide support the use of these dual-purpose inhalers, and in late 2025, the Australian Guidelines changed to reflect this newer information.

How often are you reaching for your rescue inhaler?

How do I know if my Asthma is under control?

Do you have an Asthma Action Plan?

An Asthma Action Plan is an individualised written guide, prepared by a GP in partnership with a person with asthma. It provides information on how to stay well with asthma, and what to do when asthma symptoms occur. The plan will detail usual medications, when and how to increase inhaler doses and when to seek emergency help. This plan is especially useful for children with asthma to provide to their school or childcare centre.

Ask your GP about creating an up-to-date Asthma Action Plan at your next appointment .

Keeping an eye on your symptoms can help guide whether you need more preventer for your asthma. There is a simple, free, online test called a n asthma control test that can help give you a guide of how well your asthma is controlled. Take the Asthma Control Test Here . Be sure to bring in your Asthma Control Test result to discuss when you see your GP.

Nutrition for Frailty and Malnutrition Prevention

Fri, 14 Nov 2025 08:03:50 GMT

As we age, maintaining strength, energy, and independence becomes increasingly important. However, frailty – a condition marked by a decline in physical reserves- can pose a serious challenge for many older adults. Often under-recognised, frailty increases the risk of falls and hospital admissions and may contribute to a loss of independence and/or a lower quality of life.

The good news is that nutrition can play a key role in both preventing and managing frailty. Through simple dietary changes, muscle and bone strength can be preserved, energy levels can be increased, and the risk of malnutrition and falls can be minimised!

What is frailty?

Frailty is a condition often seen in older adults where the body becomes weaker and less able to handle everyday challenges. You may notice your strength and energy aren’t what they used to be, which might make it harder to bounce back from things that might not normally or historically have affected you (eg. Feeling really exhausted after having your grandkids over, struggling to carry your grocery bags from the car to your house, requiring a lot of effort to get off your couch or toilet, etc.).

Signs of frailty may include:

Unintentional weight loss
Bone protrusion or ‘floppy’ skin
Fatigue or low energy
Slower walking speed
Weak grip strength
Reduced physical activity levels

If left unresolved, these signs of frailty may lead to a diagnosis of malnutrition, a condition caused by inadequate nutrient intake. While frailty can be progressive, it does not inevitably lead to malnutrition. We can slow down or even reverse its effects with early intervention, especially through nutrition!

How nutrition can help prevent or manage frailty

Eating the right foods is key to keeping our bodies strong, especially as we age. A high-protein, high-energy diet can help prevent muscle loss or even help regain some weight.

Not many people know that for older adults, the healthy weight range shifts from a BMI of 18-25 kg/m2 to 23-30 kg/m2. This is because having a bit more body weight can actually be a good thing; it helps protect your body. As we get older, we naturally lose muscle and bone mass, which can make us more vulnerable to falls. Having a higher BMI, which often includes a little more fat and muscle, can be a protective factor.

Extra weight helps maintain muscle strength, supports bone density, and can act as a bit of a cushion in case you fall.

Key nutrients to consider

Protein

This macronutrient is vital for preserving muscle mass, as muscles are literally where our protein gets stored in the body.

The following foods are all great sources of protein:

- Chicken, red meat, fish

- Legumes

- Tofu

- Eggs

- Yoghurt

- Cheese

- Milk

Energy (AKA calories!)

In older adults, we need to make every mouthful count! We want to squeeze as many calories as we can into a small volume of food – especially if appetite is low.

The following foods are all very calorie-dense:

Butter or margarine
Olive oil
Mayonnaise
Full-fat dairy
Nuts or nut spreads
Avocado

Calcium & Vitamin D

These nutrients are crucial for maintaining bone health and reducing risk of falls. Our bones are essentially a storage bank for calcium, and vitamin D is super important in optimising calcium absorption. As we get older, our calcium and vitamin D requirements increase, further reinforcing the importance of considering these nutrients in preventing frailty.

The following foods are all good sources of calcium and/or Vitamin D:

Dairy products – e.g. full cream milk, cheese, and yoghurt. Aim for no less than 3-4 serves of dairy per day (where 1 ‘serve’ is equivalent to 1 cup of milk)
Canned salmon or sardines with bones
Fortified plant-based milks (check it has OVER 120mg/100g calcium!)
Leafy greens – e.g. spinach and kale
Sunshine! Aim for 15 minutes of sunlight daily for vitamin D production.

5 top tips to manage frailty and prevent malnutrition

1. Prioritise high-protein, high-energy foods.

Every time you eat, consider where your source of protein is coming from.
If you struggle with low appetite or early satiety (i.e. feeling full quickly and unable to finish your meals), make sure you eat the meat first rather than the veg (save the best ‘till last?!). This means you are prioritising the more calorie-dense parts of the meal which will give you more bang for your buck.
Where possible, make sure these foods are easy-to-chew foods (particularly if you have denture/swallowing issues). Think scrambled eggs, stewed fruits, and smoothies.

2. Eat smaller, more frequent meals and snacks

A good rule of thumb is to have something to eat/drink every 2–3 hours. We want to give ourselves as many opportunities throughout the day to get our nutrition in (rather than relying on only 2-3 eating occasions, for example).
This may require you to rely less on your appetite cues to tell you when you are hungry, and you might need to start paying more attention to the clock and what times of the day you should be eating. If you have issues with remembering to eat, consider phone alarms or reminders on your calendar!

3. Fortify meals

Add grated cheese, cream, or milk powder to soups
Add extra butter and milk into your mashed potato
Mix 1-2 spoonfuls of olive oil into your pasta dish
Always have avocado with your salad

4. Consider meal prep support and/or assistance

Simple, ready-to-eat options like pre-made soups or frozen meals are always a good idea. Particularly if you are feeling fatigued or don’t have the energy to prepare a meal from scratch, this is a much better alternative than eating nothing!
Explore home meal delivery options
See if you are eligible for services that assist with grocery shopping and/or meal preparation.

5. If you are struggling to get adequate nutrition through the above strategies, it may be a good idea to explore nutrition supplements.

These often include high-protein, high-energy drinks, which you could try to sip on throughout the day. For many people, it is much easier to drink our calories rather than eat our calories.

Remember, even small changes can make a big difference to strength and independence. It is also important to remember that while nutrition is super important, pairing it with regular gentle activity like walking, stretching, or strength exercises will also contribute greatly to improving muscle and bone health!

But what does this actually look like in a day of eating?

Here is an example of how to elevate your eating pattern to get more of the nutrients that matter to you:

Want to know more?

If you or someone you care for shows signs of frailty or malnutrition, don’t wait – book an appointment with our dietitian for individualised advice. Click here .

Disclaimer

How To Keep Your Health In Check With A Newborn – Tips for Parents

Sun, 15 Jun 2025 13:14:38 GMT

Bringing a newborn into the world is a life-changing and exciting experience – but it can also be overwhelming. With the focus on feeding, sleeping routines, and endless nappy changes, it’s easy for new parents to place their own health on the back burner. However, caring for yourself is just as important as caring for your baby. Maintaining good physical and mental health as a new parent ensures you have the strength and resilience to nurture your growing family!

Why Nutrition Matters for you – For both Mum and Dad

It’s completely normal to feel totally overwhelmed upon bringing home your newborn. Both mum and dads face unique postnatal challenges:

Poor sleep quality and quantity
Low mood and energy levels
Burnout
Baby brain and less time/capacity to cook
Trying to multitask with one (or two!) hands out of action
Navigating return to work
Juggling family and work responsibilities
Changing family dynamics

When your baby is your whole world, it’s easy to put your own needs last. This means focusing on your nutrition needs might drop right down your priority list, and you might not have the brain space to think about your health at all. That’s why we are here! The truth is caring for your health is just as important as caring for your bub. When you’re physically and mentally well, you’re in a better position to show up for your little one!

Good nutrition is integral for:

Boosting your immunity – you don’t want to catch a cold and pass it on to bub!
Improving your mood and energy levels – yes, that’s right, food does influence your mood.
Establishing healthy routines for your growing family – you are your child’s first role models (no pressure!).

Everyday Nutrition Tips for Tired Parents

Time and energy are often in short supply – so here are five realistic and practical ways to nourish yourself, even when things are feeling chaotic:

Preparing simple meals or snacks during bub’s nap : Assemble simple snacks like veggie sticks with hummus, cheese and crackers, or try batch-cooking and freezing easy meals for later. A little time now saves stress later!
Keep one-handed snacks handy: This one is perfect for when you’re holding or breastfeeding bub. These snacks help avoid you skipping meals while you’re busy taking care of bub. Try yoghurt pouches, muesli bars, Up and Go drinks, or fruits like bananas.
Use click-and collect or get groceries delivered: Skip the supermarket stress by ordering online. It saves time, while allowing you to still ensure fresh and healthy foods are on hand. It also helps reduce the temptation of frequent takeaway meals!
Create a “go-to” meal list : Pick 3–5 quick meals you can prep in under 15 minutes using pantry or freezer staples. Stick the list on your fridge or phone to save time and brainpower during busy days.

Here are some of our ideas:

- Eggs on toast with tomato/avo/spinach for breakfast

- Pulled chicken/ham and salad wrap for lunch

- Microwave rice with frozen veggies and canned salmon for dinner

5. Smart option for sweet cravings (especially if you’re sleep-deprived!): Poor sleep can lead to sugar cravings, so try healthier sweet alternatives like:

- Diet jelly or low-sugar lollies

- Diet cordial or protein smoothies like Rokeby Farms

- Chocolate-coated strawberry yoghurt clusters (See recipe below!)

�� Easy Chocolate-coated strawberry yoghurt clusters Recipe

You’ll need:

Strawberries (or other fruits like blueberries or mango)
Greek yoghurt
Honey
Chocolate chips
Olive or coconut oil

Steps:

Dice the fruit and mix with yoghurt and a drizzle of honey.
Scoop spoonfuls onto a lined tray and freeze for 30–45 mins.
Melt the chocolate with a little oil and dip the frozen clusters.
Return to the freezer until set. Enjoy as a quick snack anytime!

Beyond the plate - Supporting Your Wellbeing as a New Parent

While nutrition plays a huge role in maintaining your health as a new parent, there are also many other factors we mustn’t forget. It is important to carve out space for other activities that contribute positively to your health, otherwise, they simply won’t happen! Parenting is a tricky balancing act, isn’t it... We hope these five tips might help:

Make rest a priority: S et aside time to relax and take naps whenever possible.
Incorporate gentle physical activity: You might want to try walking your baby in a pram or squeezing in a workout while bub is asleep or occupied with toys. If possible, you could join a postnatal physiotherapy class.
Attend regular postpartum checks-ups: This can help track your recovery and provide an opportunity to discuss any physical or emotional concerns with your healthcare provider.
Share the load with your partner: Be sure to divide household roles so one person isn’t left doing it all. Parenting is a team effort!
Social connection matters: Isolation can affect your mood. Consider joining a parent group or catch up with friends for walks or coffee. You’re also welcome to join our Growlife Parents Group . Talking to other parents can reassure you that you're not alone and offer helpful parenting tips.

Need guidance on postnatal/parental nutrition?

Speak with our GPs and/or dietitian to make sure your diet supports your recovery and meets your needs while caring for your baby.

Disclaimer

It is important to note that the above information is very generalised. Please consult a healthcare professional for further personalised support.

We're your 2024 RACGP Australian General Practice of the Year!

Thu, 12 Dec 2024 13:10:01 GMT

We are thrilled to announce that in addition to winning the Queensland General Practice of the Year for 2024, Growlife Medical has also been awarded the 2024 Australian General Practice of the Year by the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP).

Growlife Medical GP and co-founder Dr Aaron Chambers said it best when he said, “This award is a tribute to our purpose at Growlife Medical, which is to support individuals, grow stronger families, and create Australia’s healthiest communities.

“Patients tell us that they feel the difference at Growlife every day: they are welcomed and feel acknowledged as an individual by reception, listened to and treated well by their doctor, cared for and comforted by their nurse, and taught and encouraged by their allied health specialist, whilst being supported through their life journey.

“It is this magic of shared purpose and commitment to supporting individuals, growing the strength of families and actively participating in our community that has got us to where we are, and will allow us to continue providing outstanding care into the future,” he said.

Growlife Medical was founded in 2017 in Brisbane by a GP and Paediatric Nurse / Midwife couple, with a vision for a better model of collaborative general practice. As a proudly local, family- and clinician-owned medical practice, Growlife Medical exists to serve their Brisbane community – not corporate shareholders.

By supporting families in a patient-centred fashion, Growlife Medical strives to grow a connected community around the practice and create Australia’s healthiest communities.

Growlife Medical has five medical centres located in the Brisbane suburbs of Fairfield, Highgate Hill, Oxley, Sherwood and Sinnamon Park.

Thank you to our patients, community, and to every single person who chooses to work at Growlife Medical. We couldn't have done it without you!

Understanding Zones of Emotional Regulation

Thu, 05 Dec 2024 13:07:00 GMT

Emotions are the intricate colors that paint the canvas of our lives, influencing our thoughts, actions, and relationships. However, not all emotional experiences are the same; some can be overwhelming, while others may feel like calm waters. As a caregiver, you may find it challenging to navigate your child’s emotional landscape. It is crucial to recognize that children lack the vocabulary to express themselves in an articulate manner. They often shut down when they experience intense emotions, throw a tantrum or become dysregulated.

The concept of Zones of Emotional Regulation provides a framework to understand and manage diverse emotional states effectively. It is a practical visual tool designed to help children identify and categorize their emotional states into four distinct zones: the Blue Zone, Green Zone, Yellow Zone, and Red Zone.

Blue Zone: This zone represents low energy and feelings such as sadness, boredom, or feeling sick. In the Blue Zone, individuals may feel sluggish or withdrawn, needing time to rest and recharge.

Green Zone: This is the ideal zone where individuals experience a balanced emotional state. In the Green Zone, people feel calm, happy, focused, and ready to learn or engage with others.

Yellow Zone: The Yellow Zone signifies a heightened state of alertness and elevated emotions. Here, individuals may experience frustration, anxiety, excitement, or stress. It’s a zone where emotions are more intense and require awareness and management.

Red Zone: This zone indicates extremely heightened emotions or a loss of control. Anger, rage, panic, or terror characterize the Red Zone. It’s crucial to address and manage emotions in this zone promptly to prevent escalation.

Why are Zones of Regulation important?

Self-awareness: Children begin to understand that it’s normal to experience a wide range of emotions. It encourages them to identify and label their feelings, fostering emotional intelligence from a young age.
Social awareness: Children become better equipped to regulate their behavior in appropriate ways. They learn to recognize when they need to calm down (Blue Zone), focus and engage (Green Zone), manage heightened emotions (Yellow Zone), or seek help when overwhelmed (Red Zone). They are also able to recognize the emotional states of others, which further helps build empathy and improves interpersonal relationships.
Problem solving skills: Understanding and managing emotions helps children navigate challenges more effectively. It equips them with strategies to cope with stress, frustration, and anxiety in healthy ways. It also enables better decision-making by reducing impulsive reactions and promoting thoughtful responses.
Open dialogue Learning about the Zones of Regulation encourages open communication between caregivers and children about emotions. Children feel more comfortable expressing their feelings and seeking help when needed.
Self-regulation: Learning to manage emotions effectively is a lifelong skill that influences how children respond to challenges, interact with others, and navigate various situations. The Zones of Regulation provide a framework for children to learn self-regulation strategies tailored to different emotional states.

Practical tips for reinforcing a zone-friendly environment

Use simple concepts: Depending on your child’s age, introduce the Zones of Regulation in a way that they can understand. Use simple language and relatable examples to explain each zone and the emotions associated with them. You can relate the concept using their favorite cartoon or tv show characters, simple everyday language or even use your own experiences. For example, “ I'm feeling really excited right now, so I'm in the Yellow Zone."
Create a repository of strategies: Each zone requires different strategies for regulation. Tailor the strategies to suit your child’s preferences and needs. Keep in mind that what works well for one child may not work as effectively for another. Some examples include:
Taking three deep breaths
Taking a walk
Taking a time out
Spending time in their safe space (room or favourite toys)
Physical activities to release tension (jumping on a trampoline)
Counting to ten
Scribbling on a piece of paper
Listening to calming or their favourite music
Cuddling with their favourite stuffed toy or a caregiver
Mindful colouring

Use visual aids: Keeping the previous point in mind, you could even use visual reminders, like posters, drawing emojis, acting out characters or apps, to help reinforce the Zones of Regulation and prompt self-awareness.
Normalize emotions: Knowing that everyone experiences a range of emotions helps normalize their own feelings. This understanding reduces shame or confusion about intense emotions, making it easier for children to talk about their feelings.
Model self-regulation: Children learn best by observing. Model healthy ways of managing your own emotions, such as taking deep breaths when stressed or expressing excitement in a positive manner. You could engage in strategies together to promote co-regulation.
Consistency is key: Incorporate discussions about emotions and the Zones of Regulation into daily routines. Use teachable moments—like conflicts with siblings or disappointment over a game—to reinforce the concepts.
Celebrate progress: Recognize and celebrate your child’s efforts in identifying and managing their emotions. Praise their ability to use strategies effectively and encourage them to keep practicing.
Seek help when needed: If you notice persistent struggles with emotional regulation, seek guidance from pediatricians, counselors, or educators who can provide additional support and strategies. Find more information here .

By integrating the Zones of Regulation into daily life, you could equip your child with the tools needed to navigate emotions more effectively, ultimately fostering a healthier, more balanced approach to emotional well-being.

Understanding Zones of Emotional Regulation: Navigating your Emotional Landscape

What to Expect at Your Baby's Health Check With the GP

Mon, 18 Nov 2024 13:02:36 GMT

As new parents, your baby's health is your top priority. The early years are a critical period for growth and development, and regular health checks with a GP can help ensure your baby’s journey is a healthy one. In Queensland, the Personal Health Record (often called the "Red Book") is your guide to your baby’s milestones, providing recommendations for key checkups from birth through early childhood. Here’s what you can expect from these health checks, helping you feel confident and prepared.

What is the Red Book?

It’s a good idea to bring your baby’s Red Book to each health check so that your GP can update it with the latest measurements and notes. Bringing a list of any questions or concerns you have about feeding, sleep, or development can also be helpful. This allows you to address all your worries during the visit. The checklist in your Red Book is a great place to write these down!

Immunisations at 2, 4 and 12 months include a vaccine for which it is recommended that your baby has a dose of paracetamol before. It is ideal in the 30 minutes before the vaccine, so giving this either just before leaving home, or bringing it with you and giving as soon as you arrive at the practice is a great idea.

Choosing a GP who is passionate about child health and has a long-term approach to your family’s care can make all the difference. Many parents find comfort in a GP who not only understands child development but also builds a trusting relationship over the years. Look for a GP who is familiar with the Red Book milestones and can guide you through your baby’s growth journey with confidence and expertise. At Growlife Medical we love caring for babies, and we’re passionate about growing the strength of families and building a cohesive community in the suburbs in which we work and live.

What to Bring to Your GP Appointments

Finding a GP Who Specialises in Child Health

According to the Red Book, here are some of the major health check milestones you can expect when you see your GP at Growlife Medical:

Newborn Check (Within First 7 Days): In the first week after birth, your baby should undergo a thorough health assessment in clinic, including checks for weight and measurements, confirming that the newborn hearing screen and heel prick blood test have been completed, a top to tail examination including eyes, mouth, heart sounds, abdomen and umbilical health, hip stability, pulses, genitalia, reflexes, skin, and general appearance. Your GP can help you link in with our lactation consultant if there are any breastfeeding concerns .
One to Four Weeks: In the first weeks after birth, your GP will assess feeding patterns, weight gain, and overall growth. It’s a time to discuss any feeding issues, whether breastfeeding, bottle-feeding, or both, and to review sleep habits and general care. This period can also be exhausting, so plan to discuss your wellbeing and how you’re feeling about being a parent too. Join our free parents' groups around this time.
Six to Eight Weeks: This is a major developmental check-up with your GP. Typically, your baby will be emerging from the newborn phase and starting to smile! Each routine checkup from here until 18 months involves a development check and routine vaccinations. Your baby’s weight, length, and head circumference will be recorded to track growth patterns. Your GP will also conduct another thorough physical examination, including rechecking many of the same things from the Newborn Check, like eyes, heart sounds, hip stability, and your baby’s developmental milestones. To aid your baby’s sensory development, and to create a village for your family, this is the age to join our SongLife Connections Group Music Therapy for babies – especially if you have any feeding, sleeping or developmental concerns.
Four Months: Around this time, your baby’s hearing, vision, and development are monitored, with a focus on their interaction with you and their environment. This check-up can help address any emerging issues early. It is also a good time to discuss introducing solids, which you’ll be able to do over the next few months. Introducing solids around 6 months and not prior to 4 months is considered the ideal time. Read our elimination communication blog and sign up to our introducing solids class soon after this check
Six Months: Your baby is beginning to explore and interact more, so this check-up focuses on movement and coordination, social interaction, weight, length, and head circumference. It’s also a great time to discuss how the introduction of solid foods is going, as well as any changes in sleeping or feeding patterns.
Twelve Months: This is a major developmental milestone, as many babies start to show more independence. Most babies start to walk and talk around this age, so it is an exciting time! Your GP will assess their growth, vision, hearing, and mobility, and discuss their progress with eating, and social interaction.
Eighteen Months: During this period, health checks focus on physical activity, speech, and social skills. GPs also assess early markers of emotional and mental development, preparing your child for preschool milestones.

The early years are filled with rapid changes and precious milestones. With regular health checks, a dedicated GP, and the Red Book as a guide, you’re well-equipped to support your baby’s health and development. Whether it's their first smile, first step, or first word, each check-up will help ensure your baby is thriving every step of the way.

Supporting Your Baby’s Health Together

Key Health Check Milestones

The Red Book is issued to every baby born in Queensland. It’s a valuable tool that records essential health information, growth patterns, and developmental milestones. It also acts as a checklist for routine health checks, ensuring parents know when to visit the GP and what aspects of health will be assessed. These health checks are designed to identify any potential concerns early and to provide ongoing support for your child’s growth and development. Each check has questions for you to complete prior to your appointment to prompt reflection and discussion with your GP.

The Importance of Regular Health Checks

Regular health checks allow your GP to monitor key aspects of your baby’s growth, such as physical development, motor skills, hearing, vision, and social interactions. These appointments are also a great opportunity to discuss any concerns you might have about feeding, sleeping, or your baby’s general wellbeing.

A Guide for New Parents in Queensland

Growlife wins QLD General Practice of the Year!

Wed, 11 Sep 2024 12:56:41 GMT

We are thrilled to announce that Growlife Medical has won Queensland General Practice of the Year for 2024, awarded by the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP).

Growlife Medical co-founder Dr Aaron Chambers said he was thrilled to accept the 2024 award.

“This is an amazing testament to all the hard work and dedication to our community that every Growlife member provides every day. This award is a tribute to our purpose at Growlife Medical, which is to support individuals, grow stronger families, and create Australia’s healthiest communities.

“General practice is a team sport, and it is just so rewarding to work with a team who have a shared vision and a culture that is all about patient care, and thinking outside out clinic walls to focus on delivering for our local community,” he said.

Growlife Medical will now go into the running to be the national award winner, to be announced in November 2024.

By supporting families in a patient-centred fashion, Growlife Medical strives to grow a connected community around the practice and create Australia’s healthiest communities.

Thank you to our patients, community, and to every single person who chooses to work at Growlife Medical. We couldn't have done it without you!

Nutrition Tips for Breastfeeding Mums: Nourishing Both Mum and Baby

Mon, 05 Aug 2024 12:53:39 GMT

For those that can and decide to breastfeed their baby, it’s important to recognise the pivotal role that nutrition has during this time. Breastfeeding is a beautiful bonding experience between you and your child. Your body undergoes remarkable changes to support bubs growth and development; however, we often overlook the importance of nourishing ourselves first! In this blog we will discuss some tips and tricks for optimal nutrition during breastfeeding.

Why is this topic important?

Including a variety of healthy foods from each food group will support postnatal recovery and breastfeeding.

Fruit – 2 serves/day: The more colour the better!
Vegetables and legumes – minimum 5 serves/day: Frozen, fresh, canned, or steamed – you name it, it doesn’t matter! Try incorporating more dark leafy greens due to their rich calcium and folate properties.
Grains – minimum 5 serves/day: Prioritise wholegrains such as brown rice, quinoa, whole wheat bread and oats!
Dairy and alternatives – 2.5 serves/day: Cheese, yoghurt, milk, and calcium-fortified foods such as plant milks and canned tuna with crushed up bones all contribute to maintaining bone strength and supporting your baby's bone development.
Meat and alternatives – 2.5 serves/day: Red meat, chicken, eggs, and fish are great sources of iron and protein (both commonly depleted when breastfeeding). Fatty fish (salmon, mackerel), flaxseeds, and walnuts contain healthy fats called omega-3s, which are essential for your baby's brain and eye development. Additionally, don’t overlook plant sources such as lentils (perfect to mix in with your spaghetti bolognese) and calcium-fortified tofu as these also contain excellent nutrients that are beneficial for the whole family!

For more information on what a ‘serve’ looks like for each of these food groups, click here . Some servings for food groups increase when breastfeeding. For example, vegetables and wholegrains are typically two food groups that fall short in mothers' diets. The best way to navigate this is through frequent snacking to ‘top up’ those stores (carrot sticks and hummus is a great option!), and always ensure there is colour on your plate during main meals.

If your child has been diagnosed with a food allergy, it is strongly recommended to work with a dietitian and your allergist or immunologist. Excluding or avoiding food is only necessary if your baby is reacting to an allergen in your breastmilk or a health professional has advised you to avoid it. Depending on the severity of symptoms, a health professional can help you to navigate reintroducing that allergen safely.

Restrictive diets during breastfeeding are not recommended for allergy prevention.

Remember the 5 food groups!

What if I have a food allergy? Won’t I need to remove this food from my diet if I am still breastfeeding?

There is no ‘perfect diet’ to follow. You’ve likely heard general nutrition advice promoting ‘a healthy, balanced diet’. But what does this mean for breastfeeding mothers? Let's discuss some key areas to focus on and address some common questions we get asked!

For those following a vegetarian or vegan diet, it is strongly recommended to seek support from a dietitian to ensure you have adequate planning and strategies in place to avoid risking nutrient deficiencies that can significantly impact your bubs growth and development. For example, naturally occurring vitamin B12 is exclusively found in animal-based products! Therefore, a breastfeeding mum who is following a plant-based diet may need to focus on B12-fortified foods such as a selection soy milks, soy-based burgers and sausages, and cereals. This website can help you to find specific food products that are fortified with vitamin B12.

Breastfeeding mums may lose ~700mL breast milk per day! So, it becomes important to drink more to replace the fluid used in breast milk. Staying hydrated is key to maintaining milk supply. Achieve this by having a water bottle everywhere you go, winding down with a herbal tea, or opting for a fresh fruit juice or glass of milk every time your baby feeds – these are all great choices!

What about coffee and alcohol?

Caffeine: Excessive amounts can pass into breast milk: Try to limit drinks with lots of caffeine to 2 to 4 each day. These include tea, coffee, cola, cocoa, and any drinks with added guarana.
Alcohol: the safest option is to avoid drinking alcohol altogether: When you're breastfeeding, it's best to steer clear of alcohol, especially during the first month after giving birth. Alcohol moves fast into your breast milk, matching your blood alcohol level within 30–60 minutes. If you do decide to drink, keep it to less than one standard drink a day and have it right after feeding, then wait 2–3 hours before the next feed. This way, the alcohol in your breast milk will be at a lower level by the time your baby is ready to nurse again. The Feed Safe app can be a helpful tool to ensure when it is safe to breastfeed your little one.

The short answer is yes, it is possible. However, pursuing ‘fad diets’ (low carb, intermittent fasting, 800cal diets, shakes, etc.) in hope to lose weight rapidly is not appropriate during breastfeeding. If weight loss is a goal of yours, book in with a dietitian for guided support with a sustainable plan that will support the growth and development of your baby!

Bonus tips...

Snack smart: Keep healthy snacks like fruits, nuts, and yoghurt stocked up at home, in your car, and in your handbag!
Eat small, frequent meals: This helps maintain energy levels and milk production throughout the day. Remember- breastfeeding is an energy-intensive task!
Consult a dietitian: Especially if you have specific dietary concerns or restrictions.

In conclusion...

Remember, breastfeeding nutrition is about nourishing both yourself and your baby. Listen to your body's cues, prioritise balanced meals, and enjoy this special time of bonding through nourishment. Your health and wellbeing are the foundation for your baby's growth, so take care and savor every moment of this incredible journey.

Disclaimer

This blog covers general advice only and does not factor in the context for every family going through their own feeding journeys. For more individualised advice, please book in with Georgia Blair (Dietitian) or Sam Foster (Lactation Consultant).

If I follow a vegetarian/vegan eating pattern, what should I prioritise?

Don’t forget about fluids!

I want to lose weight, can this be done while breastfeeding?

Is there a certain diet I should follow while breastfeeding?

Breast milk is the perfect food for your baby, offering a complete balance of nutrients that support their development for the first 6 months and continue to be beneficial beyond that period. Studies highlight that breastfeeding not only helps safeguard infants from infections but also lowers their risk of obesity and certain chronic conditions like diabetes as they grow older.

BUT... breastfeeding is an energy demanding task! This means your body needs an extra number of kilojoules to maintain an adequate and nutrient rich milk supply. Some mothers may notice an increase in their appetite; however, others may struggle to meet the increased energy demand whilst navigating the joys and challenges of the breastfeeding journey. Therefore, focusing on certain nutrients and food groups whilst breastfeeding will ensure the best journey ahead for both of you.

How long should I breastfeed for?

This is a personal decision that is influenced by many factors. The World Health Organization recommends exclusive breastfeeding for the first 6 months, and then continued breastfeeding while solids are introduced and continued for as long as mother and baby desire. If you are stuck on what, when, and how to introduce solids to your baby, read more about the Introduction to Solids workshops held at Growlife Medical.

Population Health – How we Grow a Healthy Community

Mon, 17 Jun 2024 12:46:18 GMT

 Introducing the Growlife Medical Population Health team...

Did you know we think about you and your health, even when you aren’t here? In this article we hope to offer you some behind-the-scenes insight into how we do this. We are proud of this work, having recently won a national award for patient-centred care. At Growlife we are lucky to support many fantastic GPs to do great work. We believe that a partnership between this personalised care, coupled with the use of data to prompt the care you need, creates a little bit of magic and a healthier you.

Why

We believe in improving health through connection. Our mission is to grow Australia’s healthiest populations. We think about the total health of the community around our practices by working with individuals, growing the strength of families, and actively contributing to a connected local community. Your relationship with your GP is foundational to the start of a healthy life. However, we also see that so many health issues faced by individuals have their origins outside the clinic walls, and can get lost amongst other priorities, so we felt there was more we could be doing!

Who

In 2021 we formed a Population Health team – a group of dedicated Growlife Medical staff working to improve the health of our community at a population level. This team is led by a pharmacist and dietitian, with guidance and support from a Clinical Advisory group of GPs, nurses and support staff. This team of passionate individuals is responsible for taking a ‘big picture’ view, to identify areas of health that need improvement within our community.

What

‘Population Health’ refers to “the health outcomes of a group of individuals, including distribution of such outcomes within the group.” 1 This means we take a bird's eye view of the health and well-being of our community, supporting your GP to alert you to health issues that might otherwise not be addressed. It also guides and focuses on the services we offer to complement your GP’s care.

Innovative technology allows us to identify important markers of health need; things like if you have been diagnosed with diabetes, are currently pregnant, have been prescribed a certain medication, or if you are eligible for a vaccine. This allows us to identify a health risk, prompt routine care that hasn’t occurred, or contact you to offer specific dedicated health information to meet your needs. It also allows us to compare how we are going compared to national data to identify priority areas within our community where we could improve.

This ‘thinking outside the box’ approach allows our Population Health team to ‘dream up’ and roll out quality improvement projects, including our recent cervical screening campaign, for which we won an award in patient-centered care. Within this campaign, we were able to improve the proportion of eligible patients with up-to-date screening at all of our practice locations. To put this in perspective, at our Highgate Hill clinic, the proportion of eligible patients increased from 36% to 44% during this project.

Other recent examples of this process include offering immunisations to eligible patient groups, providing information on upcoming education sessions, and offering home medication reviews in instances where medication misadventure is possible, including following discharge from hospital.

Where/When

The Growlife Population Health team meets fortnightly to discuss priorities, progress and outcomes in this space, and the Clinical Advisory Group meets quarterly to monitor progress and guide the next priorities.

From your end, you may have noticed more email communication from us lately! Email is a useful tool to enable us to provide you with specific information in an efficient way. It allows us to connect and keep in contact with you outside the practice walls ��.

We hope to see you soon at Growlife Medical, as we continue our mission to grow Australia’s healthiest communities.

A note on privacy...

Your privacy is paramount. We never share your personal medical information with other providers, unless you ask us to. Similarly, your contact details, including email addresses, are never disclosed to third parties. For more details see our privacy policy .

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1447747/

Know Suicide, No Suicide

Thu, 06 Jun 2024 12:41:59 GMT

Discovering that a loved one is navigating suicidal thoughts can be devastating. A whole range of emotions might come up for you, such as anger, guilt, shock, confusion, or numbness. It’s normal to have these feelings while addressing their mental health struggle. Additionally, the scarcity of resources and associated social stigma may further complicate your ability to appropriately help them. I commend your willingness to support them during this challenging period. There is immense value in being taken seriously and lending genuine support.

Read below for supportive advice on how to navigate this challenging time. Please note that even if you are a health professional, it is not ethical for you to compensate for professional help as a loved one. However, you can surely help them in other ways.

Supporting Loved Ones Having Suicidal Thoughts

Help them introspect on the issues they would like to work on, if they are comfortable. Whether it’s an underlying mental illness, suicidal ideation or general stress and worry. You could help them come up with a list. Doing this could reduce their worry about where to get started in therapy.

Be there for them. Whether it is in the form of providing emotional support or just hanging out with them. Having serious, vulnerable conversations continuously can be draining. It’s okay to have fun with them. Plan activities together and offer to share their workload as well.

While you’re at it, remember to do this within your boundaries!

Help Them Understand What They Would Like To Work On In Therapy

Be Available

After you have informed them of the benefits of seeking help and provided them with contact details of a suitable mental health professional, offer to book an appointment for them. For many, taking the first step is the hardest so volunteering to book an appointment could help them feel supported. Offer to accompany them to the appointment, if they are okay with it.

You could really push them positively and be there for them through this. Sometimes, it's loneliness that leads one to reconsider their decision of seeking help.

It is advised to remove their access to any means they could use to end their life.

 Help them create a Hope Box : A hope box has been widely researched3 upon to be helpful for people who are struggling with suicidal thoughts. Help them create it so that they can engage with it every time they feel overwhelmed by suicidal thoughts.

Keep their safety plan handy: Keep their safety plan handy. This will equip you to support them in a time of crisis. It will help you become aware of their warning signs, emergency contacts and coping strategies. If they don’t have one, encourage them to make one with their therapist or you could also collaborate with them to make this.

Help them strengthen their protective factors: Last but most importantly, help them develop/strengthen their protective factors. These are personal, social and environmental factors that reduce the risk of suicide. You could encourage them to seek therapy, create a support system for them, help them create a Hope Box and a Safety Plan. Refer to this list to know more about these factors.

Supporting your loved one through their recovery does not have to be a solo endeavour for them or you. Keeping in mind their comfort and confidentiality, involve their doctor, therapist, colleague, friends, or family members. This will help you take a break when you have to and still feel assured that they have a cushion to lay back on. It's important that there is someone around them so they are not alone or are feeling lonely. Research has shown that people are more likely to re-attempt suicide, especially if they have a mental illness, high levels of hopelessness, and lower levels of social support.

Remove Their Access To Lethal Means

Offer to Book Mental Health Appointments

Be informed:

You could start by reading up more about suicide - causes, warning signs, risk factors, protective factors, myths and facts. This will help you understand the issues they are facing. Next, look up resources, both pro bono (free of cost) and paid, in their area. This would enable you to help them ease their search for a therapist. You could also start by browsing options here at Growlife Medical .

Offer emotional support:

Listen. Provide them with a safe space so they feel comfortable to open up about their struggle. Stay calm and be patient. Don’t jump to conclusions. Hear them out completely. If they are finding it difficult to open up, let them know that you’ll be there when they are ready. When they do open up, acknowledge their pain. Reassure them that there is hope and that you care.

Ask them how you can be there for them:

Be prepared to ask them the heavy questions around what has been going on in their life. Do not judge them for considering suicide as a solution for their problems. Everyone has a different way of coping with excessive stress. You may not consider suicide in difficult times but unfortunately there are many who do.

Ask them about their feelings of suicide directly. We understand that this sounds hard to do, remember that this is crucial at this moment. Research1 shows that asking one directly about suicide can in fact make them feel relieved and be honest about it. You could do this every now and then. Make an effort to honestly have a conversation about their ideation and behaviour without judgments.

Here are some prompts on how you could the question:

"You seem low. Are you considering ending your life? I want you to know that I'm on your side and I believe we can get through this together. Would you be comfortable talking to me about it?"

"You seem a little low and I have been worried about you. Have you been thinking about suicide recently?"

“Has your recent struggle with mental health made you want to give up?” “Do you ever wish you could go to sleep and never wake up?”

P.S : Don’t forget to ask them how they would like your support to look like and whether they want it at all. It’s important to keep checking if you are making them feel safe and cared for. Be open to making changes to your approach if they feel otherwise. This experience can be daunting and draining for you as well. Nobody is perfect, it's okay to make mistakes!

“Hey! I would really like to be there for you through your struggle. How would you like me to be there for you? I don’t want to overwhelm you with things you won’t feel comfortable with. Can we discuss this?”

Help them see why taking help is necessary:

You could very gently make them aware of how their suicidal ideation could be hurting them. But remember, this needs to be done in a very non threatening and non judgemental manner. If they are aware of a mental illness that they are struggling with, you could indicate that their illness could be a starting point in therapy. Research2 has in fact shown that mental illness adds to feelings of suicidality. If you think your loved one cannot currently take it in the right spirit, then it's best to avoid talking about it. Additionally, you could research on the benefits of seeking help so that you can further encourage your loved one.

1 https://www.cambridge.org/core/journals/psychological-medicine/article/does-asking-about-suicide-and-related-behaviours-induce-suicidal-ideation-what-is-the-evidence/FCAEE9E5BC840D76CF10AEBE CD921AC9

Prompt:

“It hurts me to see you struggle with your mental health. Sometimes, an unaddressed mental illness could further make you feel this way. Maybe seeking therapy could help us know what exactly is going on”

“I know of some people who have sought professional help and that seemed to have helped them. I have also been reading up online about the benefits of it. Would you be comfortable if we explore options for you?”

What's The Deal With Toddler Milk?

Tue, 07 May 2024 11:54:02 GMT

You may have seen some recent articles about toddler milk and the effect this can have on your child's health. We're here to give you a no-nonsense view - without any fear-mongering - from our qualified Dietitian team which includes senior Paediatric Dietitians.

What is Toddler Milk?

I want to provide reassurance that toddler milk is not directly harmful and there should be no guilt or shame if you have been providing toddler milk to your little one. While they're not directly recommended, if consumed in appropriate volumes alongside a healthy and varied diet, these products should not have any negative health effects. For instance, if your little one loves a cup of toddler milk before bed then there is no need to rush to cut this out.

One thing to consider is if you’re viewing these products as support for an already healthy diet or if they’re a being used as a 'solution' to a more restricted intake. Our goal is to provide you with information so that every carer can make the informed choice to provide or not provide these products. If this article brings up any concerns for you, please consider seeking advice from your local health care professional.

Disclaimer: This information is NOT medical advice and is for informational purposes only. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice and should not be relied on as health or personal advice. Please book in with your Growlife GP or Madison, Paediatric Dietitian for individualised advice for your child at https://www.growmedical.com.au/bookings.

Is it bad to give Toddler Milk?

Fussy eating is very challenging to manage and requires a lot of patience and resilience. It is understandable that opting for toddler milk is a quick, easy, and usually well tolerated option. However, toddler milk is more expensive than cow's milk and often higher in sugar and calories. This means it can further reduce their appetite for wholefoods and strengthen their taste preferences for sweeter items.

To manage fussy eating, first-line solutions would be to prioritise eating family meals together as frequently as possible, where you can model eating skills and food choices. The goal should be a positive meal environment where they can explore new colours, flavours, and textures without excess pressure. If you are following these steps and still concerned about your little ones' intake, consider seeking support from a health professional as your next step.

How should I manage fussy eating?

Toddler milk, also known as stage 3 or 4 formula, is an ultra-processed beverage formulated for children aged 1 to 3 years. Toddler milk typically consists of mostly milk powder and vegetable oils with the addition of various vitamins, minerals and other health promoting ingredients. While stage 1 (0-6 months) and stage 2 (6-12 months) formula are designed to meet 100% of your babies' nutritional needs when consumed in adequate volumes, toddler milk is not. It is designed to be used in combination with a healthy and varied diet as it is not nutritionally complete. In saying this, the World Health Organisation (WHO) and Australia's National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC) do not recommend the use of toddler milk in healthy toddlers1,2. Instead, they recommend a healthy variety across the five food groups, with water as the main fluid.

Toddler Milk Facts

Toddler milk is NOT required as part of a healthy diet for children.
After 12 months of age, children should be able to meet their nutritional needs through varied and nutritious diet rich in whole foods, including vegetables, fruits and dairy or calcium-fortified alternatives.
For children aged 1-5 years, water and cow's milk are recommended as their main fluids, ensuring no more than 500ml of cow's milk each day.
If there are concerns about low variety or picky eating, toddler milk should not be the first-line solution.

Is My Baby Tongue Tied?

Mon, 06 May 2024 11:47:57 GMT

https://www.growmedical.com.au/infant-feeding-support

https://www.growmedical.com.au/lactation-consultant-service

Children’s Health Queensland:

www.childrens.health.qld.gov.au/fact-sheet-tongue-tie-in-babies/

Australian Breastfeeding Association (ABA):

www.breastfeeding.asn.au/resources/tongue-tie-and-breastfeeding

Breastfeeding Helpline: 1800 686 268 (24 hours / 7 days a week)

The Royal Womens Hospital:

www.thewomens.org.au/health-information/breastfeeding/breastfeeding-problems/tongue-tie

Speech Pathology Australia: www.speechpathologyaustralia.org.au/SPAweb/Resources_for_the_Public/Fact_Sheets/SPAweb/Resources_for_the_Public/Fact_Sheets/Fact_Sheets.aspx?hkey=e0ad33fb-f640-45b1-8a06-11ed2b73f293

Australian Dental Association (ADA):

www.ada.org.au/Dental-Professionals/Publications/Ankyloglossia-Statement/Ankyloglossia-and-Oral-Frena-Consensus-Statement_J.aspx

Academy of Breastfeeding Medicine (ABM)

www.bfmed.org/assets/Anklyloglossia%20position%20statement%202021.pdf

National Insitute for Health and Clinical Excellent (NICE) UK

www.nice.org.uk/guidance/ipg149/informationforpublic

Association of Tongue-Tie Practitioners (ATP)

www.tongue-tie.org.uk

Help! I’m having feeding difficulties... is my baby tongue tied?

Many people have not heard of a tongue tie until they have a baby and are experiencing breastfeeding problems such as: difficulty latching, painful feeds, nipple and/or breast infection, long feeds, low milk production, slow weight gain contributing to low mood or increasing anxiety. Thanks to the ability to find out lots of helpful (and sometimes not helpful) information via the internet and social media, many families are concerned that their baby may have this condition.

There are many factors that contribute to these feeding challenges and the baby's tongue movement can be one factor. A baby’s tongue needs to be able to move freely to take the breast and nipple deep into its mouth, create a vacuum and drink the milk effectively until satisfied. A baby’s feeding can be affected by:

Poor positioning of the baby to the mother's breast causing shallow latching to the nipple only
Tightness in the muscles, connective tissue (fascia) in the mouth, neck and/or head
Baby's low energy due to prematurity, sleepy, jaundiced, low birth weight and/or slow weight gain
Slow or quick milk flow
and/or the lingual frenulum is short and tight (tongue tie) restricting the tongue’s movement and function

All babies are born with a fold of tissue (called the lingual frenulum) attaching the underside of the tongue to the floor of the mouth which gives the tongue stability and allows it to move freely. You can sometimes see a “stringy” band when the baby opens their mouth on the underneath of the tongue which is the frenulum.

A tongue tie (or ankyloglossia) is a condition where the frenulum is short and tight and therefore restricts the movement of the tongue that is needed for feeding and can result in early cessation of breastfeeding. It is thought that this condition may affect 3-11% of babies, may run in families and may affect more boys than girls.

What is a tongue tie?

Where can I find further information:

v or heart-shaped tip of tongue
limited lift of the tip and/or all the tongue
open mouth posture with the tongue sitting low in the mouth when resting and/or sleeping
visible short tight frenulum

nipple compression (ridging, flattening) seen when the baby comes off the breast which can sometimes cause nipple pain and/or damage
limited ability to hold the breast, bottle and finger in its mouth (poor vacuum)
tiring when feeding, with long pauses, long length of feeds and unsatisfied after feed (breast or bottle)
short interval between most feeds (ie: feeding every 1-2 hours)
breasts not softening after a feed, contributing to blocked ducts, mastitis and/or low milk production
clicking sound when sucking as tongue loses vacuum (not linked to quick milk flow)
slow weight gain or weight loss
leaking milk when breast or bottle feeding

Around the world, there are many different terms used to describe tongue ties such as: mild, moderate, severe; anterior, posterior, sub-mucosal; type/class I, II, III, IV; with a lack of agreement on these terms based on the current evidence. The important factor to keep in mind is whether the frenulum is short, tight and restricting the movement and function and therefore, tying the tongue and affecting feeding.

The current Australian guidelines advise that surgical treatment is not recommended for upper lip or cheek ties as they do not affect babies feeding.

There is no current evidence showing that other health issues including speech and dental development are affected by tongue ties in babies. There are also no current studies linking babies tongue ties with predicting future health concerns.

What are the symptoms of a tongue tie in a baby?

What are the signs of a tongue tie in a baby?

Are there different types of tongue ties such as posterior ties?

What about other oral ties such as upper lip (labial) or cheek (buccal) ties in babies?

What about long-term health issues including speech and dental concerns?

There has been a large increase in the number of babies being referred for a tongue tie assessment and surgery in the last few years worldwide. Unfortunately, sometimes surgery is performed based on only looking at a baby’s anatomy without a full assessment of the mother and baby addressing the many factors that can affect feeding as well as tongue movement. This can contribute to unnecessary surgical procedures being performed which can lead to possible complications during and/or after the surgery as well as contributing to little or no improvement in the baby’s tongue movements and feeding after the surgery.

We know that it can be very worrying for parents when their baby is having feeding difficulties. Having an experienced and skilled healthcare team working together to support the physical as well as the emotional needs of the mum and baby and to provide evidence-based information is so important. There are many reasons why a mum and baby may be having feeding difficulties and a tongue tie may be just one of them.

This is why we highly recommend seeking support from an experienced International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) or a Speech Pathologist (SP) who will gather a full history and perform a feeding and oral assessment (using a validated diagnostic assessment tool). This allows an individualised and comprehensive anatomical and functional assessment to take place together with the parents to assess if frenulum is restricting the tongue and affecting feeding and therefore is likely to be a tongue tie.

The Lactation Consultants here at Growlife Medical will initially provide a plan usually looking at non-surgical management strategies as the next step to address any concerns with feeding. This can include concerns such as positioning, latching, inefficient feeds, milk production, nipple and/or breast infection and weight gain as well as supporting the parents' mental health and feeding choices.

A review appointment with the Growlife Lactation Consultant will be helpful to see if the tongue movement and feeding has improved with the non-surgical management or not. If there are ongoing concerns with the tongue being tied and affecting feeding, they will discuss options for a procedure to release the tongue tie and what to expect during the procedure and afterwards. Our Lactation Consultants aim to ensure your decision is as informed as possible by discussing the current research as well as directing you to reputable patient information resources and clinical guidelines.

Feeding difficulties are often experienced after complications during birth. The tongue movement can be affected by the position they were in the womb, such as breech or transverse, as well as the birth process, especially if it was prolonged or very quick or if there was an instrumental delivery such as a vacuum or forceps. The head bones can be misshaped or elongated which can contribute to tension and asymmetry in the head and face. The head bones, face and tongue muscles and connective tissue (called fascia) all connect to the hyoid bone in the baby’s neck which is the only bone in the body not connected to another bone! This bone is connected by muscles and fascia down to the collar bones.

The baby’s tongue can be restricted in its movement by tightness in the any of these areas, contributing to difficulty opening their mouth wide, not able to tilt their head back, holding their head off to one side and not able to keep it in a straight line and therefore affecting their ability to use their tongue optimally to suck. This tension should improve over time as the babies get stronger and bigger and parents can help with lots of tummy time on their chests as well as feeding techniques to help them use their tongue optimally when sucking. If there is a tongue tie, then there is likely to be ongoing feeding concerns and possible tension which is not resolved over time.

There are a few small studies that show that manual interventions (often called manual therapy, bodywork, cranial sacral therapy) can help babies with feeding difficulties but there no current studies showing that these improve feeding difficulties with babies with tongue ties.

A follow-up appointment with the lactation consultant or speech pathologist is extremely important to review the feeding plan and assess if the tongue function and feeding is improving.

If the non-surgical management has not resolved the concerns, a minor procedure to release the tongue tie (called a frenotomy) may be recommended. The gold standard for releasing tongue ties in babies is with the use of blunt ended surgical scissors by a trained health professional in a medical setting.

Some parents decide to not release the tongue tie either straight away (watch and wait approach) or not at all, and in these cases, it is important to work with the lactation consultant or speech pathologist to find ways to improve the feeding with the restricted tongue, such as nipple shields or bottle feeds.

The risks and possible complications with a scissor frenotomy are unexpected bleeding, pain, infection, oral aversion, damage to the tongue, sub-mandibular ducts and lingual nerve, reoccurrence, reattachment, scarring and little or no improvement in the tongue movement and feeding.

A trained health professional may perform the scissor frenotomy for babies such as a: General Practitioner (GP), Midwife/IBCLC, Paediatrician, Paediatric Surgeon, Paediatric ENT or Paediatric Dentist. Your GP can refer you to your local public hospital (such as the Queensland Children’s Hospital) or you can be referred or self-refer to a private health practitioner.

What can I do if I think my baby has a tongue tie?

Can musculoskeletal therapy help improve tongue tie?

How do I know if treatment is needed?

Are there any risks with the procedure?

Who can perform the procedure?

A minor procedure using blunt-ended scissors (called a frenotomy) is recommended for babies if there is a tongue tie affecting the baby’s feeding and non-surgical management has failed. The health professional undertaking the procedure will take a full history to understand what management has already taken place and what are the current symptoms. They will conduct their own assessment to confirm if there is a tongue tie, discuss the risks and benefits of the procedure as well as what to expect during and afterwards and obtain written consent.

The procedure itself involves the baby lying on its back, wrapped securely in a swaddle with a support person (usually another clinician) keeping the baby still. The health professional will lift the tongue with their fingers and will gently divide the tissue with the tip of blunt-ended scissors.

It is normal to expect a drop or two of blood after the surgery and this usually settles very quickly with a little pressure from a gauze swab and then feeding. The baby can be a little unhappy afterwards from being held still and a breast or bottle-feed, along with a cuddle will provide wonderful comfort and the sucking will help to settle any small amount of bleeding. Skin-to-skin cuddles are a great way to provide comfort over the next few days.

There will be a diamond shaped wound under the tongue which will change to a white/yellow colour after a day or 2 and may be visible for a week or so. There are currently no studies showing any benefits of stretching the wound after the procedure (sometimes called “active wound management”) and there are concerns that these may cause pain, prolonged healing, reattachment, scarring and infection. We do not recommend any stretches of the wound site for this reason.

Frequent feeds can help regular tongue movement and milk intake as well possibly reducing reattachment and forming scar tissue in the few weeks after the surgery, however this is yet to be researched. It is vital to see a Lactation Consultant or Speech Feeding Pathologist in the few weeks after the surgery as the wound is healing to provide ongoing support and ensure any feeding concerns resolve.

Any concerns such as prolonged bleeding, persistent pain, infection, oral aversion (worsening or cessation of feeding) should be addressed to the health practitioner who performed the procedure as soon as possible. Where needed seek urgent medical support at your local hospital emergency department.

There are no current studies comparing the use of scissors versus lasers in babies but there are reported concerns with the use of lasers contributing to prolonged pain, bleeding, tissue damage, nerve injury and feeding refusal (oral aversion).

We recommend the use of surgical scissors for frenotomies in babies under 3 months and recommend a referral to the hospital or a private referral to a Paediatric Surgeon, Paediatric ENT specialist or Paediatric Dentist (who uses scissors) for babies older than 3 months or thick and vascular tongue ties or reattachment and scarring concerns.

To make a booking please call our friendly reception team on 3154 2393. If you do not live close to one of our practices but wish to have a discussion around your concerns, feel free to book a telehealth consultation

*It is recommended ideally not to feed the baby for at least an hour before the procedure, bring a swaddle that has the parent's scent on and a bottle of milk if the baby is having any bottle feeds.

If you are concerned that your baby may have a tongue tie and you are having feeding (breast or bottle) difficulties, please reach out to one of our experienced Lactation Consultants (IBCLC’s) for their individualised assessment and support.

Our lactation consultants are experienced and highly skilled practitioners, each coming from different clinical backgrounds, to ensure our patients receive the most appropriate care that is always patient-focused, family-centred and evidence-based.

Dr Sonja Morgan (FRACGP/IBCLC)

Simple scissor frenotomies for babies under 3 months of age with thin, anterior frenula following a full feeding assessment. This assessment may be done by Dr Morgan or Sam Foster.
Full breastfeeding, mixed feeding or bottle-feeding assessments and management of related medical complications including infant weight gain and unsettled infants.
Clinic and telehealth consultations at Highgate Hill.

Sam Foster (Endorsed Midwife/IBCLC)

Scissor frenotomies for infants under 6 weeks of age with thin, non-vascular lingual frenula following a full feed and oral assessment.
Full breastfeeding, mixed feeding or bottle-feeding assessments and management of all lactation and infant feeding concerns.
Sam sees patients at the Fairfield clinic as well as telehealth and phone consultations, as well as home visits within 15kms of the Fairfield clinic.

( *see our website for full details on the Lactation Consultant team ).

What will happen during the procedure?

Is there any recommended aftercare?

What about other methods for tongue tie release?

Tongue Tie assessments and division at Growlife Medical

Booking an appointment:

What is Menopause?

Fri, 08 Mar 2024 11:33:56 GMT

Menopause is a natural biological process that marks the end of a woman's reproductive years. It typically occurs between the ages of 45 and 55 and is characterized by a decrease in oestrogen production by the ovaries. As oestrogen levels decrease, women may experience a variety of symptoms, which can vary in intensity and duration.

These symptoms can include:

Hot flushes: a sudden feeling of heat, often accompanied by sweating, that can last for several minutes.

Night sweats: hot flushes that occur during sleep, often causing insomnia or interrupted sleep.

Vaginal dryness: a decrease in natural lubrication that can cause discomfort during sexual intercourse.

Mood swings: changes in mood, including irritability, anxiety and depression.

Fatigue: a feeling of tiredness or lack of energy. May include brain fog.

Weight gain: an increase in body weight, particularly in the abdominal area.

Thinning of the skin and hair

Loss of libido: a decrease in sexual desire.

Urinary urgency: increased frequency and an urgent desire to pass urine sometimes leading to incontinence.

Joint pains and itchy skin.

What about Perimenopause?

Perimenopause is the period of time leading up to menopause, when the body begins to transition from regular ovulation and menstruation to the permanent cessation of menstrual periods. It usually begins in a woman's 40s but can start earlier or later. Perimenopause can last several years before menopause is reached, and symptoms can vary in intensity and duration. During perimenopause, hormone levels fluctuate, and women may experience a range of symptoms that are similar to those of menopause above, along with irregular menstrual cycles. In this phase, menstrual cycles may be shorter or longer, and bleeding lighter or heavier than usual.

It is important for women to talk to their GP about any changes they are experiencing during perimenopause, as some symptoms can be a sign of other medical conditions. Regular check-ups and screenings can also help to identify any health issues that may arise during this time of transition.

What are the treatment options?

There are several treatments available to manage perimenopause/menopausal symptoms, including:

Menopausal Hormone Therapy (MHT): also known as ‘Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT)’. This involves taking oestrogen and also progesterone (if you have a uterus) to replace the hormones that the body is no longer producing. MHT can be given in the form of tablets, patches, creams or a progesterone IUD. This is the most effective treatment for peri/menopausal symptoms.
Non-hormonal treatments: these include anti-depressant medications such as serotonin and noradrenaline reuptake inhibitors which can help manage hot flushes/night sweats and improve emotional symptoms.
Vaginal oestrogen cream or pessaries: used to alleviate vaginal dryness and discomfort during sexual intercourse and also improve urinary symptoms.
Lifestyle changes: these can include regular exercise, a healthy diet, and stress management techniques such as meditation and yoga.

Some women may choose to use MHT for many years to manage menopausal symptoms, other may prefer to use it for a shorter period of time. There is some evidence to suggest that MHT may be most effective for managing symptoms in the early years of menopause.

It’s important to note that menopause is a natural process and not a disease, and many women experience few or no symptoms. If you are experiencing bothersome symptoms, it’s important to talk to your GP to determine the best treatment approach for you.

Everyone seems to have a different opinion about menopause treatment options. What should I do?

One controversy in menopause management surrounds the risk associated with long-term use of MHT. In the early 2000s, several large studies raised concerns about an increased risk of breast cancer, heart disease, stroke, and blood clots. As a result, many women stopped taking MHT. However, more recent studies have suggested that the risks are lower than previously thought, particularly for women who start MHT soon after menopause and use body identical hormones. There are also many benefits of taking MHT including a lower risk of osteoporosis, endometrial cancer, colon cancer and cataracts.

Another controversy surrounds the use of bioidentical hormones. Bioidentical hormones are often marketed as a safer and more natural alternative to traditional HRT. However, there is little safety data or evidence to support the use of bioidentical hormones, and compounded formulations may be of uncertain purity or potency. The Australian menopause society advises against using these. Nowadays many menopause hormone therapies prescribed by your doctor are ‘body-identical’ which means they contain hormones identical to those produced in the human body.

While regular exercise, a healthy diet and stress reduction techniques are beneficial for many women, there is limited scientific evidence to support the use of alternative therapies such as herbal supplements, acupuncture or homeopathy.

It is important for women to discuss the risks and benefits of menopause management strategies with their GP, and to make informed decisions based on their individual needs and preferences.

To schedule an appointment with your Growlife Medical GP, BOOK HERE

Good sources of further information are www.jeanhailes.org.au and www.menopause.org.au

New collaboration with AusTrials

Fri, 01 Mar 2024 11:31:16 GMT

Growlife Medical is announcing a new collaboration with AusTrials – a leading private medical clinical trial operator. With local sites at Taringa and Wellers Hill, AusTrials is a private clinical research organisation, dedicated to the ongoing evaluation of new medical treatments.

Examples of current AusTrials studies include those focused on rheumatoid arthritis pain management and atrial fibrillation treatment.

Research shows that patients enrolled in clinical trials have better health outcomes than those who are not – even those receiving placebo treatments!1

We believe in working with our patients to create the healthiest population possible, and so are offering our patients the exciting opportunity to participate in clinical trials. We believe in empowering our patients to learn more about their health and be active participants in health- related decision-making.

Participation in these clinical trials is completely voluntary and would rest alongside patients’ usual medical care here at Growlife.

Growlife patients eligible for participation in an AusTrials clinical trial will be contacted via email from the Growlife team. This email will outline the details of the study and provide relevant contact details. Individuals who would like to participate may then seek further information from AusTrials directly.

And it’s important to note that patient privacy is paramount. Growlife does not share personal medical information with Austrials or any other provider, unless patients provide consent. More details are available at Growlife’s privacy policy

To read more about exciting research lead by AusTrials, click here .

Avoiding the feast and famine mentality this festive period

Fri, 15 Dec 2023 11:27:25 GMT

Once again Christmas is just around the corner! Christmas can be a time of joy and connection, but for many people the festive period can be stressful for a variety of reasons. One such reason may be food. The good news is that it does not have to be this way! It is possible to navigate the festive period in a less stressful manner, enjoy traditional and favourite foods, and take care of yourself.

When it comes to navigating food and eating at Christmas time, it can feel like there are only two options. Famine – not allowing yourself to eat any of your favourite foods. Or feast - thinking ‘why not’ and eating ALL the Christmas food for the two months that it is in abundance. The latter might be followed by a promise to once again ‘be good’ once Christmas is over, or once the new year has started. While neither of these options is inherently wrong, the chances are that neither will leave you feeling good.

Out with the ‘all or nothing’ mindset, in with the ‘for the most part’ thinking...

Before we jump into tips to help you navigate the festive period, let us touch on an idea that can be helpful all year-round. In my work with clients, I frequently discuss the idea of shifting thinking from ‘all or nothing’ to ‘for the most part’. What does this mean? Rather than falling into the trap of thinking that it is only worth changing if you can commit to doing something all the way and 100% of time, ‘for the most part’ thinking allows us to make smaller, more sustainable changes that offer a greater level of flexibility.

What does this look like? Let’s say due to a busy period in your life you’ve been ordering takeaway most nights. It's natural to immediately jump to thinking, ‘I need to start cooking all my meals at home and making sure they are all healthy and perfectly balanced’. In contrast, ‘for the most part’ thinking may sound a little more like, ‘I’m going to aim to cook more meals at home and include some vegetables most of the time’.

The festive period

When it comes to eating over the festive period, it is important you show yourself kindness and compassion, and know that it is possible to enjoy your favourite foods and drinks in a guilt-free environment!

How to allow yourself to enjoy your favourite foods

It’s extremely common for people to feel that they cannot be trusted around certain foods, and therefore to not allow themselves to eat them at all. The pitfall of this approach is that, as humans, when we tell ourselves not to think about something, we tend to think about it more. Constantly restraining ourselves leads us to us feeling deprived, and eventually ‘giving in to temptation’ and eating more than makes us feel comfortable. People tend to mistakenly interpret this as evidence that they were right and double down on restricting these foods, therefore starting the cycle again.

So, what can we do instead? Rather than trying to avoid your favourite foods, try these tips:

Try to be present and mindful when eating. When we get distracted, we don't truly experience the taste, texture, appearance, or smell of the food, meaning that although we are physically eating the food, we are not actually getting the opportunity to enjoy it. Mindful eating can help us to fully experience what we are eating. The goal of mindful eating isn't to eat less, it's to be more aware of the food and the experience of eating. You can do this by:

Taking the time to sit down and eat, free from distractions
Engage your senses. How does the food look, smell, taste and feel?
How does the food taste at the start, middle and end of the meal or snack?
Take the time to taste, chew and enjoy your food. This allows your body to register the experience and enjoyment of eating.
Please note that mindful eating may not be achievable or appropriate for everyone, for example, those in eating disorder recovery or neurodivergent folks, who may find mindful eating confronting or unsafe.

2. Notice the things that you are telling yourself about these (or other) foods.

Although it is common for us to mentally restrict fun foods (A.K.A. those usually labelled as ‘junk’, ‘unclean’ or ‘discretionary’), for reasons outlined above it does not tend to be particularly helpful. Instead, it can be helpful to shift our focus to how those foods will make us feel. For example, how do I feel physically and mentally if I skip my meal and opt for cake only, how soon do I get hungry again after eating cake as a meal?

3. Don't feel that you need to make a healthy version of your favourite food or recipes.

Think about your favourite indulgent comfort food... whether its potatoes roasted in duck fat, trifle, mac and cheese or a fresh loaf of bread with butter and vegemite. Sure, you can swap out duck fat for olive oil or make the trifle with yoghurt instead of cream, but do you enjoy this as much as the original version? Often these healthy swaps result in a less satisfying version of the meal, which will only leaving you wanting more or something else to meet that desire. If you’ve ever found yourself craving an ice cream and opting for the ‘healthy’ yoghurt or fruit instead and then later going back for the ice cream anyway, then you know this feeling! If these are foods that you only having from time to time, why not give yourself permission to enjoy the real thing and see what difference this makes!

Regular eating to avoid over-eating

Have you ever felt the need to skip a meal, ‘save calories’, or restrict food afterwards in order to ‘make up for’ an indulgent meal? While there is no set amount of times per day that you need to eat, deviating from relatively regular meals increases the chances of eating past the point of comfortable fullness when you next eat. Rather than skipping meals or snacks, eat at regular times during the day.

And finally if you do overeat - make yourself comfortable!

Eating past fullness is a normal part of eating (and being human), how we handle this is the most important thing:

Be kind to yourself . Firstly, eating past the point of being comfortably full is not a moral failing. Secondly, being critical or judgmental will only make you feel worse. Instead of saying, ‘I’m awful, I can’t even get eating right’, try something like, ‘I was really enjoying this food and now I feel too full. I wonder how I can help myself feel better right now?’
Get comfy! Avoid tight waist bands, or clothes with little stretch in them. For me, if I’ve been out for a particularly enjoyable meal and eaten past the point of comfortable fullness, nothing feels better than getting into oversized pyjamas. Get into a comfortable position, whether that be laying down to reduce the pressure on your stomach or leaning right back into that comfy chair of yours. Also note that it may be helpful to keep your head elevated to prevent reflux/regurgitation.
Use a hot water bottle/wheat pack on your stomach .
Resist the urge to restrict your eating at the next meal or the next day. Remember that restriction will increase the chances of you overeating in the future.
Remember that the fullness will pass.

Keep in mind that healthy eating is all about balance (yes, this includes fun foods too!). No one food or meal has the power to make or break our health. Let’s also not forget that constant worry and stress are not great for health, so constantly stressing over which food is healthier should be reduced. Not to mention the fact that this stress takes us out of the moment and can often prevent us from truly being present with family and friends.

If you need support in figuring out how to incorporate these strategies in your day-to-day life, or would like to learn more, our Dietitian and Intuitive Eating Counsellor Andrea is here for you. You can book an appointment with Andrea without a referral here

Skin Care Blog Summer Edition

Mon, 11 Dec 2023 11:20:46 GMT

Summer is a great time of year with lots of time with family and friends out and about in the holidays.

Summer in Australia is one of the harshest seasons, with weather ranging from quite mild to extreme heat. Even on a cloudy day our skin can be affected by the UV rays causing damage, and this damage may not be seen until later in life.

Australia has one of the highest rates of skin cancer in the world, with roughly 2 in 3 Australians diagnosed with some form of skin cancer before they reach 70 years of age.

Anyone can develop skin cancer, but some people have a higher risk. Increased rates of skin cancers occur in those who:

Hair fair or freckled skin, with a tendency to burn rather than tan
Fair or red hair, with blue or green eyes
Had short, intense periods of sun exposure (eg. A sunburn while on holidays or playing sport)
Actively tanned or used solariums
Worked outdoors or with exposure to arsenic
Have a weaked immune system (from a chronic condition, or through medication use)
Have lots of moles on their body, particularly those with irregular shape or uneven colour
Have a previous or family history of skin cancer
Have skin conditions such as sunspots

If you are due for a skin check or wish to discuss any skin concerns with the Growlife Medical Team, book now. To read more about skin cancers click here

Other things we can do to protect ourselves in the summer months include –

SLIP on covering clothing (eg. long-sleeved shirts and rash vests at the beach)
SLOP on sunscreen with at least SPF30 (SPF50 is even better!). Remember to apply sunscreen at least 20 minutes before you go outside, and apply DAILY to all skin that is not covered by clothing. Even driving we can experience sun damage on our hands, arms and face.
SLAP on a hat
SEEK shade – ideally avoiding being out when the UV index > 3 which typically occurs between 10am-4pm but differs according to time and place. To check in your location, the Cancer Council has a free app, which you can download here .
SLIDE on some sunglasses to reduce UV radiation causing damage to our eyes

More points to consider:

There are other reasons to look after our skin. Skin is the largest organ in our body and does a great job at regulating our temperature and ensuring we remain hydrated. We need to keep ourselves hydrated by drinking at least 2L of water daily, and limit our intake of caffeinated drinks.

Those with dry skin conditions still need to apply moisturisers, but may prefer lighter options such as lotions, over heavy creams.

Over summer it is important to reduce the frequency of skin treatments such at retinoids/laser/skin peels, as these treatments make our skin more susceptible to damage from the sun. Always ensure if you use these products to wear sunscreen and do not get direct sun on the areas where products/treatments are used. Otherwise, you can create more damage to the skin you are likely aiming to improve.

REMEMBER: Preventing skin damage is far better than treating damage in the future.

Should you be unsure of the cause or your skin condition becomes worse, please see your dermatologist or book a Growlife Medical GP appointment.

Eating Disorders

Mon, 21 Aug 2023 11:04:43 GMT

Eating disorders are a common mental illness which affect a wide variety of people. Growlife Medical explain what an eating disorder is, the different types, risk factors for eating disorders, member's and roles of the treatment team and what to do if you suspect you or someone you love may be experiencing an eating disorder.

What is an Eating Disorder?

There are several different types of eating disorders, as outlined in the diagnostic and statistical manual VI (DSM5), each with unique characteristics. Below is an outline of the different types of eating disorders and related experiences:

Anorexia Nervosa (AN) - is "characterised by extreme food restriction, significant weight loss and an intense fear of gaining weight.” (Inside out institute, 2023)
Bulima Nervosa (BN) - is "characterised by episodes of binge eating followed by compensatory behaviours, which are intended to prevent weight gain.” (Inside out Institute, 2023).

Binge eating disorder (BED) - “characterised by recurrent episodes of binge eating, which involves eating a large amount of food in a short period of time. During a binge episode, the person feels unable to stop themselves eating, and it is often linked with high levels of distress. A person with BED will not use compensatory behaviours, such as self-induced vomiting or overexercising after binge eating.” National Eating Disorder Collaboration (2023)

Avoidant Restrictive Food Intake disorder (ARFID) - “is a serious eating disorder characterised by avoidance and aversion to food and eating. The restriction is NOT due to a body image disturbance, but a result of anxiety or phobia of food and/or eating, a heightened sensitivity to sensory aspects of food such as texture, taste or smell, or a lack of interest in food/eating secondary to low appetite” National Eating Disorder Collaboration (2023)

Other Specified Feeding and Eating Disorder (OSFED) , previously known as Eating Disorder Not otherwise specified (EDNOS) - is "...a person with OSFED does not meet the criteria to be diagnosed with another eating disorder, however, is presenting with many of the symptoms of other eating disorders. OSFED is just as serious as other eating disorders and is associated with complex medical and psychiatric complications. A person with OSFED may present with many of the symptoms of other eating disorders such as anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa or binge eating disorder but will not meet the full criteria for diagnosis of these disorders. This does not mean that the eating disorder is any less serious or dangerous.” (National Eating Disorder Collboration, 2023)

Unspecified feeding or eating disorder (UFED) - “Applies to where behaviours cause clinically significant distress or impairment of functioning, but do not meet the full criteria of any of the feeding or eating disorder criteria.” (Eating disorder’s Victoria, 2022).

Orthorexia is not considered an eating disorder despite affecting how a person eats and relates to food with negative impacts upon a person’s health and functioning. Orthorexia is a term used to describe an obsession with eating only those foods which are considered ‘healthy’ and avoidance of ‘unhealthy foods’. Although a person with orthorexia may not necessarily be underweight, they can still be undernourished.

It can be helpful to think of eating behaviours as occurring on a spectrum with a healthy relationship with food and body existing at one end and eating disorders sitting at the opposite end of the spectrum. In between there are varying levels of disordered eating which do not met the diagnostic threshold, but can still negatively impact on a person’s wellbeing and quality of life. Eating disorder hope (2023), explains that disordered eating is “when an individual regularly engages in abnormal eating patterns or food behaviors.” It is also recognised that disordered eating can lead to the development of an eating disorder.

Types of Eating Disorders

There are a number of factors which can place an individual at higher risk of developing an eating disorder s . These include but are not limited to:

A history of dieting and weight loss attempts. In fact, dieting is widely recognised by experts as being a very strong risk factor for the development of an eating disorder. This includes being exposed to diet culture in the family home, at school and through social media.
Genetics , for example , having a parent or family member who has experienced an eating disorder
Personality traits for example perfectionism, obsession, impulsivity. It is not uncommon for people who experience an eating disorder to be a high achiever and to believe they are fine. It is important to note that despite excelling across various areas of their life, if the person is experiencing signs and symptoms of an eating disorder these warrant investigation and treatment.
Co-occurring mental illness eg Obsessive compulsive disorder, social anxiety, borderline personality disorder, depression
Experiencing childhood trauma and abuse
Neurodivergence including ADHD and Autism
Body dissatisfaction
A lack of secure and consistent access to food
Having an illness that requires a person to pay close attention to what they eat for example Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes
Inflammatory GI diseases for example Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis

Fortunately, the rate of smoking has been on the decline in our community for some time, and we now have very few patients who regularly smoke. If you are still smoking, we are happy to help you quit if you would like to. Simply phone the practice

Risk factors for Eating Disorders

Smoking

Eating disorders are complex, life-threatening mental illnesses and they are treatable. They are estimated to affect 4% of Australians and have the highest mortality rate of any mental illness. Eating disorders are commonly misunderstood, they are not always about a person wanting to change or control their body’s weight and/or shape. They can affect all people, regardless of age, size, gender, and cultural background.

According to the Inside Out Institute (2023), “Eating disorders are defined by changes in behaviours, thoughts and attitudes to food, eating, weight or body shape that interfere and detrimentally impact upon an individual’s life.”

Preventing vascular disease is as simple as checking and managing the above risk factors. When you see your Grow Medical GP for a vascular risk checkup, you can expect to be well looked after and have all your questions answered. We will check your:

height
weight
blood pressure
smoking status
discuss any symptoms you may have experienced like chest pain, weakness or cramping in the calves.

For patients with risk factors for vascular disease, the nurse will obtain an Ankle Brachial Index reading for the doctor (a screening test for blood vessel blockages to the legs). Your doctor will check your cholesterol, sugar and kidney function blood tests, and where necessary arrange for you to update these tests. Based upon your risk assessment, your doctor may order an Electrocardiogram (electrical tracing of the heart rhythm) or refer you for a cardiological assessment if necessary. Depending on the complexity and your individual requirements, we may be able to do this over one long appointment, or split between a number of appointments.

Most patients do not need treadmill testing, or any invasive treatment. The mainstay of treatment is about ensuring a good level of physical activity, good nutrition, avoidance of smoking, and management of blood pressure and cholesterol with medication where these measures have been tried but proven unsuccessful.

Inside out institute, 2023. https://insideoutinstitute.org.au/about-eating-disorders/

Eating Disorder Hope, 2023, https://www.eatingdisorderhope.com/

Eating Disorders Victoria, 2022. https://www.eatingdisorders.org.au/eating-disorders-a-z/eating-disorders-explained/

National Eating Disorder Collaboration, 2023. https://nedc.com.au/eating-disorders/eating-disorders-explained/

What to expect from your vascular checkup?

How can I prevent vascular disease?

References

Winter Wellness

Wed, 24 May 2023 10:56:06 GMT

With winter approaching, the team at Growlife Medical wants you to remain healthy and active throughout the cooler months. Read on for more information on staying healthy this winter.

Coughs and Colds

It is vital to keep active over the winter months, but many of us shy away from getting out into the cold and sometimes wet weather. While there is nothing we can do to control the weather outside, having a plan for exercise can ensure a happier, healthier lifestyle.

Make small changes to move more throughout your day. Can you go for a walk on your lunch break to avoid the early morning cold or start a walking group to catch up with friends or family and keep everyone moving!

For more tips on staying active this winter for heart health, click through to the Heart Foundation’s guide, here .

Cold air, artificial heating and the hot showers/baths taken during winter can create stress for our skin, leading to dryness. Ensure you are regularly applying a simple emollient or moisturiser to damp skin after bathing to improve your skin’s moisture levels and prevent skin conditions worsening. Lip balms are useful to attend to dry lips and thicker hand creams are available to apply frequently after hand washing.

For more information on looking after your skin this winter, please read our blog here.

Keep Moving

Look after your skin

Winter can be a challenging time to maintain good nutrition, as the cold weather and shorter days can lead to changes in eating habits. But don’t worry - we have some top tips for you from our dietitians to ensure good nutrition during this season!

It is important we continue consuming a wide variety of nutrient-dense foods such as whole grains, fruits and vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats in the cooler months. Prioritise those dark leafy greens such as kale, spinach, or collard greens as they are packed with important vitamins and minerals to help boost our immunity and reduce the risk of infection. For the same reason, snacking on seasonal fruits like apples, pears, and citrus fruits, which are not only tasty, but also high in vitamin C, can help fight off colds and flu.
Staying hydrated is also crucial in winter as the cool and dry air can cause our body to lose moisture. Make your water bottle your new best friend – take it with you everywhere you go. However, if you find that ice cold water you prefer in the warmer months suddenly doesn’t seem so appealing, try having some warm herbal teas throughout the day instead!
Incorporate warming spices like cinnamon, ginger, and turmeric into your meals. These spices not only add flavor and make you feel warm and fuzzy on the inside, but they also have anti-inflammatory properties that can support your immune system during the cold and flu season.
If it’s a cold rainy day, perhaps the last thing you want is to be spending hours in the kitchen preparing a meal for the family (personally, I’d rather be watching a movie with a hot choccy in hand), which may make the idea of a quick and easy meal delivery/takeaway seem like a good option. Try to plan and prepare meals in advance to avoid this happening! Make a large batch of soup at the start of the week with a variety of vegetables and lean proteins in it (such as chicken or lentils) and freeze it for a rainy day (literally!). Soups can be a great way to get a wide range of nutrients in, and an even better way to stay warm during the winter.
Finally, if you're short of time, try using a slow cooker to make healthy meals with minimal effort. You can throw in ingredients like chicken, vegetables, and whole grains in the morning and have a hot, hearty, nutritious meal ready by dinnertime.

As we cover ourselves up to keep winter chills at bay, and with the shorter daylight hours, our exposure to the sun decreases, and so too our skin’s exposure to the ultraviolet B light which is needed for our skin to produce adequate levels of vitamin D. This vitamin D is essential for healthy growth and maintenance of our bones and regulates calcium levels in the body. Experts recommend a few minutes of sun exposure most days in winter in Queensland. If you are not able to get out in the sunshine due to concerns about skin cancers or have other medical conditions that may affect your ability to absorb or process vitamin D, aim to prioritise vitamin D from foods such as oily fish, eggs, or fortified milks and cereals. Lastly, if unable to achieve adequate vitamin D from food, supplements are also available!

Ask your GP at your next appointment if you need a vitamin D test or require a vitamin D supplement.

Prioritise your health over the winter season by staying active, looking after your skin, being mindful of good nutrition and practicing hygiene measures. Growlife Medical will ensure you are well-supported for this challenging season. Book an appointment with your Growlife Medical GP here .

Vitamin D

Nutrition in Winter

Remember to continue to practice good hygiene – wash or sanitise your hands often, cover coughs or sneezes, and stay home if you are unwell.

Don’t forget to stay up to date with your yearly influenza vaccination and COVID boosters as needed.

Asthma

Viruses, cold air, and wood smoke are all well-known triggers for people living with asthma, and often exposure to these triggers' peaks in the winter months. This can lead to an increase in asthma symptoms, such as shortness of breath, wheezing and coughing. Many people need to use their rescue asthma medications more often, or need to increase the dose of their preventer medication.

To minimise exposure to cold air, some people choose to wear a scarf or face covering around their mouth and nose to humidify and warm the air they breathe. Avoid smoke-polluted air when possible and ensure fan-forced ducted heating systems are well-cleaned and maintained to avoid excess dust exposure. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist about the option of using a saline nasal spray or sinus irrigation product to regularly wash away viruses, irritants and allergens from your nose.

Ensure you or your family member has a written Asthma Action Plan from a GP to guide asthma management. If you need to discuss an Asthma Action Plan with your GP, please book a Growlife Medical GP appointment .

Debunking Common Myths About Weight Loss: Separating Fact from Fiction

Mon, 20 Mar 2023 10:47:45 GMT

I was on a cruise over Christmas and they hosted a seminar called “how to get a flat belly”. The name alone was already a bit of a red flag to me - implying a ‘flat belly’ is the most desirable body shape and you need to be let in on this big secret if you want your body to look like this. So, purely out of interest and curiosity, I attended. I remained hopeful it would be nutritionally sound and evidence-based, but unfortunately this was not the case at all. Long story short, it was absolute rubbish. The presentation was delivered by a PERSONAL TRAINER (yes, personal trainer, not dietitian), it was not scientifically correct- saying to have a ‘flat belly’ we need to take this expensive algae supplement every day for the rest of our lives to ‘detox’ our body (despite the primary role of our liver being to do exactly that), and severely lacked broader contextual understanding on how the body works and what influences weight status. At the end of the session, it was really disheartening and sad to see all of the attendees opening their wallets and ‘falling victim’ to what I would really call a scam.

The team at Growlife wants to provide clarity on all of the confusion out there and give our community the power and ability to judge what is a legitimate health intervention and what is a bit of a rip-off. Keep reading to debunk some common weight loss diets and learn how to separate the fact from the fiction!

1. Liquid Diet

A very low-calorie diet involves eating 800 calories per day or less. It should be noted there are certain circumstances where this diet may be useful in the short-term, such as preparation for particular surgeries, or as a means to ‘kickstart’ weight loss when experiencing a plateau. However, this should only be undertaken with close guidance and monitoring from your GP and dietitian.

While it may seem like a promising way to lose weight quickly, similar to all other approaches we have discussed so far, its long-term effectiveness is questionable. Drastically reducing calorie intake can cause the body to slow down its metabolic rate to conserve energy, which means that burning calories can actually become harder over time. Additionally, a very low-calorie diet often results in nutrient deficiencies, which can lead to health problems such as fatigue, muscle loss, and weakened immune function.

Of course, if you are decreasing your energy intake by over half, you would expect to quickly lose weight. Why is that? You guessed it, because you are in a CALORIE DEFICIT. Although it may be tempting to try extreme dieting, it is important to remember that losing weight in a safe and sustainable way involves eating a varied diet that provides enough nutrients and calories to support healthy weight loss.

It seems that every time we turn on the TV or look at social media we are bombarded with advertisements or endorsements for weight loss products. The current social (and mainstream) media storm surrounding a certain injectable medication (originally intended for patients living with diabetes) is another example of this.

What we have seen with this product is arguably successful weight management for many people, but this must be balanced against the possibility of side effects. Success with this medication also stems from the individual managing their dietary and exercise habits. Many users of this product find that the medication suppresses their appetite, which means their food intake is far less than before, again creating a CALORIE DEFICIT leading to weight loss. When the medication is stopped, and normal eating habits resume, often weight gain will occur. Unfortunately, it may not be the “wonder drug” that we were all hoping for.

Other medication options for weight management are limited by side effects – from mood changes and racing heart with some drugs to distressing gastro-intestinal effects with others.

It is no wonder then, that individuals may turn to herbal options that we see advertised online. Again, despite wild claims of success in helping us shed the kilos, we often experience minimal weight loss results. The medical literature describes very little, and often no evidence of benefit for these complementary products. Whilst many may not appear to cause harm (except to your bank balance), it is possible that some herbal products may interact with your prescription medicines, or have opposing effects. Always ensure that you discuss any complementary therapies with your GP or pharmacist so they can help you to make a safe decision.

If you would like to read more about the difference between approved and unapproved weight loss products, please see this resource from the Therapeutic Goods Administration .

It is generally accepted by the medical community that diet and exercise measures achieve the most significant long-term results, with health habits that we may continue across a lifetime.

As always, any decision around prescription of medications for an individual is made by the patient’s regular General Practitioner. If you are interested in discussing weight loss options further, please book an appointment with your Growlife Medical GP here.

4: Very low-calorie diet

Weight Loss Medication Myths: A word from a pharmacist:

A low carbohydrate diet may not be as effective for weight loss as it seems. While reducing carbohydrates in the diet can lead to weight loss in the short-term, this diet is often restrictive and difficult to maintain over the long-term, which can lead to feelings of deprivation and binge eating. It is also important to note one of the primary reasons we see a quick drop in weight when following this diet is purely due to a decrease in water retention. For every gram of carbs stored in your body, you also store 3-4g water. So, it should come as no surprise that if we decrease our carb intake and therefore have less carbohydrates stored in our body, there will of course be a drop in water weight. Yes, that’s right- water, not fat.

Moreover, low carbohydrate diets are more prone to being higher in saturated fats, which can increase the risk of heart disease, stroke, and other health problems. All of the energy our body needs to fuel us through our days comes from the 3 macronutrients- carbs, fat, and protein. If we decrease our carbohydrate intake, it is usually paralleled by an increase in protein and fat, and fat has double the energy density of carbohydrates. The implication again being it may actually increase your chances of unknowingly ending up in a calorie surplus. However, if you are just essentially cutting out 1 of 3 macronutrients and not increasing intake of protein or fat, the primary reason you would be losing weight is again (I think I am starting to sound like a broken record) due to a CALORIE DEFICIT.

We could spend all day discussing why our body needs carbs and why carbs are definitely not the enemy, but we might wrap this point up here! A balanced diet that incorporates a variety of nutrients, including carbohydrates, can promote sustainable weight loss and overall health.

After discussing all of these “easy ways to lose weight” that often times are advertised to seem as though they are magic, I am hoping you are now starting to see some common themes. First and foremost, weight loss is achieved by a calorie deficit. Why would we want to put ourselves through these awful diets when we can just be mindful of the quality and quantity of food we are eating? Secondly, rapid weight loss isn’t all it's cracked up to be and can actually make it more challenging for you to sustainably lose weight in the future. Lastly, one key and absolutely critical element to long-term weight loss is behaviour change; unlearning old habits and shifting your mindset. Surprisingly (or not so surprisingly), this is not a focus of any of the aforementioned diets; including the algae detox supplement from my cruise!

From here, Growlife encourages and recommends you:

Check the source of the information. Are they credible? Is it within their scope of practice to comment on it? Is there a possible conflict of interest that may be influencing what they say/recommend?
Always consider the pros AND CONS of a particular medication/supplement.
Be cautious of companies promoting products and remember it is literally their job to persuade you into thinking you need the product! Unfortunately, their priorities are sometimes not in the right place (eg. Profit $$ versus improving community health). There are also lots of labelling loopholes they can jump through. For example, has a clinical trial actually been done to show this supplement ‘gives you a flat belly’?

If you are unsure whether you have a healthy or suitable weight for your age, height, or other health conditions, then book an appointment with your doctor, as they are best placed to advise and direct you. If you are in the 45–49 year-old age bracket and are wondering if your weight is having a negative influence on your health, book in for a health check here .

If you are interested in weight management group sessions, book here .

Finally, if you are wanting a more personalised approach to your weight loss, book an appointment with a Growlife Dietitian .

Disclaimer

It is important to note that the above information is very generalised. The complexities and the ‘ins and outs’ of these weight loss approaches are complicated and their effectiveness at improving health has only been discussed through a weight management lens.

Concluding thoughts

Want to find out more?

3. Low-carb diet

While a liquid diet may seem like a quick and easy way to cut calories and lose weight, I would argue it is not a sustainable or healthy approach in the long-term. Liquid diets often involve consuming only shakes, smoothies, or soups for every meal, which can lead to nutrient deficiencies and a lack of fiber. Additionally, liquid diets may not provide enough calories for individuals who are active or have higher energy needs. As a result, people may feel tired, hungry, and irritable on a liquid diet, making it difficult to stick to.

What is interesting is liquids are actually easier to consume than food as it doesn’t require our body to use as much energy to break it down. Liquids are also less likely to make us feel full and satisfied after, meaning if you are not strictly monitoring your calorie intake, you may consume more calories than you otherwise would if you just ate regular food. As a matter of fact, for this reason liquid calories can come in handy when someone is trying to gain weight.

Ultimately, the reason why strict portion-controlled liquid diets can lead to weight loss is because of a CALORIE DEFICIT. When individuals return to their regular eating habits after completing a liquid diet, they are likely to regain any weight lost as they have not learnt or implemented any long-term behaviour changes.

2. Skipping meals

Skipping meals may seem like a good idea for weight loss, but it can actually have negative effects on your body. While it is true fasting can lead to benefits with regards to longevity and healthy ageing, skipping meals here and there may confuse our metabolic rate. When you regularly skip meals, your body interprets this to mean you have no food around you, and so thinks it will be doing you a favour if it slows down your metabolism and conserves fat. This can actually make it even trickier for you to lose weight.

Skipping meals can also lead to overeating later in the day when you finally do eat, as well as cravings for high-calorie, unhealthy foods. The consequence of this is, of course, that you are putting yourself at risk of eating more calories than if you were to otherwise just eat regularly throughout the day. If you are skipping meals and also not overeating at other mealtimes, again, it would be because you are in a CALORIE DEFICIT.

Additionally, skipping meals can lead to nutrient deficiencies, which can negatively affect your overall health and well-being in many different ways. It may also isolate you from different social events such as brunch with your friends, an important work lunch, or date night with your partner. To achieve sustainable weight loss, it's important to maintain a balanced, healthy diet and to eat regular meals throughout the day.

Don’t WAIT to start managing your WEIGHT

Fri, 17 Feb 2023 10:37:19 GMT

The commencement of a new year always brings renewed energy and motivation towards our personal goals and aspirations. There is often no better time to begin your weight management journey!

Believe it or not, weight loss is actually one of the most difficult and complex nutritional goals to achieve. This is because there are lots of moving parts. It involves comprehensive consideration of your:

Energy in
Energy out
Behavioural factors
Environmental factors
Medication requirements

Just to name a few!

If your new year's resolution is to lose weight, but you don’t know where to start, read my 5-step method towards weight management and better health.

Step 1: Remind yourself why you want to lose weight and set realistic goals

There is a massive misunderstanding that to lose weight you must restrict food intake. This is not always the case. We can actually significantly lower our calorie intake by making a few simple product and brand swaps, without actually decreasing the volume of food we eat.

Hot tip: Next time you are at the shops, keep an eye out for low fat/lite/skim/low calorie/diet varieties- they are everywhere!

Examples:

Step 2: Switch, don’t restrict

Looking at your dinner plate, what percentage of it is vegetables? What proportion of it is protein? How much is filled with carbohydrates?

For weight loss, the goal is to have half of your plate filled with vegetables. A quarter should be a lean protein source, and another quarter of it should be a low GI carbohydrate source.

Hot tip: Put the veggies on your plate first! Otherwise, you are more likely to fill your plate with meat and carbs, and will have less space leftover for veggies, so less of them will make it to your plate.

Examples:

Over time, our food and drink portions have become larger. The more we are served, the more we will eat. So, the next step is getting those serving sizes down pat. If they are a bit out of whack it can really blow you over your recommended daily energy intake. In saying this, it does not mean we need to act like we are on rations either!

For main meals, generally aim for:

The carbohydrate portion should be around the size of your fist.
The vegetable portion should be 2 open hands.
The protein portion should be around the size of your palm.

Below are some examples of foods that are high in calories and low in nutrients (ie. the opposite of vegetables). Intake of these foods should be minimised where possible. Also, keep in mind that one serving of these foods should be equivalent to:

1 tablespoon of salad dressings
1 teaspoon sugar / butter / margarine
2 scoops ice-cream
1 doughnut
5 lollies
4 squares (1 row) of chocolate
2 tablespoons cream
1 can soft drink

Step 3: ½ ¼ ¼

Step 4: Avoid portion distortion

Some believe that every single person in the world wants to/needs to/could benefit from losing weight. This is fundamentally not true, and is a huge misconception. While indeed some individuals would benefit from losing weight, a good proportion of the population in fact would benefit from gaining weight- and this is something that is largely forgotten about and ignored. I could go down a huge rabbit hole here talking about if/when it is appropriate to lose weight, but this may be better left for another blog!

For now, consider the two questions below when deciding if weight management may benefit you. If you answered ‘yes’ to one or both of them, great work- you have found your motivation!

Will it improve the condition of an already-existing chronic disease (e.g.. Type 2 Diabetes)?
Will it enhance your quality of life (e.g.. Allow you to participate in more fun activities with your children)?

However, the trickiest part of losing weight and keeping it off is long-term adherence to a certain eating plan. This may be because a) the diet was too restrictive, or b) there is a loss of motivation over time. Setting small, sustainable, bite-sized goals can ensure this does not happen

Energy in – Energy out = Total energy intake

Again, restricting food should not be at the heart of weight loss. It is not fun at all either! So instead of reducing input, why not focus on increasing your output? This means moving your body more! Whenever we move our body, we are expending energy. The more we can do this, the lower our total energy intake will be- which can help contribute to weight loss.

Here are 10 simple ideas to get your body moving more:

Do the grocery shopping
Park further away from your workplace
Get off one bus stop early
Cycle to work
Catch up with friends over a walk or workout
Go for a walk or swim in your pool (or your friends)
Take your dog for a run (or in my case, let your dog take you for a run)
Take the stairs
Go out dancing with your partner or friends
Try something adventurous! Plan a hike or mountain climb with friends.

As mentioned at the beginning of this blog, weight loss can be extremely tricky to navigate. As you embark on your weight management journey, please keep the following points in mind:

Weight loss does not happen overnight and you may not see immediate improvements on the scales- don't be disheartened!
The number on the scales should not be your only measure of success. Ensure you have a variety of other food-related, exercise-related and lifestyle-related goals to supplement any weight loss goal.
Your weight status does not define you! It is actually probably one of the least interesting things about you. Don’t place unnecessary importance on this number.
Endeavour to challenge your perspective and mindset around weight loss- consider it as a ‘byproduct’ of making a commitment to adopting a healthier lifestyle.

If you are unsure whether you have a healthy or suitable weight for your age, height, or other contextual factors, then book an appointment with a GP as they are best placed to advise and direct you. If you are in the 45–49 year-old age bracket and are wondering if your weight is having a negative influence on your health, book in for a health check here.

If you are interested in our brand-new weight management group sessions, book here .

Finally, if you are wanting a more personalised approach to your weight loss, book an appointment with a Growlife Dietitian .

Step 5: Increase your energy output

A final piece of advice...

Want to find out more?

New self-collection option for cervical cancer screening

Tue, 29 Nov 2022 10:35:03 GMT

Cervical cancer is largely preventable. Since the introduction of the National Cervical Screening Program, cervical cancer incidence and mortality has dropped drastically, by at least 50%.1 Since 2007, additional protection has also been available, in the form of a human papilloma virus (HPV) vaccine, that targets the specific strains leading to the majority of cervical cancers. However, whether you have been vaccinated or not, women and people with a cervix from ages of 25 to 74 are encouraged to have regular cervical screening (every 5 years) for early detection. Screening criteria include:

Age (25-74)
Having a cervix
History of any type of sexual contact
If you have had a full or partial hysterectomy, please check with your doctor about screening

The great news is cervical cancer is highly preventable, so, spread the word among your loved ones if they are eligible or haven’t screened for a while! If you don’t recall the timing of your last cervical screen, your GP can now access the National Cancer Screening Registry (NCSR) to check when this test will be due for you.

Prior to the new screening test, a health professional (GP, nurse or health worker) would take the sample for you via a speculum examination.

At Growlife Medical, we recognise that this process may be embarrassing or uncomfortable for some people. Recent studies have revealed that self-collection is just as effective at detecting HPV and preventing cervical cancer as clinician-collection. The Growlife team would like to make this process more comfortable and accessible for you.

You will be given clear instructions on how to collect the sample with a cotton swab and be offered a private setting for self collecting your sample. The self-collection sample is to be taken from the vagina, not the cervix, and is checked for HPV.

When would self-collection not be a good idea?

1. Cancer Council Australia. Cervical Cancer Screening Clinical Guidelines. Available from: https://www.cancer.org.au/clinical-guidelines/cervical-cancer-screening/cervical-cancer-in-australia

Because self-collection looks for HPV only – not cervical cell abnormalities – it is generally not appropriate for people who have symptoms of cervical cancer or if you are experiencing unusual bleeding, pain or discharge. If any of the above are relevant to you, it is best to get these symptoms checked by your Growlife medical GP first.

Alternatively, if you are eligible for, but not feeling confident with a self-collected sample, we can always assist with collecting the sample via a speculum examination as before.

For more information, please visit https://www.health.gov.au/campaigns/self-collection-for-the-cervical-screening-test , or https://www.cancer.org.au/cervicalscreening/i-am-over-25/do-i-need-the-test/self-collection-and-the-cervical-screening-test .

To discuss with your GP or book in for your cervical cancer screen, contact the Growlife Medical Team.

Should I have a prostate check?

Tue, 08 Nov 2022 10:30:38 GMT

There is an interesting phenomenon that happens in GP offices across the country. Typically, it involves a middle-aged male nervously walking into the GP’s office, sizing up the doctor’s hand shake and glove size upon greeting. Then, once seated, saying “my wife said I should come in for a prostate check, doc”, before issuing a small clearing of the throat.

The question is, how should your GP respond? Should you have a prostate check?

In this special blog for Movember, Growlife Medical takes a look at the evidence behind a men’s health check, what you should have checked when seeing your GP, as well as the issue of whether you should have screening for prostate cancer.

Read on to find out if you need the glove, the blood test, or something unexpected...

Cause of Death and Illness in Men in Australia

If you’re already exercising reasonably hard at least 3.5 hours a week, eating a good range of vegetables every day, and avoiding junk foods, then you’re well ahead of the pack. Does this mean you should have a prostate check? Let’s dive into the figures.

First, a disclaimer: this discussion is about a man without any prostate symptoms who is interested in screening for cancer. If you have symptoms with your penis, bladder, pelvic area, urination or ejaculation, (or any health problem for that matter) you should see your GP. We know men simply don’t do that enough.

What About Screening for Prostate Cancer?

When deciding what to prioritise during a check-up, it is important to consider what's common, and what's serious.

Most people recognise heart disease is common in Australia. It causes nearly double the number of deaths in men than its nearest rival, dementia. It is essential to recognise that vascular disease (which includes both heart attacks and strokes) and dementia account for the overwhelming majority of deaths in Australian men.

When considering both males and females, vascular disease, dementia, lung cancer, emphysema and bowel cancer make up all the top five causes of death in those over 65.

When considering men alone, prostate cancer takes up 5th place, similar to breast cancer in females.

So, even before we start to talk about prostate cancer screening, there are some important lessons here. Attention to not smoking, and maintaining healthy lifestyle habits to prevent vascular disease , diabetes and dementia are the highest priority things you can do to stay healthy.

You might wonder how to screen for prostate cancer? The options available at present come down to physical examination and a blood test. Your GP can put a gloved finger up your bottom to check the shape and texture of your prostate or, order a blood test called the Prostate Specific Antigen (PSA) which detects small amounts of protein in your blood stream that arise from prostate tissue.

The problem here is accuracy. Small cancers in the prostate may be undetectable by the doctor’s finger. An enlarged, lumpy prostate may not be cancerous. The PSA blood test is notoriously inaccurate, with a large number of falsely elevated readings, and the possibility of a normal reading even when cancer is present.

This issue with accuracy means that prostate cancer screening is prone to error, with large numbers of false positives and false negatives. It makes picking the right man for treatment quite difficult, as well as making it difficult to provide complete reassurance.

Luckily, two enormous scientific studies were conducted to understand the real-world effectiveness of prostate cancer screening; the European Randomised Study of Screening for Prostate Cancer ( ERSPC ) and the American Prostate, Lung, Colorectal, and Ovarian Cancer Screening Trial ( PLCO ). Between them, these trials involved around 250,000 men, and have been running for over 13 years at the time of writing. In each trial, men were randomly assigned to screening with a PSA blood test, or to not screening (called the control group).

How to Screen for Prostate Cancer

How Accurate is Prostate Cancer Screening?

The upshot? In the ERSPC trial, about the same number of men died in both the screening group and the control group. In the PLCO trial, numerically more men died in the screening group than the control group! Fortunately, this wasn’t a statistically significant difference, but it does call into question whether prostate cancer screening is a good idea. After all, if you’re not likely to reduce your chance of dying, why bother?

This means the science says that screening for prostate cancer with today’s traditional methods does not reduce your chances of dying early.

If you’re interested in reducing your chances of dying from prostate cancer specifically, both trials did show a small reduction in your chance of dying from prostate cancer.

The European trial showed that over 13 years, for every 781 men screened, 27 extra men would need to be treated, to prevent one man dying of prostate cancer. So, your chances of being the one man to benefit are quite small. Consequently, this small benefit needs to be balanced against the risks.

Unfortunately, those risks are relatively common.

To illustrate the balance, the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP) have published an infographic to help you decide on whether to get a PSA blood test . At Growlife Medical, doctors use this infographic regularly to help you understand whether to screen or not for prostate cancer.

In the figure below, courtesy of the RACGP, the men in red represent those aged 55-69 who die over the course of 11 years. The men shaded in red die of prostate cancer, with the man in yellow possibly saved through testing.

The shaded men are those who suffer complications from treatment, such as incontinence or impotence, overdiagnosis, hospitalisation due to complications from a prostate biopsy or even a heart attack.

Does a PSA Blood Test Reduce My Chance of Dying Early?

What are the Risks of Prostate Cancer Screening?

For my money, these don’t look like good odds.

Commonly, men decide not to screen when presented with the full data. On the other hand, some remain concerned about prostate cancer, and would rather test. This often relates to family history of prostate cancer. Either way, the choice is up to you. But before you decide to screen, you should be sure to think about whether science says it is worthwhile. Whilst science can’t make a value judgment, it certainly tells us that you won’t reduce your chances of dying early, and may end up with significantly reduced quality of life due to complications of screening and treatment.

There are changes to assessment and treatment of prostate cancer that might change the equation in future. What we really need, is a screening test that is much more accurate than the PSA. Sadly, we don’t have that right now.

Prostate MRI has potential to decide more accurately which men with a positive PSA need surgery, and therefore improve these figures. It is now commonly used in men with a raised PSA to help decide who needs a biopsy or surgery. The scientific community is hopeful that this might make for more accurate diagnosis of those who need to be treated. Right now, we don’t have the data to be sure if that’s the case.

Fortunately, there is some good news right now.

The good news is that there is plenty you can do to improve your health, and it doesn’t involve painful or embarrassing tests.

If you’re 45-49, the best place to start is a thorough a 45-49 year old health check specifically designed for your age-group. Your doctor will discuss things like smoking, nutrition, alcohol, physical activity, stress, and assess your blood pressure, weight, cholesterol, kidney function, sugar and more.

For most age-groups, these are the things that matter, as getting them right will set you up for good health habits, and reduce the risk of all sorts of chronic disease. If you remain concerned about your prostate, have a chat with your GP and see what they think given your personal circumstances.

Even more important than all the above? You’ll be surprised to know that good social relationships are a more powerful predictor of your long term wellbeing and lifespan than all these traditional medical risk factors. Cultivating meaningful friendships through family, work colleagues, sporting teams and more is proven by science to be the best thing you can do for your health.

So stop reading this article, and go out and have some fun with friends. And make an appointment to see your GP for a proper checkup this Movember.

As for the gloved finger? You can rest easy. Sometimes that check is important if you have certain symptoms. But when it comes to screening, you won’t have to bend over. At least not in this GP’s office.

Is Prostate Cancer Screening Worthwhile?

What Should I do About a Men’s Health Checkup?

Pregnancy Nutrition and Exercise

Thu, 13 Oct 2022 10:27:31 GMT

Pregnancy is a time of great promise: new life, new beginnings, a focus on health unmatched with the rest of your life.

Optimising your nutrition and continuing a balanced exercise program is essential to the health of your growing baby. There are some simple guidelines to follow.

Exercise During Pregnancy

An increasing number of women in our society are developing Gestational Diabetes . This is a condition similar to Type II Diabetes that occurs during pregnancy, resulting in high blood sugar levels. The can cause a number of effects on your baby both during the pregnancy and after birth.

All women are recommended for screening for raised sugar levels at the commencement of pregnancy, as well as testing for gestational diabetes at the end of the second trimester.

Good nutrition and adequate exercise before and during pregnancy may help prevent gestational diabetes, or reduce the impact upon your baby. Careful treatment though a combination of lifestyle measures and medication can mitigate the effects of gestational diabetes.

If you are planning a pregnancy, the best time to adopt a healthy lifestyle is now. Maintaining a healthy weight, eating well and exercising regularly can both help you get pregnant, and stay healthy throughout.

Our team of GPs, midwives, dietitians and more can help you make the most of this precious time. Start the conversation by booking with one of our GPs today .

Gestational Diabetes

Food contaminants mean that some types of food are best limited or avoided. Good general advice for food hygiene is:

Wash your hands well prior to cooking and eating
Wash your food well prior to cooking
Cook your food well (avoid undercooking)
Avoid left-overs and cabinet-style takeaway
Avoid top-of-the-food-chain fish

Avoiding Food Contaminants

After discussing your current level of fitness, and any specific issues during your current pregnancy, with you doctor or midwife, most women are recommended to continue regular exercise during pregnancy. A good guide is to aim for 30 minutes of exercise per day, at a level that allows you to continue to hold a conversation.

Better Health Channel provides comprehensive guidelines for more detailed advice.

Nutrition During Pregnancy

Pregnancy means your body and your growing baby have an increased requirement for a range of nutrients. In particular, increased folate is important before pregnancy and during the first trimester. Vitamin D, B12 and Iron are commonly encountered deficiencies and should be discussed with your doctor if you are heavily sun avoidant, have darker skin or a vegetarian diet.

Alcohol avoidance is important in pregnancy due to the effects on your baby.

The types of food you eat are also important. You should be prioritising a wide variety of foods from the 5 food groups (grains, dairy, meat/meat alternatives, fruit, vegetables) as these are full of all the nutrients you and your baby need, while limiting confectionary food consumption.

As you enter the 2nd and 3rd trimester of your pregnancy, your daily energy requirements will increase by about 200-300 calories per day. This means you should be adding an extra snack into your day, such as a muesli bar, a sandwich, or a cup of hot chocolate with full cream milk.

Regarding fluid intake, it is recommended to be cautious of excessive caffeine consumption, and avoid alcohol completely due to potential effects on your baby.

Last but not least, food safety is paramount as your immune system can often be compromised when pregnant. Food contaminants mean that some types of food are best to be either limited or avoided.

Some quick tips to assist with this are provided below:

Buy dairy products from supermarket (not delicatessen) to avoid non-pasteurised food items
Always choose freshly cooked and freshly prepared food
Cook all meat, chicken, fish, eggs fully
Eat leftovers within 24 hours or freeze
Always wash fruits and vegetables thoroughly
Reheat food to steaming hot for >2 minutes before eating
Wash your hands well prior to cooking and eating

Music And Emotional Regulation With Infants And Young Children

Mon, 19 Sep 2022 10:22:09 GMT

Can a drumming song about the rain teach your child about emotional regulation?

And can you teach this to a 6-month-old?

The answers are “YES” and “YES”!

While we expect children to practise emotional regulation, as parents we actually need to practise guiding our little people through this process. After all, it takes some time to develop the language and skills around this.

During our SongLife Connections music therapy groups , we have had many conversations with the families involved about the links you can draw for children between what their bodies are doing when engaging with music and what their bodies are doing when they are having an emotional experience. From when children are preverbal, it is beneficial to start practising the language and methods you want to use with your child as you guide them through their emotional expression and as they learn to regulate. Guiding your child through their emotions is called emotional co-regulation and experiences with music-making can help you learn about this process.

Parents, Music & Emotional Regulation In Children

With a young infant, singing a lullaby to help them fall asleep is a form of co-regulation. As the child matures, parents can ask ‘Which song matches how you are feeling?’, or ‘Which movement can you make to show me how you are feeling?’. Through music engagement, the child is learning how to identify and process their emotions. Music opens up many pathways for expression and having more avenues for explaining how you feel is beneficial as they learn how to regulate emotions.

Try these songs at home and think about how you could use them to guide your little ones.

Drip, drop rain is falling down
I hear thunder
If you’re happy and you know it
Open shut them
Dingle dangle scarecrow
Shake your sillies out
We can play on the big bass drum
Teddy bear turn around

Lullabies For Emotional Regulation

In our Songlife Connections group music therapy program , we explore how music can support you and your child in their development, including emotional regulation and communication skills. Learning to use music at home may help with sleep habits, play time and healthy attachment. Sessions run on Mondays at our Highgate Hill clinic for children aged 0-4 years old. Book a Songlife Connections music therapy session today.

Growlife Medical's Songlife Connections Music Therapy Program

Coming back to the idea of the rain song:

- Small pitter patter raindrop movements create a soft, gentle sound

- Big ‘thunder’ movements create loud, full sound

- When you’re calm you make smaller, quiet movements

- When you are angry/excited/overwhelmed you make big loud movements (noting that this is not always a negative thing!).

Parents can explore these ideas with their child from a very young age. When a baby is sitting in their highchair banging their spoon loudly, it might be appropriate to say ‘I can see you are feeling big and loud and you are doing your thunder drumming right now.’ Then you can sing a rain song with them and see if their movements change as the song comes to the pitter patter rain drops at the end.

The Rain Song

Songlife Connections Therapist - Amy Cooper

Amy is a registered music therapist, vocal tutor and classical singer who has worked in clinical, education and community settings. Amy knows the social, mental and physical health benefits of singing and finds great joy in using music to improve the wellbeing of her clients. Amy runs the SongLife Connections and CareMusic Therapy programs at our Sherwood clinic .

Amy graduated from the University of Queensland in 2011. She has worked with people across the lifespan, from babies and their parents in the community, through to older adults in dementia care. In 2012, she founded the music therapy position at Prescare Vela Nursing Home, while also working as the music therapist at Nursery Road State Special School. For two years, Amy lived in Berlin and was the music and English tutor at an international kindergarten. Amy returned to Brisbane in 2018 and began her private practice, Creative Rainforest, providing in-home sessions to children and adults living with disabilities.

Getting The Most From Your Medicines

Sat, 10 Sep 2022 10:18:34 GMT

Do you take at least one prescription medicine from your GP?

Can you answer the following questions?

How much do you take and how often do you take it?
Do you need to take it with food, or an empty stomach?
How does the medicine work and how do you monitor to see if it is effective?
Is the medicine able to be used with your other medicines or vitamins?
What are the side effects?
Do you know what to do if a problem occurs?
What do you do if you miss a dose?
How do you store the medication appropriately?
How do you dispose of the product, or any syringes/needles required?

If you can answer all of the above, then well done!! If not, keep reading ...

You don’t need to have a degree in medicine to understand how your medicine works! A simple statement such as, “this medicine lowers my blood pressure’, ‘this medicine prevents my gout attacks’ may be sufficient. Sometimes this knowledge of the benefits of taking the medicine can motivate people to continue treatment and be an engaged partner in their health care. Certainly, if you are keen for more information feel free to ask at your next Doctor’s appointment.

The Benefits Of Taking Medicine

Monitoring a medicine’s effectiveness is more obvious for some medicines than others. For example, it is relatively easy to monitor the effectiveness of a blood pressure medicine with regular blood pressure checks. This is different for preventative or long-term medicines where a person may be using them to ensure their health is maintained over a long-time. Regularly using a medicine for a chronic disease that you cannot see or feel can be a challenge for some.

Is Your Medicine Working?

How To Take Your Medicine

By law, every prescription medicine dispensed in a pharmacy must have a label adhered to explain the medicine name, the patient and prescriber details, and directions for use. Here, you will also see other special instructions, such as the time of day to take the medicine, or if it needs to be with food. Where relevant, other special considerations will be included, such as, “Avoid alcohol”, “Do not drive or operate machinery while taking this product”, “Do not use calcium or iron supplement”. Remember, it is always good practice to ave a chat to your GP or pharmacist if you are unsure.

If you have been using medications regularly, you will have noticed a change in the way medication names are written on your prescriptions and medicine boxes. These changes were made as a safety decision to avoid accidental duplication of medications that may occur when different brand names are used. By law, now you will see the medication written by its active ingredient (also known as drug or chemical name), followed by the selected brand name (often in brackets). Have a look for this next time you obtain a prescription.

Keeping an up-to-date medication list is a vital tool to assist medication management. This is particularly useful if you use several different medications, or see different specialists, as well as your GP. This list can be taken to your appointments and up-dated as required. You may like to include the generic drug name on this list, as well as your preferred brand of medication for reference.

Some people like to keep a written list on their fridge at home, and this is useful medicine list template. If you prefer to keep this list electronically, have a look at the Medicinewise app .

Even the common side effects known to be caused by a medication may only cause problems for a few people taking them. Often, if one medication for a condition causes problems, an alternative may be suitable. If you feel you are experiencing side effects from a medication, make an appointment to discuss this with your GP. Where needed, your GP may refer you for a Home Medicines Review where a specialist pharmacist will chat with you about your medicines and ensure all doses and combinations are safe and effective for you. If needed, they will talk to your GP about changes that may be made to ensure you get the most from your medicines.

Confused About Generic Medicines?

Make A Medication List

Side Effects of Medicines

Double Ups and Missed Doses

How Should You Store Your Medications

Disposal of Medication

If you are taking more than one medicine, it is vital to ensure that the different products can be used together. Medicines commonly interact with other medicines, and even vitamins and supplements. The solution depends on the medicines involved, and may include taking them at different times or day, or trying an alternative. It is important to remember that just because a product is labelled “herbal” or “natural” that it may still cause side effects, or interact with other medicines. ALWAYS check with your GP or pharmacist when starting any new medicine or herbal product.

Almost everyone who uses medicines will, at some point, report forgetting to take them at the scheduled time, or accidentally doubling them up. The consequences of this depend on the medication and the person involved, but can be quite serious. If you do find yourself in this situation, contact the Growlife Medical team for advice on medicines .

For advice after hours, you can always contact the Poisons Information phone line on 13 11 26 (available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week).

As always dial 000 in the case of emergency.

Most medicines can be stored at room temperature. Select a shelf or drawer in a cool room of the house. Whilst convenient, the kitchen and bathroom may not be the most suitable here due to heat and steam affecting the quality or use of the medicine. It is vital to keep medicines out of reach of children (and pets) for their own safety. For some families, a lockable cupboard may be a good option for medication storage.

Some medications will need to be kept in the fridge to ensure the product lasts. Examples include eye drops, injectable medicines and some medicines for thyroid. This will be clearly marked on the medication packaging.

If the product says to keep at room temperature, don’t put it in the fridge just in case, as this can sometimes cause problems with stability of the product.

Don’t forget to check the expiry date on your medication!

You can return unwanted medication, or medication past the expiry date, to your local pharmacy for safe disposal.

If needed, Sharps bins are available to purchase from local pharmacies, to dispose of any needle tips, or pre-filled syringes.

Empty blister packs or bottles may be discarded in general waste, or some facilities are now offering recycling for blister packs.

If this article has raised questions about your medicines or you would like to enquire about getting the most from your medicines via a Home Medicines Review , contact the Growlife Medical team for an appointment .

Type 2 Diabetes: PART 2 – Say Hi to the GI

Mon, 05 Sep 2022 10:06:29 GMT

First thing to get clear- GI stands for glycaemic index. Glycaemic index is essentially a rating system for carbohydrate-containing foods. Each food is assigned a number from 1-100, which is indicative of how quickly or slowly it is digested and increases blood sugar levels over a period of time- usually 2 hours. This system uses white bread as a reference food, which has a glycaemic index of 100- making it a ‘high GI’ food. Generally speaking, a food is considered to be ‘low GI’ when it has a glycaemic index of 1-55 (green). A glycaemic index of 70 or higher means it would be categorised as a ‘high GI’ product (red), and anything in between would be a ‘medium GI’ (yellow). For example, multigrain bread has a GI of 48, making it a ‘low GI’ food choice. Refer to the image below for more information about what foods are found in what GI category.

GI = Glycaemic Index

Welcome to part 2 of this two-part blog series covering everything you need to know about Type 2 diabetes!

Last time, we discussed what it means to have Type 2 diabetes, and spoke generally about how to manage the quantity of carbohydrate containing foods. If you have not yet read part 1 of this diabetes series, it would be a good idea to read up on that article which details Type 1 vs Type 2 diabetes , and Type 2 diabetes causes & symptoms .

This week- we will be talking about all things quality! I am sure you have heard the phrases “high GI” and “low GI” get thrown around... but have you ever wondered what GI actually stands for, what it means, and why it is important for people with type 2 diabetes? Well, read on to find out!

Now, you are probably wondering why that’s relevant to type 2 diabetes- so let's flesh that out! Recall from part 1 of this blog series how carbohydrate-containing foods influence our blood sugar levels. Let’s use our example of white bread compared to multi-grain bread to outline how high GI versus low GI foods affect our blood sugar levels.

Because white bread has a GI of 100, this means it is very quickly digested and absorbed into the bloodstream. The sugar from this bread enters our bloodstream all at once, which causes a spike in our blood sugar levels (as shown in the graph below). Normally, this would send signals to our factory (the pancreas), and so lots of keys (insulin) would get produced to unlock the cell doors so the sugar can enter and be removed from our bloodstream. This process decreases blood sugar levels back to within an acceptable range. However, excessive and frequent intake of high GI foods in individuals with type 2 diabetes can be damaging, and result in further progression of the disease.

Remember in type 2 diabetes our keys do not work as well in opening the cell doors (also known as insulin resistance), which means our blood sugar levels remain elevated (ie. above an acceptable range) for a longer period of time.

Conversely, when we eat multigrain bread (our low GI alternative with a GI of 48), it takes longer for our body to digest and absorb it. This means there is a slower and more steady release of the sugar from this food into our bloodstream. As you can see in the graph below, this allows low GI food choices to have a smaller impact on our blood sugar levels, meaning they should generally remain within the acceptable range. So, in people with type 2 diabetes (ie. people who have insulin resistance), low GI foods are generally less damaging and less likely to progress the disease than their high GI counterparts.

Switch to low GI alternatives.

Look out for the brown/minimally processed/high fibre varieties. These are typically lower GI than their white/refined/low fibre counterparts.
Cornflakes/rice pops -> muesli/oats
Watermelon -> banana
White bread/English Muffin -> multigrain bread/sourdough

2. Look out for the Low GI-certified stamp.

On your next grocery shop, see if you can find any products labelled with this. This stamp implies it is a great choice for someone with type 2 diabetes

3. If a food product has less than 15g sugar/100g, put it in your trolley.

Nutrition information panels can be confusing, convoluted and tricky to interpret at the best of times (we could dedicate an entire blog series to navigating your way around them)! However, the most important part to pay attention to for type 2 diabetes is the sugar content. When trying to decide what brand to choose from, look for the option that has the least sugar per 100g. If one has more than 15g per 100g, it might be a good idea to put it back on the shelf!

As this blog series comes to a close, and all of this new information is whirring around in your head, the most important thing to remember is: The key to type 2 diabetes management is to keep our blood sugar levels within an acceptable range (ie. not too high and not too low!), and this can be done by considering the quantity and quality of carbohydrate intake.

Most importantly, it is possible to make simple adjustments to the type of food you are eating, just by choosing slightly different alternatives. Commit to doing this for three months, and you will notice lasting impacts on your health and diabetes control.

It is also worth noting that there is no need, nor is it encouraged to completely exclude all high GI foods from your diet forever, especially if they are some of your favourite foods! It is just important to acknowledge when you are consuming them, and keep it in moderation.

If you already have a Type 2 Diabetes diagnosis, become a member of Diabetes Australia for ongoing support and resources. Use this link to join: https://www.diabetesaustralia.com.au/
Make sure you follow us on social media to keep an eye out for when the next diabetes group sessions will be. These are run by our dietitian Jessica Cartwright.
If this blog has got you thinking about your sugar levels and you have no clue what they are - book an appointment with one of our GPs to find out more.
Finally, please keep in mind the contents of this blog form general information and recommendations only. If you are wanting advice tailored to your lifestyle, book an appointment with our dietitian .

Glycaemic Index and Type 2 Diabetes

3 Top Tips To Avoid Type 2 Diabetes

Key take-away on Type 2 Diabetes

Want to know more on Type 2 Diabetes?

Type 2 Diabetes: PART 1 – Let’s not sugarcoat it

Tue, 02 Aug 2022 10:04:36 GMT

Welcome to this two-part blog series covering everything you need to know about type 2 diabetes.

Did you know that in Australia, type 2 diabetes represents up to 90% of all diabetes cases! In fact, 1 person develops type 2 diabetes every 5 minutes. There are also up to 500,000 people in Australia who have undiagnosed type 2 diabetes.

Type 1 versus Type 2- What's the difference?

Now that we have established the difference, let's dig a little deeper into type 2 diabetes. For readers, it should be noted that this blog series focuses solely on type 2 diabetes from here on in and that we will cover Type 1 diabetes in a later series.

There are several factors which can influence your susceptibility to type 2 diabetes. Below is a list of some examples:

Lack of physical activity
Family history of type 2 diabetes
Being overweight or obese
Carrying excess weight around the waist
Poor diet

Out of the 5 food groups; fruits, dairy, and grains are the ones that commonly contain carbohydrates, meaning they will influence our blood sugar levels. Most vegetables are packed of vitamins and minerals and have negligible amounts of carbohydrates, and most meat is full of protein- again, only having small amounts of carbohydrates. As a general rule of thumb, anything that is sugary or starchy contains high levels of carbohydrate!

It is important to note, that just because a certain food contains carbohydrates does not mean it is bad, nor does it mean you should cut it out of your diet (yes, even if you have type 2 diabetes!). It should prompt you to ask: Is it high quality? How much is too much?

Causes of Type 2 diabetes

Carbohydrate containing foods

Let’s differentiate between Type 1 versus Type 2 diabetes using an analogy to help picture what is going on.

Think about how we get into a house - a factory produces keys, these keys go in the lock of the door, which allows the door to open, and then we can go inside. As you can see in the image below, what normally happens inside our body when we eat food is our pancreas (the factory) releases insulin (the key) into our blood. Insulin attaches to its receptor on the cell (the lock of a door). Insulin unlocks the receptor, which allows sugar (people) to enter the cell (the house).

It is important to understand that sugar is easily absorbed from our gut into the blood stream, but insulin and its receptor are required to get the sugar from the blood stream into our cells (things like muscles, nerves etc).

In type 1 diabetes, our pancreas is unable to make insulin because the cells that create it have been destroyed by the body’s immune system. This means there is no way to reduce our blood sugar levels after eating a meal, as there is no insulin to attach to the cell to let the sugar in. In other words, the factory does not produce the keys, meaning there are no keys to unlock the door, meaning no sugar can get into the house. This is why people who are diagnosed with type 1 diabetes require insulin injections.

Conversely, in type 2 diabetes, our pancreas often has no issues in creating and releasing insulin after we eat. The problem is the insulin becomes less effective at letting sugar into the cell - the key does not work as well in opening the locked doors. It is as if the door lock has become a bit ‘rusty’. This means sugar accumulates in the blood stream, and results in high blood sugar levels. Blood sugar levels remain high for a longer time after we eat (remember a smaller number of doors open to let sugar into the house, as some of the keys aren’t working). This is what we call ‘insulin resistance’ which is characteristic of type 2 diabetes.

Why is this a problem? Isn’t sugar essential for life? At the right level, that is true. However, when sugar levels are too high in the blood stream, sugar has a toxic effect on your body, and causes damage to a range of cells, especially those lining your blood vessels.

Breakfast: Yoghurt + granola + banana

Morning tea: Muesli bar

Lunch: Ham + salad sandwich

Afternoon tea: Cheese + crackers

Dinner: Steak + chips + salad

Example – 1 day of eating:

Symptoms and health complications

Unfortunately, type 2 diabetes cannot be cured. However, the condition can be managed through lifestyle changes and, if needed, medication.

Some common symptoms of type 2 diabetes may be increased thirst, increased urination, lethargy and fatigue, increased hunger, and having cuts or wounds that heal slowly.

In the long term, because of the toxic effect of high sugar levels, type 2 diabetes can increase risk of developing other serious health complications such as kidney disease and stroke, and people with diabetes are 2-4 times more likely to develop heart disease. It can also predispose other nerve, foot, and eye problems. More than 4400 amputations occur due to diabetes each year, and diabetes is also the leading cause of preventable blindness in Australia.

When we eat sugar, it goes down our esophagus, into our stomach, and passes into our small intestine where it is absorbed into the bloodstream. As sugar crosses into the bloodstream, blood sugar levels begin to rise, which sets off a cascade of reactions ultimately leading to the release of insulin to reduce the blood sugar levels back to normal.

The link between sugar intake and type 2 diabetes

Portion control

As a rule of thumb, 1 serve of carbohydrates is about the size of your fist. For example, 1 piece of fruit, 1 slice of bread, 1 cup of milk, ½ cup cooked pasta or 1 scoop of ice-cream. With type 2 diabetes, we must ensure you are eating a consistent amount of carbohydrates regularly throughout the day.

Picture what would happen to your blood sugar levels if you skipped breakfast, had no morning tea, then had a huuuuuuge serve of pasta carbonara for lunch, then had a scone with cream and jam for afternoon tea, then steak and broccoli for dinner. Your blood sugar levels would drop below the normal range during the morning, then at lunch time and into the afternoon they would spike waaay above the normal range, then would drop significantly again in the evening (remember meat and vegetables have negligible amounts of carbohydrates). This stark variability will contribute to worsening insulin resistance, further perpetuating the progression of diabetes.

Now picture what would happen to your blood sugar levels if you had cereal for breakfast, a piece of fruit at morning tea, a regular sized lunch, a few biscuits and tea in the afternoon, and steak with broccoli and pasta for dinner. What do you think the biggest difference would be? Yes - that’s right! In this second example, our sugar levels would be much more consistent, and spend much more time within the healthy range. This ultimately means we are doing less damage to our vessels, and slowing the progression of this condition.

So, if there is only one thing you take away from this blog post, it would be this: Ensure consistent carbohydrate distribution throughout the day. Perhaps for you this may look like 2-3 serves of carbohydrates at your main meals, and 1-2 serves of carbohydrates at your mid-meals. Remember, this will vary from person to person, so it is recommended to get in touch with a dietitian to personalise this recommendation to your lifestyle!

Want to know more?

Great news - there are lots of avenues within Growlife to access more information.

Stay tuned for part 2 of this blog series!
Make sure you follow us on social media to keep an eye out for when the next diabetes group sessions will be. These will be run by our dietitian Jessica Cartwright .
If this blog has got you thinking about blood sugar levels and what yours are doing - book an appointment with one of our GPs to find out. Follow this link .
Finally, please keep in mind the contents of this blog form general information and recommendations only. If you are wanting advice tailored to your lifestyle, book a one-on-one appointment with our dietitian here.

The Health Benefits Of Music Engagement As You Age

Mon, 18 Jul 2022 10:02:17 GMT

When you listen to a song from your teenage years, it is likely you will remember every single word to the chorus. In his book "This is Your Brain on Music", neuroscientist Dan Levitin explains that the teenage years are ‘emotionally charged; in general, we tend to remember things that have an emotional component because our amygdala and neurotransmitters act in concert to “tag” the memories as something important’. Our bodies and brains go through a lot of changes as we age and it is encouraging to rediscover music during these years – it is comforting and familiar, yet at the same time engaging and motivating.

Unlocking Musical Connections

A Registered Music Therapist can further enhance engagement in music:

Live-music experiences that can subtly change to match the needs of the patient.
Opportunities for song writing and self-expression.
Development of a music program to use at home.
Emotional support using music to gently guide you.

Amy Cooper (see profile below), Growlife Medical's Registered Music Therapist , has guided many people in exploring their memories, connecting them to their community, and coaching them in new ways to participate in music activities.

Amy is proud to now be starting the CareMusic Program – A new and innovative music therapy program to connect older adults and their carers. Participants will encounter meaningful live music experiences and use music to address the challenges that arise in ageing. No previous music experience or learning is required.

More information is available about our CareMusic Therapy for older adults . To book CareMusic sessions with Amy, call 3154 2355 or email sherwood@growmedical.com.au

Growlife Medical's Registered Music Therapist

Listening to music from when you were a teen and young adult awakens memories and unlocks connections. These improvements may lead to positive health outcomes, such as better physical functioning and mental health.

This is the same for your loved one who is getting older, as music can connect them to their body, their mind and to you - the person or community who cares for them. If you sing along to a song together, your brains will release “feel-good” hormones. You and your loved one might move to the beat – a toe tap, a clap, a wave, a twist. The person you are spending time with can share a memory, you can listen to them tell you a story and dance alongside them. You might note improvements in posture, breathing, coordination, and confidence. Our brains love rhythm, and our bodies respond to it with ease.

The Power Of Song

Within a 3-minute song, you can observe engagement in:

Reminiscence
Exercise/movement
Self-expression
Cognitive stimulation
A social activity

Here are some key points to think about when you are listening to music with the person you care for:

Create a comfortable space for you to be in together – for example sitting on the deck in the warm
morning sun or on the couch with a cup of tea.
Personal song preference is important. Pick something you both will enjoy.
Use a bluetooth speaker or good quality speakers to make the experience more pleasant.
Make playlists on your streaming platform so you can easily access music. This is especially helpful when you feel tired or are struggling to think of a song to play. Or look through the CD collection and pick out some favourites that you have on hand when you need it.

Using The Emotion Of Music To Improve Senior Health Outcomes

Music Therapist

CareMusic Therapist - Amy Cooper

Keeping Your Skin Healthy During Winter

Sun, 10 Jul 2022 09:50:53 GMT

Skin is such an important organ of the human body. It protects you from the weather. It also protects you against infections, and is part of the body's immune system .

Skin also helps control your body temperature. The blood flow to your skin increases, to release heat from your body, and decreases to keep warmth in. This also affects how much moisture evaporates from your skin, which in turn affects your body's temperature.

And of course skin allows you to feel heat, cold, touch, pain and vibration. Skin is water-resistant, stopping nutrients from leaching out of your body.

Last but not least, skin absorbs ultraviolet light from the sun, which is needed to make vitamin D. This is a critical function that prevents vitamin D deficiency .

Why Is Skin Care So Important?

There are many factors that affect the level of moisture in our skin:

Age: Increasing age and menopause can be associated with a natural reduction of skin moisture.
Skin problems: eczema and psoriasis can cause dryness and/or skin redness
Internal diseases: thyroid disease, renal disease, malnutrition, diabetes
Medications: diuretics, cholesterol lowering drugs, retinoids
Some genetic factors can also affect our skin

The most common causes of dry, irritated skin are environmental factors. These can include:

Long hot showers or baths
Excessive hand washing (which we have all been doing through COVID!)
Contact with harsh irritants such as soaps and detergents
Air-conditioning and heating
Sun exposure and sun damage
Cold and windy weather; dry climate

It important that we keep our skin in top condition. You can improve skin health by:

Identifying and treating any contributing factors (see list above).
Reducing the frequency and length of baths or showers and using lukewarm water.
Avoiding soap and use soap-free, fragrance-free cleansers or bath oil.

After your bath or shower:

Pat your skin dry with a soft towel and never rub too vigorously.
Apply a bland emollient or moisturiser after showering while the skin is still warm and damp.
Repeat the application of moisturiser as often as necessary throughout the day. Your GP will be able to recommend a good emollient or moisturiser for you to use.
Your lips and hands may need extra attention. Lip balms need to be applied multiple times throughout the day to the lips. Similarly, thicker moisturisers or balms should be applied to your hands frequently.
Treat eczema, psoriasis and other skin conditions. Discuss this with your GP or dermatologist
Wear cotton (or other natural fibres) next to your skin and under wool or synthetic clothing if these cause itching or irritation to the skin
Use a humidifier to add moisture to the air inside your home.

As always, should you be unsure of the cause or your skin condition becomes worse, please see your dermatologist or book a Growlife Medical GP appointment .

Healthy Skin Moisture

How To Improve Your Skin Health

Eat your way to better mental health: the connection between food and mood

Mon, 30 May 2022 09:26:36 GMT

Have you ever found yourself binging your favourite Netflix series while mindlessly shovelling ice-cream into your mouth after an awful day?

Have you ever stocked up on confectionary items like lollies, chocolate or chips to help you get through stressful times like studying for Uni exams, working long hours or leading up to an important conference?

Have you ever heard of comfort eating, or emotional eating?

If you have answered ‘yes’ to any of these three questions, you are probably already aware there are some connections between our food and mood. So, let's explore this connection in some more detail!

The Gut-Brain Axis

As always, this information forms generalised advice only and our dietitian is available for those wanting to further explore the connection between food and mood in a more individualised fashion. You can book an appointment today .

If you believe you are developing or showing signs of an eating disorder, please book an appointment with your GP or psychologist for further support.

If you are unsure where to start, book an appointment with a Growlife GP.

Want to know more on better mental health via mindful eating?

1. Eat regularly: If you do not eat food for several hours, your blood sugar levels will drop. This can make you feel fatigued, irritable, and miserable.

Make sure you have breakfast every day!
Instead of having 2-3 big meals per day, try to have 5-6 smaller meals and snacks.
Prioritise low GI food choices, as these will promote slow and constant energy release.

2. Aim for your 2&5 a day: Fruit and veggies contain all of the important minerals and vitamins our body needs to function optimally, and are also a great source of fibre!

Frozen fruit and vegetables count (and are nutritionally just as good)! If you are worried about fresh fruit and veggies having a short shelf-life and going to waste, stock up on frozen ones. That way, when your bananas go brown half-way through the week, you have a plan B!

3. Ensure you are eating enough protein: The building blocks of protein are called “amino acids”. These amino acids are important in creating chemicals your brain needs to regulate thoughts and feelings.

Protein is not just meat! Remember foods such as eggs, tofu, nuts, and yoghurt are also great sources of protein.
Aim to get a kick of protein every time you eat.

4. Manage your fluid intake: If you do not drink enough fluid, you may find it difficult to concentrate and stay focused.

Water is a cheap and healthy option- this should make up majority of our daily fluid intake.
Not all of your fluid intake should be coffee! Caffeine is a stimulant, meaning it can increase activity of your brain, making you feel refreshed and focused in the short-term. However, once its effects wear off, it may leave you feeling anxious or depressed, and may disrupt your sleep. Also, if you are anything like my dad who can’t crack a smile until he has had his morning coffee, I am sure you understand how caffeine withdrawals can make you feel grumpy and put you in a bad mood.

5. Eat the right fats: Your brain needs omega-3 and omega-6 to keep it working well, and these unsaturated fats are essential for learning and memory.

Great sources of these ‘good’ fats are flaxseeds, chia seeds, salmon, walnuts and tofu.
Remember, saturated fats (eg. Fried foods) are the ‘bad’ fats that we want to try and minimise intake of!

Are there other ways I can optimise my mood through food?

The gut-brain axis consists of bi-directional communication between our brain and our gut. In other words, this means our brain can send messages to our gut (eg. 'Butterflies in your tummy' when you are nervous), and vice versa, our gut can send messages to our brain (eg. the decision to stop eating when you are full). Foods that are good for our gut are shown to have positive effects on our mood and on our brain.

Fibre and the Gut-Brain Axis

Our gut is filled with millions of living organisms - being our gut bacteria! When fibre reaches our gut, it is fermented by these little living bacteria into what's called "short chain fatty acids”, otherwise known as SCFA.

The benefits of eating plenty of fibre are two-fold.

For one, fibre improves satiety and satiation. This means we feel full faster, and we feel fuller for longer. The implications of this can be far-reaching. It can mean we are less prone to over-eating at main meals and can prevent unnecessary or excessive snacking between meals.

Secondly, fermentation of fibre can produce hormones which promote a relaxed mood. What is interesting, is these hormones can be stimulated by having 'comfort food' (eg. chocolate, lollies, ice-cream), but can also be activated by having food which has the substrate- fibre (wholegrains, fruit, and veggies)! Essentially, foods high in fibre can make you feel happy too, because they stimulate the same hormones as comfort food.

Some promising research has been done on the role of dietary fibre in helping those with mental conditions such as depression. So, what can you do?

Top three tips to improve your fibre intake:

1. Switch your white bread to multigrain or wholemeal bread.

Opt for brown, wholemeal varieties of grain products including crackers, rice, pasta, and bread. If white bread is a non-negotiable for you, don’t worry, you can now get high fibre white bread! Keep an eye out for this on your next grocery shop.

2. Eat the skins of your fruits.

For fruits like apples, grapes, and pears- eating the skin should be a no-brainer. How about nectarine, orange, watermelon... mango... kiwi fruit... or banana?! I’ll let you decide where you want to draw the line with this one... but yes, people do eat the skin of kiwi fruit.

3. Don’t forget about legumes.

Chickpeas, black beans, kidney beans, baked beans, brown lentils, red lentils, green lentils, the list goes on....
The nutritional value of this group of foods is severely overlooked, especially considering how easily they can be integrated into your meals! Next time you use mince, chuck a can of black beans in with it. Next time you have toast, heat up a small tin of baked beans to pour on top. Next time you have a salad, add a tin of chickpeas in with it. Your gut, and your brain, will love you for it.

Mindful Eating

Mindful eating is all about focusing your attention and awareness on the present moment to help disconnect from potentially harmful eating habits and behaviours. Put simply, it is the opposite of mindless eating. Research has shown mindful eating to be helpful in preventing over-eating and controlling binge eating behaviours.

Top three tips to practice mindful eating:

1. Eat slowly and chew your food well.

Think about the taste, smell, and texture of your food. If you have a bit of a reputation for inhaling your meal in the blink of an eye, try putting your utensils down in between mouthfuls.

2. Pay attention to signs of fullness.

It might be a good idea to stop eating just before you feel full and wait 10-20 minutes before eating again. This is because it takes roughly this amount of time for our stomach to signal to our brain it is full.

3. Remove all distractions.

It is important to acknowledge your situation prior to eating a meal, and to be present throughout the experience. Try taking three deep breaths before eating to help with this. Avoid eating while walking around, and try to minimise the number of meals you eat in front of the TV- this is where eating can become a mindless behaviour!

All these mindful eating habits are not only good for your body. They can also help you enjoy a meal more by savouring the flavours!

For families, sharing a meal, discussing the day and enjoying your food as you eat is a great way to model healthy eating and healthy social behaviour with your children. Sharing meals together three or more times per week results in children being more likely to have healthy weight, and a reduced chance of disordered eating.

COVID-19 Oral Treatments Are Now PBS-approved

Thu, 19 May 2022 09:18:47 GMT

As of 1 May 2022, two COVID-19 oral prescription-only medications are available on the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS). Growlife Medical explores eligibility and how to go about obtaining these COVID-19 oral treatments.

Who Might Qualify For A COVID-19 Oral Treatment

For more information, see our article on managing COVID-19 at home with assistance from your GP.

Sustained shortness of breath and extreme fever are symptoms of severe COVID-19 infection. As with any condition, if severe or life threatening, please call an ambulance on 000.

Patients who have contracted a mild to moderate case of COVID-19, which has been confirmed with a PCR or a Rapid Antigen Test (RAT), may qualify for a COVID-19 oral treatment.

Additionally, if you have a condition that puts you at high risk of developing severe COVID-19 disease you may be eligible for an oral treatment to reduce your risk of severe illness and hospitalisation.

You have to act quickly, as COVID-19 oral treatments only work if started early after the onset of symptoms.

Within the first five days of symptoms, you may be eligible if you meet one or more of the following criteria:

Immunosuppressed
Diabetes requiring medication
Obese (Body Mass Index (BMI) > 30)
Chronic Kidney Disease
Congestive Heart Failure
Other serious cardiac conditions
COPD or bronchiectasis
Asthma on preventer medication
Require a CPAP machine
Cirrhosis
Previous stroke
Dementia
Neurodevelopmental disorders
Neuromuscular disorders
Sickle-cell disease
Live in residential aged care

The risk of severe illness becomes more likely the older you get, so Coronavirus sufferers over 50 years of age must have multiple risk factors to be eligible. For those over 75 years, only one other risk factor is required. Patients with Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander heritage may be eligible at a younger age.

These COVID-19 oral therapies can only be prescribed by your GP. Your doctor has the choice of two different oral anti-viral medications available via the PBS.

How To Get Antiviral Medication for Coronavirus

If you are within the first five days of symptoms, have tested positive to COVID-19, and meet any of the listed criteria, please book a telehealth appointment with your GP. Ask if you’re eligible for a COVID-19 oral treatment to reduce the severity of COVID-19. Your GP will be able to make an assessment of your current symptoms and your risk factors for severe COVID-19 infection. If appropriate, your GP will send you an escript , and you can then contact your pharmacy to dispense an oral COVID-19 treatment.

Mental Health Awareness: Children and Adolescents - Tips for Concerned Parents

Thu, 12 May 2022 09:11:27 GMT

A lot has been thrown at the Brisbane community over the last months, in addition to the already challenging last two years. The recent Brisbane floods and the impact of COVID-19 has had a significant impact on us all in many ways. In term one of 2022, schools had a delayed start due to the increase in COVID-19 cases and were interrupted again by the floods halfway through the term. It was a disruptive start to the year, to say the least!

In 2020, one in three young people aged 12-25 reported high to very high levels of distress, and every year, approximately one in seven children and young people experience a mental health disorder. As parents, family members, and supports to the young people in our community, we need to keep in mind the impacts that these stressors may have on our children.

Some warning signs that your child may be struggling with low mood or anxiety

Here's what parents and guardians can expect when seeking mental health support for children:

It is important to consider the ‘fit’ of a psychologist or therapist to your child. The relationship between the client and therapist is a big factor in the outcomes of therapy. The team at Growlife Medical know a lot of local psychologists and can help guide this to help you find a fit, and someone with availability.
Consider whether now is the right time for you and your family. We want young people to have a positive experience, and ‘forcing’ them to attend may make them less likely to want to return in the future.
The first session or first few sessions will involve initial assessments and history taking, so do expect that there may be no active ‘intervention’ for several appointments.
Your child may be more comfortable with you or without you in the room. This varies, so consider what may suit your child better to help them open up.

As always, this information forms generalised advice only. If you are wanting further information or a professional opinion in relation to your child and their wellbeing, please book an appointment with one of our psychologists or your GP to discuss support options

What to expect when seeking mental health support for your child

Want to know more about dealing with children's mental health?

If you have noticed significant changes in your young persons’ mood or behaviour, they are likely to benefit from these professional support services:

To access therapy and support from a psychologist, visit your GP for a Mental Health Care Plan. This will ensure that you can receive Medicare rebates to reduce the cost of the sessions (N.B. you are likely to still need to pay a gap fee).
You can book an appointment with a GP for a Mental Health Care Plan
Support lines:
Lifeline : 13 11 14 or Webchat
Kids Helpline : 1800 55 1800 or Webchat

Check out the resources from Headspace , Raising Children Network , and Kids Helpline for more information.

Where you can go for further help with your child's mental health

Warning signs include:

Greater reluctance to attend school or their usual activities, such as sports or catching up with friends.
Changes in sleeping patterns (sleeping more or less) and experiencing greater fatigue.
Appearing more sad or irritable than usual and experiencing greater difficulty regulating their emotions.
Change in appetite, either eating more or less.
No longer enjoying the things they normally do.
Greater difficulty concentrating and making decisions.
Being more withdrawn and less talkative

What you can do to help a child with signs of mental health issues

Here's what parents & guardians can do to help:

Share with your young person your concerns and the changes that you may have noticed. Headspace has some great ideas for helping you start the conversation about mental health . However, ensure the conversation is brought up at an appropriate time and place, and consider how to start the conversation in a non-judgemental and supportive way. Make sure you are in a frame of mind where YOU are ready to support and coach, not criticise.
Set aside some regular time for check-ins, such as going for a walk together or having a tea together, so that they feel supported and have the opportunity to share the challenges they might be going through.
Monitor your young person’s mood and behaviour and how this might change over time. It might be a good idea to start a journal or make some notes in your phone of the changes you see.
Depending on how old your young person is, it might be worthwhile checking in with their teachers at school to see whether they have noticed any changes in mood or behaviour.
Strive for consistency. There have been so many changes to day-to-day life over the past few years, however, we know that children and adolescents benefit from a sense of predictability and stability in their daily lives. This may be through established family rituals like family dinners, or the small moments, like their bedtime routines.

Myth Busting The FODMAP Diet - Part 2

Tue, 19 Apr 2022 09:03:36 GMT

Welcome back for Part 2 of our FODMAP myth-busing adventure!

For those of you who are just joining us, I recommend reading the Myth Busting The FODMAP Diet - Part 1 article first, to better understand FODMAPS.

Without further ado, let’s continue!

Myth One: A LOW FODMAP DIET IS A LIFETIME DIET

All FODMAPs are considered sugars, but not all sugars are FODMAPs. For example, table sugar (white/caster/icing) is not a FODMAP and can be eaten freely (while obviously aligning to the Australian Dietary Guidelines).

Myth Five: ALL SUGARS ARE FODMAPS

The FODMAP diet is for people with diagnosed IBS, not for people who suspect they have IBS. If you are experiencing IBS-like symptoms, visit your GP and get a diagnosis! You can book here to see one of our Growlife doctors that can assist you.

It can be easy to think that a FODMAP diet is the only way to manage IBS, but this is very wrong. Consumption of food, although, is the most effective way, is not the only way.
Other methods include gut-directed hypnotherapy, therapy to improve mental health, ensuring adequate sleep, stress-reduction methods, and regular physical activity. There is even evidence that doing yoga can help!

If you experience some of the symptoms discussed in this blog, it is worthwhile contacting your Growlife Medical GP to investigate the cause and come up with a suitable solution!

If you are newly diagnosed with IBS, we strongly recommend getting in touch with a dietitian to assist you in optimising your diet while minimising your symptoms.

If you are diagnosed with IBS and are trying to navigate the ‘ins and outs’ of the FODMAP diet, please use the summary of high and low FODMAP foods. For a more extensive and comprehensive understanding, a really useful tool to help you identify trigger foods is the “Monash University FODMAP Diet” app.

MYTH = BUSTED

Myth Six: A FODMAP DIET IS THE ONLY WAY TO MANAGE IBS

MYTH = BUSTED

Myth Two: You Must Eliminate All FODMAPs From Your Diet

The strict elimination phase of the FODMAP diet only lasts for 2-6 weeks, and should not continue beyond this timeframe. It would be cruel to expect someone to sustain this for their entire life (not to mention the nutrition concerns that would arise!).
The purpose of this elimination phase is to gain good symptom control. If FODMAPs are the root cause of your symptoms, then removing all of them for a small period of time should remove all symptoms. After that, it is just a matter of testing which particular FODMAP groups are responsible for your specific symptom onset.
If you are strictly adhering to the elimination phase and symptoms persist, it may indicate a FODMAPs are not the cause of your symptoms, in which other avenues should be explored.
Remember, the ultimate long-term goal is for you to transition onto a modified and individualised FODMAP diet, which allows you to enjoy some high FODMAP foods, while keeping good symptom control.

Myth Two: YOU CAN COOK WITH HIGH FODMAP FOODS THEN REMOVE THEM

FODMAPs are water soluble - meaning they can dissolve within water-containing foods and liquids. The implication here is that you cannot just pick or strain the onion and garlic pieces out of your soup, as the FODMAPs have already leached into your meal. The safest way to ensure your meal is low FODMAP is to use low-FODMAP ingredients when you cook.
One exception: garlic and onion-infused oils are low FODMAP. This means you can fry onion or garlic in oil for 2-3 minutes to infuse the flavours. The FODMAPS cannot leach into the oil (as there is no water content, only fat) so you can capture the flavour without the FODMAPs. Just remember to remove garlic and onion pieces before adding other ingredients.

MYTH = BUSTED

Myth Four: FOLLOW A FODMAP DIET FOR WEIGHT LOSS

The FODMAP diet is not meant to restrict calories and induce weight loss. The diet should have a focus on simple food swaps and replacements to decrease FODMAP intake, as opposed to food elimination and restriction to decrease calorie intake.
For example, have strawberries instead of an apple for morning tea (do not eliminate an apple and then wait until lunch to eat).
However, if you are on a FODMAP diet for IBS symptom control and are simultaneously wanting to lose weight- that is a different story, and can be discussed with your health professional.

Want To Know More About FODMAP Diets?

Myth Busting The FODMAP Diet - Part 1

Mon, 04 Apr 2022 08:59:28 GMT

Did you know that April is Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) awareness month?

So, what better time to understand “FODMAPs” and the role they play in your diet and management of IBS.

I encourage you to come on a journey with me to explore the ‘ins and outs’ of the FODMAP diet. There is lots to learn and plenty of myths to bust, so I will be presenting this blog in two parts.

Just before we get started, it is important to note that not all bloating, gas and other abdominal symptoms is IBS. Whilst IBS is benign and is one of the most common disorders of the gut, it also mimics many serious diagnoses such as inflammatory bowel disease, bowel cancer, endometriosis, and other abdominal problems. So, it is important to have a medical diagnosis from your GP and possibly a gastroenterologist prior to commencing a FODMAP diet for what you think is IBS.

Now, let’s get started with part one!

What are FODMAPs and how are they related to Irritable Bowel Syndrome?

Your individualised FODMAP diet may be a low lactose diet if lactose-containing foods are one of your triggers, but it does not need to be dairy free.

Lactose is a disaccharide and stands for the D in FODMAP. This means you may need to avoid or limit dairy products that have moderate to high levels of lactose, such as cow's milk yoghurt, ice-cream, sour cream, etc. However, you can still enjoy some dairy products like butter, hard cheeses, and lactose-free milk or yoghurt

Myth Three: A Low FODMAP Diet Is Dairy Free

This is one of the most common myths; that all FODMAP groups need to be eliminated from your diet to help with symptom management. This is certainly not the case. The diet consists of consuming low amounts of certain FODMAPS (rather than none at all).

Firstly, unlike allergies and coeliac disease, cross-contamination is not a major issue on the FODMAP diet. On your symptom management journey, you will find that for each FODMAP food or group you will have a level of tolerance. For example, perhaps you can have a quarter of an avocado, but anything more will send you straight to the toilet! Or perhaps you cannot have more than 1/8th of a clove of garlic without feeling bloated. It is just a matter of finding where that threshold lies – and don’t forget, it will be different for everybody!

Secondly, part of the process in creating an individualised FODMAP diet includes an elimination phase which removes all FODMAP groups, followed by a reintroduction phase where you determine which groups are tolerated versus which are triggers. As opposed to staying in that total elimination phase, you may find only a few groups you are sensitive to, as opposed to all of them. So, it would be unnecessary and inappropriate to restrict FODMAP groups that you are not sensitive to.

Gluten is a protein found in wheat, rye and barley, whereas FODMAPs are carbohydrates. It is often the fructans (a type of oligosaccharide – represented by the ‘O’ in FODMAP) in wheat, rye and barley that cause the digestive issues, not the gluten.

Gluten free products may be recommended in some instances as they help remove several major sources of FODMAPs from our diet. Don’t be caught out though! Not all gluten free products are FODMAP friendly, so it is important to learn how to identify low FODMAP products (eg. By searching for the FODMAP friendly logo).

Keep in mind small amounts of wheat, spelt and oats are all low FODMAP. This means you do not need to be worried about trace amounts of wheat or spelt, unless you also have coeliac disease. If you are eliminating all gluten on your FODMAP diet, you are unnecessarily restricting and limiting your intake.

Hopefully by this point you have consolidated a general understanding ar ound all of this FODMAP/IBS talk, and have become aware of some of the misleading statements in this area of nutrition.

If you are experiencing some of the symptoms we have mentioned here, and/or have noticed issues with your tolerance of certain foods, it is worth booking an appointment with one of our Growlife Medical GPs to investigate this with them. Call (07) 3154 2393 or book online . Alternatively, if you already have an IBS diagnosis, and are starting to figure out you perhaps don’t know as much as you initially thought, book an appointment with our Dietitian to assist with lifelong management.

Stay tuned as Part 2 is on the way - lots more myth-busting to come!

MYTH = BUSTED

Myth Four: A Low Fodmap Diet Is Gluten Free

MYTH = BUSTED

Myth Two: You Must Eliminate All FODMAPs From Your Diet

FODMAP: The acronym FODMAP stands for “Fermentable Oligosaccharides, Disaccharides, Monosaccharides and Polyols”. I am sure you now understand why we just call them “FODMAPs”! Basically, FODMAPS are a group of sugars that are poorly absorbed in the small intestine. So, they continue to travel through our intestinal tract and into the large intestine. Here, they produce gas- which can cause flatulence (or wind), and they can also attract water- which may cause bloating. FODMAPs are found in everyday foods including particular dairy products, wheat and other grains. They are also in certain fruits and vegetables.

IBS: Irritable Bowel Syndrome is a common functional gastrointestinal disorder which affects around 15% of adults. What is the cause, you might ask? Good question! Unfortunately, it is not an area that is well understood. However, we do know lots of common symptoms experienced by this population are bloating and distention, excessive wind, abdominal pain and even constipation and/or diarrhea. Unfortunately, these symptoms can have a significant impact on our everyday life and can be the cause of unnecessary anxiety and stress.

High levels of FODMAPs in our diet can exacerbate symptoms in those with IBS. Evidence suggests dietary restriction of particular FODMAPs can improve symptom control of IBS.

Myth One: A FODMAP Diet Will Cure Irritable Bowel Syndrome

Unfortunately, there is no cure for IBS. There are plenty of strategies to manage and mitigate the symptoms, but there is no known ‘quick fix’ for this health condition. Many find their symptoms improve on a FODMAP diet, but they usually do not disappear. This is because there are so many other factors that contribute to symptoms such as stress, exercise, large meals, quick eating (just to name a few!) - your diet is really only one part of the puzzle.

"

Unfortunately, there are lots of misconceptions surrounding this diet and when/how to use it. So, keep reading and we can demystify these together!

MYTH = BUSTED

To be continued...

Set a Goal to Control your Cholesterol!

Tue, 15 Feb 2022 08:51:37 GMT

When you hear the word cholesterol, does your mind automatically associate it with the word ‘bad’ or ‘unhealthy’? Why is that? Is it even correct? What does it do? Let’s clarify!

What is cholesterol?

Eating fatty food
Not exercising enough
Overweight and obesity
Smoking
Genetics
Uncontrolled diabetes
High blood pressure

Just to name a few!

Cholesterol can be found in food sources such as meat, dairy, and eggs. However, dietary cholesterol intake rarely has a great impact on total cholesterol levels. This is because your liver will compensate. For example, if you consume lots of cholesterol-containing food sources, your liver will produce less cholesterol, so that your total cholesterol level stays around the same. Think of one of those fancy auto-sensor air-conditioners as our liver- it is constantly adjusting its function (ie. Blowing a lot of hot air, blowing a little bit of cool air, etc.) to maintain a certain room temperature.
We cannot eat HDL and LDL cholesterol - they are made in our body. The type of fat you eat will dictate and influence how much HDL and LDL you have. More saturated fat will increase the LDL (bad) cholesterol. More unsaturated fat will increase our HDL (good) cholesterol and may even assist in reducing the LDL (bad) cholesterol.

What factors can result in high cholesterol?

2 important points about cholesterol and food intake

High levels of cholesterol can cause atherosclerosis, heart attack, stroke, and other circulatory diseases. But don’t stress! Cholesterol levels can often be reduced/managed through food intake and in close consultation with a dietitian. If cholesterol levels are unable to be managed with dietary changes alone, your GP can discuss options for medications.

Reduce saturated fat intake and increase/replace with unsaturated fat.

Switch palm/coconut oil for canola, sunflower or extra virgin olive oil
Switch wings or drumsticks for skinless chicken breast/tenderloin
Switch crisps for a handful of nuts
Increase your intake of salmon and tuna
Switch spreads on toast for avocado. (Or mix them with avocado)! Did your face wrinkle as you read that? (Apparently it is a bizarre yet tasty combo!)
Add seeds to your oats/cereal/smoothie in the morning.

2. Include plant sterols in your diet.

To give you a quick crash course on plant sterols; essentially, they are a group of chemicals which look very similar to cholesterol. This allows them to compete with cholesterol when going from our gut to our bloodstream. As a result, it will decrease the amount of cholesterol in our blood and increase the amount of cholesterol lost in faeces. When consumed in the right amounts, plant sterols have been shown to lower blood cholesterol by up to 15%! ( Reference ). Great news - some of our typical day-to-day food products have been enriched with plant sterols to make this nice and easy for us. The following products all have plant sterol-containing varieties- so look out for them on your next grocery shop!

Margarine spreads
Breakfast cereals
Low-fat milk

3. Switch to high fibre alternatives.

Switch from white rice/pasta to brown rice/wholemeal pasta
Switch from white bread to wholemeal/multigrain/seeded bread
Eat the skins of your fruits....they are full of nutrition too! (eg. apple, grapes, strawberry, etc.)

Exercise! Exercise can help eliminate the LDL cholesterol by increasing HDL cholesterol. Losing excess weight can also increase HDL (which can be achieved through either exercise or food intake, or better yet- a combination of both!).

For a more visual explanation of what happens to cholesterol in our body, the Heart Foundation has created a short 2-minute video for you! Check it out .

If you want to control your cholesterol, book an appointment with our dietitian for individualised advice and strategies that will integrate seamlessly into your lifestyle. If you are unsure what your cholesterol levels are, it is worth booking an appointment with your GP . Alternatively, you can call us on 3154 2393 and ask about having a heart health check or a 45-49 year-old health check .

3 recommendations to lower your cholesterol levels through food

Other ways to reduce cholesterol levels

Want to know more?

So, what does it mean if you have high cholesterol levels?

Cholesterol is a fat-like substance in the body. It is either made by our liver or consumed in the foods we eat. Everyone has cholesterol. We use cholesterol for bodily functions every day and, in fact, we actually need it to be healthy.

Is all cholesterol bad?

Cholesterol is carried in the blood by proteins. When cholesterol and proteins combine, they are called lipoproteins. There are 2 main types:

High-Density Lipoprotein (HDL): The HDL cholesterol can also be referred to as the ‘good’ cholesterol as it collects “bad stuff” from around our body and sends it off to be excreted since our body doesn’t want or need it. (HDL = HERO)
Low-Density Lipoprotein (LDL): The LDL cholesterol is also known as the 'bad’ cholesterol as it dumps all the bad stuff in our arteries. (LDL = LITTERER)

The answer to the question is therefore, no, not all cholesterol is bad.

Managing COVID-19 At Home With Assistance From Your GP

Tue, 11 Jan 2022 08:40:39 GMT

To cater for the growing number of questions about managing COVID-19 at home, Growlife Medical has produced this guide to managing mild COVID-19 disease at home . We are prepared to support our community, and provide home monitoring support for existing Growlife Medical patients.

Importantly, please only call 000 in a true emergency. Our community cannot afford it's emergency services and health system to be overwhelmed with calls or hospital presentations for patients with no or mild COVID-19 symptoms.

The article below provides details specific to managing mild Coronavirus disease at home with the assistance from your Growlife Medical GP. For more general advice see the Managing COVID-19 at home with assistance from general practice provided by the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners.

Difference Between Mild And Severe COVID-19

On average, children and adolescents continue to experience more mild symptoms than adults when they become COVID-19 positive. In this age group, continuing to learn and develop is particularly important. The pandemic has caused huge disruption to our children through home leaning, and it is important we allow them to continue their education. If your child feels well enough, the should engage in online learning where it is offered by their school. If online learning is not available, try contacting your child's teachers for some work they can complete at home.

For younger children, using the time to read together, do maths puzzles or draw can be helpful to pass the time and distract them from their symptoms and the boredom of isolation.

It is important that children in a household with COVID-19 quarantine in accordance with the public health guidelines to avoid spread to others in their school.

Don't forget Growlife Medical is now taking bookings for COVID-19 vaccinations for 5-11 year olds . For more information see our guide on Coronavirus vaccinations for children .

Existing patients of Growlife Medical can enrol in our COVID-19 monitoring service by completing our digital enrolment. Please note this service is only available to existing patients at this time. We will contact you within 1-2 business days, and monitor you regularly until you are well enough to leave home isolation. Enrol in the Growlife Medical COVID-19 Monitoring Service .

Our Coronavirus vaccination service will be extended for children at our Highgate Hill clinic , Sherwood clinic and Oxley clinic . We are experienced with immunisation, with many qualified GPs and nurse immunisers, and have provided many thousands of COVID-19 vaccinations . And we vaccinate thousands of children each year with flu vaccines under the national immunisation program, as well as providing travel vaccinations and being an accredited Yellow Fever Vaccination prov ider at our Sherwood Medical Centre . Our advanced digital systems allow for seamless reporting of your vaccinations to your My Health Record and to the Australian Immunisation Register.

Book a consultation with Growlife Medical today .

Managing Students At Home With Coronavirus

How Long To Recover From COVID-19 At Home

The management of COVID-19 at home is similar to managing any other viral illness. Plenty of rest, maintaining adequate hydration and eating healthy, nutritious food are the main measures you can take to assist your recovery. Otherwise, home treatment is directed as symptom relief whilst awaiting natural recovery.

If you feel well enough, gentle exercise is OK, and can be especially useful if you have an outdoor area like a garden or balcony that will provide you a mental break, and some fresh air, whilst not posing any risk of close contact with neighbours.

For most people, paracetamol or ibuprofen can provide helpful relief of ache and fever symptoms. Anyone with heart problems, high blood pressure or stomach ulcers should avoid taking ibuprofen.

Sore throat can be helped with saline or betadine gargle.

Once you have enrolled in remote monitoring with Growlife Medical, we will be in regular contact every 2 to 3 days to ensure your symptoms are resolving. More frequent review will be arranged for those at higher risk of deterioration. As well as monitoring your wellbeing, your doctor will be able to help you with alternatives for symptoms outside of those mentioned above. We will work with you to escalate your care to face to face or hospital based care should you develop any concerning symptoms indicating more serious disease.

Remember, if your symptoms rapidly get worse, seek urgent care by phone, and do not wait for your next scheduled review.

Maintaining good hygiene in your home is a good idea whilst you are isolating at home.

If you are COVID-positive, you can help stop the spread of the virus via:

Washing your hands thoroughly and frequently and using an alcohol-based hand sanitiser if your hands are not visibly dirty
Wearing a P2/N95 face mask
Cleaning and disinfecting surfaces you have touched
Using a tissue or covering your sneeze or cough with your elbow

These infection control measures can help reduce the spread. However, we know that the omicron strain of COVID-19 is incredibly infectious, and infection between household members is close to universal. You should expect that most people living together will eventually develop COVID-19. There may be an exception in those who have recently received their booster. We have now seen a number of cases where a recently-booster family member avoids infection, despite all other household members developing COVID.

Tips For Managing COVID-19 At Home For Adults

Sustained shortness of breath and extreme fever are symptoms of severe COVID-19 infection. As with any condition, if severe or life threatening, please call an ambulance on 000. In other milder cases, book a COVID-19 Telehealth consultation with a GP at Growlife Medical.

There are some important symptoms which indicate the potential for more severe COVID-19. The following symptoms mean you should seek urgent care from your GP, or more urgent services if you're unable to contact us:

Vital symptoms of concern:

Worsening shortness of breath
Fainting, collapse or light-headedness
Chest pain or tightness in your chest
Blue lips or face
Cold and clammy, or pale and mottled skin
Poor oral intake of fluid, or very much less urine than normal, even if drinking lots of fluid
Being more confused than normal
Coughing Blood
Severe headache, particularly in children

Reference: RACGP Home Care Guidelines for Patients with COVID-19

How To Look After A Coronavirus Patient At Home

You'll be diagnosed with COVID-19 via a positive RAT, Positive PCR test or if you're a close contact who develops symptoms.

Most importantly, everyone in your household needs to isolate at home until they are cleared from home quarantine. This is a public health requirement, to avoid the spread of COVID-19 outside your household. To help with this, enlist the help of family, friends or online delivery services to provide your basic needs like food and other essential items. Be sure to have the person making your delivery leave any necessary items at your door, and only collect them after they have left. Wear a mask.

Being in isolation whilst you are COVID-positive can be a difficult time, especially if you live on your own or are responsible for caring for other family members. At Growlife Medical, we recommend trying to maintain a daily routine for yourself and keeping in touch virtually with friends and family or reaching out to local community organisations. There are also many mental health resources online including Beyond Blue , Healthdirect , Head to Health and Kids helpline .

It is helpful to keep an eye on others in your household, and monitor yourself and/or each other using a symptom diary. Working as a team, those who are less unwell can care for those who develop more significant symptoms. You should plan to have a formal "check-in" with each other at least twice a day. If someone is in their room alone, don't presume they are fine. Ensure you check. Increasing fatigue, dizziness or confusion are concerning signs and should prompt medical review. It might only be a family member who notices this change, as very unwell individuals may not recognise the change themselves.

Certain symptoms are very common with COVID-19, and are considered normal or expected. They are:

Fever or Chills
Fatigue
Aches
Cough and Mild Shortness of Breath
Runny Nose
Sore Throat
Headache

Book A Telehealth Covid-19 Appointment With Growlife Medical

Most children and vaccinated adults can expect COVID-19 to resolve after 7 to 10 days. You may be allowed to leave isolation at this time, pending meeting the Queensland Release from Isolation Criteria for COVID-19 . If you are unsure whether you meet the criteria to leave isolation, you should remain home and contact your Growlife Medical GP to discuss whether it is OK for you to finish isolating.

As of January 2022, Queensland Health Guidelines allow you to leave isolation 7 days after your positive test and your symptoms have resolved for 48 hours.

If you still have symptoms at 7 days after your test, you must remain isolating until 10 days.

Once you have reached 10 days from the date of your positive test, Queensland Health Public Health Guidelines deem you to be minimal risk of infection to others, and you may therefore leave isolation at this time even if you have residual symptoms.

Once you leave isolation under these rules, we suggest that you should continue wearing a mask at all times in public until your symptoms have completely resolved and you have felt entirely well for 48 hours. To be kind to your community, you should be cautious in the few days after you leave isolation, not socialise, and only leave your home for essential shopping.

Guide To Child Vaccination For COVID-19

Thu, 23 Dec 2021 08:37:27 GMT

As we approach Christmas, Growlife Medical doctors and staff have been asked “can my child get vaccinated for Covid-19”? We have been having lots of great conversations with families about vaccinating their primary school-aged children. We thought we would therefore highlight some of the important information to help our families with planning child vaccination for COVID-19.

When Will COVID-19 Vaccine Be Available For Kids Under 12?

COVID-19 vaccination for children is now available to GP clinics, and Growlife Medical has opened up Pfizer vaccination clinics for children aged five to 11 years old. We have contacted our patients and will be posting to our Facebook page, once more clinic dates open and vaccine supply increases. Just like with our regular appointments, you will be able to book child vaccination for Covid-19 online or over the phone.

As a reminder, if you or your children are experiencing Coronavirus symptoms including fever, sore throat, runny nose, cough or shortness of breath, please book a Telehealth Consult with Growlife Medical as soon as possible.

When Can I Book My Child For Coronavirus Immunisation?

The current recommendation for 5-11 year old children is for two doses of Pfizer, given eight (8) weeks apart. Children aged 5-11 years can receive a lower dose (1/3 of the full dose). The lower dose has been demonstrated to generate an effective immune response for fighting COVID-19 and is considered to be safe for children as young as five years of age.

ATAGI has recommended an 8-week dosing interval, since there is emerging evidence in adults of a potentially better immune response-with a longer gap between doses. Canada have also reported fewer significant adverse effects with a longer dosing interval.

Importantly, this dosing interval can be shortened in an outbreak setting or for children who are at higher risk of severe disease from COVID-19.

Children can be anxious about receiving a vaccine, mainly relating to the pain of the procedure. Some children are quite excited to be receiving the COVID vaccination, as they know it will protect them and those around them.

We have prepared a kid-friendly COVID vaccination briefing video that we recommend you watch with you child before they come for their vaccination. Use this as a chance to discuss the vaccine and ease any concerns they might have. It gives them a chance to hear from other children what they felt about the vaccination, and describes why it might be beneficial for them, from the mouths of children their own age.

On the day of vaccination, it is important that waiting, discussion and negotiation are kept to an absolute minimum. The quicker we can vaccinate your child after they enter the clinic, the easier and happier the process will be for both you and your child. Confident, older children may be happy to sit in a chair and accept the vaccine. It is helpful if you have anxious or younger children sit on your lap, and hold their hands firmly in your lap when the clinician is about to give the vaccine.

Your doctor or nurse will ask you if you're ready to go ahead. Be ready to say yes straight away, and for the clinician to administer the dose immediately once you have your child comfortably held and still. Be confident and kind, whilst being directive if you child tries to negotiate or delay the injection. Delay only tends to increase their anxiety, and the difficulty and the pain of injection.

If you have a child who has needle phobia or gets upset with vaccines, be sure you have consented prior to this appointment, and made a separate appointment in the preceding days to ask these questions, rather than demonstrating any uncertainty to your child on vaccine day.

Overall, reassure your child that this is a positive thing for them and their family. Acknowledge that no one really "likes" needles, but we appreciate getting them done to protect our health. You can also reassure them from our own experience with children, that the COVID-19 vaccination is one of the least painful they will ever receive. Most children are surprised it is over much more quickly than they expect!

How Many COVID-19 Vaccine Doses Will My Child Need And How Is It Different?

How Should I Prepare My Child For Their COVID Vaccination Appointment?

The Australian Government accepted recommendations from the Australian Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation (ATAGI), and has announced Australia’s COVID-19 vaccination program will be extended to all children aged five to 11 from 10 January 2022. Growlife Medical has now received vaccine supply for paediatric COVID vaccinations and are running regular clinics.

Commonly as with any vaccination, after receiving a Coronavirus vaccine your child may experience fever, have a sore arm/injection site, headache and/or fatigue. Should you have any concerns, both before or after vaccination we are happy to support you and your family.

There are rare side effects, for any vaccine, such as severe allergic reaction to the vaccine or its components. For this reason, we will ask you to stay for 15 minutes after your child’s vaccination so we can monitor their condition before you take them home.

You may have heard that some mRNA vaccines approved for use in Australia have been associated with myocarditis and pericarditis. These are inflammatory heart conditions and appear to occur 1-2 times per 100,000 people. The lower dose for children and wider dosing schedule may reduce this risk.

Should you have any questions around the side effects your child may experience, speak to your Growlife GP or nurse when booking your appointment.

More real-time reporting and published reports on vaccine side effects can also be found the TGA's Covid-19 vaccine weekly safety report.

Watch This Video With Your Child To Explain The COVID Vaccination

Understandably, even when only small risks are applicable, there is some vaccine hesitancy for parents with young children. Case numbers in Brisbane and the State of Queensland have remained low during border closures and there has been discussion in the media of rare, significant vaccine side effects and the observation that COVID-19 usually does not make children very unwell or result in hospitalisation. As parents and doctors in Queensland, our team at Growlife Medical have spent a lot of time pondering these thoughts and concerns.

All Growlife Medical doctors are very comfortable with the COVID-19 vaccination for children, and agree the benefits far outweigh the risks..

Should you have any questions around whether you should vaccinate your children we encourage you to speak to your Growlife GP or nurse who will only be too happy to discuss you your child’s unique situation with you to help you make an informed decision.

Our Coronavirus vaccination service will be extended for children at our Highgate Hill clinic , Sherwood clinic and Oxley clinic . We are experienced with immunisation, with many qualified GPs and nurse immunisers, and have provided many thousands of COVID-19 vaccinations . And we vaccinate thousands of children each year with flu vaccines under the national immunisation program, as well as providing travel vaccinations and being an accredited Yellow Fever Vaccination provider at our Sherwood Medical Centre . Our advanced digital systems allow for seamless reporting of your vaccinations to your My Health Record and to the Australian Immunisation Register.

Book a consultation with Growlife Medical today . If you are experiencing any cold/flu like symptoms be safe and phone ahead !

What Are The Side Effects Of Coronavirus Vaccine In Children?

Should I Vaccinate My Child Against COVID-19?

Child Vaccination For Covid-19 In Brisbane At Growlife Medical

What does food have to do with high blood pressure?

Tue, 30 Nov 2021 08:34:52 GMT

Blood pressure is the force of your blood pushing against the walls of your arteries as it moves through your body.
Everyone has a blood pressure – it is essential for life. It helps ensure our blood is pumped from our heart all the way up to our brain and out to our arms and legs.
Just like water from a tap, if the pressure is too low, the water doesn’t flow well enough and can’t do its job (think of trying to clean a plate with a low water pressure). If your blood pressure is too low, you may feel faint.
If the pressure is too high from a tap, you might damage a fragile surface (think of flaking paint with a high-pressure hose). Similarly, when your blood pressure is too high, it can cause damage to the fragile lining on the inside of your arteries, or to the fine filter in your kidneys.

What is blood pressure?

When you have your blood pressure checked, your results will show two numbers.
Systolic/diastolic
When the first number is less than 120 and the second number is less than 80, it indicates a healthy blood pressure. As these 2 numbers rise, health practitioners may become increasingly concerned. This is because high blood pressure can increase risk of stroke, heart disease and kidney disease.

There are many factors that can influence or lead to high blood pressure. The following list provides some common examples (but please note this is not an exhaustive list):

Obesity
Diabetes
Pregnancy
Exercise
Diet
Medication

I have high blood pressure- what does this mean?

How did I get high blood pressure?

In a nutshell, wherever salt goes, water follows. This means:

If we increase salt in our diet, it translates to increased salt in our blood. If there is more salt in our blood, there will be more water content in our blood. This larger volume of fluid in our arteries and veins can result in an increase in blood pressure.
Contrarily, if we decrease our salt intake, this will translate to decreased salt in our blood. If there is less salt in our blood, there won’t be excess water build up in our blood. This will decrease the volume of fluid in our arteries and veins, thus resulting in a decreased blood pressure.

So, if you are diagnosed with high blood pressure, eating less salt can really help reduce your blood pressure.

Here are 10 hot tips for you to get that blood pressure down:

Put the salt shaker away: Avoid using salt in cooking and at the table, as this contributes up to 15% of our total salt intake.
Allow your tastebuds to adapt: It can take your tastebuds 4-6 weeks to adapt to a lower salt diet – remember, patience is a virtue!
Add other flavours: Use fresh or dried herbs, spices, pepper, lemon juice, vinegar, garlic, etc. Don’t be afraid to experiment with these flavours! I am convinced it is impossible to create a bad-tasting meal by throwing in a random mix of these ingredients.
Choose ‘no added salt’ or ‘salt reduced’ products: You should be able to identify these products by the product labelling.
Fresh is best: Over 70% of the salt we consume comes from processed/restaurant foods. This is because salt is commonly used as a preservative to extend the shelf-life of foods. By planning your grocery shop around your meals for the week, you can buy more fresh food without worrying about it ‘going off’ before you get a chance to eat it.
Maintain a healthy body weight and waistline: Studies consistently show excess weight gain, particularly when associated with central obesity, can be attributed as the cause of hypertension two-thirds of the time.
Exercise every day: Regular physical activity will make your heart stronger. A stronger heart can pump more blood with less effort. This means less pressure on the arteries, which will lower your blood pressure.
Check the nutrition information panel on packaged foods: Less than 120mg salt per 100g food is desirable. Anything less than 400mg per 100g is moderate, but any product with a salt level above this should be limited.
Limit fast food and take-away options: These foods are often highly processed and thus contain super high amounts of salt. For example, one Big Mac from McDonalds contains around 50% of our recommended daily salt intake.
Use condiments and sauces sparingly: These are notorious for having high amounts of salt.

1. Pork – garlic, lemon rind, coriander, apple sauce, ginger, mustard

What is the relationship between food I eat and blood pressure?

But how can I reduce my salt intake?

Want more information?

More than you may realise!

Experimenting with other flavours: Examples

Check out simple swaps to eat less salt for ideas on how to eat less salt!

It should be noted the above information and recommendations are generalised and ‘should be taken with a grain of salt’. For more individualised and comprehensive advice, we recommend having your blood pressure checked by your GP , and booking an appointment with our dietitian by clicking here , or using the icons below.

2. Fish – lemon juice, pepper, lime juice, chives, parsley, vinegar

3. Potato – chives, paprika, mint, parsley, black pepper

4. Carrots – ginger, cinnamon, honey, parsley

Polypharmacy

Thu, 26 Aug 2021 08:32:50 GMT

Am I taking too many medications?

Each year in Australia, there are approximately 250, 000 hospital admissions that are directly linked to medication-related issues. Many of these issues are considered to be preventable. At Growlife Medical, we want to ensure our patients achieve the best possible outcomes from their medications.

The term ‘polypharmacy’ refers to a situation where a person is prescribed multiple (poly-) medications, and is usually defined as more than 5 different medications at any one time. In this instance, the term ‘medications’ also includes inhalers, creams and even vitamins and herbal supplements! For people living with one or more conditions, it is very easy to reach this number of medications. With a higher number of medications, comes a higher chance of medication-related problems. These problems may include side effects, interactions between different medications, or difficulties using the medications each day.

A person may benefit from an HMR if they:

Are taking more than 5 medicines a day
Are concerned about their medicines
Are confused or don’t always remember to take their medicines
Need to be closely monitored because of the medicines they take
Take medicines that can have serious interactions with other medicines
Feel unwell after taking medicines
Have recently been in hospital
Have recently had changes to the medicines they are taking

Who may benefit from a Home Medicine Review?

You can ask your GP to refer you for a Home Medicine Review. First book an appointment to see your GP to discuss your medications. They may refer to the Growlife pharmacist , or you can take the referral to your local pharmacy who may know a local accredited pharmacist.

How do I book a Home Medicine Review?

Are My Medications making me tired?

All medicines have pros and cons, which may be thought of as risks and benefits. Your GP or specialist will have considered these when the medication was first started, and should have involved you in this decision at that time. However, chronic medical conditions often require more than one medicine to keep them under control, and when adding the process of time, more medical conditions, hospital admissions, multiple doctors and pharmacists, it can mean that you may experience side effects. Fatigue is common, along with many others.

When things get complex with your medications, or you don’t feel 100%, it is a good idea to have a thorough check for things like:

Am I taking the medications recommended for my condition?
Does the list of medication I’m taking, match the list my GP thinks I’m taking, and match the list at my pharmacy?
Are my medications conflicting with each other?
Do I understand what all my medications do and how they work?

Are My Medications Making Me Sick?

Even the common side effects known to be caused by a medicine may only cause problems for a few people taking them. Sometimes, a new medication might be started for a new problem, when that problem is caused by a medicine you’re already taking. Rarely, serious problems like kidney or liver problems can be caused by medication or complementary therapies. Pharmacists are experts in assessing if your medication could be making you sick.

Making the most of your medications

Some things the pharmacist might be able to help you with:

Teaching you about how to use a medical device – especially useful for inhalers for asthma and COPD
Conducting a team meeting with all your healthcare providers – called a “case conference” - so that they can all agree on how best to help you manage your condition
Visiting you at home to do a “home medicine review” to assess the complex issues described above.

Polypharmacy

For some people, using a high number of medicines each day is a necessary way to manage their conditions. There are many strategies that may be put in place to ensure medication-related problems are kept to a minimum.

In order to ensure that you are gaining the maximal benefit from your medicines, your GP may consult the services of an Accredited Pharmacist for a formal Home Medicines Review assessment. The Home Medicine Review scheme is funded by the Commonwealth Government for patients living in their home. There is no charge to you for a medication review.

Pharmacists are medication experts, and working in partnership with general practitioners, will aim to ensure any medication-related issues are identified and resolved. Sometimes, polypharmacy or medication-related issues are identified as part of a chronic disease plan, or a Senior Health Assessment .

You may ask your GP about this process at your next appointment.

What is a Home Medicine Review?

A Home Medicines review is an appointment where an accredited pharmacist checks the medicines someone is taking at their home.

If your general practitioner requests a referral for a Home Medicines review (HMR), you will be contacted by an accredited Pharmacist to arrange an appointment time. Growlife Medical is lucky to be part of a new initiative to have a pharmacist working alongside your GP as part of your healthcare team. We welcome pharmacist Lauren Koch to the team. During the appointment, the pharmacist will ask to see your medicines, find out how you are using them, give you advice on the best way to store and administer the medicines, suggest ways to remember to take the right medicine at the right time, and suggest whether any medicines may need to be changed. The pharmacist will write a report and send this to the general practitioner. At your next appointment, the general practitioner will discuss this report with you, and together will create a ‘Medicines Management Plan’.

If your general practitioner refers you for an HMR, it is likely that they are looking to ensure you are gaining the full benefit from the medicines you are using. It is not because they think you are doing something wrong, or are not capable of handling your medications. Quite often, one of the findings of the review is that the patient is managing their medications well. Many people who have had the HMR service agree that the benefit makes this service worthwhile.

A person is eligible for a medication review once every 24 months.

Lactation Induction

Tue, 24 Aug 2021 08:22:36 GMT

Lactation induction is a process of encouraging your body to produce milk without carrying a pregnancy. This process is increasingly being done in situations where babies come into families through ways such as surrogacy or adoption and in LGBTQIA families.

The lactation induction process takes anywhere between one to six months. Usually, the longer that we have to prepare, the higher the chances are of producing more milk. The process is done in two phases.

In the first phase, hormones are taken to “mimic” a pregnancy. These hormones tell your body to start readying your breasts to produce milk. During this time the milk ducts grow and prepare to produce milk, just as they would during a pregnancy. You may notice heaviness and tenderness of the breasts during this time and many people report that their breasts increase around one cup size. The longer that we can stay in this phase (ideally six months), the higher the likelihood of producing significant volumes of milk.

In the second phase, the hormones are withdrawn in order to “mimic” delivering a baby. This tells the breasts to start producing milk quickly in order to feed your baby. At this time, you will need to start pumping, expressing or bringing your baby to the breast at least 8 times a day, including overnight. This phase takes an enormous amount of work and is a large commitment for families.

The results from inducing lactation are highly variable. A minority of people find that they do not produce milk in sufficient volumes to be able to contribute significantly to their baby’s nutrition. A majority of people are able to mixed-feed their baby (breastfeed with bottle top-ups afterwards). A minority of people are able to exclusively feed their babies. The chances of producing larger volumes of milk are generally increased if the person has ever carried a pregnancy before, if they have ever produced milk before and if they are able to spend more time in the first phase.

Lactation induction does not come with a guarantee that any specific volumes of milk will definitely be produced. It varies according to many factors and it is not possible to predict how your body will respond to the process. What it can guarantee is that you can know that you have given your family every possible chance in your quest to produce milk for your baby.

If you are interested in lactation induction, book in to see Dr Sonja Morgan to see if this process is suitable for you and your family. In the case of general lactation issues, please refer to Growlife Medical's lactation consultant service .

Read This Year's Finalist Entries

Baby Led Weaning

Thu, 12 Aug 2021 08:18:12 GMT

Baby led weaning may seem like a confusing or daunting task for parents. You may be wondering how much guidance you should be offering your baby or what sorts of foods they will want to consume.

An increasingly popular method of moving children towards solid food is a baby led weaning approach. Based on the principle that babies should discover the textures and tastes of foods for themselves, it is an unstructured, no pressure approach that involves placing soft and manageable pieces of food in front of babies. Many parents favour this approach as it means they can avoid grappling with puréed baby food and can help their children develop a taste for complex flavours from a young age.

Children are capable of feeding themselves solids from around the age of about six months, and many parents follow baby led weaning principles without even realising it. Indeed, babies are naturally imitative and will learn to pick food from plates by copying the adults around them or their older siblings.

Growlife Medical looks at the issue of baby led weaning, feeding ideas, the benefits, recipes and breastfeeding support .

Even though many mums would like to know how to stop breastfeeding and start baby led weaning, it is important that your child continues to drink breast milk as long as possible. Either breast milk or breast milk substitutes are still essential for baby's nutrition until the age of 12 months at a minimum. We have explained the wonderful benefits of breastfeeding in another article.

Indeed, the process of weaning should be gradual and gentle. Reducing breastfeeds too drastically can actually cause your breasts to become overfull, potentially leading to a painful infection of the mammary gland known as mastitis. To ensure that the transition goes as smoothly as possible, as your baby eats more volumes of solid food you could gradually try:

Increasing the gaps between breastfeeds.
Breastfeeding only at the most vital times such as to help them sleep during the evening or in the early morning.
Breastfeeding until your child simply chooses to stop. This is a natural process whereby your child will elect for shorter and more infrequent feeds.

How to Stop Breastfeeding

Many parents ask how much milk should their toddler drink after they have introduced solids. When you're breastfeeding, your supply will naturally adjust to your baby's changing demand. If your baby is formula fed the amount of milk your baby drinks should be gradually decreased as they become more interested in food.

If your baby is having more than 400mls of milk after 12 months you may need to limit their milk intake by substituting other nutritious foods. It is recommended that toddlers have one and a half serves of dairy per day. One serve is one cup full cream milk or 200 gm full cream yoghurt or 40gm cheese.

Toddler milks or Stage 3 formulas are not required for healthy children. It is also advised to move from a bottle to a cup.

There are plenty of baby led weaning recipe options out there for parents hoping to get on board. If you're needing more advanced support with your baby's nutrition, paediatric dietitians are available for consultations. A couple of recipes we like are:

1. Vegetable pancakes

These pancakes are nutritious and bitesize and should help your baby develop a taste for delicious vegetables. Check out the recipe here .

2. Broccoli cheese frittata fingers

These bites are packed full of nutrients and subtle flavours that almost all babies will love. What’s more, it’s easy to make and adults will also adore it. Take a look at the recipe here .

How Much Milk Should My Toddler Drink?

Baby Led Weaning Recipes

There are a number of baby led weaning benefits including:

Giving your baby a chance to develop their hand and oral motor coordination
Your child will learn about the importance of independence and self-sufficiency from a young age.
If you provide your baby with food that the entire family is eating, you can cut down on preparation time.
Your child will become accustomed to an array of textures and flavours from a young age. This may make them more adventurous or sophisticated eaters in the future.
There is some evidence to suggest that babies who learn to feed themselves will be more able to control their appetite as they grow older, potentially reducing their risk of becoming obese. Studies exploring this link are not conclusive, however.

Growlife Medical specialises in providing baby lead weaning advice. You might be interested in our Introduction to Solids Group Class .

Samantha Foster offers a holistic and empowering approach to breastfeeding support. Sam can provide education, support and assistance in the comfort of your own home, or a consultation at one of our clinics.

GP Lactation Consultant Dr Sonja Morgan is available at our Highgate Hill medical centre . Her expertise includes contraception, antenatal and postnatal care of mothers, as well as care for newborns.

Book a consultation with Growlife Medical today .

The Australian Breastfeeding Association (ABA) runs the National Breastfeeding Helpline 1800 mum 2 mum ( 1800 686 268 ). The Breastfeeding Helpline is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. It is staffed by trained, volunteer counsellors who answer calls on a roster system in their own homes. Note that if you have current mastitis, you should book an appointment today with a Growlife Medical GP, rather than using this helpful phone support resource.

Lactation Consultant & Child Nutrition

Breastfeeding Support

Baby Led Weaning Benefits

Daughter Hunger

Fri, 06 Aug 2021 01:49:21 GMT

This story is the winner of Growlife Medical's annual Essay Competition for 2021 . This year's theme is "stories of mothers", where stories of honesty and depth were invited to celebrate mothers through sharing love, loss, heartache, strength, grief and hope. Read on...

I am the eldest daughter of an eldest daughter. At the birth of my first child, I was born too; a mother. But not a mother to a daughter. Today, pregnant with my third child, I still hope for a daughter. The number one question people ask me when they find out I am expecting, is “Do you know if it’s a boy or a girl?” This is closely followed by “Will you find out?” My answer is that I wholeheartedly want to know, sooner rather than later, if I am going to have a daughter. Not because I will regret the gift of a son, but because I will need time to grieve the loss of a potential daughter. What is so unique about the mother-daughter relationship? I can only draw on my own experience of being a daughter.

There have been many moments in my life where my mother and I have shared the rites of passage into womanhood. Notably, there is the metamorphosis of child-like body into a fertile and hormonally cyclic being. I can never forget when my sister commenced her menses and proclaimed proudly to our household, “I am a woman!” In contrast to my sister, I remember my own prudish feelings, patiently observed by my mother, when the time came for me to try on my first bra. There are so many more bright and stylised options these days in the underwear aisle. I hope that one day I can take a shy daughter to choose something she likes. Fashion is always changing, but my mother always knows what looks good on me. In fact, these days I wear some of my mother’s old clothes which are characteristically back in vogue!

Feminine beauty standards are somewhat subjective, fuelling the continual profit of the fashion and makeup industries. It is no surprise then, that the makeup section is a popular place for young girls to hang out and experiment with their “look”. My mother has always been a natural beauty and never worn much make up. I remember when she took me to buy my first makeup kit. It was an emotional experience for my mother because her own had never done this sort of thing with her. We learned together from the assistant how to apply blush and choose the right foundation. Some years later, it was my privilege to take my mother, in her forties, to ger her own ears pierced. Perhaps seeing my ears adorned with lovely accessories, was enough to convince her that the pain would be worth it.

As time goes on, you don’t stop needing your mother. These days, my mother still wishes she could talk to her mother. I hear her comment on her changing arms and hands into those of her mother’s. I look at my own, and see that I am travelling the same course, if some years behind. When I was in my 20s I suffered from gall bladder attacks and had to have surgery. Turns out it might be prudent for me to get a list of my mother’s medical history and start ticking off the conditions that I will likely experience! It’s not solely illness that we inherit. I have also born witness to my mother’s strength and fortitude. Her ability to continue under pressure, push through fatigue, and deny herself to serve others. As I continue in motherhood, I realise more and more the need to draw on one’s own physical stores and to grow new edges that cope with the increasing demands of a growing household. Not only can we bear children, but we can thrive in this life if we have grit and resilience.

When I gave birth to my first child, my mother was there, and I needed her. She knew the pain of labour. She knew what I was capable of. As her daughter, I knew that she could walk with me through this raw and personal experience like no other. It brought me joy to see the love in her eyes as she first held the child of her child. She birthed me into existence and tended to my infant needs. Then, she tended to my adult needs, the needs a new mother has that some people forget when they come excitedly to meet a new baby. She helped bath my newborn and supported my breastfeeding journey. Having seen her breastfeed my siblings, I knew that I wanted to do the same for my children.

As I juggle my load of domestic life and professional career, I turn to my mother for encouragement. She knows the unique position of being a caregiver, while also pursuing your own personal and professional development. Despite the changes in philosophies towards women’s roles in the home, there remains the fact that women alone birth and breastfeed a baby. The changes that we experience in our bodies are unique. From commencing monthly fluctuations, through growing and nourishing a child, to the harrowing experience of menopause. A woman’s body and brain change in so many ways. Mothers and daughters share inside knowledge into these internal battles and the wounds that scar us and remind us of what we are capable of.

Women have amazing capacities to meet the demands of the people in their lives. But we need to keep filling up our cups. One of the streams of inspiration and encouragement comes from our mothers. They have been in our shoes, they have walked alongside us, they understand how we think and they are flesh of our flesh. This, is why I hunger for a daughter. I love my sons. But I hope that with a daughter, I can share the long journey of womanhood in a way that goes beyond words. It is shared experience of the perplexing hormones, the miracle of birth, the bone-aching weariness of breastfeeding and nourishing a baby, the battle to find work-life balance in a modern world, that binds mothers and daughters together.

Make Sure you vote in the Grow Medical 2021 Essay Competition by going to our Facebook Page , and liking and sharing your favourite Story of Motherhood. If this one is your favourite, tell us why in the comments, and share it by clicking one of the circle icons at the bottom of the page.

Otherwise, read on with this year's finalists entries...

Read This Year's Finalist Entries

My Mum

Thu, 05 Aug 2021 01:46:05 GMT

My Mum and I go out nearly everywhere together. She is the best. She works as a nurse so she is really good at making me feel better when I am sick. My Mum works early in the morning so I have to go to school early.

This story is the winner of the school aged category of Growlife Medical's annual Essay Competition for 2021 . This year's theme is "stories of mothers", where stories of honesty and depth were invited to celebrate mothers through sharing love, loss, heartache, strength, grief and hope. Read on...

I love my Mum!

When I am not feeling very well she lets me stay home sometimes and watch the TV or my IPad. She tries to make me feel really really brave all of the time. Sometimes we go out for an ice-cream. Once me and my Mum went out to go to a movie because there was nothing to do inside the house. I got my own popcorn so did my Mum. We watched the movie called The Croods A New Age. When I got home I felt like I was the only person in her head.

When I went to the doctor to get my covid test my Mum made my feel really brave and I was! You want to know a secret about my Mum? She never gives up on me.

My Mum mades the most amazing dinner in the world I always think that she should open a shop of all of her delicious food. Once after school me Dad picked me up and gave me the most dazzling cupcake I had ever tasted. It had vanilla on the top and the most nice bit on the bottom. She made these chocolate brownies and it had melted chocolate inside of it and on the outside too! When it is Summer we nearly always go out for a swim at a pool. My Mum is always there for me where ever I am.

She is the best in the world.

My Mum was born in Sri Lanka that means I am half Sir Lankan. Me and my Mum look the same we have the same eyes we also have the same hair. My Grandma and Grandad are My Mums Mum and Dad! That is unbelievable I could hardly believe it at all!

I am only eight years old and my Mum is thirty-six years old. Me and my Mum have that same height of hair and the same looking hair. Me and my Mum both love to eat and drink nearly every single second. When my Mum was little she did gymnastics and so do I! She was the best gymnast in her school! The thing that is different about as that I like to sleep in and my Mum likes to wake up really early in the morning.

My Mum makes me feel like I am the only person in her life since I was born.

Otherwise, read on with this year's finalists entries...

Read This Year's Finalist Entries

Love Story

Thu, 05 Aug 2021 01:42:38 GMT

Love Story , two words written in firm, bold, creative handwriting in black pen, across the center of the page of a Cash Receipt Book, caught my eye. I recognized my mother’s handwriting and was delighted to see it again, a new, fresh message this night, the second anniversary of her passing.

This story is second in Growlife Medical's annual Essay Competition for 2021 . This year's theme is "stories of mothers", where stories of honesty and depth were invited to celebrate mothers through sharing love, loss, heartache, strength, grief and hope. Read on...

Love Story, two words written in firm, bold, creative handwriting in black pen, across the center of the page of a Cash Receipt Book, caught my eye. I recognized my mother’s handwriting and was delighted to see it again, a new, fresh message this night, the second anniversary of her passing.

It was a simple phrase but contained multiverses. The feelings, as I looked at it, carried no memories of the difficult times. Instead, I could feel the tender love and peace I had shared with my mother during the last week of her life as everything around her softened, like the glow of the sliver halo of her hair spread out on her pillow. I had spent the last week with her in her hospital room, day and night beside her, when so much was shared and forgiven. So much of our interweaving lives was reframed and expressed, mostly wordlessly but intuitively, on different levels of appreciation and understanding, of the love between us.

Perhaps Love Story was a message to me of gratitude and thanks for the support and assistance I had given my mother in the last week of her life; the receipt, a recognition of the love exchanged and its value between us then, and during the sixty-two years of our shared lives. I had travelled from Australia to New Zealand to be with my mother, feeling that the heart infarction she had suffered was a sign of permanent failing. My mother was very anxious, and the nursing staff were very relieved that I offered to sleep with her, calming her, attending to her and listening to her.

A key moment was when my mother woke me around 5am, two days before she finally left her body, suddenly calling out, “I can’t, I can’t!” I immediately got out of my bed and came to sit by her side. I knew what she was panicking about; about how to actually die and leave her body, as she was conscious enough to know what was happening. Rather than tell her the obvious, that her body would know what to do, I simply sang back to her, “Yes you can, yes you can!” in a gentle Kodaly style song.

I had been a musician all my life and had recently trained in both a Master of Counselling, and Shamanic Journeying overseas. As well as being used to receiving messages from the dying throughout my life, I combined my gifts to reassure my mother, and in a simple call and response manner, sang with her for several hours, changing my words to, “Yes I can, Yes I can,” so she would take them into her own body and mind. The nurses came in and out quietly, respecting our two souls’ gentle embrace and acknowledging the shift in acceptance as my mother gradually settled peacefully back into her bed, surrendering to forces and processes only she was intimately aware of, as she stared up at the ceiling and far off into other realms, energized and her burden released.

My mother was a woman of keen intelligence and remarkable artistic talents and professional independence. Coming from a long line of resilient, university educated and independent women, mother and grandmother, she countered any visitors who offered platitudes, or their own religious beliefs as to where she may be going next, professing, “It’s a Mystery,” not to be defined by anyone. Bonhoeffer’s biography had been her latest reading, and my mother took his mystical experiences to heart.

My mother had read curiously my recent university religion essays, including on Jung and his dreams and spirituality. She confessed she had stopped dreaming in her late teens and was surprised to hear how vital dreams were throughout my life, and recently guiding me to healing from serious illness and permanent disability to new careers and travels. However, my mother did share with me a vivid dream experience she had soon after her husband, my father’s death, six years previously. She had phoned me, still in awe at being woken in the middle of the night by my father appearing to her in her bedroom and telling me he had been so real she needed to turn on the light to check, and to bring her back to “reality.”

This experience was Sacred in opening my mother up to communication from the departed to those we love, and a vital link in the chain of connection my mother and I developed during her transition and afterwards. I am now starting to share such messages and possibilities of Love and connection with my own family and friends, and around the world through workshops and presentations.

The last night of my mother’s life, I said my final goodbye to her in the evening as I had to sleep near the airport to catch a 5am flight back to Australia for an important hospital appointment of my own. I had seen my mother leave her body finally, earlier that morning when she was being transported from her hospital room back to her Rest Home Hospice for the final stage of her life. I had travelled with her and watched as her body lay almost motionless in the bed, apart from the small rise and fall of her chest. She was grey all over now, from hair to skin, and lifeless, despite the soft pale pink and lilac sprigs of flowers on her pajama top.

I kissed her on the forehead and said, “I love you, and thank you,” one last time, as I left to go to my friend’s home for the night. Finally, I was relieved to sink into the silence of my own bed and drift off to sleep, at peace knowing I had comforted and supported my mother all I could. The rest was now up to her, and I knew was very close to completion. Suddenly, I was aroused from my sleep seeing my mother walking down the corridor of her Rest Home towards the exit doors, walking stick in one hand, cardigan flapping, her head shaking from side to side and her tongue clicking in her unique manner as she concentrated deeply. Then I heard her speak clearly to me, “Where do I go?” How do I get out of here?”

I could see that the corridor now opened out into the dark and great open expanse of the Universe ahead of her. I knew she was heading in the right direction and would soon be gone. I went back to sleep only to be woken again by my mother appearing to me, this time dressed in her favourite teal dress with her precious matching turquoise necklace, makeup on, looking young and vibrant again, just has she had looked in photos at her solo art exhibition in 1994. It was beautiful to see her smiling so radiantly again. She had made it! Where-ever the Great Mystery had taken her to, she was happy and at peace. My sister later texted me that indeed she had finally stopped breathing in the early hours of the morning.

Love Story calls to me now, in the present, as a key reminder to live my life forward, not backwards, and embrace love and the opportunities to experience it in everything. I say this because of the unanswered question my mother agonized over, particularly in the closing phase of her life, “I wonder if my mother really loved me?” It was a question none of us three siblings could answer for her. We encouraged her to write about memories of her mother, suggesting that insights would come. But unfortunately, she never managed to put pen to paper. Now, I feel called to offer my perspectives of Love, for the generations of mothers in my family.

A key message my mother had proclaimed to me in my last week with her was, “It’s most important to be believed.” When my mother uttered this, out of nowhere, I immediately took up the invitation to reflect back to her the many ways she had demonstrated this, during her years of mothering me, and thereby Love.

My mother had fought for treatment for me when I was ill and hospitalized twice when I was a child, that my pain and illness was believable. This later became fundamental to my believing in myself as I found my own authentic Self through my recent fifteen-year journey through permanent disability, ill-health retirement and healing from a rare primary immune deficiency (CVID). Now I was able to gift back to my mother my new knowledge from my own healing and Master of Counselling, Dreamwork and Shamanic Journeying, in how to see, know and attend to her needs, physical, mental, emotional and Spiritual in this culminating last week of her life.

My mother had recently opened further in trusting my new knowledge and experience and was proud and inspired by my personal growth and healing. For both my mother and my sons, watching me believe in my authentic Self enough to step away from a long but failing marriage when critically ill, was vital for re-writing old, disempowered beliefs and patterns of patriarchy and marriage to model healthier relationships for present and future generations. In this way, I also was able to support my oldest son’s authentic sexual choices and relationship freedoms, and to heal past family sexual prejudices and hurts.

My mother had believed in my musical talent and desires, supporting me in finding music teachers and in my auditioning for university in violin performance, when my academic father and some of my music teachers did not think I was capable. As a professional artist, my mother recognized and believed in my passion and talent which finally blossomed into my own professional musical career. I then believed and supported my own sons’ musical and artistic talents and encouraged many of my students into professional careers. My mother’s love of Art and beauty was a rare gift and her pursuit of excellence not only a national treasure, but a treasure to me personally, and to all we both have shared it with. These values continue to ripple out across the world as my sons share their artistic gifts in different countries.

My mother also believed in friendship; for herself and for me, especially as my father did not approve of such personal needs, including marriage to my husband, which my mother also supported me in. When my mother suddenly called out, “I’ve got a friend!” I was able to reassure her that she had many friends, with my sister coordinating and relaying their messages of love to my mother. This last statement was profound, as it echoed the pain and doubt of love and understanding from her own mother, who had been a very practical woman, caring for her community during the depression and war years when my mother was young. My mother’s education and artistic talents were nurtured by her mother and grandmother, but friendships were considered of secondary importance to education and practicalities of life. It was vital that my mother and I break this generational chain of detached intimacy as I reminded my mother that she had nurtured many friendships with and for others, and for me at critical times in my life.

My mother’s words, Love Story, speak of the many different ways we love, through generations of mothers; practical love, actioning love, understanding love, and the love that can continue, beyond death through dreams and messages in the present, very much still alive. Most important is my mother’s prompting, to write before I get too old, about our Love Story and how I finally could express love and gratitude to my mother before she passed, knowing how haunted she was in not having been able to share such experiences, conversations and acknowledgement with her mother. Love is healing and vital to our relationships, that we share and find ways to tell our Love Story and pass it on, before it’s too late.

Otherwise, read on with this year's finalists entries...

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Just Don't Stop

Thu, 05 Aug 2021 01:38:48 GMT

This story is a finalist in Growlife Medical's annual Essay Competition for 2021. This year's theme is "stories of mothers", where stories of honesty and depth were invited to celebrate mothers through sharing love, loss, heartache, strength, grief and hope. Read on...

We’ve been told about the Blowhole, the must-see attraction at Kiama where we’re headed. The car is piled with our camping gear and food, and a powered tent-site awaits us at the caravan park above the beach. Hopefully we’ll be under some shady trees but it’s unlikely; I only booked last week and only for five nights; we’re not one of these long-staying families who come for the month, set up a village with their friends and return year after year. No, it’s just my daughter and me. And I want to her to be happy; she’s had a rough year. Maybe I’ll even get some nice photos out of it. Soph’s big on selfies, but dark on being photographed with me. I’m used to it, but well... I can still hope.

Just an hour out of Canberra and we have car problems. There’s an illuminated light on my dashboard that looks disconcertingly like an engine. Soph confirms it by checking the glovebox manual, and scowls. We swing left off the highway into Goulburn, to find a service centre that is open.

The mechanic plugs in an electronic meter and ‘hmms’ and ‘haaas’ as I watch the needle swing on the screen in his hand. He unplugs it and stands up. Soph is welded to her phone. The mechanic sucks his teeth. ‘Needs a new…’ and he names something unfamiliar and forgettable, ‘Can’t fix it today, but. Need to order it in.’

Ridges of worry form between the ones already furrowing my forehead. I tell him we’re just passing through, headed for the beach.

He shrugs. ‘You might get there; might not. But— ’ and he pauses, looking mildly entertained, ‘if you stop, the engine might not start again.’ He’s winding the cord around the device. He couldn’t care a bit.

I get Soph’s attention and tell her the choice. Her face falls.

‘So what, we have to go home?’ Saying ‘home’ like it’s prison.

The mechanic picks at his fingernails.

I’m scrabbling to recover this. ‘Um, Is there somewhere I can get it fixed in Kiama?’

He scratches his oily head. ‘Nah, but there’s Nowra, I s’pose. Workshop won’t be open today, but.’

That’s it: I can get the car fixed while we’re away. I won’t need to drive once we get there and if it isn’t fixed in time, well, hopefully we can stay a bit longer. Soph deserves this holiday.

I make the mechanic write his diagnosis on the back of a business card and give me the phone number for the garage at Nowra.

‘Just don’t stop,’ he says, waving us off. I give him the thumbs up.

For the next hour we’re fine. The radio’s on, the aircon’s blasting, the mood feels light — it’s holidays! Soph’s not a talker, not to me anyway, but I figure she’ll be happy once we get there. She’ll have her own space — she’s borrowing a friend’s small tent — and the place has a pool. We’ll eat dinners out, a rare treat. I’m looking forward to having milkshakes with her in cafes overlooking the sea. And there’s a coastal walk, a weekend market. We just need to get there.

Of course, the problems really start once we’re off the highway, heading east through the Kangaroo Valley on a narrow mountain road. We’re losing engine power. Cars are banking up behind us. There’s nowhere to pull over.

‘Let them pass!’ Soph demands.

‘I can’t,’ I snap, fingers gripping the wheel. ‘If we go any slower we might stall. What if the engine won’t start?’ The silence in the car is tangible; behind us, a horn blares.

Eventually we come to a village and turn down a side street. I’m glad I can’t see the drivers’ indignant faces as the other cars stream past. Soph wants a drink and only now realises the impact of ‘don’t stop,’ so she’s cross at me, so of course I’m cross back, because it’s not my fault and we’d be home now if she wasn’t so set on this beach-bikini holiday. Looping back onto the road, I feel terrible when another car is soon stuck behind us and the saga continues.

And then it gets worse. ‘You’re almost out of petrol,’ she announces. And there are no distance markers for how far Kiama is. I turn off the aircon to save fuel. Soph’s phone has lost internet so she’s now focused on the drama. I’m cross with myself for forgetting to refuel before we left. Breaking down here, in the rolling hills on a Saturday afternoon when it would take hours to be reached and then towed, is too vile to consider. Two likelihoods now: engine failure, or an empty tank. I feel stupid but indignant too: who did all the packing, planning; who’s paying for it all? I grit my teeth and keep driving.

Finally we’re on the outskirts of Nowra. The fuel indicator hovers at empty, another flashing light beside that of my faulty engine. We’re both craning our heads to find a petrol station, and I’m terrified of having to idle at traffic lights, which might make us stall, so I turn in slip lanes again and again, left, left again, searching for —

‘There!’ she yells.

A fuel station, on the other side of the road. I’m not meant to cross the double white lines but to hell with that. Soph’s shocked, but I’m used to her disapproval. We limp into the driveway, and I’ll have to slow here, of course, but I won’t — can’t — turn off the engine. It feels strange to put the car into park and get out. ‘Turn Off Engine!’ stickers scream at me from every bowser; silent critical eyes. I need to speak to the person at the till. This’ll be interesting, I think.

‘I can’t lock up. Don’t get out.’

The glass doors slide open and the cool hits me like a wall. The attendant gives me a false smile and asks in a drawl, how she can help, so I start to explain. When she registers that the engine’s still running, she’s instantly awake. ‘Turn it off! You must turn it OFF!’ she demands.

I explain I’m on a mechanic’s orders, and she’s scowling, but listening. And then she’s all efficiency; it’s like watching a training video: she whips on her fluoro-yellow hazard vest, hangs a whistle round her neck, wheels out the Fire Emergency wheelie bin to block access to the bowser behind me and from the bin she produces bright pink cones, which she places around the car. When she sees my daughter still in the car, she is apoplectic. ‘OUT!’ she orders, as if it was already on fire.

As we both shelter inside the store, Ms Efficiency refuels for us. I expect she’ll be retelling the drama of our visit for months afterwards. Another customer attempts to drive in; she strains shrill at the whistle, wildly waving them on. With military precision, she replaces the nozzle on the bowser and is back at her counter in a flash to take my money and get me the hell off her property. My gratitude falls on a steely countenance. As we drive off, Soph and I have the first real laugh of the holiday.

We make it to the beach, via a terrifying moment when I seem to lose control on the main street of pretty Kiama. The car won’t respond as I approach an intersection at the bottom of the hill, and all I can do is pull toward the gutter and jam on the brake. Soph looks up from her phone, curious. I’m still protecting her, she’s a worrier, but sweat pours down my back. I say something about just needing to pull over for a second, then listen to the engine. It’s sounding normal, and I experiment a little, inching forward, trialling the brakes. Now it seems okay, so when there’s — incredibly — no traffic, I ease back onto the road and we drive past the shops and past the beach and curve up the hill, me grateful for every metre. Soph has her window down, is focussed on the breaking waves. Just one more hill, I beg, exhaling only when we turn into the caravan park. By some miracle I spy the flag of our numbered site, and at this very moment the engine splutters and fails. We surf to our resting place.

I turn the key, remove it, close my eyes. ‘Made it,’ I breathe into the deliciously long pause between then, and now. Soph is relieved too, although not enough to give me a hug.

We stumble out of the car and pick our way between caravans and tents to the cliff railing. The sparkling Pacific Ocean stretches as far as the eye can see. Below us, monstrous jagged rocks turn the pummelling surf into foam. Three shipping containers dot the horizon. I relax into the moment, feel the sun on my face, drink in the salt air. A minute later I’m craving a cold glass of wine.

‘We should unpack,’ I say, but I’ve no energy for the idea, so I offer Soph lunch instead. We have fatly satisfying sausage rolls and ice creams from the kiosk. Soph helps me pull everything out of the car, then heads off to explore, calling back over her shoulder that she’ll pitch her tent later. She is a beauty under her long blonde hair as she swings away, following the meandering path between the Norfolk pines. I call the repairer and arrange for the car to be towed.

By evening, my daughter has found her tribe, gangly teens who lurk at the picnic shelters down by the beach. Most of my meals are then alone, which is disappointing but admittedly does save me money. Soph, who seems to exist mostly on chips and gelato, get sunburnt immediately which turns her skin golden overnight. She tells me plainly on Day 1 that she has no desire to walk to the Blowhole, so I put it off until when we’ll have the car back. I read a lot, write a lot, window-shop, try to stay in the shade. It’s not the best holiday I’ve ever had... but I’m glad I got her here here.

We finally get to the famous Blowhole on our last morning. The car has been fixed and I’m five hundred dollars poorer. We’re all packed up and I drive around the hill, down past the shops, smooth engine purring. Soph is giving me the silent treatment because she’s sorry to be leaving. I eventually find a carpark and we strike out for the point, following the signs to the Blowhole like obedient ants. At the railed-off gaping hole in the rock, signs suggest we stand back. I wonder if it’s worth the fuss since there’s not even any splashed water, but a crowd has gathered, waiting on nature’s entertainment. Soph is nowhere to be seen, so I amuse myself by listening in on other’s conversations. Fifteen minutes pass and I’m uncomfortably hot and thirsty, and thinking about giving this a miss, when there comes an odd, low sound. The crowd reacts, kids yell ‘it’s coming!’, and people ready their cameras. I look around for Soph and spy her in the crowd on the far side of the hole. The noise becomes rumble… becomes roar… becomes an upwards explosion of froth. Shrieks! Squeals! Gasps in every language around me, before the torrent of foaming water descends back on itself. The sea rushes over my feet and spray mists my glasses. A photographer beside me drops his lens cap and it’s carried on a rivulet and sucked into the hole.

‘MUM!’

Soph’s balanced on the railing like she shouldn’t be, totally and completely soaked to the skin, laughing and waving crazily.

For this moment alone, the holiday is worthwhile. And I don’t need a photo.

Otherwise, read on with this year's finalists entries...

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Muddling through infertility

Thu, 05 Aug 2021 01:35:56 GMT

This story is third in Growlife Medical's annual Essay Competition for 2021 . This year's theme is "stories of mothers", where stories of honesty and depth were invited to celebrate mothers through sharing love, loss, heartache, strength, grief and hope. Read on...

28th Dec 2017 – 8 months ago, Andrew and I were rejoicing at the thought that we would be meeting our little baby girl today.

It has been a trying journey for us as we stumbled and struggled through the journey of infertility. It just has never been something that has ever crossed my mind. In my naivety and self-entitlement, I had always thought that having a baby was easy – I mean, that’s what people do or so I thought. Month after month, I got excited and waited to see if there would be a double line on the window, then it slowly turned into a year and then two. It was (and still is) a time filled with different medical interventions, hope, disappointment and tears. I never understood why it was so hard. Then I started struggling on a different level when friends started posting pregnancy announcements and hosting baby showers. Baby bumps seemed to be popping everywhere, just not with us. Why did it seem so easy for them?

When it finally happened, we were so excited! I was talking to baby throughout the day, making plans for what we would do together. Knowing that it would be a summer baby, I was ready for cute sleeveless onesies. Really, just knowing that we’d finally been blessed with a baby filled me with a joy that was indescribable.

Then, on our 6th week scan, we were told that baby was measuring one week behind. Our doctor informed us it could go either way- either baby will catch up or something wasn’t right. Similarly for the 7th week scan, baby grew one week, but was still measuring one week behind. Finally, on the 8th week scan – and I remember that day so clearly – lying down in the doctor’s office, looking at the ultrasound machine, not seeing a heart beat on the screen. John tried so hard to look for it, to hear a heart beat and to give us a glimmer of home. Unfortunately, all he could say was “I’m sorry”.

So the little one in this ultrasound photo is our little girl whom we’ve nicknamed – Beansy. It’s taken a while for me to write this. Firstly, because I was too prideful to admit that I didn’t have a “perfect” life – that my life wasn’t as held together as I wanted it to be. Secondly, because I didn’t want to face the awkwardness of what people would say to me plus I never thought people would understand. But it’s precisely because of these reasons that I’m writing this today.

For you, you and the someone you know who is going through the grief and disappointment of infertility or the loss of a loved one, I really want you to know that you’re not alone in this deep dark tunnel. That, in the midst of pain, the nights of sobbing and crying yourself to sleep, the heavy burden of carrying the grief around, this is not the end. There is a comfort and hope in the knowledge that through the storms in the life, you have a shelter in Christ. Even in the times of despair, cling on to the hope that there is something far greater that God has prepared for you. It may not come in the form of a child or of the good news that you’re hoping for, but it is a promise that the loving God who created the universe, knows exactly what you’re feeling and sees each tear that falls. He has loved us with a love that’s never ending and given us a sure hope of the glory and good that is to come through Christ. So if you ever need someone to talk to, cry with or just simply to sit with, I’m writing this simply to reach out and let you know that you don’t need to go through this alone. I’m not perfect and there are days when I still struggle and grieve and worry about the what-ifs, but I know that I’m not alone in this and that you aren’t too.

I’m not the best writer, but I’ve found that it’s helped me to let everything out when I blog. So if you want to read about my struggles and joys (it’s not always updated though), feel free to head over to iamyoursevermore.wordpress.com .

Till then, I’ll be here if you need me.

Otherwise, read on with this year's finalists entries...

Read This Year's Finalist Entries

“Hello, welcome to Parenthood…”

Thu, 05 Aug 2021 01:33:20 GMT

Here I am, handing over my 13.5 month old son to the Daycare Manager, trying to explain the marks on his face to the point that I find that I have to defend myself for my son’s clumsiness and spatial unawareness. I almost fear that Child Protective Services might knock on my door and start interrogating me. Me being me who dislikes conflict will probably start crying. Cry to the point where I can’t breathe. Stumble for words. Choke. And eventually lose it.

This story is a finalist in Growlife Medical's annual Essay Competition for 2021 . This year's theme is "stories of mothers", where stories of honesty and depth were invited to celebrate mothers through sharing love, loss, heartache, strength, grief and hope. Read on...

It’s 7:54am, 21st July 2021. Wednesday. 

I find myself being over-explanatory to Louise*, “his face had a few meetings with the coffee table over the weekend, as you can see”, pointing to the scars under his chin and over the bridge of his nose.

“Oh you know what Fiona, they’re at that age where they’re knocking their head into things”, Louise replied.

“Phew!” was the response in my head.

...and that’s what I did. Rewind back to 10th June 2020. 1 week after the birth of my son. I lost it. I actually lost my temper at my husband. I couldn’t believe my reaction. I feel it was a culmination of things that all happened sequentially; baby born, baby getting antibiotics because mamma (me!) got a fever during labour, baby got jaundice, baby lost too much weight because mamma (me again!) had low milk supply, baby had to have formula (parents weren’t prepared), insert “no sleep” in there a few times as well. I was however somewhat relieved to know that HelloFresh was at our disposal, but husband accidentally threw out all the protein. That was the straw that broke the camel’s back. When I realised, my reaction was mute. I didn’t say a thing. I went to bed, threw over the doona covers and cried. All the bottling up of emotions within the one week came flooding out into a steady stream of tears. As a mum, and more importantly to note, as a first time mum, I had this sense that I had to be strong-minded and tough. I now had someone to care for. And they wouldn’t tell you how you were performing with words, it’s through cries. It was simply overwhelming. No amount of pre-reading, antenatal classes, or talks with other mums ever prepared me for this. I was just simply overwhelmed and went into this thinking that this whole parenthood thing was text-book. How wrong I was!

My ever-continuing parenthood journey has been shaped by 90% instinct, 5% world wide web and 5% advice (taken with a grain of salt). Every Margot and Maggie will tell me to do this and do that, including my mother. My mother was brought up in a different generation and different culture understandably has a different mindset to mothering. She is a very strong-headed and minded woman. She is the youngest daughter out of eight children so I guess she had to be resilient growing up with older siblings. I remember when I was about 7 years old, I was chased by a German shepherd and my mother was the one throwing herself in front of me, forming a protective shield. I could see myself doing that now with my son if that ever so happened. She is a very protective mother and physically strong for such a petite woman. I know that I didn’t get my strength from her unfortunately (I’m still building on that) but I’m most certain that stubbornness is maternally inherited.

Most of our conversations end with a “let’s agree to disagree”. Her motto, from my perspective, is ‘A chubby baby is a healthy baby. A skinny baby is sick.’ Do I feel it’s an Asian mentality? Mayhaps. So fatten him up mummy!

She has mentioned certain things I have been doing well, and more notably, things I have not performed exceptionally well in (but in a not-so discreet way); Are you sure he can eat pasta at his age? He should still be having mashed foods, shouldn’t you give him a cup of milk or freshly squeezed orange juice? Little man sure has lost some weight. Are you sure his still not hungry? etc. I’ve learnt very hard to ‘accept’ the advice even if I don’t believe in it. It’s better for my mental health to accept it than rather debate it to wits end. I’m still learning to ‘accept’ by the way. We’re very different, my mother and I, in terms of how we raise children (or feed them for that matter). I follow baby led weaning, she doesn’t (mashed foods all the way for her) and creating mess. We’ve had several instances when little man starts coughing on his food. I’ve learnt that’s normal (in certain circumstances of course). That’s how they’ll learn what their mouth is capable of. I believe bare feet is best (until they are fully able to walk). My mother’s subtle suggestion is “let’s go shoe shopping for the baby”. Hence the 5% advice.

My son is 13.5 months old. Is he walking yet? No – well not confidently. Do I care? No. He’ll eventually learn to. He took his time to roll over, and when he did, he just never stopped. He would roll himself over to the electrical cords some days and the floor fan on other days. He loves furniture cruising. He’ll use the side coffee tables to hoist himself up. He knows how to get down safely – but that’s after a couple of instances when he dived head first into the floor and then we consequently had to teach him to land on his feet first.

He loves books as well. His all-time favourite is ‘We’re going on a bear hunt’. He will pick it up from a pile of other books. My husband and I started reading to him when he was only a few weeks old. Now we’re starting to see the fruits of our labour; his recognition, his understanding of emotions, his anticipation when the family see the big brown bear in the cave. Oh my, this feeling I cannot put into words. I’m doing a good job. We’re doing a bloody good job.

Reading is one aspect that both my husband and I strongly instil in our son. My mother-in-law is an educator so my husband grew up knowing reading was very important. She was also the one that brought all those children’s books. On the other hand, I grew up having little to no books until my teenage years. It was either free books you received when you purchased a certain soft drink or a packet of chips back in the 90s. I couldn’t read properly until I was in the fourth grade. I was a late bloomer as one would term it. But once I learnt and I had a library card, I went mad! Knowing what I know now, I wouldn’t want my son to go through that learning delay that I had, if I knew I could do something about it. Now here’s to hoping he has the same love of Sherlock Holmes as I do.

He is growing and I’m growing. Self-growth, if ever there’s a word for it. There should be a game where there’s a treasure chest you can unlock called ‘self growth’ but only if you go through birthing a human and choose, if you so wish, to take on the responsibility of being their full-time carer.

I had social anxiety pre-pregnancy. I feel that I still do, but to a lesser extent. I feel stronger not only because am I voice for myself but for my son. That requirement as a parent to speak up for their children has been acquired. Achievement unlocked.

All I know is that for now I need to be there for my son. Be present. Accept. Share emotions. Confront the unconfronted. Be brave. In the end, you win. Game Over!

*Name changed

Otherwise, read on with this year's finalists entries...

Read This Year's Finalist Entries

You Are the Story

Thu, 05 Aug 2021 01:29:43 GMT

The first time I saw my son was when I visited the hospital on the day he was born. My partner and I took a tube line which snaked its way under the Thames before spitting us out in South London. The hospital looked like a giant confection of white frosting atop a small green mound. We caught the lift to the maternity ward in silence.

This story is a finalist in Growlife Medical's annual Essay Competition for 2021 . This year's theme is "stories of mothers", where stories of honesty and depth were invited to celebrate mothers through sharing love, loss, heartache, strength, grief and hope. Read on...

My teenage sister-in-law struggled to breastfeed her son in the corner of the room. I did my best to help her by propping up his tiny head with the palm of my hand. I was the interloper. I hadn’t been there to witness those first flickering ultrasound images, his heartbeat as delicate as a feather. I hadn’t carried him within my body for months on end, waiting patiently for his arrival.

Through the window I could see the rest of London stretching into the distance, far away and out of reach. I was on the edge of something but didn’t quite know what it was. The other babies screamed and gurgled and mewed. He was silent, his bright eyes a beacon of calm amongst the chaos. Even the nurses commented. He’s been here before, hasn’t he? I’ve told him about this moment many times and it has become part of his origin story. How in the beginning he was the quiet, placid baby and I was his aunt cradling him in the hospital.

The vista of the new baby and proud family in the hospital room is normal, palatable. But the reality is more fragmented than that. A baby boy was born to a young mother in London and placed in foster care seven months later. Family members were assessed for their suitability as carers: maternal grandparents, an uncle and his Australian wife—me. For over a year the baby waited in limbo as decisions about his life played out in the family court. Our son finally came to live with us almost two years after that morning in the hospital.

I’m aware that we tell ourselves stories in an attempt to make sense of life and its messiness, fraught with so many variables. This is the power of a story. But if the narrative is this fractured in my mind, how confusing must it be for my son? Does it stab at his memory, all shards and sharp edges; or is it out of focus, forever beyond his reach? Where can we look to see our family reflected back to us? There are films, books and television shows about families made through adoption. But overwhelmingly they carry a shallow arc of redemption that romanticises the adopted child. Popular culture is so filled with adoption that it ceases to be part of the story: Spiderman, Superman, Dorothy, Harry Potter, Princess Leia and Luke Skywalker were all adopted. The narrative of adoption is one of benevolence and neat endings, of the saviour and the saved. That doesn’t reflect our story. The only neat endings in life occur when something is pushed out of sight.

My baby sleeps, cocooned in the cot that sits snug in the corner of the room, soft curls corkscrew from his skull. One sock has been playfully pulled off and stuffed down between the wall and the bedding, a habit he will have for years to come.

I watch over him. How is it possible that I know so little about my own child? One day his dreams, quirks and fears will be as familiar to me as the sureness of my breath. But in this moment, I don’t know any of this, can’t quite grasp it clearly. Those stories live only in the landscape of my imagination.

What was lost feels enormous, it has no borders. With the baby came a red book of medical records, a single page of typed notes and a small photo album. The medical records are blank in some areas, so I don’t know when he took his first step or got his first tooth. The typed notes are sparse, telling us to give him an extra bottle at midnight and that his favourite TV show is Peppa Pig. But so many things are left out, including that he didn’t like to be held when he went to sleep. The photographs span the time he spent in foster care: his first birthday, first Christmas, picnics in the park and visits to playgroup. I don’t know who many of the people in the photographs are, so I can’t tell him who he spent his first birthday with. He has a favourite teddy and a blanket, but I don’t know who gave them to him. Looking at these photographs, I see that my son’s eyes are haunted.

Not long after I became a mother, I spent a night out at an East London pub with friends from work. I hadn’t been out with them since the adoption. The banter around the rickety table was awkward. It was obvious I’d changed. I didn’t have a tiny baby who had entered my world largely unencumbered. I arrived at the pub with extra baggage and found it hard to make small talk.

It was May and we sat outside, so that the smokers could light up freely. Even though summer was fast approaching, we huddled close together with our coats on. A friend’s new boyfriend came back from the bar and tried to join our conversation. So you had a child the easy way? A wave of something hot passed through me: a mixture of anger and shame. My friends didn’t say anything. It was all new territory for them.

This is a conversation that has been mirrored over the years—at dinner parties, school pick-up and shopping centres. By friends, other parents and strangers. For some people, the questions never get old. Didn’t I want a child who looked just like me? Didn’t I want my own child? Could I even have my own children? This concept, the very idea of owning a child, was dangled in front of me like the pinnacle of authentic motherhood. Part of the identity tied to motherhood is the narrative that carrying and giving birth to a child is the experience that sets you up for life as a mother. I can’t say what it is like to give birth to my own child, and it is an experience that I may never know.

The conversations also made me question whether I was good enough to be the saint that adoptive mothers are meant to be. Could I recognise and understand the trauma behind the attachment disorders, language delays, night terrors and possible learning difficulties? When people told me I was doing a good job (which happens even to this day: you are so good with him) I questioned their intentions. Would they say this if I was his biological mother? Would they say this to the other parents at the school gate?

I think back to the beginning of us, me and him. We are waiting for a bus, trying to go somewhere, to get out of the house. I have no idea how to get his clunky pram onto a heaving London bus, no idea where I should take an almost two-year-old or what exactly I should be doing to fill the seemingly endless expanse of time.

My child looks nothing like me, so I get a lot of attention. Especially from people who think they have it figured out: I am his nanny, his foster carer, his father’s new girlfriend—never his mother. I ignore the curious glances and comments and wait for the bus.

He places his hand in mine, and the loss beats heavy in my chest. At night I wake from dreams that sweat with horrible anticipation. I see my son falling over the edge of a cliff or running in front of a car. How quickly I could lose grip of his tiny hand.

The greatest thing we lose by leaving people out of the dialogue on motherhood isn’t just that a diversity box hasn’t been ticked or a quota hasn’t been met. What we lose lies in the denial of the creativity and vitality that diversity of story brings to the arts and wider society. These are the voices that press against the fabric of cultural expectation and adds to the richness of story. The barriers we face as outsiders both hinder and enhance our creativity. Writing, storytelling and the arts are perfect vehicles for representing a multiplicity of voices and for creating empathy and understanding. There are new stories waiting for us, if we make space for them.

The strongest link I have with my son will always be based on narrative, not genetics. Friends and strangers remark on our subtle similarities, that we have the same eyes or smile. What they really see is that we have the same expressions and mannerisms. We have been so shaped by story and memory that we mirror each other. We are a family because it was written so. Because of child protection reports, the issuing of a new birth certificate and a chain of emails that crisscrossed between a network of social workers. I even wrote my name into his by interweaving my surname into his birth name.

Writing this story is a kind of alchemy: it carries with it the power to transform. I write my way back to when I first held my son in that hospital room overlooking London. With my words I map our memories and wrap him in them, so he will never forget. I remember it all, and I write it down. Until here we are: I am at the centre of his story and he is at the centre of mine.

Otherwise, read on with this year's finalists entries...

Read This Year's Finalist Entries

The Story of a Mother

Thu, 05 Aug 2021 01:26:45 GMT

This story is a finalist in Growlife Medical's annual Essay Competition for 2021 . This year's theme is "stories of mothers", where stories of honesty and depth were invited to celebrate mothers through sharing love, loss, heartache, strength, grief and hope. Read on...

If you google the definition of motherhood the oxford dictionary says “the state of being a mother”. When you then look up the definition of mother it says “a woman in relation to her child or children”. This was clearly not written by a parent let alone a mother. If you were to ask me the definition of motherhood or mother, I would tell you it simply can not be defined in just a few words. Every mother has their own definition from their own story. Being a mother is such a unique experience, it's like every mother is an ingredient in a cake recipe. We are all different and come from different shelves in the pantry but when we come together and combine and share our stories we create a bloody delicious cake, a masterpiece, a village, the ultimate motherhood.

It's 12:30pm on Easter Saturday. I am laid in the recovery room with a tube up my nose. I just had an emergency c-section after 10cm dilated and 3 hours of pushing. My oxygen levels had dropped, I can't feel my legs and the top part of my body is shaking, but not like a polaroid picture. The epidural, although was the best thing ever in the height of labour, the come down was not something I was prepared for, it was not something I could control. Nobody told me about “the shakes”. The nurse told me to suck my thumb to stop them, but this was only a temporary fix. My partner was to the left of me. He was holding our beautiful baby boy, he had just given me him for a cuddle but I couldn't stop shaking, I couldn't control my own body. How was I supposed to control my own baby? It was at this point, I was no longer the person I was yesterday. I'm no longer the Jess that works all the time, I'm no longer the person who puts everything and everyone else a priority. I'm a mother now, my priority is my baby! Am I ready for this? You spend 9 months getting baby ready, but you don't spend any time getting mother ready.

So now I have a beautiful baby boy. I am about to navigate the whole new chapter of caring for this creation we have made, attending to his every need, watching him grow and develop into the most perfect person. But I also need to run the hurdle race of becoming a mother as well. As a first time mum, this is A LOT. Being a mother can be lonely sometimes, not because you are alone - I mean you have a little bear attached to you nearly 18 hours a day. But it feels lonely because at times it feels like no one sees all the things you do or have to do. The hours spent walking round the bedroom at 1am in the morning because your newborn has wind and wont settle. The challenges of being able to breastfeed. The countless second guessing of yourself, is he warm enough? What's that rash? Is he still breathing? He is only cat napping, what am I doing wrong.

But the truth is, you are not doing anything wrong. There is no wrong or right way to be a mother, there is only YOUR WAY. Just another thing to add to the list or things you need to master now that bundle of joy is in your arms. So now we have on our to-do list, caring for a baby, finding your way of being a mother and reidentifying yourself as you are now a new person. Of course the latter is the last on the priority list.

Back to the recovery room. The midwife asks I have got any collected colostrum i brought to hospital with me. Colo - what now? Colostrum the milk that can begin to generate just prior to giving birth, some mums are able to express and store in the days leading up to birth. No, I do not have this. I did not know this was a thing. She begins to fondle my breasts to see what milk she can get… nothing is coming out. I feel a lump in my throat, an emptiness in my body. She then proceeds to give our boy some formula milk. I can't control this, another thing I can't control. This feeling, this emotion it has a name. Mum guilt. Why did I not know about this, why did I not do more research. I had every intention to breastfeed, giving him formula was not even on our radar. Now my baby first feed is formula. I feel myself getting emotional, i'm exhausted and I don't know what to do, the nurse tells us we can not go to the ward for another few hours due to my oxygen levels. I turn over and close my eyes, I can not let my partner or baby see that i'm currently an internal emotional wreck.

My milk didn't come in until Day 9. So the start of my breastfeeding journey was not what everybody told me it would be like. I'm so grateful and happy and just bloody proud of myself for not giving up before this. Trust me, there were times I nearly did. It was the middle of the night and my baby was unsettled, crying. He latched on easily, but he kept coming off. My partner was trying to hand express but nothing was coming out, where was it? Why is this not happening like they said it would. The more my baby cried, the more I cried. My partner looked at me and said “TJ needs you more than he needs your milk”. He was 100% right, but this is not what I planned or pictured. Do I give up? No, I wasn't ready to give up. I had not reached out to every avenue yet. I told my partner, when I get to the point where I can put my hand up and say I have tried my best, that is when I will admit defeat. The next day, I was in the shower and with that, this white liquid gold streamed from my breasts. It was like a little child seeing snow for the first time. I cried. Happy tears and the biggest sigh of relief. The next day we went to see a Lactation Consultant. Telling the LC my experience so far I cried, she told me she wouldn't have expected my milk to come in til at least day 8 after my labour experience, my emergency c section and because i have larger breasts there is more ducts and more volume for the milk to travel. I cried more, where was this information 10 days ago. But also relieved, I had beaten myself up, blaming myself, but as I said before the truth is every mother is a different ingredient, everybody is different. After this, it all came easy. It was after this that I realised breastfeeding is not just important as a nutritional aspect for my baby. But the bond it is creating between a mother and her son. The feelings and emotions I get when breastfeeding is nothing I could ever describe. I remember moments when I would feel frustrated because breastfeeding was an inconvenience to my schedule, but when my baby is latched onto my breast and he looks into my eyes with his baby blues, nothing, not even the moment I proposed to my husband to be will ever compare.

Writing this nearly 4 months on from giving birth and reflecting on my 4 month journey as a mother it occurs to me that the past 4 months have been full of strength, grief, guilt and hope. From the guilt of agreeing to be induced to the strength of not giving up on my breastfeeding journey. But most importantly the past 4 months have been filled with love. The type of love I have never experienced before, the type of love that I have never felt before. The type of love that has changed me and made me a stronger person with a bigger purpose and why. My story of being a mother is ongoing, being a mother never ends, and I know even in 40 years time I will still be learning how to be a mother. Being my little boy's mother is so important, especially in his early life. I am his role model, his rock, his best friend. In 2021, women are more successful, more career focused and therefore more busy leading more stressful hectic lives then that of women 40 years ago. Because of this, more support is needed so we as mothers can be that person in the early stages of our babies lives. I look back at my first 4 months. I created a bond, a love like no other and a supportive environment for my baby to grow and thrive.

I wish I knew then what I know now, I feel a lot of things would have been totally different. If I had to describe motherhood - The most challenging but rewarding accomplishment, the adventure of a lifetime.

Otherwise, read on with this year's finalists entries...

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My Decade of Breastfeeding

Thu, 05 Aug 2021 01:23:44 GMT

When pregnant with my first child I was absolutely determined to breastfeed. My midwife, women I met through antenatal yoga classes, and my sister-in-law, all gave me confidence to expect that I would be able to breastfeed successfully. My husband also highly valued breastfeeding and once our baby arrived he helped me create a nurturing sanctuary where my daughter and I were treated like royalty and a wave of my hand would bring a three course meal and a foot rub.

This story is a finalist in Growlife Medical's annual Essay Competition for 2021 . This year's theme is "stories of mothers", where stories of honesty and depth were invited to celebrate mothers through sharing love, loss, heartache, strength, grief and hope. Read on...

I’d been pretty busy over the past few years. Then one quiet afternoon I had time to sit and think and I realised with a shock that I had been out of the paid workforce for over a decade!

“What have I been doing with my time?” I wondered. Then it dawned on me. I’d been breastfeeding!

Having recently passed the ten year mark I must be due for something - long service leave, an honorary doctorate in breast feeding, a new bra?

Luckily, I could be so focused in those early days. I had no other children to look after and had given up my paid job. I would assume the position of marathon breastfeeder: get comfortable in bed or on the couch; have piles of books and magazines beside me; my journal for writing; a water bottle; a bowl of seeds and nuts; the phone. From the outside, it might have looked like poor productivity but there was actually heaps going on. Basically 24/7, my new baby was coaching me in how to be her mother. By spending all that time with her in my arms we developed a strategic partnership that would see us through the highs and lows of our future life together.

Being an apprentice breastfeeder hurt, literally....for a while. I remember the shock as I felt her strong vice like gums grip with a primal hunger parts of my body that had never had to work a day in their lives! My soft, protected, untested nipples screamed in protest at having to do more than just look pretty. Still, feed by feed, day by day, my nipples toughened up and buckled down to the job.

Even so it was a steep learning curve - the sort of job where you have to hit the ground running without a week’s orientation and training. I was utterly unprepared for just how much life was happening to my breasts: the size they filled to; the tautness as they swelled with milk; the let downs and leaking nipples; and the tell-tale wet spots on the front of shirts. Also, I could never have imagined the wonderful physical satisfaction of feeding my baby successfully and her draining my full breasts, or the gorgeous feeling of holding my soft angel, gazing at her profile, getting to know her little body, stroking her lovely plump flesh. What a wonderful love affair to be a part of!

Of course breastfeeding is not all chocolates and roses. It wasn't for me and it isn't for a lot of women. Nearly every woman I've met, even women who were experienced breastfeeders on to their fourth or fifth child, still had feeding issues at some time in their breastfeeding careers.

Probably, the biggest hurdle I ever had to overcome was my first bout of mastitis when my baby was eight weeks old. It was a fairly serious bout - I was lucky to avoid surgery, and instead visited a breast clinic weekly for a month to syringe a cyst that had developed.

Through it all, my midwife, friends and sister-in-law kept saying, “The best thing you can do is keep feeding through this!” The crisis began to pass and I was off to a more stable pace of life with my feeding.

All the material I read, my peers and my midwife encouraged extended breastfeeding and let me know it was fine to feed a baby beyond six months old, and was also possible to feed through pregnancy and to then tandem feed with two little breastfeeders. When the breast milk came in

for my second new baby, my three year old was in heaven and renewed her interest in breastfeeding with a passion!

It was certainly handy to have an experienced and competent breastfeeder in the family when the baby milk came in. If I ever felt a hint of engorgement I would call my willing little three year old over, welcome her into my lap and she would take the edge off my discomfort and keep engorgement at bay.

Also, my nipples never needed that toughening up time again. They were ready and hardened for the most ravenous baby’s gums for the rest of my breastfeeding career.

Early into the tandem feeding stage of my breastfeeding career, I decided I could not stand the overstimulation involved in feeding my baby and my toddler at the same time, one on each breast. It felt too much like I was being eaten alive by piranhas! It was at this time that I began to gain experience in negotiation skills, conflict management, and in some cases crisis management. Sometimes it was just very, very difficult to stand by and watch another child drinking all that good tucker and being asked to wait.

I fed my first two darlings till their fifth birthday. By that stage I’d had enough. The vigorousness with which the older girls breastfed was like being milked by young giraffes - all legs and arms and big doughy eyes looking up at me while they efficiently got what they needed and then took off for their busy play.

In my community, I feel like I’m middle of the road with my breastfeeding statistics. I’ve known women to be feeding three members of their family during the same period, and I’m not talking about their husband, I’m talking about a baby, a toddler, and a young one. I’ve also known women to be comfort feeding children until they are six, seven, eight or nine years old. I’ve known other women who are feeding well into their second decade. As an older mother I may be one of the few women to have fed through the early stages of menopause.

However in comparison to the wider community in Australia and other first world countries, women who feed to at least to six months, let alone beyond are the minority, which is a shame when you consider all the amazing benefits for both baby and mother.

There’s still a way to go for breastfeeding to be accepted as a valuable activity.

Personally, I felt it to be part of my mission statement to take my breastfeeding out into the community as a role model and mentor particularly to young women. I’ve breastfed absolutely everywhere in my decade long career. I’ve fed in cafes and restaurants; in libraries; at children’s soccer matches; in hospitals, both when visiting patients and when I was a patient; on planes, buses and trains; at weddings and funerals; during performances of the Queensland Ballet and during concerts at Woodford Folk Festival.

I never breastfed while driving, though I have breastfed whilst a passenger.

The one place I never breastfed was the toilet, and it’s close relative, the designated breastfeeding rooms in the public toilets in shopping centres. I’m thankful they have those places for women who feel they couldn’t comfortably feed in public, but they weren’t places I could relax and enjoy. No fresh air, no natural lighting, no soothing ambience. I lean towards claustrophobia so I was only going to be fighting off a panic attack if I settled down for a feed in those places.

I did breastfeed whilst performing in a choir once.

There have been many times that I have been grateful for being a breastfeeder.

When our family home burnt down and my eight month old baby and I needed to spend a night in hospital, my breastfeeding supporters said, “You can feed through this!” It was not only during that initial crisis but the months it took to recover and get our lives back on track, that breastfeeding was one of my best coping strategies as a mother.

When a family member had a cancer diagnosis, being able to breastfeed my baby and toddler during hospital visits was a god send. When I spent three nights in hospital with a broken leg, being able to breastfeed my toddler was a deep comfort to both her and I, having been unused to separation.

Breastfeeding is also a wonderful way of bonding again after clashing with a cranky wilful toddler, or after parenting from a tired, inflexible place as a mum. A long, quiet breastfeed can calm both mother and toddler and reconnect us into a loving relationship.

By openly breastfeeding at family gatherings or in public, we are being powerful role models for our daughters. On many occasions whilst breastfeeding my baby, my toddler or young child would be sitting next to me breastfeeding their favourite doll or stuffed pet of choice. One of my daughters, whose favourite animal is an emu, was known to carry Emu in a sling and then sit down and give them a quick, loving breastfeed.

When I broke my leg and was in hospital for three days and contemplating weaning my youngest who was 3 3⁄4 at the time, my eldest daughter, a few months off ten said, “Oh Mum, what a shame. It seems unfair that she can’t at least breastfeed for her first four years!”

I was surprised and pleased to hear her advocating for her sister’s rights for extended breastfeeding. These are the values of a young girl from the next generation, who has seen her mother breastfeed her babies, and has grown up in a community of women who breastfeed openly at picnics, gatherings, dances. She has grown up knowing breastfeeding to be a natural way for a mother to feed her baby.

So how did I know when it was time to stop breastfeeding? Everyone has their signs. For some women it is a tired feeling and a need to have their bodies back to themselves. Some feel reluctant to feed an older child in public. I certainly felt some of all of this. When I reached the ten year mark I just knew it was time to claim my body back for myself.

Mainstream media suggest it might be when your child can walk up to you and ask for a breastfeed, or when they lift up Mum’s top and help themselves!

These are just sensational ways of expressing intolerance and ignorance about the benefits of breastfeeding for older children!

Occasionally I see a story in the media where someone has taken offence to a mother breastfeeding in public. During my decade long public career, I never once experienced judgement or distaste. In fact it was just the opposite! Women would give me a smile. Older women would come up and say, ”It’s the best thing for them, isn’t it dear.” Women my own age would ask me questions, like, “When do you know it’s time to wean?”, and I would give them my personal opinion, or they would tell me some of their own breastfeeding stories.

Over the past decade I have honed my conflict resolution and negotiation skills, I work well within a team and have excellent organisation and time management skills, all of which make me highly employable in the paid work force.

However, I have bonded so strongly with my darlings, and have so immersed myself in the role of mother, I think I’ll put off returning to the paid workforce for just a little longer.

Being a mother is priceless and even though they’re now off my breasts, my children are still in my lap and within arms-reach, and I think I’m just going to stay home a little longer and enjoy them while I can.

Otherwise, read on with this year's finalists entries...

Discovering Motherhood

Tue, 03 Aug 2021 01:20:43 GMT

For me, it started with a desire I didn’t know I would have. It wasn’t a desire as strong as the lady who I later donated eggs to. For her, the need to mother was so intense that she would never feel complete without birthing a child, irrespective of that child having a biological connection to her. For me, it started with a desire.

This story is a finalist in Growlife Medical's annual Essay Competition for 2021 . This year's theme is "stories of mothers", where stories of honesty and depth were invited to celebrate mothers through sharing love, loss, heartache, strength, grief and hope. Read on...

Next came medical assistance. For those who have been on the IVF roller coaster, here is where the journey of motherhood commences, regardless of the outcome. For my friends currently on that rollercoaster I see their hope, fear, excitement, grief, physical exhaustion, hormonal outbursts, and unbreakable dedication to the baby they are desperate to manifest.

Birth was a bizarre meeting. I had heard her heartbeat on many occasions, the first time instantly becoming one of my greatest memories. I had seen her image, from strange bird shadow to perfect baby profile, with ten tiny fingers and ten tiny toes. She had kicked and squirmed and hiccupped in utero. But her birth brought a whole other swathe of reality sealed with a piercing scream that echoed her good health and our awe. Her measurements and vitals were reassuring, her placenta was in-tact and home-bound we were sent with a new focus, on the best conceivable prize. A gift so extraordinarily precious, so extremely vulnerable. So loud but so silent. Absolutely and completely reliant on us, her most informed and totally ignorant parents, to anticipate, interpret and attend to her every need, despite exhaustion, pain, hunger, hormone, time or any other excuse.

Newborn Land was a secret place we had heard mention of but couldn’t fathom. It was difficult to navigate, clouded in a jet lag that could not be slept-off but only became more engulfing. It was extreme to say the least. Although the motherhood journey may start before Newborn Land, it is the destination that pushes so many to relational, emotional, hormonal and mental limits, while in recovery from being physically and spiritually torn apart in exchange for bringing a new life into the world.

Surviving Newborn Land changed everything. Smiles became packages of joy frequently offered and always absorbed as mini rewards. Crying became a decipherable form of communication which took away the stress of guesswork. Sleep became a more regular welcomed visitor. And time awake became an obsessive opportunity to smell her sweet head, kiss her soft cheeks, and get willingly lost in her baby vortex. There’s nothing this mother wouldn’t sacrifice for her.

There’s nothing more important than her and conversely, without her, there’d be nothing.

I thought I knew unconditional love before she came along. I thought I knew the depth of my mother’s love. I thought I didn’t need to have a kid to give unconditional love. I thought I had given unconditional love. I was wrong. I was so far off knowing what unconditional love was until motherhood became my reality.

What completely blew my mind is that upon knowing unconditional love for my child, I didn’t think I could love anyone else so totally. Astoundingly, when my second child joined our family, an unknown bounty of equally unconditional love existed for her too. I didn’t know so much love could exist for one person, let alone more. The depth of love for my kids is all consuming. It doesn’t seem plausible to be able to channel it to one, let alone an equally expansive amount to two kids.

For me, motherhood is the journey to, discovery of and dedication of motherly love. Unlimited, unwavering love, that I never fully knew before.

Otherwise, read on with this year's finalists entries...

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United in Motherhood

Tue, 03 Aug 2021 01:16:52 GMT

I had always known I wanted children; possibly three, probably two, definitely not one only. I just wasn’t in any rush to have them. I filled my twenties with all the other standard achievements and experiences that belong to that age group; buying a house, marrying my high school sweetheart and progressing my career. We managed a bit of travel too. It was a great time in my life, with more ups than downs and I was quite content with my childless life. But then as my thirtieth birthday loomed, I could almost feel my ovaries shrivelling, and there was a sudden urgency to start a family.

I gave birth a few months before I ticked over to the big 3-0 and breathed a sigh of relief; I had met my own fertility deadline. I fell in love with my firstborn during those hazy newborn days. He had become the centre of my universe, much like the experience of most new parents, I imagine. I was happy in a blur of nappies, cuddles and sleepless nights. The breastfeeding journey was smooth, it was one of my favourite parts of motherhood, in fact, and our son was filling out his onesies in record time. I felt good.

As time progressed, the well-meaning support group surrounding our small family reassured me that sleep would improve after the ‘fourth trimester’; the night feeds would gradually drop and the longer stretches would allow better rest for everyone. At first, I believed them. At just twelve weeks of age, my son magically slept through the night. I was so proud, thinking this was due to something I had done. The ambient temperature? The bedding surface? The incline? He never slept that well again, until he was two and a half. Sleep got bad. Really bad. Waking every twenty minutes bad. Suddenly, all I could think about was sleep, or lack thereof. Everyone around me was asking me how I was doing it, as if I had a choice. Apart from leaving him to cry, we tried everything. After a while, I stopped reading the sleep articles and I disengaged from conversations about sleep in my mums’ group. Hearing about other babies sleeping through the night made my throat tighten and my shoulders stiffen. The people around me were sending out clear messages that my son’s sleep was not ‘normal’. Half the time I felt like a failure and the other half I felt like my child was broken when it came to sleep.

Fast forward eighteen months and we desperately sought the advice of a sleep physician. After a traumatic sleep study, connected to a tangle of wires and recorded on film in an old hospital room, a bunch of strangers analysed our son’s sleep. We were given a diagnosis of silent reflux caused by chronic constipation. Under the direction of a specialist, the treatment worked almost immediately. All of a sudden, our son was waking only two to three times a night. It might not have sounded great to any other parent of a toddler, but for me, it was life-changing. We could watch a movie uninterrupted, I could have a shower in peace, I could get some actual sleep. The options were endless. The improvement in sleep, for me, was also validating. I felt justified in not having done any drastic sleep-training. My son’s unresolved medical issues could not have been fully addressed with a behavioural approach.

Reflecting on the experience with my firstborn, I wish I had not stressed as much as I did about what my child should have been doing. According to the textbooks. According to the mummy blogs. According to the sleep ‘experts’. According to my mother-in-law. The combination of sleep deprivation for me and worry over my son really took a toll on my mental health. I would snap at my husband and cry over little things I would have shrugged off previously. But it’s easy to think in hindsight, about how I should have responded.

After my second son was born, I vowed that things would be different. My eldest son had only just started sleeping through the night at the time of his brother’s birth. I was determined to get some solid sleep this time around. I tried my hardest to nurture a ‘good’ sleeper and I ended up in pretty much the same situation as the first time. This time around, though, there was no diagnosis of any medical conditions and I just had to accept things as they were. At the very worst, at around twelve months of age, my second son was waking every twenty minutes at night. Just like the first.

I found myself caught up in all the same feelings of frustration, desperation and helplessness. With two kids in the mix, I couldn’t just have a nap during the day anymore, because of course my eldest son had dropped his day nap at a ridiculously young age too. The behaviours and meltdowns that come with two young children were that much harder to deal with when operating on next to no sleep. And the fact that I could never leave my youngest son to sleep on his own meant that I was neglecting myself; showers were cut short, ‘date nights’ at home stopped short, half-read books were left abandoned.

I’m pleased to report that the situation is slowly improving, and I can see the light at the end of the tunnel. I can now appreciate some of those little things again, like calling a friend without the worry of being interrupted by a crying baby or enjoying a glass of wine in the evening with my husband. But the experience has made me decide that two children is enough for me. I love both of my sons with a fiery passion but no more. I cannot bear to think of the sleepless nights again. For whatever reason, we make non-sleepers and I have had to accept that.

I believe that every mother has her own struggles, even if we cannot see them from the outside. For some, it may be fertility issues or newborn feeding difficulties, for others it may be their physical recovery post-birth. So, I do feel extremely lucky that I was able to breastfeed both boys into toddlerhood and that both boys developed well and grew healthily, for the most part. I relish the cuddles and kisses. I beam proudly when I see my children act kindly to others or achieve a new skill they have been working towards. Becoming a mother had been relatively easy for me, and I was grateful for that, but being a mother has been the hardest job in the world. If I can gain anything from my sleep deprivation experience, it is knowing that we each have our own struggles in motherhood, however I’d like to think we can all find things we are grateful for, no matter how small they seem. And during the tough times, these thoughts can guide us safely to the other side. Our experiences are more similar than different, uniting us in motherhood.

Otherwise, read on with this year's finalists entries...

Read This Year's Finalist Entries

Mum

Mon, 02 Aug 2021 01:13:58 GMT

This story is a finalist in the school aged category of Growlife Medical's annual Essay Competition for 2021 . This year's theme is "stories of mothers", where stories of honesty and depth were invited to celebrate mothers through sharing love, loss, heartache, strength, grief and hope. Read on...

We like to play with my mum. She is fun. She is nice and she looks after the family and she is super dooper.

Written by Aleks Djuric

8 yrs old

Otherwise, read on with this year's finalists entries...

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Mother’s Thumb: What to do about wrist and thumb pain after pregnancy

Wed, 16 Jun 2021 01:10:50 GMT

Our hands connect us with the world; we use them to work, communicate and to care for not only ourselves, but others. With the welcoming of baby into the world comes the endless use of your hands – picking baby up, holding their head while breastfeeding, scooping formula, burping, the list goes on. This unfortunately takes a toll on your body, particularly your wrists. Due to repeated thumb and wrist movement needed while caring for baby and additional factors like hormonal changes and fluid retention, mums are particularly prone to developing a painful condition called De Quervain’s tenosynovitis (also known as Mummy or Mother’s thumb).

Sauhin Ng is an Occupational Therapist and Practitioner of Hand Therapy who has recently joined the Growlife Medical team with skills specialising in the management of hand, wrist and elbow conditions conditions. In her experience, she regularly sees the impact and frustrations associated with hand and wrist pain. However, conditions such as De Quervain’s which is prevalent in an estimated 50-90% of mothers are too often swept under the rug.

The condition rarely goes away on its own if not recognised and managed early, but fortunately is easily treated. Sauhin feels strongly about tackling these conditions early to avoid pain taking over your everyday life and longer-term damage that may lead to needing surgery.

In this article, Sauhin explains more about De Quervain’s tenosynovitis (or Mother’s thumb), shares some easy tweaks that can deliver some much-needed relief, and other options out there to treat the pain.

What is De Quervain’s tenosynovitis and why do Mothers so commonly get it?

It is a painful condition where the protective layering of two tendons that run to the thumb become inflamed or thickened, subsequently impairing the glide of the tendons through a tunnel-like structure on the side of your wrist.

Though anyone can develop the condition, it is often associated with pregnancy, breastfeeding and caring for young children due to the overuse of the thumb and wrist tendons during lifting and feeding. For this reason, it can also affect fathers and grandparents too! It can also occur following forceful, repetitive hand movements such as playing instruments, cutting with scissors, or after an acute injury such as a direct blow or a wrenching force to the wrist and hand like a yanking of a dog lead.

Pain and swelling at the thumb side of the wrist. Pain can also radiate to the thumb and up the forearm.
Pain when moving the thumb and/or wrist, and when gripping or pinching objects.
Loss of movement of the thumb and/or wrist.
Loss of pinch strength.
A sticky or catching sensation when moving the thumb.

Adjust the way you lift your baby

The key to reducing pain and preventing further irritation to the wrist tendons is to modify the way you use your hands while caring for your baby. Modifying your lifting technique helps to redistribute the force that aggravates the affected tendons.

Avoid repetitive lifting of baby under their armpits using the ‘L’ shape lift (thumbs on their chest, fingers on their back).

Try and lift from under their bottom using a ‘scooping’ action.
Keep your thumbs tucked in, wrists straight, and palms facing up as you lift them up. You can do this one handed or using your other hand to support behind baby’s head.
Another option is to place your hands either side of their ribcage and gently squeeze to lift.
Consider a drop-side cot. It is important that you ensure all mechanisms are functioning and abide by Australian standards.
If you are reaching down low to pick baby up, get as close to them as possible (rather than using your arms to reach out) and use your entire body to lift including bending of your knees.

2. Consider your nursing position

Whether you are breastfeeding or using a bottle, nursing positions put significant strain on your wrists that may already be inflamed.

Vary your nursing positions.

Use a nursing pillow to help support baby’s head so your wrist and thumb do not stay in a prolonged awkward position.
Try to keep your thumbs tucked in and wrists as straight as possible.

Sometimes problems with latching can lead to needing to constantly adjust the position of baby’s head while feeding. Consider seeing a lactation consultant for strategies to help with this.

3. Rest your wrists

Apply a cold pack to the thumb side of your wrist for 5-10 minutes several times a day.
Limit the use of your smartphone or adjust the way you use it. Avoid using your thumbs to hold the phone and text/swipe. Instead, lean the phone on your palm (thumb tucked in), and use your other pointer finger to text/swipe.
Limit and avoid any activities that aggravate your thumb and wrist pain such as unscrewing bottles, scooping formula. If possible, ask for help with these tasks or talk to a hand therapist for strategies on modifying these tasks.

4. See a hand therapist for a custom-fit splint and exercises

A hand therapist will mould a custom splint to limit your wrist and thumb movement to allow the affected tendons to rest and reduce the inflammation. They will also develop a treatment programme aimed at reducing your pain, enabling you to care for your baby (while caring for your wrist), and gradually strengthening your wrist so you can return to your meaningful activities and avoid re-injury.

5. Talk to your GP

If you are continuing to have pain even after attempts to rest the hand and use a splint, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen and/or a cortisone injection in combination with the use of a splint has been shown to have good success in treating this condition.
If symptoms do not resolve over an extended period of time, you may want to discuss surgical interventions with your GP. An orthopaedic or plastic surgeon may consider a compartment release.

What are the Symptoms?

5 Tips to Manage and Treat De Quervain’s pain

Why Sick Kids Need a GP not Emergency

Wed, 17 Feb 2021 01:08:54 GMT

Right now, we are seeing a strange trend. Emergency Departments are overwhelmed with unprecedented high demand. But mostly for minor illnesses. At the same time, GPs are wondering where all the sick kids have gone? Our Emergency colleagues are really happy to help you where your child has an urgent problem or is seriously unwell. But they are struggling to keep up due to the numbers of people presenting with coughs and colds.

Dr Emma Scriven discusses her experience as a parent, and how you can have more convenient, safe care, in a setting where you're not surrounded by dozens of people with infectious illnesses.

Things have changed a bit during COVID, but at Growlife Medical , we are still here for you.

Help! My Child is Sick With Fever or Cough

Sometimes it’s clear from our consultation that your child is significantly unwell and needs urgent medical treatment in hospital. If this is the case I will recommend and arrange referral to the appropriate emergency department and send a letter of referral directly to the hospital. This is exactly what would happen if you were seen in clinic.

Fortunately most children will not be seriously unwell and can be managed at home. Most commonly these are the children with viral illnesses who are certainly feeling miserable but just need lots of TLC and close monitoring by parents. Unfortunately with the current situation most of these children will need a covid swab. This can be arranged via a local pathology company and results are back in approximately 24 hours. For these children I would usually discuss appropriate treatments at home, how to monitor for signs of deterioration and when to seek further medical help. Frequently I will book a review appointment in 24-48 hours (once covid swab is back) for an in clinic review to ensure the child is getting better. This again is almost identical to the treatment I would usually provide face to face. Many parents are able to cancel the follow up as their child is improving.

And then there is a group of children that fit somewhere in the middle. The kids that are not unwell enough to need to go to emergency but have some features of concern. Perhaps there is concern about their breathing and I need to listen to their chest. Maybe there is a rash that needs closer examination. Sometimes it’s because the child is very young or has a underlying medical condition. For those children we have the ability to arrange to see them in person. Usually this means being seen in our isolation room and the doctor dressing up in a scary looking gown, gloves and mask. Sometimes for higher risk patients it might mean referral to a nearby respiratory clinic. But rest assured, if we feel you need to be seen and examined, we will arrange for that to happen.

I hope that this helps clear up some of the uncertainties around telehealth. If you have any concerns or questions our fantastic team are always happy to speak to you. We will endeavour to offer unwell children appointments on the day, sometimes even within the hour.

I will finish by quickly touching on covid swabs. They are uncomfortable and unpleasant. I don’t like them and my children hate them. I don’t like having to ask patients, especially children, to have them done. And as soon as it’s safe and reasonable to stop requesting them I will. But for now unfortunately anyone with relevant symptoms needs a swab. It is the most effective way of ensuring covid is not circulating in the community and an important component of our clinic’s covid safety plan. We want to continue to provide all aspects of health care to our community in an environment that is safe for all.

We Will See You in Person Where Needed

At Growlife Medical we believe in maintaining a lifelong connection with you and your family. In sickness, we know how to safely assess and manage children to ensure they get the treatment they need. And by knowing what is going on with your family, we can ensure preventative care is in place as well.

So next time your child is sick, Book a Doctor Online with us, or phone reception to book a Telehealth appointment, and we'll take it from there.

If it is urgent and after hours, try using our partners CubCare for urgent paediatric consults.

Book A Telehealth Appointment for Your Sick Child

When you have a sick child it’s natural to be worried. You want to make sure they are comfortable and ensure they are getting all the care and treatment they need. In pre-covid times this would often mean a visit to your GP.

Unfortunately covid restrictions means “visiting” a GP when you or your child is unwell may not be possible in the traditional sense. Most clinics are offering telehealth consultations in the first instance to anyone with fever or cold of flu symptoms. But is this really safe and helpful? Emergency departments are currently overwhelmed by an increasing number of patients presenting with minor illnesses wanting to be seen face to face. This suggests perhaps parents feel uncertain about trusting telehealth assessments.

As both a parent and GP I have had the opportunity to experience the telehealth consult from both sides. And I agree as either a parent / patient or doctor it just isn’t the same as sitting in the same room face to face. But there are significant advantages to telehealth for all. It allows you the opportunity to see your regular, trusted doctor who knows you and your history. It keeps doctors and clinic staff healthy and available to continue to provide all type of care in these strange times. And it means that if you do need to come into the clinic, you can feel safe and reassured that you will not be exposed to illness.

But is a telehealth consultation actually helpful? How do you manage without looking in ears and listening to the chest?

When I see a unwell child the first thing I ask is about the history. When did they first become unwell? What were the symptoms? How have they changed since then? I also ask about general behaviour. Are they happy and playful? Tired and lethargic? Are they eating and drinking? Having wet and dirty nappies? All of this is easily achievable with telehealth.

Next, I always consider context. This is one of the great advantages to seeing your regular GP. It’s helpful if I know you and your child well. I’ll be aware that they ended up in hospital twice with croup last winter, or that all their older siblings have severe asthma. I will also usually know if there is hand, foot and mouth in the local daycare or gastro going around the primary school.

And then we come to the sticking point - examination. How do I do that via telehealth? We are very fortunate at Growlife to have access to video software for our consultations. It means I can actually see you and your child. I can observe their general behaviour. I can see if they look pale or flushed and have a good look at any rashes. Most parents have a thermometer and can check the child’s temperature. While I can’t listen to a chest, I can get you to lift your child’s shirt so I can watch their breathing, count their respiratory rate, and check for signs that they are working hard to breathe. I can also listen to their cough. I’ve not discovered a way to look into ears but with a cooperative child, a bright torch and well placed phone camera I have managed to look into quite a few throats.

At the end of all this I might not have the answer, but I do have a lot of information. Information that helps me recommend the next steps in management.

General Practitioner

 BSc, MBBS(Hons), FRACGP, Dip Child Health

Like us on Facebook to keep up to date on the Coronavirus in Brisbane.

Dr Aaron Chambers

Experienced author Dr Aaron Chambers has worked in General Practice since 2006. He is passionate and an authority on family practice, paediatrics and obstetric care. After completing his medical degree with honours at the University of Queensland, Dr Chambers served as an RAAF Doctor, conducting humanitarian missions and evacuating wounded servicemen from the Middle East. Dr Chambers now works alongside the combined medical experience of 20+ Doctors at Oxley , Sherwood and Highgate Hill Growlife Medical Clinics.

Keep Up With The Latest Coronavirus in Brisbane News

Guide To Coronavirus Vaccine for Brisbane

Wed, 27 Jan 2021 01:04:31 GMT

Thanks to the outstanding effort of everyone in Brisbane, our first Coronavirus update for 2021 is an optimistic one, in that we hope to put Coronavirus behind us by the end of this year. Mass vaccination for COVID19 in Brisbane will be a key step to ending COVID social distancing restrictions, reducing infections and minimising the Coronavirus death toll.

Due to the efforts of thousands of researchers across the world, Queensland is now in a position to start the Coronavirus vaccination program from February 2021. Growlife Medical is well prepared to provide COVID19 vaccinations in Brisbane, and we will be using this guide to keep you updated on the progress of the Coronavirus immunisation program, just like we did at the start of the COVID outbreak in Brisbane with our leading Guide to Coronavirus in Brisbane . We have written this blog to answer any questions you might have about the Coronavirus vaccine, when it will be available, what are the risks, benefits and side effects, how much it will cost, and how effective the COVID19 vaccine is.

As a reminder, if you are experiencing Coronavirus symptoms including fever, sore throat, runny nose, cough or shortness of breath, please book a Telehealth Consult with Growlife Medical as soon as possible.

Planning on attending for a COVID Vaccination? Watch our Briefing:

Coronavirus vaccine efficacy is important to the success of the mass immunisation program in Brisbane. There has been much debate about which vaccine is best for COVID, due to differing efficacy between vaccines. There are several important factors when considering COVID vaccine efficacy:

• How effective is the COVID vaccine at preventing severe disease?

• How effective is the COVID vaccine at preventing spread?

• How quickly can we vaccinate a sufficient number of people to reduce the impact of COVID?

• What is the “real world” effectiveness of the vaccine outside of research trials?

• How do the vaccine side effects balance with the risk of the disease?

In clinical trials, researchers have randomised people to receive either a placebo vaccine, or the real vaccine. Both the Pfizer vaccine and University of Oxford/Astra Zeneca vaccine caused an impressive reduction in the number of people diagnosed with COVID. In 5800 people given the University of Oxford/Astra Zeneca vaccine, only 30 developed COVID infection, compared to 101 of 5800 who received placebo. Importantly, of the 10 severe cases of COVID causing death or hospitalisation, none occurred in those receiving the vaccine. On paper, the Pfizer vaccine performed even better, with only 8 COVID infections in 18200 vaccinated, compared to 162 infections in the placebo group. So far no direct comparison has been done between the available vaccines.

So far, we don’t know if the available vaccines prevent spread of Coronavirus . Researchers continue to investigate this question.

The most relevant consideration, is how quickly can we vaccinate everyone in Australia, and how will the vaccine perform in Australian conditions? We believe that vaccines stored at standard refrigerator temperatures may be better candidates here, as it uses traditional technology with a proven distribution chain in Australia. At Growlife Medical, GPs are very experienced in managing the cold chain requirements, to ensure that the vaccine given to you is of the quality you would expect. The Pfizer vaccine has some significant challenges, as it must be stored at the ultra-cold temperature of -80C. Although the headline figure for the Pfizer vaccine looks more appealing, it may be that once logistics and storage are taken into account, it may perform similarly in a real-world environment to the University of Oxford/Astra Zeneca vaccine.

We don't advocate either vaccine over the other, as all vaccines approved for use in Australia have demonstrated effectiveness. The best COVID vaccine is the one suitable for you as an individual, and that is most readily available. Should evidence change in the future, there is always the opportunity to have a booster dose with an alternative vaccine down the track.

The chart below gives a clear representation of how many people developed COVID (red figures) or severe COVID (hospitalised or died - black figures) in the placebo group vs the vaccine group. Each figure represents 10 people, with each group having 5800 people.

We know which group we would rather be in!

Remember, the above chart is after only a few months of collecting data. With opening borders, and COVID spreading over time, more and more people will contract COVID. We have modelled what might happen if a large percentage of the Australian population contracted COVID where everyone has been vaccinated, compared to without the COVID vaccine. The graphic below shows how compelling the potential benefits of being vaccinated against COVID in that scenario:

Coronavirus Vaccine Effectiveness Explained

Not Convinced? What happens when we open our borders?

Very early in the Coronavirus crisis, researchers began to investigate and experiment with possible vaccines. The Australian government made bids to secure millions of doses of the potential candidates. Early on, the University of Queensland was looking to be a front runner, but sadly the UQ vaccine had to be abandoned. By the end of 2020, three vaccines had been rigorously tested and approved for use. Clinical trials measured the effect in over 30,000 people for each vaccine. The main COVID19 vaccines being considered for Australia are produced by Pfizer in the USA and University of Oxford/Astra Zeneca in the UK. By mid January 2021, over 42 million doses of Coronavirus vaccine from all manufacturers have already been administered. Authorities around the world are closely monitoring for any adverse reactions, and so far only a very small number of serious reactions have occurred.

The Federal Governments, State Governments and General Practice are currently working together to ensure robust plans are in place.

Growlife Medical is has been approved to administer the University of Oxford/Astra Zeneca vaccine as soon as doses are delivered to our Brisbane clinics. The Pfizer vaccine must be stored at Ultra Cold temperatures of -80C, so the logistical chain is more complex, and at this stage this vaccine is only being administered to those in phase 1a in major hospitals. The Novavax vaccine is in phase 3 trials as at late January 2021, so it will be some time away.

If you are a registered Growlife Medical patient, and have recorded your email address at our practice, you will receive an email to inform you when we have vaccine available. If you or your family have not yet visited Growlife Medical , be sure to Book Now for an initial visit, so that we can contact you as soon as you’re eligible for an immunisation.

As with all vaccinations, side effects are to be expected to the Coronavirus vaccine. Side effects occur commonly, due to the immune system being activated by the vaccine, in order to give you immunity. Side effects of COVID19 vaccination are usually mild and may include:

• tenderness, swelling and/or redness at the injection site

• headache

• muscle ache

• feeling tired

• fever

• Sometimes, swelling of the glands occurs a few days after the vaccine and may last for up to two weeks.

Because of the large number of vaccinations now done worldwide ( over 250 million doses by early March 2021 ), we are beginning to understand if there are any rare side effects or issues not detected in the initial trials. For example, there have been a few reports of very elderly, frail nursing home residents dying in Norway. It is believed these people may have died of unrelated conditions due to their underlying health, rather than the vaccine. The fact that it has been observed, allows further investigation around any potentially vulnerable groups. For the rest of the adult population, the news is good, with extremely few serious reactions reported, despite the intense scrutiny of this new vaccine.

The most significant rare but serious side effect concern regards a rare type of blood clot syndrome called thrombosis with thrombocytopenia syndrome in those given the Astra Zeneca vaccine. This side effect is so rare, only two cases have been reported in Australia by mid April 2021. Because this side effect is so rare (effecting somewhere around 1 in 250,000 people vaccinated), there is still significant debate around the role of the vaccine in causing the cases, who is most at risk, and the exact level of risk. It is believed that younger people are more at risk of this complication, and that around 1 in 1,000,000 people vaccinated could die of this complication. Consequently, Australian immunisation body ATAGI released a statement recommending careful consideration of choice of covid vaccine in under 50's. The Astra Zeneca vaccine may still be offered to those under 50, with careful consideration of the relative risks and benefits.

It is important to keep this rare, but serious risk in perspective. 1 in 23,000 Australian's die each year in road accidents. For those aged 30-50 who contract COVID-19, the risk of death climbs from around 1 in 10,000 to 1 in 1,000 . Because Australia is relatively COVID-free at present, infection risk is currently lower. But that could change.

Those under 50 at higher risk of COVID and its complications may still consider being vaccinated. Those in the following groups should consider their own risk:

Healthcare workers
Hotel Quarantine Workers
Anyone required to travel overseas
Those with underlying conditions making them at higher risk of COVID complications

In the trial represented in the chart above, there were only two significant reactions thought to be due to the injection - one in the vaccine group, and one in the placebo group. So the rate of significant reactions was so low, it can't even be represented in the chart above.

Clearly, COVID is very dangerous; millions of people have died. When it comes to the COVID vaccine, we haven't been able to detect enough significant reactions to even come close. Consequently, doctors who choose to consult at Growlife are feeling very comfortable that the COVID vaccination is much safer for over 50's than risking COVID, and think it should still be considered for those under 50, after discussing the relative risks and benefits for the individual.

Due to the rapid timeline between vaccine development and release, we do not yet know how long the immune response will last from the Coronavirus vaccine. Ongoing observation should give us the answer to this question in future.

The Australian Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation recommends that healthcare professionals do not routinely schedule and administer the influenza and COVID-19 vaccine on the same day. The preferred minimum timeframe between these vaccines is 14 days.

Coronavirus Vaccine Side Effects

How Long Will Coronavirus Vaccines Last?

Can I have a COVID Vaccination with the Flu Vaccination?

Coronavirus Vaccine Progress

Coronavirus vaccines are available in Brisbane since March 2021. Australia’s National COVID19 roll-out strategy was published on 7 January 2021, shortly after Queensland Health requested expressions of interest to provide mass vaccination sites across Brisbane and regional Queensland. This was followed by a national expression of interest for COVID vaccination in late January 2021. Growlife Medical are actively participating in preparations for the COVID immunisation program, and intend to provide Coronavirus vaccine to our community as soon as it becomes available.

Many people are concerned about the speed of the COVID vaccine roll-out. They have questions about whether the vaccine has been tested sufficiently to ensure it is safe and effective. As Australia has been in a good position in terms of COVID case numbers, we have been able to benefit by observing how the vaccine has performed in the northern hemisphere, where the roll-out has been necessarily more urgent. Read on to understand how this is good news for Australians.

When Can I Get The Coronavirus Vaccine?

The federal government has broken the Coronavirus vaccination program into phases, in order to prioritise key workers and at-risk populations. We will provide exact dates for these phases here as soon as they are confirmed by government. The COVID19 vaccination phases are planned as follows:

Phase 1

a) An initial 1.4 million doses are planned for Quarantine and Border workers, health care workers who are at highest risk (eg. Those working in an emergency department), aged care and disability staff and residents. We believe this program will begin by using the Pfizer Vaccine, and may be augmented by the University of Oxford/Astra Zeneca vaccine.

b) The second part of Phase 1 is earmarked to provide 14.8 million doses to those at highest risk of severe disease, including those aged 70 and over, those with underlying medical conditions, critical workers like police and fire services, and other healthcare workers. Growlife Medical will be commencing at phase 1b, and those with high priority conditions will be contacted personally to attend a dedicated advance clinic.

Phase 2

a) Once the initial highest risk groups are vaccinated in order to protect them, and those they care for, vaccination will gradually be made available to all Australians. The first group in Phase 2 will be those aged over 50, adult Aboriginal and Torres Strait Island people who have not already been vaccinated, and other critical workers.

b) The balance of adults who have not yet received a vaccine will be eligible in the final phase.

Phase 3

Because the vaccine has not yet been tested in children, phase 3 will include all those under age 18 once the clinical trials have been completed to prove it is safe and effective.

Note all Coronavirus vaccines being pursued by the Australian Government , those being University of Oxford/Astra Zeneca, Pfizer and Novavax vaccines, will involve two doses, with the current General Practice program spacing the doses by 12 weeks to achieve maximum effectiveness. It is important anyone receiving the COVID vaccine returns to the same clinic to receive their second dose to ensure a complete vaccination schedule

Coronavirus Vaccine Update

The coronavirus vaccine is being provided free to all Australians by the federal government. Growlife Medical will bulk bill the vaccine administration to Medicare. Note that due to the large numbers of people requiring the Coronavirus vaccination, you may not see the doctor for the vaccination, and any other healthcare matters must be booked for a separate appointment. It is essential that you attend for the followup vaccination with Growlife Medical, and we will have rigorous reminder procedures in place to ensure this occurs.

Growlife is ready to give Coronavirus immunisations as soon as we receive supply from the Federal Government. This could be as soon as mid March 2021. Coronavirus vaccinations will be available at our Highgate Hill clinic , Sherwood clinic and Oxley clinic . We are experienced with immunisation, with many qualified GPs and nurse immunisers. We vaccinate thousands of children each year under the national immunisation program, as well as providing travel vaccinations and being an accredited Yellow Fever Vaccination provider at our Sherwood Medical Centre . Our advanced digital systems allow for seamless reporting of your vaccinations to your My Health Record and to the Australian Immunisation Register.

Book a consultation with Growlife Medical today . If you are experiencing any cold/flu like symptoms be safe and phone ahead !

Coronavirus Vaccine Cost

Coronavirus Vaccine At Growlife Medical

Keep Up With The Latest Coronavirus in Brisbane News

Dr Aaron Chambers

General Practitioner

 BSc, MBBS(Hons), FRACGP, Dip Child Health

Healthy Lunch Boxes For School Kids

Tue, 12 Jan 2021 00:15:41 GMT

We all want a healthy lunch box for our school kids, but it’s not always as easy as it sounds. Growlife Medical’s Robyn Curtis is an Accredited Practising Dietitian and Nutritionist, and via this article lends her many years of experience on how to pack a healthy and tasty lunch box. Robyn explores the many challenges, explains the nutritional needs of school kids, shares some lunch boxes ideas spanning the five food groups and also shares some inspiring healthy and kid friendly recipes.

School Lunch Challenges

Of course all healthy lunch boxes require food hygiene to be maintained. Some food safety tips:

Look for an insulated lunchbox (look out in sales) - this will help to keep food cold and also prevent it from being squashed in the school bag
Invest in some freezer bricks - usually only a few dollars from a supermarket
Freeze foods where possible e.g. muffins, pikelets, bread to help keep food cool during the day
Think ahead and prepare, chop, peel, freeze where possible e.g. making vegemite or jam sandwiches the night before, chopping vege sticks - spending 5-10 mins the night before a few times a week can make a difference in the morning rush

Other points to consider:

Protein and dairy can be difficult food groups to get into lunchboxes - focus more on these foods at home, e.g. a good breakfast, nourishing after school snacks, on weekends
There is no need to make lunch box foods fancy and complicated - if you enjoy making food different in presentation, and you have the time - that's great - but there is no need to spend more time and energy than you have available. As with any consideration in family life, aim to keep it simple, practical, achievable and sustainable
Involve your child in making some of the decisions about their lunch, e.g. choosing new recipes to try on weekends, selecting their fruit or veges, choosing their sandwich filling

This advice is considered to be general nutrition advice for children who are generally well and growing consistently. For specific nutritional issues or concerns eg. faltering growth, food aversions, or food allergies and intolerances then please seek individualised, professional advice .

Healthy Lunch Box Recipes

Need some help on how to make a healthy lunch box? Here are some quick lunch box recipes that are great nutritional additions to your child's lunch box.

Mixed Berry Muffins

Ingredients:

300g wholemeal self raising flour

½ tsp baking powder

1/3 cup caster sugar

100g fresh or frozen raspberries (do not defrost frozen berries)

100g fresh or frozen blueberries (do not defrost frozen berries)

1 egg

1 cup milk ½ cup canola oil

Method:

1. Grease and line a 12 hole muffin tray. Preheat oven to 180 degrees Celsius.

2. Sift flour and baking powder into a large bowl. Then stir in sugar and berries.

3. Whisk egg, milk and oil together. Then pour into flour mixture and stir until just combined.

4. Spoon mixture into prepared tray.

5. Bake for 30 minutes or until a skewer comes out clean. Cool on wire racks.

6. Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.

Lunch Box Food Safety, Preparation and Storage

Other Lunch Box Tips

School time encompasses one main meal (lunch) and one or two quick snacks so you don't have to get every food group in - there are plenty of other opportunities in the day outside of school.

A balanced lunch box might contain (as a guide):

Snacks - 1 grain, 1 piece of fruit
Lunch - 2 grains, 1 vegetable or fruit +/- protein and/or dairy
And of course a drink

A healthy example of a packed lunch box:

Snack - homemade muffin + apple;
Lunch - sandwich (2 slices of bread) with any filling (spreads are fine) + carrot sticks + yoghurt pouch
Drinks - water is the best drink

What To Pack In A Healthy Lunch Box

Many challenges can get between us and healthy lunch boxes and well fed healthy school kids, including:

School break times generally allow two breaks, between 20-45 mins. in this time children generally get 15 mins to eat, then the remainder of the time to play, drink and go to the toilet
Younger grades may get an early morning "munch and crunch" or “brain snack” time
School kids are busy! They don't actually get much time in the day to eat
Yet they need a sustaining source of energy, and fast!
On top of this, parents experience lunch box fatigue in coming up with suitable ideas
Plus schools have allergen policies which may exclude some foods e.g. nuts
Parents/carers need to consider food safety and palatability ie. how to keep food cool (a warm squished ham and cheese sandwich and banana is not appetising and will come home uneaten!)
Food needs to be easy to handle and eat ie. easy to eat with hands rather than needing cutlery

School Kids Nutritional Needs

Lunchbox menu planning needs to meet the nutritional needs of your children. So what are the nutritional needs of our school kids? The Australian Guide to Healthy Eating for children recommends:

2 serves of fruit
4-5 serves of vegetables
4-5 serves of grains (bread, cereal, pasta)
1-2 serves of protein (meat, fish, legumes, nuts)
1-3 serves of dairy

Note a serve is usually what fits in your hand. Examples of one serve:

1 piece of fruit = 1 handful = 1 serve
1 vegetable = 1 handful = 1 serve
for grains = 1 slice bread
for protein = 1 egg or 65g ham/tuna/chicken
for dairy = 20g cheese or 120g yoghurt or 1 glass milk

Banana Muffins

Ingredients:

1 small ripe banana
1 cup wholemeal self raising flour
½ cup white self raising flour
½ cup sugar
1 egg
2/3 cup milk
¼ cup canola oil

Method:

1. Preheat oven to 180 degrees Celsius. Grease and line a 12 hole muffin tray.

2. Mash banana in a large bowl.

3. Sift flour into the bowl. Add the husks left in the sifter.

4. Add in sugar, egg, milk and oil.

5. Stir gently with a wooden spoon until just combined.

6. Spoon mixture into prepared tray. Bake for 20 minutes or until golden. Cool on a wire rack

before storing in an airtight container or freezer.

Pikelets

Ingredients:

1 cup self raising flour
2 tablespoons caster sugar
1 egg lightly beaten
½ cup milk
1 teaspoon vanilla
1 teaspoon oil

Method:

1. Sift flour and sugar into a mixing bowl.

2. Add the egg, milk and vanilla. Beat with a fork until smooth.

3. Brush a non stick frying pan with the oil and place on the stove over medium heat.

4. Put spoonfuls of mixture into pan. Cook for one minute or so, then turn and cook for a

further minute. Remove from pan and leave to cool.

5. Spread with favourite toppings – butter and jam, cream cheese, or enjoy plain!

Apricot Buns

Ingredients:

125g wholemeal self raising flour
125g white self raising flour
125g butter
100g caster sugar
90g diced dried apricots
1 egg
¼-1/2 milk

Method:

1. Grease and line a baking tray. Preheat oven to a hot 225 degrees Celsius.

2. Rub flour and butter together with fingertips.

3. Add sugar and apricots and mix with a wooden spoon.

4. Mix egg and milk in a separate bowl.

5. Stir egg mix into the dry ingredients.

6. Drop spoonfuls of sticky mixture onto a tray.

7. Bake for 12-15 minutes, until buns lightly browned. Cool on a wire rack.

8. Recipe makes approx. 12 medium sized buns. Store in an airtight container or in the freezer.

Growlife Paediatric Dieticians

Growlife clinical paediatric dieticians provide services to help with infant and toddler nutrition. These dietician services are available at our Highgate Hill Medical Centre and Sherwood Medical Centre .

We are also Brisbane's leader in Telehealth Consults, Growlife Medical now provides easy and secure Telehealth Consults with your doctor. You can easily book online or over the phone, for a video or phone consult with our dieticians or GPs.

Author Robyn Curtis is an Accredited Practising Dietitian and Nutritionist who specialises in maternal, infant, child and family nutrition. Robyn has extensive experience in both clinical paediatric dietetics via years of experience gained in both Brisbane and London. Robyn’s experience as the mother of twins, and her previous career as a school teacher, provides her unique insight into the many challenges of family life, especially in relation to feeding, nutrition and health care.

About the Author Robyn Curtis

B12 Deficiency in Pregnancy

Thu, 17 Dec 2020 00:11:24 GMT

Vitamin B12 is an essential nutrient in humans, is made by bacteria, and is responsible for a myriad of functions within the body. It plays a role in the metabolism of many foods and helps ensure the health of red blood cells and the nervous system.

The bacteria which produce Vitamin B12 can be found in a range of soils, and is produced in the gut of ruminant animals. As these animals produce their own B12 from bacteria inside their gut, B12 is able to accumulate and is, therefore, found primarily in dietary animal products. As a result of current hygiene and sanitisation processes Vitamin B12 is found in inadequate quantities in plant products.

The body stores B12 in great quantities, mostly in the liver. Despite being stored in high quantities, the kidneys excrete small amounts of the vitamin daily and thus adequate dietary intake is important.

Growlife Medical are experienced in treating B12 Deficiency in pregnancy. Please contact us today for advice.

Who is at risk of becoming B12 deficient?

Nutritional Yeast
Fortified animal product alternatives (e.g. soy milk)
Animal products (e.g. beef, eggs, milk)
Oral or injected supplementation

If you are concerned that you may be deficient in Vitamin B12 or for more information please consult your doctor to work out the next best steps.

What are some sources of B12?

Due to increased metabolic demands during pregnancy it is easier to become deficient in B12 and this should be monitored throughout pregnancy if you are at risk of B12 deficiency. Deficiencies in B12 during pregnancy can lead to neural tube and brain defects, and supplementation can help prevent spina bifida and nervous system abnormalities. Additionally, B12 can improve energy, mood, and stress levels throughout pregnancy.

Is Vitamin B12 important in pregnancy?

Growlife Medical Are Pregnancy Experts

It is quite common to have no symptoms, even if you are B12 deficiency. We tend to recommend checking your B12 if you are in any of the risk categories above. However, if your B12 deficiency is severe, you could experience:

Anaemia (Anaemia is much more commonly due to Iron Deficiency in Pregnancy )
Swollen, Sore or Inflamed Tongue
Fatigue
Memory Problems
Numbness or Tingling in the Hands or Feet
Other unusual neurological symptoms

We provide expert community care of pregnancy, with doctors, midwives and dieticians ready to help you through your pregnancy. Please chat to us at Growlife Medical .

We are also Brisbane's leader in Telehealth Consults , Growlife Medical now provides easy and secure Telehealth Consults with your doctor. You can easily book online or over the phone , for a video or phone consult with your GP. All Growlife Medical Doctors in all or our general practice locations are available for Telehealth consults .

What the symptoms of B12 Deficiency in Pregnancy?

Those following a vegetarian or vegan diet
Pregnant or breastfeeding women
Acquired malabsorption of B12
Individuals with Coeliac or Irritable Bowel Disease
Chronic use of metformin
Bowel or stomach surgery (gastrectomy or ileal resection)
History of autoimmune disease or pernicious anaemia
Age related malabsorption
Individuals with inherited disorders of B12 absorption

What is Vitamin B12 and where does it come from?

A Parents Guide to School Refusal

Sun, 08 Nov 2020 23:36:13 GMT

During the Covid-19 pandemic, significant stresses have been placed on children and their families, despite expectations to effectively adapt and cope with the ambiguity and additional challenges. Accordingly, this has resulted in increased levels of worry and anxiety in kids, in particular, vulnerable children and adolescents. School refusal is an increasingly widespread issue. It is maintained by the intense negative emotions present when an individual is at school, which can be related to anxiety and depressive disorders, adjustment issues and social challenges. The following article provides an outline of school refusal, as well school refusal strategies for navigating your child’s reluctance to attend.

What Is School Refusal?

In Queensland, it is compulsory for children to attend school between the ages of six and a half years to 16 years (or until they complete Year 10).

For more information on School Attendance in Queensland and further resources, please see the Queensland Legal Aid compulsory schooling page, and Queensland Health's page on school absenteeism and student attendance .

What happens if a child refuses to go to school in Brisbane?

If your child is refusing to attend school, there are a number of conservative strategies and treatment options to support your child in re-engaging effectively. Currently, the most effective school refusal intervention is implementing a collaborative and multidisciplinary approach for reintegration into school. This involves working with a supportive school staff member, a treating psychologist and you as a parent, to develop a graded return to school for your child. This graded approach may involve initially decreasing the expectations of your child, for example, removing or reducing homework and assignments, or reducing your child’s school hours for a period of time, working towards full participation.

Supportive school staff will be paramount in creating alternative options for your child’s school participation, and to ensure they feel welcome and supported in the school environment. A treating psychologist can provide cognitive-behavioural therapy, an evidence-based therapeutic intervention which targets the unhelpful thoughts impacting on your child’s ability to attend school, whilst providing practical strategies, such as relaxation techniques and behavioural experiments, to re-engage in school with a mindful and graded approach.

We'll discuss some strategies for parents below. These include:

Normalise Big Emotions;
Communicate and Problem Solve;
Communicate with Your Child’s School; and
Maintain Routines.

Normalise Big Emotions

As a parent, it is important to normalise and validate the very real emotions surrounding school – everyone feels anxious, worried, nervous or upset sometimes. However, it is also important to encourage your child that our brain can be like an over-protective friend: it tries to protect us from doing challenging things outside of our comfort zone - missing out on things that can be positive experiences.

Communicate and Problem Solve

When your child is becoming reluctant to attend school, it is important to have an open and supportive conversation around the causes of the worries and anxieties. Make sure to give your child the opportunity to speak openly about their feelings in a non-threatening and supportive manner – school refusal tends to stem from anxieties, not bad behaviour. For example, it may be helpful to start the conversation by saying, “I have noticed you are feeling upset before you head off to school, is there something causing you to worry?”.

When specific concerns have been identified, work together with your child to create some realistic solutions. Are they struggling with learning and may require additional learning support? Is your child anxious about friendships and break times, and may benefit from a semi-structured play setting?

Remember, kids can take time to share what is worrying them. Although it can be hard when you're frustrated, staying emotionally available and being around when they decide to confide is really important.

Communicate with Your Child’s School

It is important to inform your child’s teacher or school support person of the issue at hand. Primarily, school staff can help put in place realistic strategies and additional supports in the school environment to help reduce the stressors on your child, whether this be through reduced homework, break-time support or exclusion from anxiety-provoking activities. They may be able to shed light on any conflict with your child's peers. Additionally, if your child is not attending school, staff can provide you with an outline of the work for them to do at home and to help ensure they do not fall behind academically.

Maintain Routines

If your child does miss school, it is strongly recommended that, as parents, you maintain predictable routines that parallel a normal school day. This may involve ensuring your child maintains the same morning routine, has lunch at the same time from a packed lunch and completes schoolwork throughout the day. Communicate with your child’s teacher to identify schoolwork that can be done from home to keep them busy and up to date with their learning as much as possible. Following the school routines at home aims to reduce the additional factors of your child wanting to stay home: if they are allowed to sleep in, watch TV and play computer games at home, this will only increase the reluctance to return to school. Whilst this can be very challenging in the short term, it will greatly help reduce the motivation to continue to refuse school.

What Can You Do If Your Child Refuses To Go To School?

School Refusal Strategies

Whilst school refusal is not a disorder in itself, it can be indicative of an underlying mental health issue, or lead to mental health disorders, specifically anxiety and depressive disorders. School refusal can also lead to other issues including a reduction in social relationships and poorer academic outcomes. Anyone parent who has been on the receiving end of a child refusing school can understand that it negatively impacts the mental health and wellbeing of family members.

School refusal behaviour plans are developed to provide an outline for your child for graded reintegration into the classroom. These plans are collaboratively developed with yourself as a parent, the school support staff and a treating psychologist to form a step-wise guide for full reintegration, which is realistic and includes appropriate strategies for when issues arise.

The plan should not be time-limited, but contingent on your child’s ability to complete the prior stage, and it is important to include strategies and alternative tasks for your child to do at school when they are feeling anxious or are disengaging. Additionally, integrating rewards into the school refusal behaviour plan will be paramount in increasing your child’s motivation to return.

Growlife Medical will work with you and your family to navigate these challenging circumstances. A visit to your GP can provide you with a Mental Health Care Plan to facilitate access to a psychologist, as well as address any medical-related factors impacting school attendance. Individuals can now access up to 20 Medicare-rebated sessions with a psychologist, to provide thorough and ongoing support for you and your family.

The psychologists at Growlife Medical will complete a thorough assessment of your child to identify key issues maintaining the school refusal, and provide evidence-based therapeutic interventions to increase your child’s coping abilities, as well develop a realistic and integrated return to school plan. For more information regarding how Growlife Medical can help you and your child, please contact us on 07 3154 2393 .

We are also Brisbane's leader in Telehealth Consults , Growlife Medical now provides easy and secure Telehealth Consults with your doctor. You can easily book online or over the phone , for a video or phone consult with your GP. All Growlife Medical Doctors in all or our general practice locations are available for Telehealth consults .

School Refusal Behaviour Plans

How Can Growlife Medical Help With School Refusal?

Is School Refusal A Disorder?

School refusal is a child’s decreased participation or disengagement from the expectations and norms surrounding involvement and attendance at school. On the one hand, school refusal can be clearly identified as refusing to physically attend school, however disengaging behaviours can be a precursor to further school refusal down the track. These early warning signs may include:

Pleading and arguments surrounding attending school;
Feeling sick before or during school;
Avoiding school-related activities, for example, getting ready in the morning or completing homework in the afternoon; and
Increased distress and anxiety prior to and throughout the school day.

Breastfeeding And Expressing Tips

Tue, 27 Oct 2020 23:27:34 GMT

Growlife Medical have put together a few tips to help you get to grips with breast milk expressing, storing and feeding.

It takes time to learn to breastfeed. You need to experiment to find the comfortable “fit and hold “ for you and your baby. You can try different positions to see what works for you. Allow yourself time to adjust and learn.

Skin to skin is hugely beneficial to activate baby’s instinctive feeding reflexes. After a nappy change or when you pick you your baby to feed place them against your chest upright and await baby searching for breast before latching. Best if its baby led rather than mother led.

Seek early professional help with Sam Foster or Dr Sonja Morgan if you are experiencing any difficulties.

Learning to Breastfeed Takes Time

Breast milk can be stored in special storage bags designed for breast milk or in sterilised containers. These bags and containers can then be stored in the refrigerator for up to five days provided the temperature remains at 4C or lower. Alternatively, they can be stored in the ice compartment of a refrigerator from up to two weeks or in a freezer for up to six months.

Breast milk that has been kept in the fridge can be carried around in a cool bag with ice for up to 24 hours. If you’re freezing breast milk, make sure to label it with a date to make sure that it does not go off. Before using frozen breast milk, try to defrost it in the fridge slowly before using it to feed your baby. If you’re in a rush, the milk can be defrosted by placing in a jug of warm water. Do not use a microwave to defrost or warm up breast milk (this can burn the baby’s mouth), and remember that milk should not be frozen again after it has defrosted.

Breast milk can be expressed either by hand or with a pump. Women often find that their milk flows better at certain times of the day, so it is a good idea to find out what time works best for you. Lots of people find it easier to breast milk express at the beginning of the day.

In the first few days or weeks after giving birth, many women find expressing milk easier by hand. This simply requires gentle squeezing of the nipple and should not cause pain. The milk can be caught in a sterilised feeding container.

You should wash your hands thoroughly before hand-expressing to avoid contamination of the milk. Some women find that massaging the breast beforehand helps the milk to flow. If the flow starts to slow down, try swapping to the other breast or moving your fingers to a different area of the breast.

If need to give a bottle use a “paced bottle-feeding" technique to reduce the risk of baby developing a flow preference for a bottle. It also makes bottle feeding baby appetite driven which is more similar to breastfeeding. If you are bottle feeding and want to find out more about this technique, this video may help .

Breast Milk Storage

Breast Milk Expressing

The frequency and duration of breastfeeds varies hugely between babies. It is affected by your baby’s ability to transfer milk, mum's breast storage capacity, flow rate and milk production. It's important to feed your baby when they give cues such as searching for your breast, licking lips or turning head to side with an open mouth. Crying is a late feeding cue.

Use your baby as your clock. There's no need for any routines in the first few months.

Babies go to your breast for food, drink, comfort, medicine, pain relief and to get to sleep. Mothers need to trust their baby will meet their own needs and offer the breast whenever baby cues. You cannot overfeed a breastfed baby. Their intake is appetite driven and they are in control.

Babies feed at least 8 to 12 times in 24 hours. They may have times of the day when they cluster feed together, that is, they keep cueing to feed when they have just come off or appeared to fall asleep on your breast.

Expressing colostrum is a way to access the milk produced around halfway through a woman’s pregnancy and within the first few days of delivery. It is a hugely nutritious fluid and can bring many health benefits to your baby.

If you’re planning on breastfeeding your baby immediately after birth, you may not want to bother with expressing colostrum. If, however, that is not your plan, or you are aware that your baby has a congenital condition such as Down’s syndrome or is of relatively low weight, you may consider harvesting colostrum before birth. Your doctor may also recommend expressing colostrum if you have gestational diabetes, have had breast surgery at some point in the past, or take beta-blockers for blood pressure reasons.

Breast pumps come in two varieties: manual and electric. Both are able to suck milk gently from the breasts and can be a quick and convenient way to express.

Electric pumps usually feature different suction levels and come with different funnel sizes to suit your nipples.

Sam Foster offers a holistic and empowering approach to breastfeeding support . Sam can provide education, support and assistance in the comfort of your own home, or a consultation at one of our clinics.

Book an appointment with Sonja Morgan who's expertise includes contraception, antenatal and postnatal care of mothers, as well as care for newborns.

Book a consultation with Growlife Medical today .

Expressing Colostrum

Breast Pumps

Lactation Consultation

Breastfeed on Demand

Mothers can still manage breastfeeding while pregnant, although there are a few things to consider . Breastfeeding whilst pregnant you may feel enhanced side-effects of pregnancy such as nausea and you may find that your nipples are more sore or tender. Ultimately, however, deciding whether to continue breastfeeding while pregnant is safe and is very much a personal decision.

According to Australian law, in relation to breastfeeding in public, women have the right to breastfeed anywhere. Furthermore, the Federal Sex Discrimination Act of 1984 means that it is illegal to discriminate people on the grounds of breastfeeding.

This should reassure you when it comes to breastfeeding in public, as discrimination covers a range of situations. If your employer does not allow you a short break to express milk during the day, for example, this would be classed as discrimination. Similarly, if you are asked to stop breastfeeding in a cafe, this would fall under the category of discrimination. At Grow Medical we believe breastfeeding is natural, and that babies have even more right to eat whenever they need than adults! Luckily, society has rapidly returned to a more normal approach to accepting breastfeeding as a normal part of life, so being able to breastfeed comfortably when needed is now the norm instead of the exception.

The Australian Breastfeeding Association (ABA) runs the National Breastfeeding Helpline 1800 mum 2 mum ( 1800 686 268 ) for breastfeeding support. The Breastfeeding Helpline is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. It is staffed by trained, volunteer counsellors who answer calls on a roster system in their own homes.

Breastfeeding While Pregnant

Breastfeeding in Public

Breastfeeding Support

My Family

Fri, 23 Oct 2020 23:24:53 GMT

Answers by Yvie (4 years old).

Questions by mum, transcribed by mum.

Who is in your family: Mumma, mummy and Anjou.

Who is Anjou: My sister.

What makes our family special: We are kind to each other.

Who else is in our family: Chopper (our dog).

Anyone else: No. Well, our chickens, we used to have more but they died. And, our bees.

Anyone else: No.

Any other people in your family: Oh yeah. Yia-yia, Nen-Nen, Ha-Ha, Nanny, Dee [all the grandparents], Henry, Charlie, Jacob [all the cousins], Auntie G, Uncle James, Jo-Jo and Paulie [all the aunts and uncles].... And Didi and Lulu [their donor and his mum].

How do you know who is in your family: Because they love us. And we love them!

Make Sure you vote in the Grow Medical 2020 Essay Competition by going to our Facebook Page , and liking and sharing your favourite Story of Families. If this one is your favourite, tell us why in the comments, and share it by clicking one of the circle icons below.

Otherwise, read on with this year's finalists entries...

2020 Growlife Medical Essay Competition Finalist

"Stories of Families"

Entry by a school Aged Student Category

Read This Year's Finalist Entries

What makes a family?

Fri, 23 Oct 2020 23:15:52 GMT

My toddler recently told me that our family is special because we dance together. I think what makes a family is a sense of belonging. I have several families.

My first family was my 'childhood family'. My childhood family is the family I grew up with. We have remained a family throughout my life and despite separation, because we hold similar values, have a bonded history and because we look out for each other, often to the point of agitating each other... I still have a sense of belonging with my childhood family not just because of the times I catch glimpses of my mum, dad or sister in my features, but because we have each contributed to the sculpting our individual identities and continue to mould our interpretations of and interactions with the world around us.

My second family is my ‘friend family’. My friend family are the people who, together, we survived the hilarity and horrors of puberty and beyond. We have seen the full gamut of each other through our teens, our twenties and now into our thirties, and we still crave each other’s company. I have a sense of belonging with my friend family, not just because they gave safety and perspective to me in facing my hurdles but because I have also been able to offer a sense of security and kindness to them in facing theirs. Together, we have powered through ‘growing up’ and are pleasantly surprised to be fully functioning adults.

My third family is my ‘pride family’. My pride family are the other women, men, non- binary and gender fluid humans of the world who understand what it is like to grow up inside childhood and friend families, and still not fully belong to the culture of those families. My pride family have helped me navigate beyond the social, political, religious and cultural judgements of not identifying as hetero-normative. I have a sense of belonging with my pride family as we unite against ideologies that threaten and hurt us. We are determined to claim a better future for rainbow children, paying our achievements forward, in the same way our rainbow ancestors have paid their achievements forward for us. Some in our pride are out and proud, others are neither, but we survive by belonging to our pride family.

My favourite family is the family I helped to create. It is a combination and culmination of all my familial belongings. Born from the healthiest love I have ever known are my two spectacular children who challenge and extend me every day, in every way. My best friend is also my adoring partner, the apex of nurturing and support for whom I strive to be a better person. All together we are a rainbow family who are connected by our love, our laughter, our fears, our tears and our experiences. And, in our family, we dance together.

There is so much more that can define ‘family’. My families are where I have a sense of belonging.

Otherwise, read on with this year's finalists entries...

3rd Place - 2020 Growlife Medical Essay Competition

"St orie s of Families"

Read This Year's Finalist Entries

Screentime

Fri, 23 Oct 2020 23:12:35 GMT

My family is a paradox; they are virtual and real, 2D and 3D, potential and actual. Day to day my world is contained within the walls of my house, in the smile of my partner and the purr of my cat, but the rest of me is spread through invisible lines that travel out, orbit around the planet and land someplace else, on a small screen held in the hand of a loved one.

Some of my favourite childhood memories occurred in fantasy and imagination, online with people who lived just down the road. Built in a false world where I spent time with real friends, hours spent talking nonsense while achieving nothing tangible, except a connection with people who became another part of my family.

Having moved from childhood games to an adulthood spent on the other side of the world, my family now exists less and less in real life and more and more within the boundaries of a screen. Just like my favourite memories growing up. They prepared me well for this virtual community of mine. My partner holds my hand while I talk to the screens.

My family may be a pixelated, 2D, five-inch version of the real thing, but they are no less real to me.

Otherwise, read on with this year's finalists entries...

2020 Growlife Medical Essay Competition Finalist

"Stories of Families"

Read This Year's Finalist Entries

An exceptional type of family

Fri, 23 Oct 2020 23:09:15 GMT

If you were to look at my family, you would just think of them as normal people. But what’s on the inside is unique. What I mean by this is if you have a medical condition like Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), then you look normal, but act differently and feel differently to others. Everybody in my family has a condition. Let me describe to you why my family is unique.

All families are unique, but families that have lots of people with conditions of all kinds is more special than what you think. As I said before, most people in my family have something that makes them unique. Take me for example. I have Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and anxiety issues. If you don’t know what that condition is, it means I have difficulty with concentration and following instructions. I may be different, but that doesn’t mean I can’t do great things. Take my Mum and Dad for example, Mum has something wrong with her blood, yet she supports children who have special needs with their education. My Dad has had appendix cancer, yet he helps people to speak and learn to communicate as a speech pathologist. My brother has ADHD, Dyslexia, Dysgraphia, and Autism. The reason my brother and I have problems is because we were born early. I was 36cm and weighed 605 grams when I was born but dropped to 520 grams a week later. I was this small because I was born 3 months and one day earlier than what I was supposed to. My brother was born at 33 weeks and 4 days gestation, weighing 1.53 kilograms.

Although being born early is hard, it doesn’t mean we can’t support each other. Our family has learnt to build on each other’s strengths and cover each other’s weaknesses. An example of this is that I’m not very organized but my Mum is, so she helps me be organized by providing timetables and schedules to follow. Also, my brother isn’t the best at writing and reading but my Dad is, so he helps him read and write. Mum and Dad also work as a team to complete all the housework and take my brother and I to appointments and extracurricular activities that keep us active and safe. Our family is a family of survivors. Our medical issues don’t stop us. Despite the challenges we have, we support each other to try our best and never give up.

It’s not just my immediate family that supports me. My grandparents also support me by sometimes picking me up from school, and sending gifts and cards to encourage and show their love for me. Other members of my family support me too. My aunties and uncles support me by organizing play dates and babysitting us. My cousins also support me by playing with and treating me like an ordinary person.

My family is also unique because they come from all around Europe. My ancestors come from Ireland, Denmark, Wales, France, and Cornwall. Some of my ancestors migrated to Australia to escape from poverty either as a child or an adult. My uncle has Aboriginal heritage. My uncle’s ancestors were special because they were in Australia long before us. They dated back thousands of years ago and shared their traditional ways with others. Their traditional ways have only been passed through because people believed that even though they were different, they could make a difference.

All my ancestors supported each other through their hard times in life, and because of this they taught generations after them to do the same, which was finally passed down to me. As you can see, my family is unique in lots and lots of ways, but we still make positive changes in the world.

Otherwise, read on with this year's finalists entries...

2020 Growlife Medical Essay Competition

"Stories of Families"

Winner - Entry by a school Aged Student Category

Read This Year's Finalist Entries

Celebrating the Diversity of Families

Fri, 23 Oct 2020 23:04:29 GMT

"The Ineligible People"

I am sure I used to consider myself ineligible from writing such a story about the topic of Family.

A sad state of affairs you may conclude, correctly, but let me assure you that this short story has both light and dark, despair and hope.

Nowhere I looked were other families recognisably like mine; all of them seemed so warm, so shiny, so active, perfect and well adjusted. So Together. So Normal.

Sure, there’s the thing about “people put on fronts” and “it’s not always as it seems”, but, that all looked a heck of a lot more tempting than mine.

You see the thing about my family, and my parents, is that they’re DEFINITELY human. Flawed. And I do not just mean my Mother or Father likes to go and lose 100 dollars at the pokies once a month, no.

I’m sure like “most” (all) I didn’t get the “choose the ideal family for you” document to fill out before my…um…conception.

There were issues of all kinds in my immediate family, and beyond, as temporarily and chaotically as my parents were together, I was made from their…perhaps somewhat desperate, union.

I have learned that my parents, like me, are of course oddballs. Talented, I believe strange to some, aloof, emotional and at least a little haunted.

My family was and is in many ways very typical. Too typical in some cases. I am increasingly learning empathy for my parents from reflecting upon how they were themselves raised. Among quite a few positive stories are ones of quite less positive treatment, attitudes and behaviours.

I really want my parents to know that they weren’t wrong, as children, to be subjected to such punishments, behaviours and, to be frank in some situations, elements of contempt, carelessness and even cruelty. And if not exactly carelessness and cruelty, fallout from their own parents being confused and merely human people, also flawed and seeking something.

Not everyone succeeds in life, that’s a fact, some people settle and live out long lives of mediocrity and resentment, confused at how they let it slip through their perhaps too eagerly grasping fingers. Do I judge the parents of my parents too harshly? I do not think so. Nor do I blame them either for merely being human.

At least not so much any more.

It has been very hard to enact empathy, reason and compassion for my family. Their dedication and support to each other has been questionable. Judgement and detachment have been present.

But don’t get me wrong, there are many happy memories also; riding in the maw of a tractor in Palmwoods as a young child, the open blue sky and massive rolling green planes of hills all about me, and details of my Grandfathers house there, still very vivid in my memory, despite my very early age.

Many happy memories in Mebbin kayaking with my father in lusciously green creeks, his industrious construction of water efficient and ecologically friendly buildings for the lovely Human inhabitants there. Crossing that very high and rickety pedestrian only bridge across that same creek. The time I fell and my legs went through that cattle-grate bridge, less happy, but then my father carried me quite a distance to safety so I could receive some probably minor medical treatment.

I was positively incessant that we stop, any time I saw them, at the sugarcane fields on our journey to…”borrow” a few cheeky stalks for me (and my half-sister, and I think perhaps later on my half-brother too) to munch on. Given my fathers general disposition he did extremely well considering the near constant nature of those demands. Playing among many streams in Maleny, the somewhat regular journeys down to the creek at the back of our, my Mother’s, property to check on the water pump. A whole watermelon hidden away in the rocks and covered with a cloth, if I remember at all correctly. So many hours getting absolutely covered in sand in the sand pit there, the specific toys I played with also, the wooden horse and carriage particularly. The time we, someone, lopped that large tree down on our property, watching it topple down, and being told so many times to stay back. Being grossed out by people de-shelling and eating prawns, most likely around Christmas. These are the crystalline pure years and memories I have.

To put it lightly the many years since were not always quite so magical and awe inspiring, though there must be some experiences of that sprinkled amongst the… rest.

 I have been diagnosed with, at least significant elements of, ASD and CPTSD (Autism Spectrum Disorder, Complex Post Traumatic Stress Disorder). Cannabis has helped me greatly in overcoming and combating some very significant issues in relation to my…special brain chemistry and “interesting” past experiences. Mindfulness, less stress and issues with eating amongst them. I do not even use Cannabis any more, as I much prefer jogging, conversing, doing things with people, my parents, creating things, writing and the like. Cannabis - once an illegal escape and my pretty sole solace from so much chaos, isolation and confusion - is now too intense for me.

 And you may observe that I’m not exactly Plain Jane as it is, I would much rather put my existential dread, ponderings and effort into writing and the other things I have previously mentioned. After much distance from my parents and the other members of my family over the years, I am finally finding, now at thirty-three (my “Jesus Year”) years of age, stillness, calm, empathy and enough self presence to see my parents more for what they actually are. I have helped my father build a fence at his property, a task I would have previously in my awkward, timid and insecure years thought of and found much too challenging to attempt. It was a task that would have taken “the Old Dog” (lovingly) much-much longer without my fastidious and dedicated assistance. I am starting to reconnect, or connect rather, to other members of my family too, my loving and to my previous mind “quite too conventional” Aunt and Uncle. It can be difficult to identify with and approve of such healthy, active and balanced people when one does not exactly feel much at all like that oneself.

So, Dear Reader, please-please-please DO have hope. Whatever your situation, your family, your experiences, light and dark, keep trying, for your “poor” self, and family, so-so human that they, and we too, are. If that is too much to suggest, I hope you have the time, peace and prosperity to help you come to some form of closure for yourself, if not also them. The road is not always easy. I do hope you can have the presence and self confidence to ask for what you need to make it through - even if that thing (in the case of Marijuana anyway) is considered at some time illegal by the somewhat naive public populi and those profiting from its illegality, and now stigmatised - so you too can see the beautiful and awe inspiring sights this wee life has to, and should, offer us all.

Go With God, or like, whatever.

Affectionately,

Reuben Bristed.

Otherwise, read on with this year's finalists entries...

2nd Place - 2020 Growlife Medical Essay Competition

"Stories of Families"

Read This Year's Finalist Entries

Motherhood Reimagined

Fri, 23 Oct 2020 22:59:56 GMT

The birth of my son split me in two. It happened gradually, then suddenly. As far as children go, he was dearly wanted and now that he is here, he is dearly loved. I’ll come back to the part about being split in two – because sometimes it’s fitting to take it back to the very beginning.

June 2016. I was working in a stressful job. A gay woman stuck in a religious private school. After two years of loyal service, and after witnessing many fellow staff members take leave to undergo fertility treatment, I approached my boss requesting the same.

“Sorry, I’ll have to get back to you. No one has done this before.”

“Um… what about Selina, and Amanda, and Jade?”

“No – I mean, as a gay woman. This will be a precedent.”

“Right.”

It took her six weeks and in that time, she deliberated with members higher up in the church to vote on what was the best way forward. They even prayed about it, like the God almighty would provide insight on my personal circumstances.

“I’m sorry, but the best I can offer you is unpaid leave and you have to take it in term three. The rest of the year is too busy. You also have to apply at least a month in advance.”

I looked at her dryly.

“Do you know how periods work?”

Evidently not.

In the months that followed, I timed my IVF appointments cleverly around the school day. My doctor was willing to see me at 5am, which meant I didn’t have to tell my boss.

When the big day of egg pick up arrived, I needed the whole day. I rang my boss.

“Yeah, I’ve got a migraine. I’ll send my planning in. See you tomorrow.”

She suspected nothing.

“When you wake up from the egg pick up, the number of eggs will be written on your wrist,” the doctor said.

“Now just lay back. Soon, you will fall asleep…”

I counted back from ten. When I woke up, there were six circles drawn on my wrist. Six! I was 26 years old and I got a measly six eggs. I was despondent.

In the days following, our little future babies were placed in dishes with donor sperm. There, they made the fateful journey to conception.

Each day, I called to see how my dish-babies were doing.

Six.

Five.

Four.

Three.

Two.

Two! After all that effort, money, time, stress, and hormones, we got two embryos. One barely made it to freeze and was considered unviable for pregnancy but was placed on ice all the same.

“We are not doing part two of this process until you find another job,” my wife, Natalie, had said.

It took me over a year, but I finally found another job – in a state school. I loved it. It was inclusive, and I became part of the furniture.

I took a paid sick day, and we went back to our clinic. When the day of transfer finally came, I laid back comfortably as my doctor readied his implements.

“This is purely diagnostic. It is unlikely to work. Don’t do anything differently, just live your life.”

“Okay.”

He spread my legs and inserted the syringe. As he did, an entire waterfall of emotion washed over me. I sobbed. It was finally happening. But it might not work!

“Are you okay? We’re done here.”

“Yes, I’m fine,” I sobbed.

He patted my back.

“Best of luck!”

As we turned and left the clinic, I realised I had a two week wait before me.

“Don’t pee on any sticks,” was the advice given to me by a friend.

By day four, I caved. I peed on a stick. I sat anxiously on the toilet, tapping the test like I was trying to get ink out of a pen. About five minutes later, a slight line appeared.

I kept my obsessive behaviour to myself. I didn’t even tell my wife about that first pee-stick.

With every day that passed, I peed on another stick. By the end of the two weeks, I had confessed to my wife and we had a bag full of sticks, each line appearing darker than the last. They clattered in the bag, as we emptied them every day and lined them up like assembly line soldiers. It was amazing, the first signs of the miracle of his conception.

My luck seemed to continue after the easy conception. I stayed relatively slim throughout my pregnancy, didn’t have any sickness, and I managed to work until I was 34 weeks along.

Sooner or later, though, I knew my luck was going to run out.

“What I’d really like to do is give birth in water.”

My midwife jotted this down and explained that it may be possible if a bath was available. Perfect!

Mere weeks later, the day finally came. I was four days overdue and it was time to see what was going on.

The sliding doors at the Royal Brisbane hospital welcomed us. We sauntered down the corridor with giddy excitement.

We were welcomed into one of the consulting rooms, where I lay flat on my back, wondering when they would suggest an induction. I had desperately wanted to go into labour spontaneously, but nothing had worked – vigorous sex, running, time in the bath.

The midwife poked and prodded my belly.

“The baby’s head is displaced, and I think he or she may be quite big. Had they told you that during the ultrasounds?”

“Yeah. They said the baby is measuring ahead.”

“How would you feel about being induced now?”

I paused.

“We don’t even have our bag packed.”

“That’s okay, we can send your wife home to prepare everything. We can take you up to the ward shortly.”

“I see you’ve expressed a desire for a water birth. Because we’re inducing you, that option will no longer be available.”

I lay in a ball, awaiting the next step. Any time my stomach hardened with Braxton Hicks, I became excited that this could be it.

“Nope, not yet.” The midwife shuffled in and out, checking on me, then going to do her rounds.

The Earth inched towards evening as the sky lit up an intense orange, and then darkened; not that I could see it overly well through the hospital shades. As the darkness of night crept in, my labour was induced.

My body had let me down – but I was not done. The contractions started and I knew I could do this.

I crinkled my nose, proud of myself for how well I was handling the contractions.

I laboured on for hours, with cervix dilating on schedule. As I started to become tired from a lack of sleep, the contractions intensified. It was a consequence of the induction hormones and it became unbearable very quickly. Nonetheless, I stayed strong.

“Hold onto me.” Natalie said, as I stood in the birthing suite, leaning forwards every time I contracted.

Time passed and I waved one midwife off as the next came in and wasted no time checking my cervix.

“It’s 8cm. You’ll have a baby in t two hours.”

I beamed! It was finally coming together.

I continued to feel the tightening of my body with each contraction as they became more frequent. Soon, I felt a sharp, choking feeling around my middle. It knocked the breath out of me.

“Is this normal?”

“Here do you want some gas?” The midwife passed me the inhaler.

I breathed in.

“Ugh, it’s not working.”

The midwife asked me to spread my legs so she could check my cervix. She looked inside me, then paused.

“Your dilation has regressed…” she trailed off and walked out the door to get another midwife.

“Hi, I’m Cheryl.” Another midwife walked in, accidentally brushing my forehead with her fingers as she turned around.

“Holy smokes, you’re hot!” she exclaimed. She took my temperature.

“Forty degrees!”

About five minutes later, a doctor arrived.

“You have an infection, which is why you have a fever and regressed dilation. Your baby’s head is still displaced. We need to call time on this labour for everybody’s safety.”

“Just sign this consent form and we will take you off to the theatre.”

I signed rapidly and a midwife came to remove my hormone drip.

“Your contractions should stop now.”

As soon as she said that, my contractions went from lasting around thirty seconds, to a continuous sensation.

“Ahhhh!!! It won’t stop!” I screamed.

They started to wheel me down to theatre, ready to prepare me for a caesarean section. When we got there, the doctor started to explain the spinal block.

“We’re going to insert some fluid into your spine. Then we’ll put some water on your belly to see if you feel it. Then we’re going to cut just below your bikini line to deliver the baby. Do you want your wife to say if it’s a boy or a girl?”

“Oh my God, stop talking!” I writhed in excruciating pain. The contraction that started when they took out the hormone drip hadn’t stopped.

The doctor stabbed my spine and I remained curled into a ball with an oxygen mask on.

I leaned towards Natalie and the doctor leaned into her ear.

“You have to stay strong, for her.”

My forehead was sweating and I couldn’t move.

“Can you straighten out, please?”

The doctor rolled me onto my back and patted just below my bikini line. The nurse poured a few drops of water on the area.

“Oh my God, don’t operate!” I yelled.

“Okay, we’re going to have to do a general.”

The anaesthesiologist leaned in and inserted a needle, which I couldn’t feel above the contractions. It all happened so quickly. This was all completely out of my control now. I had to let go. I inhaled sharply and expressed my only wish.

“Don’t tell her the sex of the baby before I wake up!”

That was the last thing I remember as the curtain of unconsciousness fell down around me.

The next thing I remember is that my eyes were too heavy to open and I felt disconnected from myself, like a butterfly outside of its chrysalis.

Was I dead?

I opened one eye. I could see the most perfect looking baby on my chest. No blood, no fluid, no bruises.

“He’s perfect.” I exclaimed, making an assumption about the sex of my baby before drifting back into the woozy stream of unconsciousness.

The next time I woke, someone was holding my baby up in front of my face. They swiftly yanked the nappy down to reveal the sex.

“It’s a boy!”

We had already named him Soren, for a boy or a girl. It hurt so bad, but I smiled.

“Why are you crying?” I looked over at my wife, confused.

“It was just a C-section. They do these all the time.” I assured her.

“You don’t get it. I almost lost you.”

“You lost almost half of the blood in your body. They had to stabilise you. It took a long time. Soren was fine, but you nearly died.”

I felt like part of my emotional self was anaesthetised. I could see and hear my own mortality being shared around me, but I couldn’t feel myself hurting. It was completely numbing, as if I’d been sliced through the chest and I was watching my heart exist outside of it weeping and bleeding, but not feeling so much as a twinge. It was almost like my brain was dismembered from my body and I was merely a spectator.

The mental impact of his birth raged on and I still feel it today. However, I could not have had my son under any other circumstances. This was his birth. As traumatic and as violent as it was, it brought him to us.

Sometimes I still feel split in two, but together, we are family. Felix culpa.

Otherwise, read on with this year's finalists entries...

Winner - 2020 Growlife Medical Essay Competition

"Stories of Families"

Read This Year's Finalist Entries

My Awesome Dad

Thu, 22 Oct 2020 22:11:58 GMT

Okay so lets get this straight, my dad is a goofy head.

I’m going to tell you everything that’s funny about him.

Sometimes he is so embarrassing when he is trying to annoy me. One time when he was dropping me at school he started loudly singing things about me and he was very off tune. Then he started dancing. Other kids were looking at him and I was so grateful they didn’t know me. It was the worst.

My dad has these silly characters that he pretends to be to make me and my sister laugh. He does a different voice for each character. There is Squirrel, who just makes squeaking sounds instead of speaking. There is Drew, who is apparently handsome and zen and all the girls like him. He says things like “I am one with mother nature”. There is Andy, the party animal who says things like “party on!” and “let’s get this party started!”.

My dad thinks that he’s the best at everything. He’s not. My Dad is terrrrrible at drawing. His cats look like dead rats. His self-portraits look like blobs. The best thing he can draw are dive-bomber birds. THEY ARE AWFUL! He once entered them in a drawing contest where he thought they were going to win for sure, but they lost – BIG TIME.

I like going on the trampoline. I like having someone to bounce with. I once asked my dad to bounce with me and he said he had to get into his “trampoline outfit”. When he came out, he was wearing a green and yellow onesie that makes him look like a giant yellow telly-tubby. While trying to do a trick, he fell onto his back and couldn’t get up again. His arms and legs were flailing up in the air while he tried to get up. He’s not the best at everything.

But I love him and he loves me.

Otherwise, read on with this year's finalists entries...

2020 Growlife Medical Essay Competition Finalist

"Stories of Families"

Entry by a school Aged Student Category

Read This Year's Finalist Entries

Low Iron in Pregnancy

Fri, 25 Sep 2020 22:05:54 GMT

Have you been feeling weak and exhausted during your pregnancy? If so, it maybe a symptom of low iron in pregnancy. When you’re pregnant, you must produce more blood to support your developing baby. This requires around 50% more red blood cells to carry oxygen to your tissues and those of your baby!

When iron deficiency is significant, you might become anaemic, where your blood may contain fewer red blood cells than normal. Or, the red blood cells you have may not have sufficient haemoglobin. Haemoglobin is an iron-rich protein which is responsible for carrying oxygen throughout your body. As your iron levels drop, you may be unable to produce enough red blood cells to meet your body's requirement - causing anaemia.

Don’t worry though, iron-deficiency anaemia is surprisingly common during the second and third trimesters. And it is usually easily fixed. By introducing some supplements and minor dietary changes, you can have a stress-free pregnancy.

Growlife Medical are experienced in treating anaemia in pregnancy. Please contact us today for advice.

What is Anaemia in Pregnancy?

We Are Anaemia in Pregnancy Experts, with doctors, midwives and dieticians ready to help you through your pregnancy. Please chat to us at Growlife Medical .

We are also Brisbane's leader in Telehealth Consults , Growlife Medical now provides easy and secure Telehealth Consults with your doctor. You can easily book online or over the phone , for a video or phone consult with your GP. All Growlife Medical Doctors in all or our general practice locations are available for Telehealth consults .

Causes of Anaemia in Pregnancy

Anaemia in pregnancy occurs when your body struggles to produce sufficient red blood cells to support your developing baby. Each pregnancy requires around 1000mg of iron, contributing to the production of around 50% more red blood cells, and your baby's growing body. Remember, your baby will weigh around 3kg, and your blood volume expands significant to meet the requirements of your uterus and placenta, and prepare for birth. This high requirement, and a cap on the amount of iron your body can absorb each day, means your iron levels can fall. If you suffer from low iron levels, you may be unable to produce sufficient red blood cells - leading to iron deficiency anaemia.

Iron deficiency anaemia is the most common anaemia type experienced by pregnant women. It is commonly seen in the second or third trimesters. Iron deficiency can be detected on a simple blood test during pregnancy, and is best assessed by looking at the Ferritin level. Anaemia is detected in a routine antenatal blood test called a Full Blood Count. Your full blood count may show fewer red blood cells than normal, or your red blood cells may not contain adequate haemoglobin levels. The best way to assess for anaemia is by looking at the Haemoglobin level, often referred to as Hb. Haemoglobin is an iron-rich protein which carries oxygen from your lungs to the rest of your body, and iron contributes to many cellular processes. Iron is important to your health, and your baby's health. However, with some dietary changes and vitamin supplementation, you can still have a healthy pregnancy.

Is Low Iron a Sign of Pregnancy?

Anaemia in Pregnancy Guide

What is Considered Severe Anaemia in Pregnancy?

Treatment of Anaemia in Pregnancy

Growlife Medical Are Anaemia in Pregnancy Experts

If you do develop anaemia while pregnant, don’t worry. There are a variety of treatment options to help increase the production of healthy red blood cells. For the treatment of anaemia in pregnancy, your doctor may recommend several courses of action to treat your anaemia. These include:

Vitamin supplements – While pregnant, your body needs twice as much iron as non-pregnant women to support your baby. This supplement can also prevent and treat diagnosed iron deficiency anaemia. If you require a higher iron intake, your doctor may suggest taking a separate iron tablet. As a general guide, pregnant women need 27 mg of iron each day.
Dietary changes – Improving your iron level is very simple. By making some basic changes to your diet, you can boost your daily iron intake. Common sources of iron include red meat, chicken and fish. The iron from animal products, particularly red meat, is most easily absorbed. If you do not eat meat, leafy green vegetables, capsicum, strawberries and dried beans are also rich in iron. Consulting with our dietitian experienced in pregnancy is a good way to ensure optimal dietary intake. Taking vitamin C helps with the absorption of iron, so having a glass of orange juice with a steak would be a perfect combination!
Considering an iron infusion - If you are already taking iron supplements but have ongoing iron deficiency or anaemia, your GP may recommend and iron infusion . If you have severe anaemia this treatment may even be considered first up. An iron infusion can be the quickest way to fix your iron deficiency, as an infusion can provide up to 1000mg of iron in one treatment - as much as the requirement for an entire pregnancy!
A blood transfusion - we believe this treatment option is best avoided, as it is the most risky. Appropriately detecting iron deficiency during pregnancy and treating via other methods is important. This ensures your levels are good prior to delivery and the blood loss that often occurs.

While pregnant, anaemia tends to progress slowly, ranging from mild to severe. To be considered to have severe anaemia in pregnancy, the haemoglobin (Hb) concentration of your blood must register at 80 g/L or below. Most women with levels this low will have significant symptoms.

There tell-tale signs which suggest severe anaemia. These include:

General malaise (weakness)
Irritability
Consistent fatigue
Shortness of breath
A frequent sore throat
Headaches (located in the frontal region)
Decreased appetite, and;
Unusual cravings (i.e. non-food items)

The trouble is, during pregnancy, anaemic symptoms tend to progress slowly. This can lead to a delay in investigation and, ultimately, treatment. For this reason, many women do not seek medical attention until symptoms become quite serious.

If you experience these symptoms during your pregnancy, we recommend speaking to your doctor or health care professional. The sooner your anaemia is detected, the sooner you can be properly treated.

Pregnancy brings about many changes, both physically and emotionally. However, as many of these changes are gradual, they tend to go unnoticed at first. Iron deficiency anaemia in pregnancy is a classic example of this. As the volume of blood in your body increases, so too does your requirement for iron and other vitamins needed to make haemoglobin. Many pregnant women do not have sufficient iron stores to cope with the second and third trimesters. When this occurs, anaemia develops.

Due to a lack of iron, many women experience mild anaemia while pregnant. In fact, between 15% and 25% of all pregnant women will experience mild iron deficiency anaemia.

Fortunately, though, it can be easily treated if caught early. Your doctor or health provider can perform simple tests to determine the red blood cells in your plasma and the concentration of haemoglobin in your blood. If anaemia is detected, they can suggest an effective treatment plan.

Related articles:

Whilst low iron commonly develops in pregnancy and commonly causes fatigue, one wouldn't generally consider it a sign of pregnancy. However, there are some signs which may indicate you are expecting. One obvious sign is a noticeable increase in fatigue. As fatigue is a common sign of both pregnancy and iron deficiency, the way you feel might be quite similar. Later in pregnancy, you might experience a decrease in iron levels. Low iron can manifest itself in different ways. Symptoms can include:

Fatigue
Extreme malaise (i.e. weakness)
Pale skin
An irregular heartbeat
Shortness of breath and more

There is significant overlap between the symptoms of pregnancy and those of iron deficiency. Fatigue is the most obvious. Constipation is a symptom of pregnancy, and also a side effect of oral iron supplements. A faster heart rate and shortness of breath are symptoms of both pregnancy and iron deficiency. Changes in food preference are also symptoms of both. Read more about symptoms of pregnancy and how to manage them .

One of the most specific symptoms of iron deficiency anaemia is frequently overlooked. Unusual food cravings can be a sign of low iron levels. You might lose appetite, or may be craving strange food combinations, for example foods which don’t normally go together. Or, the foods you love may seem revolting to you. In rare cases, pregnant women are even known to desire non-food items, like clay, ice or even dirt. This symptom is known as pica.

It’s important to remember, though, that low iron itself isn’t a clear indication of pregnancy. If you’re concerned, contact your doctor today .

Anaemia is extremely common during pregnancy. The leading causes of anaemia in pregnancy are due to a mismatch between intake and the nutritional demands of your pregnancy. Deficiencies can affect the number of red blood cells your body produces and how healthy they are. There are three main causes of anaemia among pregnant women. These include:

Iron deficiency – If you’re pregnant, the total volume of blood in your body increases by over 50 per cent. This ensures there is an adequate supply for you and your growing baby. If you suffer iron deficiency anaemia, your haemoglobin levels decrease due to a diminished iron supply.
Vitamin B12 deficiency – Vitamin B12 helps produce healthy red blood cells. B12 deficiency anaemia occurs when you don’t consume enough Vitamin B12 or have difficulty processing it. Vitamin B12 deficiency is commonly seen in those with a Vegan diet.
Folate deficiency – Whilst anaemia from folate deficiency is uncommon in pregnancy, higher folate intake is essential for a healthy pregnancy. Folic acid is a vitamin vital for preventing neural-tube defects (spina bifida), and all women are recommended to take supplementary folate prior to falling pregnant. If you’re at higher risk of your baby having a neural tube defect, your doctor will recommend taking a higher dose folate supplement before you fall pregnant. This is most commonly those taking epilepsy medication or with a history of having a baby with a neural tube defect.

Your Guide to Contraception

Tue, 01 Sep 2020 22:03:48 GMT

Thinking about contraception but not sure where to start? Sick of taking a pill every day and want to know what else is out there? This article is your guide to contraception and covers the various options available to you. We also discuss when contraception is essential, contraception when breastfeeding, and offer some contraception advice.

Contraception has come a long way recently and is now as varied as the lifestyles we lead. Growlife Medical is here to help find the best fit for you. Please contact Growlife Medical today for advice.

Contraception Choice

One of the most common types of oral contraceptive pill is the combination pill. These contain synthetic progestin and estrogen hormones. Combination pills are taken in cycles. The majority of pills in a cycle are 'active', meaning they contain hormones, while the remaining quota of pills are inactive, and do not contain hormones.

One advantage of the combined oral contraceptive pill is being able to take active pills continuously, so that you can time or skip periods. This can reduce the number of periods to three or four times a year.

Combined Oral Contraceptive Pill

Progestin based contraception taken orally is able to prevent pregnancy by stopping the release of eggs from your ovaries. Progestin itself is a synthetic form of the naturally occurring female hormone, progesterone.

The biggest caveat to progestin based contraception is unexpected vaginal bleeding – however, the statistics show that one in five women get heavier periods, one in five get lighter to no periods, and three in five will have much the same bleeding pattern only lighter. Return to fertility is immediate upon removal of the birth control implants or IUDs , however can take up to 18 months if you are on the Depo.

Progestin only contraceptives come in forms including; the progestin-only 'minipill', progestin releasing intrauterine system, a progestin injection, and a progestin implant.

Progestin only pills - also known as the minipill - are the other main type of oral contraceptive pills. They are typically a good choice for women who are not able to take estrogen. There are no inactive pills involved - so it is possible to have a period with progestin only pills. This type is OK with breastfeeding, is therefore a common option immediate after having a baby. As the minipill isn't quite as effective at preventing pregnancy, it is usually reserved for breastfeeding unless there is a good reason to use it at other times of life.

Intrauterine contraception devices or intra-uterine devices (IUDs) provide birth control for five years. This T shaped device is inserted into the uterus, and releases the progestin hormone. It plays the role of thickening the mucus in the cervix, stopping sperm from fertilising an egg. It is also able to thin the lining of the uterus and suppress ovulation partially. Both birth control implants and intra-uterine devices (IUDs) are set and forget options so great if you’re sick of taking that pill every day.

There are also non-hormonal IUDs available if the progesterone component doesn't work for you.

Progesterone-Based Contraception

Intrauterine Contraception

First up, let remember that condoms are the only method of contraception choice which protects against sexually transmitted infections (STIs). The combined oral contraceptive pill is its well known hormonal counterpart on the market. However, many find remembering to take a pill every day cumbersome. In addition to this, certain medical conditions such as having migraines with auras or a clotting disorder may preclude you from being able to safely take this form of contraception.

So, what else is out there for you?

If you suffer from the conditions mentioned above, you are still able to safely take a progestin-based contraception. There are also other contraception options, too. Below we run through some of the main contraception choices available.

If you are thinking of having an STI check or wish to discuss your contraceptive options in more detail, chat to us at Growlife Medical .

We have GPs trained in both birth control implants and IUD insertions at our practices to easier facilitate your choice of contraception.

We are also Brisbane's leader in Telehealth Consults , Growlife Medical now provides easy and secure Telehealth Consults with your doctor. You can easily book online or over the phone , for a video or phone consult with your GP. All Growlife Medical Doctors in all or our general practice locations are available for Telehealth consults .

Contraception Advice

Contraceptive Implant

Another progesterone only option is a contraceptive implant. These have the benefits of progesterone only contraception, but because they are an implant, they overcome the problems of the mini pill (mainly forgetting!) and are the most effective form of contraception. Birth control implants or "bars" are a small device inserted just under the skin of your arm which lasts three years but can be removed at any time. These birth control implants are roughly the size of a matchstick, and releases the progestin hormone which stops you from getting pregnant.

The Depo-Provera, or 'The Depo' as it is also known – is an older style way of achieving the same thing. It is an intramuscular progesterone injection required to be taken every 12 weeks. It is able to suppress ovulation and prevent the ovaries from releasing an egg. However, unlike the implant, it can't be removed once injected, so most doctors now recommend the implant or an IUD rather than the Depo.

As progesterone implants or IUDs are super effective, overcome forgetfulness and are OK for breastfeeding, they are often a much better long term option than the mini-pill

Related articles:

Please remember that no form of hormonal contraception protects against STIs. We recommend a sexual health check at the start of every new relationship, or when you are concerned. It is important to note that many STIs can have no symptoms at all, and can have long-lasting implications such as infertility.

Asking for an STI check when you have your cervical screen is a great idea. Remember to ask your doctor.

There are some cases which require essential contraception, often relating to taking medication which can be harmful to a growing baby. Birth control is needed for Roaccutane treatment, which is used to address severe acne. Two forms of contraception must be taken for one month before the treatment, one month during the treatment, and one month after the treatment. Your doctor will advise you on suitable forms of birth control. Generally, a very effective method is recommended, so considering a progesterone implant is a really good idea.

If a contraception is required during breastfeeding as a method of birth control, progesterone only contraceptives are usually recommended for women who are breastfeeding. A birth control implant or IUD can be used. Breastfeeding mums can be confident that progesterone only contraceptives won't affect milk supply.

Contraception and STI’s

Essential Contraception

Contraception When Breastfeeding

Electronic Prescriptions - eScripts

Wed, 26 Aug 2020 21:51:38 GMT

Electronic Prescriptions for medical scripts have arrived in Brisbane, and Growlife Medical is one of the first providers in Queensland to provide eScripts to our patients. As the world is changing rapidly, we continue to lead the way with digital healthcare to help keep you safe, and healthy.

This article explains how eScripts work, what is a script token, how to receive an electronic script and where to find a pharmacy to fill an eScript in Brisbane.

How Do Medical Electronic Scripts (eScripts) Work?

The token is a type of complex barcode that your pharmacist can scan - like the one depicted below. Some clever technology allows this scan to automatically complete your prescription details in the pharmacy computer system. The token is like a key that you hold that allows your doctor to communicate your prescription details directly to any pharmacy you choose. Even better, this automated technology reduces the risk of errors in medicine, dose, strength and instructions, keeping you safer. And being electronic, its much harder to lose your prescription. Should you lose your token, you can also request your doctor to cancel that script.

What is an eScript Token?

The following pharmacies are accepting eScripts now:

Watch this video from GP software provider Best Practice to learn more about how eScripts work

Where can I find a pharmacy that accepts electonic prescriptions in Brisbane?

Learn more about Electronic Prescriptions (eScripts)

COVID-19 is a coronavirus which causes respiratory symptoms like cough, sore throat and breathlessness. It also causes fever, and can also cause fatigue muscle aches and diarrhoea. Because coronavirus is a respiratory virus, a person with coronavirus causes spread of the virus when they cough. This form of spread is called droplet spread. This is important, as droplet spread viruses are generally easier to prevent spreading than airborne spread viruses. Droplet spread means a virus falls from the air with gravity when an infected person coughs or sneezes. Airborne spread viruses can float in the air for hours after an infected person coughs or sneezes.

Because coronavirus is droplet spread, we can work together to prevent spread of coronavirus in Brisbane .

Children have very mild disease with coronavirus, and it is possible that they can spread coronavirus without their family realising they are unwell. So prevention measures are important, even if you aren't directly in contact with someone with suspected coronavirus.

Droplet spread of coronavirus can occur through spending more than 15 minutes with an infected person or by direct contact with their body fluids (typically coughing or sneezing). Coronavirus can remain infectious outside the body on surfaces. It is believed this is a common method of spread, through touching contaminated door handles, light switches, telephones, keyboards, and in bathrooms and kitchens.

Coronavirus is spreading rapidly worldwide, and you can view a coronavirus COVID-19 map here .

Wish your GP was more responsive to your needs? Book an appointment with a family friendly GP from Growlife Medical .

Growlife Medical Family General Practice

What is an eScript or Electronic Prescription?

For many years, legislation has required medication prescriptions to be written on paper and signed by the doctor's own hand. Whilst the digital world has moved rapidly, legislation has been slow to change and the system has remained clunky for doctors and patients. COVID-19 has changed so much of our world, and change is no more evident in General Practice. Growlife Medical has led the Telehealth revolution, and now we are also advocating to bring prescribing into the digital era.

In July 2020, legislation in Queensland changed to allow doctors to generate a prescription with a digital signature. To make sure this digital signature is secure, every script has a unique code assigned to it. Your doctor can now email or SMS your prescription, which looks different to the old paper version to make it much more secure. Your eScript will arrive as an email or SMS with a link to click. This link contains your eScript which is called a token.

Help - My Baby Has A Tongue Tie

Mon, 13 Jul 2020 21:48:11 GMT

Increasingly, I am seeing families who have been told that their baby has a tongue tie. This diagnosis often triggers a cascade of anxiety, Google-searching and (sadly) misinformation. This article is aimed at addressing some of the common concerns and questions regarding tongue ties.

For more information on Tongue Tie in Babies, please contact Growlife Medical today.

What is a Tongue Tie?

No. This theory has been disproven. Currently there is no evidence that tongue ties affect speech.

Can it Affect My Baby's Speech?

Yes, rarely, it can. If a tongue tie is severely restricting the range of movement of the tongue, it can contribute to painful or inefficient breastfeeding. However, there are many other causes of painful or inefficient breastfeeding which need to be ruled out before attributing this to a tongue tie. Poor positioning, infection, trauma, latch difficulties and many other breastfeeding challenges can all contribute to painful or inefficient feeds and these need to be recognised and treated prior to treating a tongue tie. Of the families I see, who present with difficulties breastfeeding and where there is a tongue tie, more than 90% have issues other than the tongue tie causing the breastfeeding difficulties. In Australia and around the world, having tongue ties treated has been increasingly presented as a 'quick fix' option to improve breastfeeding challenges. However, without addressing the other contributing or underlying problems, treating the tongue tie alone will likely not be sufficient.

Related articles:

Tongue ties only need to be treated if they are causing problems with breastfeeding, such as severe nipple pain or inefficient feeding. If there are no problems with breastfeeding they should not be treated. In all cases, a thorough assessment of all the potential causes of the breastfeeding challenge need to be recognised and treated first and surgical management strategies should be the last line of management for breastfeeding difficulties .

Non-surgical options for treatment of breastfeeding difficulties include optimising breastfeeding latch, positioning, feed frequency and milk supply. Use of tools such as nipple shields or supply lines may be useful in some cases, on a short-term basis. If genuinely required and non-surgical options have failed, tongue ties are surgically treated via a small procedure called a frenotomy. The membrane is cut with small surgical scissors to allow the tongue to move freely. It is a very quick, inexpensive procedure.

Can it Affect Breastfeeding?

Does it Need to be Treated?

How Is It Treated?

In every mouth there is a membrane (lingual frenum), which connects the underside of the tongue to the floor of the mouth. Tongue ties (also known as ankyloglossia) describe a situation where the tongue is restricted in its movements, causing limitations of its function, which are accompanied by a tight lingual frenum on examination.

Yes, every surgical procedure has risks. Risks of a frenotomy include (but are not limited to) bleeding, ulceration, infection, scarring and damage to local structures. The practitioner performing the procedure should be fully trained and equipped to manage any complications. There is also a risk that the procedure may not solve the breastfeeding challenges .

No. These have not been proven to be of any benefit. Stretching is not recommended as it prolongs the healing time and can increase the risks of scarring, infection and breast refusal.

Ongoing breastfeeding support is required to ensure that the breastfeeding challenges have resolved or are being well supported.

Currently there is no evidence that lip (lingual frena) or cheek (buccal frena) ties affect either breastfeeding or speech. They are a normal part of human anatomy and do not need to be treated.

Currently there is no evidence that posterior tongue ties exist. This should no longer be used as a medical diagnosis. If there are feeding difficulties that have been attributed to posterior tongue ties, other causes of the difficulties need to be identified and treated.

Until this year there have been no Australian guidelines about treatment of Tongue Ties management in Australia. The Australian Dental Association has now released a thorough statement providing up-to-date, evidence based care of tongue ties.

Have your baby examined by someone who is properly trained in both tongue tie assessment and in breastfeeding management. The assessment should involve a thorough breastfeeding history, an examination of your baby's mouth and an observation of a breastfeed. The practitioner should explore all possible causes of the breastfeeding challenges that you are facing. All non-surgical management options should be tried before resorting to surgical treatments. The practitioner should not be performing frenotomies for financial gain. If you are uncomfortable with the assessment or feel that it was not thorough, please seek a second opinion.

Are There Any Risks to the Procedure?

Do I Need to do any Tongue Stretches or Exercises Afterwards?

What Follow Up is Required?

What About Lip and Cheek Ties?

What About Posterior Tongue Ties?

Are There any Guidelines in Australia About Treatment of Tongue Ties?

So What Should I Do?

Growlife Medical have doctors and lactation consultants available for a Baby Tongue Tie consultation. Staff are trained to manage all problems associated with breastfeeding .

GP Lactation Consultant Dr Sonja Morgan is available at our Highgate Hill medical centre. Her expertise includes contraception, antenatal and postnatal care of mothers, as well as care for newborns.

We are also Brisbane's leader in Telehealth Consults , Growlife Medical now provides easy and secure Telehealth Consults with your doctor. You can easily book online or over the phone , for a video or phone consult with your GP. All Growlife Medical Doctors in all or our general practice locations are available for Telehealth consults .

Baby Tongue Tie Consultation

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Guide to Gestational Diabetes

Sun, 24 May 2020 21:45:36 GMT

Over the last 20 years in Australia, the number of people diagnosed with gestational diabetes has tripled. Through this blog, we aim to provide you with a general guide to Gestational diabetes, risk factors, symptoms, treatment and ongoing management. Should you have any concerns or further questions about your own health, we encourage you to please speak with your doctor or nurse.

Gestational diabetes is a condition where women develop high blood sugar while pregnant. Gestational diabetes generally lasts only for the duration of the pregnancy but is associated with an increased risk of Type 2 diabetes diagnosis later in life. Between 12% and 14% of pregnant women develop the condition, usually around halfway through their pregnancy.

Gestational Diabetes is caused by hormones produced by the placenta during pregnancy. These hormones help the baby to grow and develop, but also block the women’s insulin action - this is called insulin resistance. Therefore, the body requires 2 to 3 times the normal insulin levels during pregnancy. If your body is not able to cope with this extra demand, gestational diabetes may develop.

Many women living with this condition do not experience symptoms and are only diagnosed during routine testing. In about 30% of cases, women with Gestational diabetes will give birth to a larger-than-average baby. This leads to an increased likelihood of labour intervention, such as a caesarean birth. It does not mean the baby will be born with diabetes. In fact, babies of mothers with gestational diabetes have a higher likelihood of low blood sugar in the newborn period.

At their 26 to 28-week routine check-up, all women should be screened for gestational diabetes. While most women diagnosed with the condition will have a healthy pregnancy, regular delivery and a healthy baby, it is still important to be tested because untreated gestational diabetes can have serious implications for your baby, and resuls in a 50% increased risk of developing Type 2 diabetes later in life.

For more information contact a Diabetes Consultant at Growlife Medical .

Many women diagnosed do not experience any Gestational diabetes symptoms. This is why routine checks are vital for diagnosis of the condition, and why some women are confused and question whether they have it. Regardless, some women do experience symptoms in rare cases. The signs to watch out for include:

higher than normal thirst levels.
a dry mouth.
excessive urination.
recurring yeast infections (thrush).
tiredness and lethargy.
blurred vision.

If you experience any symptoms during your pregnancy, it’s worth getting in touch with Growlife Medical . It’s important to diagnose gestational diabetes as quickly as possible, so you can begin treatment and develop a management routine.

Gestational Diabetes Symptoms

It’s important to begin Gestational diabetes treatment as soon as possible. By sticking to recommended treatment, any risk of harm to your pregnancy or baby is minimised. The majority of women diagnosed with gestational diabetes have a healthy pregnancy, as long as they follow healthy eating, exercise and take any recommended medication. There is a significantly increased risk for you to develop Type 2 diabetes in the future. This is especially true if you have a family history of Type 2 diabetes .

Health professionals, including your GP, midwife or nurse, dietitian or diabetes specialist will know what steps to take to treat your condition. It’s also important to talk to your family about your Gestational diabetes so they know what you are going through, and how to help you through your treatment plan.

The goal of a Gestational diabetes treatment plan is to reduce your blood glucose levels to be more in line with normal expectations. Treatment of Gestational diabetes may involve:

preparing and following a special meal plan.
undergoing regular, scheduled physical activity.
daily blood glucose testing and monitoring.
if necessary, medication such as metformin or insulin injections.

Daily blood glucose testing is necessary for finding out if your condition is improving. Tests should typically be done four or more times a day, with one test first thing in the morning, and one after each meal.

Approximately 10% to 20% of women with Gestational diabetes will need insulin injections to manage their condition. Typically, this kind of treatment is only required if regular exercise and a specialised meal plan do not help you achieve your goals. If necessary, you may also be prescribed an oral medication to control your blood sugar.

Managing Gestational diabetes should involve regular blood glucose testing, following a healthy diet and keeping on top of your doctor’s recommended exercise regime. Exercise is especially important, as it will help with other common pregnancy issues such as back pain, swelling, constipation and muscle cramping as well as managing your blood sugar levels.

Make sure to exercise only as much as your doctor recommends. Typically, you will be expected to engage in moderate physical activity for about 30 minutes a day. Depending on your fitness level, this may range from a long walk, to swimming, to cycling. Strenuous everyday activities such as cleaning and gardening may also count towards your exercise goal.

You should also follow a healthy diet during your pregnancy. This will help to ensure the general health of yourself and your baby, as well as improving your blood sugar levels. Follow your doctor or dietitian recommendations to make sure you are getting the right vitamins and minerals to support you through your pregnancy. In most cases, you should be following a diet that focuses on:

fruit
vegetables
whole grains
lean protein
low calorie, high fibre foods

Typically, you should also avoid foods such as:

refined carbohydrates
sugary sweets and drinks
high-fat, fried foods

Your GP, dietitian or diabetes specialist will help you create a simple, tasty meal plan and exercise regime to follow through the duration of your pregnancy. This should ensure your blood sugar levels remain normal. If not, it’s important to discuss this with your doctor, as you may need to start medication.

As with any pregnancy-related health condition, please be assured that health professionals, including your GP, midwife or nurse, dietitian or diabetes specialist (add booking link) will know what steps to take to treat your condition. It’s also important to talk to your family about your Gestational diabetes so they know what you are going through, and how to help you through your treatment plan.

If left untreated, gestational diabetes can have serious implications, and can result in a 50% increased risk of developing Type 2 diabetes later in life. As always, if you have any concerns, please ensure you speak with your doctor or nurse.

Gestational Diabetes Treatment

Managing Gestational Diabetes

All pregnant women will undergo routine testing for gestational diabetes at their 26 to 28-week check-up. Doctors may ask questions about your lifestyle and family history to check if you match up with common risk factors. Guidelines identify ten Gestational diabetes risk factors of developing diabetes during pregnancy:

are aged 40 years or older.
have type 2 diabetes in your family history.
have a first-degree relative (such as mother or sister) who has had gestational diabetes.
come from an Aboriginal, Torres Strait Islander or some Asian backgrounds.
have experienced gestational diabetes in a previous pregnancy.
have experienced polycystic ovary syndrome.
have previously given birth to a large baby (above 4.5kg).
are taking some kinds of steroid or anti-psychotic medications.
are higher than the recommended healthy weight range.
have put on weight too quickly in the first half of your pregnancy.

If you match any of the above criteria, you may be tested for gestational diabetes more often. Keep in mind that some women may develop the condition even if they do not meet any of the increased risk factors.

Gestational diabetes is typically diagnosed at a pathology lab with an oral glucose tolerance test or OGTT. Mater Pathology located at our Sherwood practice is an ideal location for having the glucose tolerance test in pregnancy. Women will need to fast overnight before taking the test. The normal process involves a fasting blood glucose level check, after which you will be required to drink a sugary beverage. Your blood sugar will be tested again one and two hours later. If your blood sugar level is above the healthy range at any of the testing points, you will be diagnosed with Gestational diabetes.

Gestational diabetes testing is typically diagnosed at a pathology lab with an oral glucose tolerance test or OGTT. Women will need to fast overnight before taking the test. The normal process involves a fasting blood glucose level check, after which you will be required to drink a sugary beverage. Your blood sugar will be tested again one and two hours later. If your blood sugar level is above the healthy range at any of the testing points, you will be diagnosed with Gestational diabetes.

Growlife Medical values providing community based Diabetes advice.

We are also Brisbane's leader in Telehealth Consults , Growlife Medical now provides easy and secure Telehealth Consults with your doctor. You can easily book online or over the phone , for a video or phone consult with your GP. All Growlife Medical Doctors in all or our general practice locations are available for Telehealth consults .

References:

https://www.diabetesaustralia.com.au/about-diabetes/gestational-diabetes/

https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0266613822000146

Make sure you Book Now for a consultation with your regular doctor at Grow Medical. If you don’t have a regular doctor, choose “next available with any practitioner” and we will start walking the road to better health with you.

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Gestational Diabetes Testing

Diabetes Consultation

What is the next step?

Ten Gestational Diabetes Risk Factors

General Practitioner

 BSc, MBBS(Hons), FRACGP, Dip Child Health

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Dr Aaron Chambers

Isolation as a New Parent | Growlife Medical

Tue, 21 Apr 2020 21:29:17 GMT

For most people, becoming a new parent is one of the greatest challenges that you will ever go through. In normal times, calling on our village – our family, our friends, our parent groups - is one of the greatest sources of support to help you through that change.

Dr Sonja Morgan is a GP with special interest in Mothers and Babies , and is very experienced in managing issues with crying, feeding and newborn sleep. She is also a parent of two young children. In this short article, she shares her thoughts on being a parent in our Coronavirus affected world, and some steps you can take to care for yourself, so you have the energy required for bringing up your baby.

Mothers and babies support

Remember. You are not alone. Know that you can find support from our team for all issues that new parents face in those precious early days.

Know that there is help available and support for you as an individual:

Book Online for a Telehealth appointment with one of our GPs to discuss how you're travelling
Seek experienced help for breastfeeding, sleep or a crying baby with our mothers and babies team
Request home visiting breastfeeding support
See one of our psychologists in person or via Telehealth

Some people have been worried that seeing your GP should be delayed for now. Don't worry. We have robust procedures in place to keep you and your baby safe, so you can still receive the care you need. It is important that your baby gets regular weights, measurements and developmental checks. They also need their routine vaccination. If nothing else, coming for a visit to your GP is a chance for a much-needed outing!

GP Dr Sonja Morgan is available at our Highgate Hill medical centre. Her expertise includes contraception, antenatal and postnatal care of mothers, as well as care for newborns. She is available for video consultations via Telehealth for all new parents.

We believe in the need for face to face support. We also understand the need for virtual consultations right now. We are Brisbane's leader in Telehealth Consults, by combining face to face and telehealth consultations. Growlife Medical now provides easy and secure Telehealth Consults with your doctor. You can easily book online or over the phone, for a video or phone consult with your GP. All Growlife Medical Doctors in all or our general practice locations are available for Telehealth consults.

Support when you need it

Help for mothers and babies

We can’t replace your village at Growlife Medical. But we are part of your community. Please reach out to your GP if you are struggling. We have a multitude of programs designed to help make the most of new parenting

Join us at our online parents groups
Link in to our shared online appointments with other mothers with new babies
Join our online group music therapy program SongLife Connections

Social connection for new parents

Covid19 has suddenly made finding support for new parents infinitely more difficult. The help we would normally rely on is physically out of reach. Now there are no breaks, fewer family able to help share the load, fewer friends to bounce ideas off over a coffee, fewer hands reaching for the baby to give you some truly needed moments to recharge so that you have something left to give when you take them back. And fewer connections with other new parents going through many of the same challenges that you are going through. And it can be tremendously lonely.

Help for crying baby

Parenting was also never designed to be done in isolation. Anyone who has ever tried to keep a baby or a small child happy and occupied in the same four walls for the entirety of a day without going out to provide them and you with some desperately sensory change, will know that this is a near impossible task. And sitting at home alone trying to calm a crying baby for days on end is heart-breaking.

There are a few simple steps you can take today to help break this cycle:

Take a long walk - exercise outside is still allowed whilst keeping social distance. This time is great for your mental health. Sunshine. Physical activity. Change in routine. Your baby will respond positively to the change in temperature, the wind in her face, the contrasting light and shade as you walk under trees, of watching the birds and movement around them.
FaceTime or Skype relatives - older relatives who are in isolation themselves will appreciate it in particular, and if you get creative this can be a great way for your baby to maintain connection with relatives, so they recognise them when the world returns to normal
Think of creative ways to mix up your day - a picnic in the backyard? Stories with baby in a cubby house?

We believe in the need for face to face support. We also understand the need for virtual consultations right now. We are Brisbane's leader in Telehealth Consults , by combining face to face and telehealth consultations. Growlife Medical now provides easy and secure Telehealth Consults with your doctor. You can easily book online or over the phone , for a video or phone consult with your GP. All Growlife Medical Doctors in all or our general practice locations are available for Telehealth consults .

Complete General Practice - Online and Face to Face

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The author Dr Sonja Morgan has worked in General Practice since 2006, having previously worked in hospital-based paediatrics. She is an accredited lactation consultant, and loves paediatric and obstetric care. She is particularly skilled in this area, and has assisted many mothers and babies to get through those difficult early days, and continues to care for many throughout childhood. Dr Morgan consults at the Highgate Hill Growlife Medical Clinic.

Dr Sonja Morgan

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Dietary Management of Diabetes

Sun, 05 Apr 2020 21:21:23 GMT

Dietary management of Diabetes, nutrition and physical exercise, both have important roles to play for people who are living with diabetes. When combined with exercise, a healthy diet plan can help to keep your blood glucose levels within the range set by your health care professional. This will give you a better quality of life and reduce the need for diabetic medications or insulin.

What you eat and when you eat are critical factors to maintaining blood glucose levels. This usually means making changes to your diet by cutting out fatty and sugary foods and carefully monitoring your calorie intake. This doesn’t sound like much fun, but diets for diabetes don’t have to be boring.

With careful management, you can create a healthy diet plan which is both nutritious and tasty. And contrary to popular belief you don’t have to completely cut out sugar or alcohol. You just have to cut down on your intake by eating smaller portions or enjoying them less often. So don’t worry, you can still have the odd treat, now and then.

The health benefits of dietary management for diabetes include:

Helps to keep blood glucose level, blood pressure and cholesterol within the range set by your healthcare professional.
Helps you reduce weight or maintain a healthy weight.
Can delay or prevent the onset of complications caused by diabetes.
Give you more energy, making you feel good for longer.

Increasing your exercise and changing your dietary habits may seem challenging at first. But humans are creatures of habit, once you get used to the new routine you may find it hard to give up. And the health benefits far outweigh any challenge you experience.

For more information contact a Diabetes Consultant at Growlife Medical .

Difference between Type 1 and 2 Diabetes

Gestational diabetes develops during pregnancy and is not a chronic condition unlike other forms of diabetes. It does mean you have a higher chance of developing Type 2 diabetes later in life. The condition is usually diagnosed in the last 12 weeks of pregnancy through the routine Glucose Tolerance Test at 26-28 weeks, and resolves after birth. If the condition continues after birth it’s usually because the patient had diabetes before falling pregnant. It is essential that an expecting mum closely adheres to a gestational diabetes diet.

Gestational diabetes is caused by hormonal changes in the body during pregnancy. This makes it more difficult for cells to use insulin properly, effectively creating a condition similar to type 2 diabetes. This means that mangement with exercise and a healthy diet is the mainstay of treatment, although due to the effect of high blood sugar on pregnancy and a growing baby, insulin is often required to keep blood glucose at an acceptable level.

Not all pregnant women will develop gestational diabetes , it affects around 16 in 100 pregnancies. Women who are overweight or clinically obese are much more likely to develop the condition. Your healthcare professional will routinely test for the condition at around twelve weeks prior to your due date, but if you feel you are in a high-risk group take advice as soon as possible.

Your diet should consist of foods which are high in complex carbohydrates including:

Whole grain brown rice
Buckwheat
Whole oats
Fruit
Vegetables
Pulses and lentils
Dairy (unsweetened)

You should avoid eating foods high in sugar and simple carbohydrates including processed foods and sugary drinks such as:

Soft drinks (both diet and regular)
Fruit juices high in sugar
Processed foods
Foods high in sugar
White bread

If you need to snack during pregnancy you should avoid biscuits, chips and chocolate. Try and stick to healthy alternatives such as unflavoured greek yoghurt (Jalna brand is a good choice), fruit, unsalted nuts and vegetables.

Over recent years, the Ketogenic diet, or Keto diet for Diabetes, has become popular for people suffering from Type 2 diabetes. The diet is high in fat and low in carbs, which changes the way your body stores and uses energy. This eases the symptoms of diabetes by reducing demand on the pancreas for insulin release, and lowering blood glucose levels.

Several studies have shown that the Keto diet encourages the body to use fat for energy instead of glucose or carbohydrates. Participants in the studies saw improvements in glycemic control and reduced dependency for insulin.

A Keto diet doesn’t mean you can go out and load up on saturated fats though. The diet is made up of healthy monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, the kind which is found in vegetables and dairy products.

You should look for foods which contain high levels of protein, monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats including:

Eggs
Oily fish (salmon, tuna, sardines, anchovies, mackerel)
Avocado
Olives
Lean meat
Natural cheeses
Unsweetened yoghurt
Nuts and berries
Sesame seeds

You should avoid foods which contain high levels of saturated fats or sugar including:

Low-fat dairy products (these are often sweetened)
Grains such as rice, pasta and oatmeal
Any food with added sugar or sweeteners
Soft drinks (both diet and regular)
Most fruits except lemons, limes, tomatoes and berries
Starchy vegetables
Any product containing trans fats, such as margarine, and many take away or deep fried foods

Potential warnings

Changing the body’s primary source of energy from carbohydrate to fat and protein is potentially dangerous for those requiring insulin to manage their diabetes. A ketogenic diet should never be commenced in those using insulin or oral medication for diabetes without medical supervision. Risks include severe low blood sugar (hypoglycaemia) and diabetic ketoacidosis.

You are therefore advised to consult a healthcare professional before trying the Keto diet. While on the diet, you should also monitor your blood sugar levels throughout the day to make sure they remain within target levels. A home testing kit is available. If you experience symptoms of DKA which include a dry mouth, frequent urination and nausea, you should contact a doctor immediately .

Gestational Diabetes Diet

Keto Diet for Diabetes

People suffering from Type 2 diabetes continue to produce insulin, so a dramatic onset of symptoms is uncommon. This is a problem, as many people have Type 2 diabetes but do not know, due to the lack of symptoms. Often people don’t know they have Type 2 diabetes until other complications develop such as cardiovascular disease, kidney and nerve damage.

The good news is that blood sugar levels for Type 2 diabetes can be managed well using a healthy diet. Vegetarian diets are sometimes recommended for Type 2 diabetes. But if you can’t imagine giving up meat the Mediterranean, Paleo and Keto (see below) diets are popular options because they include limited amounts of meat, fish and dairy.

Whichever diet plan you choose it should contain a mix of fats, proteins and carbohydrates. Any carbohydrates consumed should come primarily from vegetables, while fats and proteins should come from plant-based sources. The diet should consist of complex carbohydrates which are low glycemic foods and provide plenty of other nutrients such as vitamins, fibre and some proteins and fats. These all help to regulate blood sugar levels naturally.

Your diet should consist of foods with a low glycemic index and high in protein. This means a diet rich in fruit, vegetables, beans, lentils and oatmeal. You should avoid foods containing simple carbohydrates and processed foods which contain high levels of sugar or simple carbohydrate such as pasta, flour, white bread, white rice, biscuits, pastries and soft drinks (diet and regular).

Type 2 Diabetes Diet

There are two types of diabetes, Type 1 and Type 2. Both are chronic conditions which affect the way your body regulates glucose or blood sugar. Glucose is the fuel your body needs to feed cells. For glucose to enter cells, insulin is produced in the pancreas, circulates in the blood stream, and acts like a key to allow glucose into cells. If a problem occurs, glucose is unable to enter the cells to provide nutrition, and builds up in the blood stream to a level where it becomes toxic.

So what is the difference between Type 1 and Type 2 Diabetes?

With Type 1 diabetes the pancreas stops producing insulin. The immune system mistakes the insulin-producing beta-cells in the pancreas as foreign invaders and destroys them. Once the cells are destroyed the pancreas is unable to produce insulin. The insulin "key" is lost, so glucose cannot enter cells, and it accumulates in the blood stream to dangerous levels. It is not certain why the immune system suddenly starts attacking healthy beta-cells in the pancreas. Some think it may be down to a virus, others say it may be genetic or the result of environmental factors.

People with Type 2 diabetes have developed insulin resistance. The pancreas still produces insulin but the body is unable to use it effectively. Using the key analogy above, it is as if the lock that allows glucose into the cells has become rusty, and so it is difficulty for glucose to enter cells. This causes the pancreas to produce more insulin to compensate, so insulin levels are high, but the glucose cannot enter cells efficiently. After many years of this process, blood glucose builds to unmanageable levels.

The reason why some people develop insulin resistance is not fully understood. A good way to understand it is that high carbohydrate consumption and excess weight, particularly around the waist, plays an important role by causing the pancreas to work on overdrive for many years. Eventually the body's cells stop responding normally to insulin, and the pancreas "burns out". Other lifestyle factors such as smoking and heavy alcohol consumption can also contribute to insulin resistance.

Type 1 Diabetes Diet

Because people with Type 1 diabetes don’t produce insulin, blood sugar levels can rise very quickly causing damage to the kidneys, eyes, and heart. Especially in those with undiagnosed type 1 diabetes, dangerous diabetic ketoacidosis can develop. People with Type 1 diabetes, therefore, need to be careful when eating foods which contain high levels of sugar such as soft drinks, white bread and pasta. Anyone with the symptoms of new onset Type 1 diabetes (increased thirst, increased urination, weight loss and fatigue) should attend their GP for a finger prick glucose test.

Foods typically recommended for Type 1 diabetes have a low glycemic index. The glycemic index is a measure of how quickly a food impacts blood sugar levels. Foods with a low glycemic index raise blood sugar slowly, while those with a high glycemic index raise blood sugar quickly. It is also recommended that people with Type 1 diabetes have a good understanding of calculating carbohydrate in a meal to help decide on an appropriate dose of insulin.

The timing of meals is also critical for people with Type 1 diabetes. People with Type 1 diabetes usually have to take insulin just before they eat. This ensures the body has enough insulin to absorb the glucose generated. Eating late or skipping a meal may increase a person's risk of developing low blood sugar (hypoglycemia).

The Mediterranean diet is often recommended for people suffering from Type 1 diabetes. This diet typically contains lots of fresh fish, vegetables, fruit and plant fats such as olive oil and nuts. Suggested foods to eat include whole wheat, brown rice, quinoa, oatmeal, fruit, vegetables, beans and pulses, lentils.

Unfortunately, there are a large number of foods which should be avoided by people suffering from Type 1 diabetes including:

Soft drink (both diet and regular)
Foods which contain simple carbohydrates. (including; processed/refined sugar, white bread, chips, cookies and some pasta)
Foods which contain trans fats (including; high-fat animal products, and anything with the word hydrogenated on the label)

Dr Aaron Chambers

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Keep Up With The Latest Coronavirus in Brisbane News

Guide to Coronavirus and Pregnancy

Wed, 01 Apr 2020 21:13:25 GMT

If you are pregnant, there is a good chance that you are concerned about what the current Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic could mean for you and your baby. Growlife Medical has prepared a guide to Coronavirus and Pregnancy so you can be armed with all the facts.

It is also important to make sure you obtain information from reliable sources, and not to place undue stress on yourself at this already emotionally demanding time of your life. Current evidence suggests that if you are pregnant you are not at any greater risk of becoming seriously ill if you contract Coronavirus than the general population. Further, there have only been a small number of pregnant women who have contracted the virus, but current statistics show that pregnant women are not at greater risk of getting COVID-19.

However, of course, you still need to take the same precautions as everyone else, and as you are likely aware, any respiratory illness (including influenza) may cause complications for your pregnancy. Below, you can read about the risks that Coronavirus COVID-19 poses to your pregnancy, what you can do to limit your exposure and reduce risks, and what coronavirus can mean for the foetus.

For more information on Coronavirus specific to Brisbane, see our guide to the Coronavirus for Brisbane.

Coronavirus Pregnancy Risks

While Coronavirus should be taken seriously, and all precautions should be taken at all times, there is no reason to think that pregnant women are at greater risk of infection given the current available data. That being said, the virus will still certainly mean a lot of unexpected changes for pregnant women – baby showers will not be happening, antenatal appointments might be happening through a screen, and friends and family might not be able to visit as frequently – but that doesn't mean that women won't still be able to have healthy children during this pandemic.

Regardless of COVID-19, pregnancy and the postpartum period after birth has always been a time of increased emotion and anxiety for women. That is why it is important to maintain a good emotional support network, whether that be other soon-to-be mums, or friends and family. Just because women are practising social distancing, doesn't mean that they are alone. There are many resources for pregnant women at this time, including online information and groups and webinars, so pregnant women should ask their doctors if in need of extra support.

Coronavirus testing is now widely available. Private pathology labs can test should it be required. Please note Mater Pathology Sherwood collection centre does not do Coronavirus testing for the general public.

Pathology labs that can test for Coronavirus are:

If you need to update prescriptions or have a chronic condition, please book with us soon. If you think you could have Coronavirus please advise us prior to arriving in the clinic so we can help you avoid the need to come to the clinic, or use appropriate precautions if necessary. Some people have been worried that their care will be refused if they tell us prior. Don't worry. You will still receive the care you need.

Dianne Walsh offers a holistic and empowering approach to pregnancy support. Dianne can provide education, support and assistance in the comfort of your own home, or a consultation at one of our clinics.

GP Lactation Consultant Dr Sonja Morgan is available at our Highgate Hill medical centre. Her expertise includes contraception, antenatal and postnatal care of mothers, as well as care for newborns.

We are also Brisbane's leader in Telehealth Consults , Growlife Medical now provides easy and secure Telehealth Consults with your doctor. You can easily book online or over the phone, for a video or phone consult with your GP. All Growlife Medical Doctors in all or our general practice locations are available for Telehealth consults .

Coronavirus Testing Brisbane

Coronavirus Doctor Advice

Due to a low number of cases of pregnant women with Coronavirus COVID-19, there is not a lot of information about the effects that Coronavirus Pregnancy has on the foetus, and whether Coronavirus is passed from mother to foetus. There have been two reported cases of potential vertical transmission from mother to foetus. However, in these two cases, it is not clear whether the child contracted Coronavirus soon after birth, or while still in the womb. There have been four more cases from China where four women who had COVID-19 gave birth and their babies did not show any infection. Therefore, the current data is not conclusive. Of the infants that have contracted the virus, none have so far shown any signs of impacts on development, or other severe health consequences.

The World Health Association states that the effects the virus is having on foetuses is still unclear because most of those who have had the infection in their second and third trimesters have still not given birth. The American National Perinatal Association has stated that there has been no detection of the virus in neither samples of breastmilk, nor amniotic fluid.

Related articles:

Coronavirus Pregnancy and Foetus

As of March 2020, according to the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (RANZCOG) the Coronavirus Pregnancy risks for pregnant women is not any higher than those in the general public. They stated, "it is expected that the large majority of pregnant women will experience only mild or moderate cold or-flu-like symptoms." They also stated that there has been no evidence to suggest an increased risk of miscarriage due to contracting Coronavirus. It is important to note that the number of recorded cases of pregnant women contracting Coronavirus has been low. Dr Wendy Burton comments that the available data is insufficient to make too many assumptions, and therefore, it is important to take appropriate care of pregnant women during this time.

One potential consequence that has been raised is the increased likelihood of premature birth, as this has happened with some of the women who have contracted Coronavirus in China. However, it is not entirely clear that Coronavirus was the cause. That being said, RANZCOG are emphasising the importance of the whooping cough vaccine at 20 weeks to ensure that if a baby is born prematurely, they will be well equipped with antibodies. Dr. Burton also says she will be " immunising all women for influenza as soon as possible."

While there are many unknowns, some things from other studies on other illnesses could apply here with COVID-19:

High fevers during the first trimester can lead to a higher frequency of birth defects.
Pregnancy loss has been seen with other Coronaviruses such as SARS and MERS.
Pregnant women are more susceptible to potential complications like Pneumonia.

Coronavirus is spreading rapidly worldwide, and you can view a coronavirus COVID-19 map here .

Coronavirus Pregnancy Safety

Regardless of the likelihood of contracting the virus, taking all appropriate precautions is essential to Coronavirus pregnancy safety, and for stopping the wider spread of Coronavirus in general. Having good hygiene practices, avoiding those who have recently returned from overseas and those who are showing symptoms, and limiting your time in public spaces is very important. All pregnant women should follow these precautions as closely as possible, and also all members in their household should ensure they are doing the same.

Some things you can do include:

Make sure you are washing your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds or using alcohol-based hand sanitiser frequently. This will include before and after eating, when using the toilet, and whenever you touch anything in a public place.
Refrain from going to public places except when entirely necessary (e.g. the supermarket or pharmacy).
Stay more than 1.5 metres away from all people in public, and from anyone who is showing flu-like symptoms, including your family or friends.
If you are working in close working environments, ask your employer what measures are in place to protect the safety of employees, and investigate if there are any work from home opportunities.
Don't travel, even domestically.

The term ' social distancing ' is being frequently used at the moment, and this is another important way to stop the spread and contraction of coronavirus. These measures include:

Avoiding gatherings and large crowds, especially where it is hard to keep 1.5 metres distance from others.
Staying away from small gatherings in enclosed spaces (this includes yoga classes, prenatal classes, etc).
Maintaining 1.5 metre distances from others in public.
While it can be difficult, avoid shaking hands, hugging, kissing, high fiving and all other physical contact, even with your friends.

Some women might be wondering if they should still be attending their doctor appointments?

Maintaining regular check-ups with your doctor is important to track the health of your baby, and yourself. Although, it is understandable that many have reservations about going to medical centres and hospitals at this time. It is recommended to discuss your options with your doctor who will be able to guide you towards the right decision for you at this time in your pregnancy. Some options may include less frequent visitation, or you may be able to conduct a Grow Medical Telehealth consultation by phone or video call, especially if you are in the first 20 weeks of your pregnancy.

Keep Up With The Latest Coronavirus in Brisbane News

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General Practitioner

 BSc, MBBS(Hons), FRACGP, Dip Child Health

Dr Aaron Chambers

Guide to Social Distancing for Families

Thu, 19 Mar 2020 20:57:37 GMT

We are facing an unprecedented period in Australia where social distancing for families and our resources and ability to cope in such uncertain times will be tested. While we will experience varying challenges as individuals, some common challenges will be faced by children and families with or without enforced lockdowns.

Some tips to prepare yourselves and your children emotionally.

For more information on Coronavirus specific to Brisbane, see our guide to the Coronavirus for Brisbane .

Social Distancing and Kids

Most adults will be managing challenging emotions due to the current situation and surrounding uncertainty. When considering Coronavirus and kids, they lack the emotional literacy to be able to name their emotions, or communicate them verbally.

Consider regularly sitting and discussing how you feel about the current situation. Parents can act as positive role models by normalizing emotions and role modelling healthy ways to cope. There is no correct way to feel at this time and for many, they will experience a mix of challenging emotions that vary in intensity over the coming days and weeks. By allowing your child or adolescent to share their emotions you should increase your ability to work at a cohesive unit, solve problems and avoid behaviours that lead to increased stress or conflict. Let your child drive the conversation, avoid lying to them and provide reassurance. Monitor your own state and be mindful of the children in the vicinity if dealing with personally stressful matters.

Coronavirus and Kids

Most of us have never been housebound for this length of time. For those with young children a rainy day can seem like it lasts an eternity. Some tips for family quarantine to avoid going stir-crazy

Establish some structure and routines from the beginning. This may provide a level of predictability, allow for a range of activities to be incorporated into the day and alleviate conflict over screen time.
Consider educational input during the week days if your school has not been able to establish any online classes or provide work.
Encourage children to become more involved in household tasks such as meal preparations to fill the additional time they have and also teach some useful skills.
Consider fun activities that promote quality family time that you may ordinarily struggle to find the time to do. For example, sorting through old photo albums and creating a family tree.
For those us fortunate to have a yard, consider a range of outdoor activities that children may not have experienced. What did we do for fun during our school holidays before video games and the internet? Build a cubby house, make a slip and slide if it is sunny, build a vege patch. If you have time, this may require a visit to the hardware for supplies.
Exercise – we may not appreciate how active our children are during the school day and how few “steps” we may get during a day inside. If possible, get outside in the pool, on the trampoline, play sports, or anything else active. If you don’t have a yard, you may need to get creative and create an indoor gym or obstacle courses, stream some Zumba classes, or have dance parties.
Be mindful of screen time , however during testing times, don’t feel guilty about letting the children watch frozen again, or sneaking some extra time on their device. While most of us are careful and set limits on screen time, these are unprecedented times.
While the government is using terms such as social distancing, consider social connectedness . Can you still maintain contact with family and friends using face time, skype etc. Can children have virtual play dates. Older children and adolescents may stay in touch with various social media platforms or online gaming and this should be recognized as important and not necessarily considered “unhealthy screen time”.
Support your partner . While it may be difficult to seek respite as we may not even be allowed to run down to the shop, consider ways to give each other small breaks. Some alone time is important.
Be productive . Catch up on things that you have been putting off due to lack or time, get creative.
Make memories . While this may be an incredibly challenging time in our lives, it may be the only time when we are locked down from the world and get to spend this amount of quality time with our immediate families. The things you do with this time may be remembered by your children for decades to come.

Related articles:

While most of us will face restrictions about what we can do in the coming weeks, we are not isolated from assistance for family quarantine help.

Please be aware:

Many GP’s and specialists will be continuing to work, sometimes however in a limited capacity. Many services will be delivered by Tele-health or video services. Check with your individual providers for more information about how to book appointments.
Many allied health professionals such as psychologists will also continue to offer services via Tele-health or video services. For many with existing appointments they will be able to go ahead this way. There may be some ability for new referrals to be taken, however this cannot be guaranteed.
Traditional telephone support services such as LifeLine Australia , Kids Help Line , Parent Line and State and Federal health hotlines will continue to run, however wait times may be longer than usual.
Rely on your friends and family for support and remember “It’s ok not to be ok at times”.

Tips for Family Quarantine

Family Quarantine Help

Almost every child from school age and above will have some understanding about the corona virus pandemic and have heard about social distancing and kids.

Unfortunately, some children and adolescents may be misinformed of the dangers or risk to them due to being misinformed, mislead during school yard discussions or not understanding media content. Assist them to understand the risks in an age appropriate manner and the reasons for restrictions. When informed and concern is within proportion to the threat, anxiety is less likely to develop, and the intensity of challenging emotions may lessen. Older children or adolescents may be able to understand concepts such as flattening the curve, where younger children need only a basic explanation.

Monitor the access older children have to media and social media platforms. Social contagion can lead to a rapid increase in anxiety and children and adolescents cannot separate credible information from the overwhelming amount of information they see online.

Coronavirus is spreading rapidly worldwide, and you can view a coronavirus COVID-19 map here .

If you or your child are experiencing anxiety or difficulty coping, our psychologists can provide video counselling .

Book a consultation with Grow Medical today. But be sure to follow the advice above and Phone Ahead if needed!

Coronavirus Testing Brisbane

Coronavirus Doctor Advice

Help Your Kids Deal with Social Distancing

Talk to your children about a future after COVID-19. Help them cultivate imagined future feelings , so they can deal with their anxiety and emotions now.

Talk to them about how there is a silver lining that will follow this approaching cloud... Tell them stories to encourage them to imagine a future ahead where streams run clear, our air is no longer polluted, and this shared purpose has been the seed of great human innovation. Ask them to imagine how they will feel in a world like that.

As adults, we can also imagine the silver lining. We need to think forward to manage our own stress and anxiety , as this sets the tempo for our children. This 12 months is a breather for our world, where industrial pollution will slow. Whilst doctors, nurses, and you as families, will battle this virus, we also trust that the engineers and scientists of the world will be dedicating their time in isolation to dream, and to plan for a world where our economy is rebooted for a green future.

Pathology labs that can test for Coronavirus are:

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Dr Aaron Chambers

General Practitioner

 BSc, MBBS(Hons), FRACGP, Dip Child Health

Grow Medical is Growlife Medical

Mon, 09 Mar 2020 21:42:09 GMT

People often ask us "why the name Grow Medical?" - we thought we would take a trip down memory lane to explain. Grow Medical has tweaked its name and is now Growlife Medical - just in time for our 3rd birthday. We feel this is a natural evolution in our story, which has its origins in our childhood, and a belief in growing health through genuine connection. Read on if you would like to hear the story of why Grow Medical started, and why we have updated our name to Growlife Medical ...

If nothing else, take a look at the montage below which came from a weekend retreat right back before we started... the origins of our logo were pretty clear from day one!

Grow Medical's Beginnings

To learn more about what makes Growlife Medical tick, head to our About Growlife Medical page.

We would love you to make Growlife Medical your family GP. Book Online Now to see a doctor in Oxley , Highgate Hill or Sherwood .

So what's next for Growlife Medical? In 2020, in response to the COVID crisis , Growlife became Australian leaders in Telehealth, by creating and launching a new Telehealth platform in partnership with GPConsults . This fits with our commitment to improving connection between doctor and patient, by making it easier to access your doctor in a time of social distancing. We worked together to make it free for all doctors in Australia.

With such a motivated, caring, and innovative team, we know that more new ideas on how to improve your health are just around the corner. We are working to create systems to more proactively monitor your health and ensure you get the checks, immunisations and tests you need.

We would love to hear from you about what else we can do to grow your health, grow your family and grow the strength of our community.

Growlife Medical Centres Lifespan Health Care

Do you remember having a great GP as a child? Was your family doctor a spokesperson in your community on how we can all be healthier? Many of us at Growlife Medical had this experience as children. We remember the local GP being on the school board, or speaking at community gatherings, standing up for issues that affected the health of us all. They were a known and trusted confidante. The connection between a family and "their" GP was very close, and no one would dream of dropping in to a random clinic instead of your regular GP.

This experience mirrors one of our fundamental beliefs... that through lifelong continuity and connection, we can improve the health of the communities in which we live. This observation and belief was the seed for our moniker:

Patient | Family | Community

Your receptionists, doctors, nurses and allied health clinicians live and breathe this moniker. We believe that by supporting the individual, growing the strength of families, and being proactively involved in the wellbeing of our local community, we can make our communities Australia's healthiest.

When creating a name for the new medical centre in Sherwood, the theme of Growing was strong. Ideas of a healthy, organic future blended with our enjoyment of helping grow healthy babies and children, and resonated with the idea of personal growth through growing the strength of individuals, families and their community. After a weekend retreat at Tommerups Dairy Farm (thanks Kay and Dave!) the concept was fleshed out, and Grow Medical was born!

We believe everyone deserves equitable access to quality medical care, and that medical practices exist to connect doctor and patient, not to serve corporate shareholders. We want you to experience this kind of medical care - old fashioned values of connection, continuity and community, coupled with awesome use of technology, fresh premises and modern systems to improve the service you receive.

Excellence in Early Life Care for Mothers and Babies

After growing a strong reputation in early life care, and welcoming well over one thousand babies into the world, we wanted to emphasise the importance of whole of life continuity to growing your health. So many of our programs focus on life beyond medical; Life with your newborn , Songlife Connections , Early Life Care , Lifelong continuity, that we felt the addition of Life to our Logo was an important consideration.

So in 2020, Grow Medical has updated to Growlife Medical. In doing so, you can expect to hear from us more about health topics that relate to keeping you healthy through life. Things like preventing chronic diseases like obesity and heart disease, positive eating and exercise habits, and looking after your mental health.

Our team remains the same, and is growing fast. Our ownership remains the same, and we believe in healthcare always being clinically owned and lead, so that our purpose is aligned to keeping you as healthy as possible, rather than putting financial imperatives first. We are very much a social enterprise that is designed to be profit for purpose.

Growlife Medical is renowned for its care for mothers and babies. From our beginnings, we have created new ways of making parents feel part of a community. A vision of a family hub run by doctors, nurses and midwives was part of our dream before we ever opened. This dream came true, and continues to grow. For example, our weekly free parents groups are a great source of social connection, and to our knowledge, are the first parents groups to be embedded in General Practice in Australia .

We have also uniquely integrated midwives into our Medical Centres, to ensure optimal care and continuity for pregnant women, through GP pregnancy care and postnatal support.

In 2017, Grow Medical took over a Brisbane infant care clinic, and in doing so further expanded our services for families by integrating lactation consultants, paediatricians and GPs with a special interest in baby sleep. This culture of supporting feeding, sleep, infant settling, maternal mental health and building on our programs of social connection and sensory experiences has spread throughout the group, and we have continued to improve on this by offering greater continuity, and more comprehensive lifelong care for the whole family. You can read more about our mothers and babies services here .

In 2019, we grew further when Canossa Hospital approached Grow Medical to establish a new Growlife Medical Centre in Oxley to serve their community. By that stage, our youngest patient was one day old, and our oldest was 103!

Grow Medical updates to Growlife Medical

How To Prevent Coronavirus (COVID-19)

Sat, 07 Mar 2020 20:50:40 GMT

It now looks that we are likely to see rapidly spreading Coronavirus in Brisbane (also known as COVID-19). Person to person spread is now occurring in Australia, and the likelihood is that a coronavirus pandemic will be declared.

We are working hard to ensure you as an individual, and our community are protected. To safeguard each other, anyone with fever, cough, breathing difficulties or other symptoms, who has been overseas in the last 14 days or in contact with Coronavirus in the last 14 days, or is a healthcare worker, does not come into the clinic. If you have cold or flu symptoms, please let reception know about your situation, and a nurse or doctor will call you back to make further arrangements for your care. We are actively working to provide Coronavirus Telehealth Consultations for you.

Australians are good at preparing for storms and cyclones, and preparing for a pandemic is not much different. A few simple preparations now, and some small changes in behaviour, can make a big difference to reduce the spread of Coronavirus in our community, and reduce disruption to your family.

Most importantly, remember to act with kindness, generosity of spirit, and compassion. The fear that is gripping the world is not necessary. We can work through this together, as we have always done when faced by flu, measles, whopping cough and more. All it takes is a little preparation and sensible preventative action.

For more information on Coronavirus specific to Brisbane, see our guide to the Coronavirus for Brisbane .

How Coronavirus spreads

Reduce the spread of coronavirus by:

Staying at home if unwell
Wash your hands frequently (soap and water is more effective than hand sanitiser)
Avoid touching your face
Avoid touching public surfaces with your hands
If you cough or sneeze, cover your face with your upper arm or sleeve.
Stay at least 1 metre apart from other people.
Preferably, if you have respiratory illness, wear a surgical face mask.
Regularly clean high-use or contaminated surfaces with disinfectant

Note that P2 masks are now recognised to only be required by healthcare workers in high risk settings such as in intensive care.

How to reduce the spread of Coronavirus

Make sure you have sufficient medication at home to last one month
NOW is the time to get asthma, heart disease, diabetes and other chronic conditions under control . Coronavirus is worse in those with underlying conditions. If you have an underlying health problem, make an appointment to see your GP soon to ensure you are in the best shape you can be.
Consider your family plan if you need to quarantine yourself at home for 2 weeks.
Expect travel restrictions on international travel, and quarantine requirement if returning to Australia.

Influenza vaccine will be available in approximately 4 weeks. We will notify once we have stock available. We recommend that everyone aim to get a flu vaccination this year , to avoid simultaneous infection with Coronavirus and Influenza.

Related articles:

Most importantly, if you suspect you might be at risk of Coronavirus, phone ahead. We can quickly arrange a GP telehealth consultation via video link with your GP . We can help ensure you don’t pose a risk to other people. Anyone with suspected Coronavirus must isolate themselves at home until they have had testing that confirms they are clear. We can arrange this for you remotely, give you your results remotely, and arrange further care depending on how sick you are.

If you are seriously unwell, and have risk of Coronavirus, your GP may will help you make arrangements to attend a hospital emergency department. If you have a mild illness, but could have Coronavirus due to respiratory symptoms and potential contact, your GP might organise a pathology test in your home.

Those with highest risk of Coronavirus are:

People who have been in contact with someone with confirmed Coronavirus for more than 15 minutes
Those who have travelled overseas in the last 14 days
Healthcare Workers
The elderly are most at risk of severe Coronavirus, particularly those over 80
Those with cardiac disease are also at high risk of severe disease

How to prepare for Coronavirus

Who is at risk of Coronavirus

Because coronavirus is droplet spread, we can work together to prevent spread of coronavirus in Brisbane .

Coronavirus is spreading rapidly worldwide, and you can view a coronavirus COVID-19 map here .

Pathology labs that can test for Coronavirus are:

Book a consultation with Grow Medical today. But be sure to follow the advice above and Phone Ahead if needed!

Coronavirus Testing Brisbane

Doctor Advice on Coronavirus

Keep Up With The Latest Coronavirus in Brisbane News

Like us on Facebook to keep up to date on the Coronavirus in Brisbane.

Dr Aaron Chambers

Why Does My Toddler's Appetite Vary?

Sat, 22 Feb 2020 19:36:47 GMT

As a parent of a toddler, you may notice that some days your child has a voracious appetite. Other times, they seem to pick at their food or spit it out and seem to eat nothing. This is a common reason parents will ask us if there is something wrong with their child. Does a poor appetite mean food intolerance? Does my child have a food allergy? Is there something wrong with my child’s gut? Is my child a fussy eater?

The answer to why your child is not eating is a lot more simple than that in most instances. Generally, what parents are observing is normal eating behaviour. Read on to find out how our society is disrupting normal eating behaviour, and potentially contributing to the obesity epidemic in the process…

Dr Aaron Chambers from Growlife Medical looks at why your child may lose their appetite from time to time. And why this may not be such a bad thing...

How to improve your child's appetite

A good analogy is caveman society. They lived a hunter-gatherer lifestyle. Some days, a meal would consist of nuts and seeds, and little else. On other days, a successful hunt would mean a feast! Normal eating behaviour in this era would therefore mean eating like a horse on some days, and then being fairly ambivalent about food in the proceeding days, whilst being able to live off the reserves of the feast. These are the genetics from which humans come. We aren’t built to cope with a plentiful supply of food every day.

We see the consequences of persistent over nutrition in high cholesterol, diabetes, fatty liver, obesity and other metabolic diseases. The French know this well, through the process of force-feeding geese to make fois-gras and pate - these creatures have the avian equivalent of human fatty liver. The French also know that they can’t do this to themselves! Whilst the French are renowned for their large dinner parties and rich cuisine, if one observes a native French person in the days following a feast, they will have a minimal appetite and tend to eat very lightly, and choose light, nutritious foods.

How much should my child eat?

How is this relevant to our children? By carefully observing a toddler’s eating behaviour, parents will notice that they sometimes have eating days, and sometimes non-eating days. Mostly, this causes anxiety in the parent that something is wrong, due to the strong cultural norms that have been embedded within us from our own upbringing. The default reaction might be to encourage your child to keep eating; to finish everything on their plate. It is likely that through repeating this pattern over years, that we are unconsciously conditioning our children to ignore their innate mechanism of appetite regulation - stomach stretch receptors and the brain’s hypothalamus.

Another response might be to think our child doesn’t like the particular food on offer, and make them something they might prefer. We sometimes hear stories where parents will prepare 2, 3 or even 4 different meals in an evening, just to make sure their child will eat something. Whilst this act is grounded in love for your child, there is no better way to create a fussy eater than by offering multiple food choices if the first is not preferred.

Whilst living in France, we witnessed the impressive approach that French society has to this enduring issue. Children are introduced to an enormous variety of textures and flavours right from the earliest introduction of solids. School lunch menus look like something from a high-end restaurant! A constantly changing, seasonal menu, with in-season ingredients being used in a variety of cooking methods to present novel flavours and textures. Nothing is repeated. Everything must be tried, but children are not forced to finish their plate. They are encouraged to explore, to learn, to develop their palate, and to understand that the same ingredient (say Zucchini) can be presented in multiple ways. In doing so, children learn that they don’t dislike the ingredient, they may just prefer it prepared in a different way.

Why does my child eat so much some days?

How the French teach children to eat

Our generation of children are faced with the opposite set of challenges to prior generations. Throughout the 1900’s, the world was gripped by world war I, the great depression, world war II, and the post war period. Consequently, parents of these generations grew up in a time when scarcity was prevalent. My own mother still has the ration cards that were issued to her family when she was a child, allowing a certain amount of butter, sugar and other staples per family! This meant that parents never quite knew if the next meal would come, and how much nutrition they might be able to offer their children. This spawned the cultural norm of “finishing everything on your plate” with which most of us grew up.

The problem is, we now live in a time of unprecedented plenty. No matter where you go, food is readily available. And often in a low-nutrition, energy-dense form (think snack biscuits, softdrinks, chips and ice cream). So now, forcing our children to finish everything on their plate can habituate them to over-eating.

Interestingly, this is reflected in the science of child nutrition. By presenting the same food every day for 7 days, children will double their voluntary consumption of that food. Through this simple trick, parents can know that even the most fussy child will gradually increase their appetite for a previously un-favoured food, simply by repeated exposure.

More recently, the concept of “division of responsibility” has been proposed which fits with this concept. This term refers to dividing the responsibility for food preparation and consumption between parent and child. A parent’s job is to provide healthy, nourishing food and drink at regular intervals throughout the day and a relaxed, enjoyable, positive eating environment (including role modelling - eating healthy food, using table manners, talking together); a child’s job is simply to choose how much they wish to eat. The division of responsibility is based on trust. A parent must learn to trust that their child will eat according to appetite, and what their body truly needs for healthy, steady growth. Our paediatric dietitian clinicians, have seen this approach work very well, especially when mealtime battles and stress run high.

How to stop my child's fussy eating

We asked the Grow Medical team for their top tips on meal times. Here is what we came up with:

A child’s appetite goes up and down, and parents shouldn’t worry if their child doesn’t eat one day and eats like a horse the next
Don’t force your child to eat
It is healthy to insist a child try everything on their plate, but if they don’t like it they don’t have to eat it. Offer both familiar and new foods simultaneously without pressure to “eat it all” but encourage tasting
If your child doesn’t like a meal, don’t offer an alternative if they decline to eat what is prepared - it only increases fussiness in the long run and creates impossible demands on you as a parent
Model mealtime behaviour by sitting down as a family to eat whenever possible
Meal times should be fun! Picnics are a big hit in our house – even if it’s just on the kitchen floor
If your child has any sensory or textural issues, see an experienced paediatric dietitian or speech pathologist for some tips on how to keep their food choices varied.

Top Meal Time Tips for Infants and Toddlers

Child Nutrition Advice

At Growlife Medical, we are passionate about growing healthy individuals, families and communities. Doing so starts from infancy. We run a whole range of programs designed to get your family off to a great start.

A great way to learn more about setting your child up with healthy habits it to attend our child nutrition group sessions run by our paediatric dietitians .

Book a consultation with a GP from Growlife Medical today to discuss any concerns you might have, and we can assess your child and point you in the right direction.

Dr Aaron Chambers

General Practitioner

 BSc, MBBS(Hons), FRACGP, Dip Child Health

Guide to Coronavirus for Brisbane

Thu, 06 Feb 2020 19:33:31 GMT

You will be aware that there is a rapidly evolving public health situation with Coronavirus in Brisbane. As your family GP, our job is to look after you as an individual and our community. It is important for everyone’s health and safety that anyone with fever or history of fever, sore throat, runny nose, cough, shortness of breath, sudden fatigue, muscle or joint pain, loss of smell, loss of taste or anyone who has been in contact with someone who has confirmed Coronavirus (COVID-19) is assessed by video consultation before coming to the clinic. Please let Growlife Medical reception know about your situation, and they will book a telehealth consultation with your doctor. During this telehealth consultation, your doctor will make further arrangements for your care, and arrange for examination in person if necessary. If you arrive in our clinic without declaring potential Coronavirus contact or Coronavirus symptoms, doctors and nurses can become infected and need to isolate. This can have a big impact upon us caring for your friends, relatives and community, so please let us know so we can assess you via telehealth, and use appropriate precautions if we have to see you in person. We will continue to update our advice as further information becomes available from public health authorities.

Growlife Medical looks at the emerging issue of Coronavirus, now known as COVID-19. We will keep this page updated with specific Brisbane Coronavirus information as the situation develops.

UPDATE: COVID Vaccine Comes to Brisbane

The symptoms of Coronavirus COVID-19 are fever, cough, fatigue and shortness of breath. Almost all patients with Coronavirus have these symptoms. A smaller number of people with Coronavirus have muscle aches, confusion, headache, diarrhoea or sore throat. Sudden loss of smell or loss of taste is a symptom quite specific to COVID-19, and should also prompt self-isolation and testing. Coronavirus tends to affect groups, due to being spread by cough droplets. It is more likely to affect older males with underlying medical conditions, and can result in severe or even fatal pneumonia. Coronavirus symptoms are very similar to a bad influenza., but it has become clear that it is more infectious, and far more severe than flu. Around 25% of people who develop COVID-19 symptoms will require hospitalisation, and up to 3% will die.

So far, it seems that Coronavirus symptoms in children more mild than adults, and that children are not as severely affected by Coronavirus COVID-19. A significant number will still need hospitalisation. Very few children under the age of 9 have been reported to die from Coronavirus, whereas mortality in those over age 80 is approximately 15%.

Early in the pandemic, overseas travel was the main risk factor for infection. We are now seeing person-to-person spread in Australia, which is why social distancing measures have been implemented, and testing criteria broadened to anyone with symptoms.

How long does it take to get coronavirus after contact?

This is called the incubation period, and can take up to 14 days. We now know that the average time between catching Coronavirus and developing symptoms is around 5 days. The quarantine rules about how long to stay at home are based on the knowledge of the maximum time to develop symptoms. Once this time has passed, with no symptoms, a potential contact is considered clear.

Because of the significant impact the virus could have upon healthcare systems, the World Health Organisation is coordinating a Global Response.

COVID-19 is now a worldwide phenomenon, and a global pandemic was declared on 11 March 2020. To illustrate how rapidly this virus has spread, we have left here the Department of Health Advice on Countries where Australians could be considered to potentially contract COVID-19 as of 3 February 2020:

China
Iran
Italy
South Korea
Cambodia
Hong Kong
Indonesia
Japan
Singapore
Thailand

Coronavirus Symptoms

Coronavirus Countries Affected

No matter which respiratory virus, learning how to reduce transmission will help our community stay healthier. So these tips are worthwhile practicing always. Luckily, public health authorities have downgraded their estimates of how infectious the coronavirus is. It is believed to be spread by small droplets from coughing, which means you need to be within about a metre and a half of someone when they cough to catch it easily, or pick it up from contaminated surfaces. Because Coronavirus is spread via droplets which fall from the air, rather than being airborne, it is much less infectious than chickenpox or measles. This makes it much easier to avoid Coronavirus by practicing good hand hygiene, good cough etiquette and keeping a social distance apart.

How can I prevent coronavirus?

Good hygiene and staying at home if unwell are the key messages. To protect against infection make sure you wash your hands frequently, avoid touching your face and if you cough or sneeze, cover your face with your upper arm or sleeve. Stay at least 1.5 metres apart from other people. Preferably, if you have respiratory illness, wear a surgical face mask. For more information see our detailed article on how to prevent coronavirus .

How do we prevent spread of virus from someone with coronavirus in a medical setting?

You will notice healthcare staff using airborne transmission precautions, including mask, long sleeved disposable gown, gloves, and eye protection when entering a patient care area. This is not necessary for members of the public, as these measures are only required for close contact. Surfaces are thoroughly cleaned and the room allowed to air. Patients with potential Coronavirus are given a surgical mask to protect others.

How close do I need to be to someone to get coronavirus?

A close contact is defined as requiring greater than 15 minutes face-to-face contact with someone with Coronavirus, direct exposure to body fluids, or sharing a closed space like a plane or bus for a prolonged period of more than 2 hours. So brief contact, especially outdoors, is less of a worry.

What happens if I contract coronavirus?

Coronavirus infection will generally be managed in hospital, but may be managed at home if it is deemed safe to do so by public health authorities. If you have been in close contact with a confirmed case of Coronavirus, you must isolate yourself in your home, without visitors, for 14 days.

If I have contact with someone with Coronavirus, how do I know I’m clear?

If you don’t develop fever, cough, sore throat or shortness of breath within 14 days of your last contact with someone who had coronavirus, you are considered no longer at risk.

How long does a P2 mask last for?

Generally, only healthcare professionals need a P2 mask for Coronavirus. P2 masks should be removed and disposed after about four hours of continuous use, or when they become moist. This is because the seal will not be as effective. P2 masks should be replaced after each use. More information on how to fit a P2 mask .

Queensland Health have now expanded their testing program, and automated the process to ensure anyone at risk can be quickly tested. Results are generally available in 24-48 hours. Private pathology labs are now able to provide testing should it be required. Please note our Mater Pathology Sherwood collection centre does not do Coronavirus testing for the general public.

To prevent infection to others, it is important not to visit a pathology collection centre in a shopping centre, medical centre or other busy public premises. A list of appropriate locations for collection have been published below:

In Brisbane, we are well placed to deal with Coronavirus due to quality medical providers, a strong public health system, but we are seeing an increase in cases of Coronavirus in Australia. Now is the time to reduce the spread by closely following hygiene and social distance measures. We believe it is important at these times not to alienate each other, or let fear dictate our behaviour, but rather to work together to protect each other. Your role is to practice the good hygiene tips above, and to continue to support our local businesses who are already noticing a reduction in foot trade. We live in a country with plenty of space, and an excellent health system. You can continue your life knowing that we will be here when you need us, by keeping to hygiene and distancing rules.

Remember, if you need doctor advice due to potential contact with Coronavirus , please advise us prior to arriving in the clinic so we can help you avoid the need to come to the clinic, or use appropriate precautions if necessary. Some people have been worried that their care will be refused if they tell us prior. Don't worry. You will still receive the care you need.

If you are travelling overseas in future, be sure to book in for a travel consultation . Coronavirus is worth discussing, but it is also important to remember all the routine travel vaccination requirements for Asia .

We have now had a number of people present with symptoms and potential contact, and we have arranged testing for those individuals. Fortunately, all have tested clear so far.

Book a consultation with Growlife Medical today . But be sure to follow the advice above and Phone Ahead if needed!

Coronavirus Transmission

Coronavirus Testing Brisbane

Coronavirus Doctor Advice

Coronavirus Vaccine is set to arrive in Brisbane in February 2021. Growlife Medical is committed to providing COVID-19 Immunisation to our community. You can read more about COVID Vaccination in Brisbane in our dedicated blog. For more general information about Coronavirus, continue reading this one.

Is The Coronavirus in Brisbane?

As of 30 July 2020, there have been 1079 cases of COVID-19 in Queensland. On Wednesday 29 July 2020, Queensland Health issued a public health alert , as two individuals returned to Brisbane with COVID from Melbourne, without undergoing mandatory Hotel Quarantine. Three people with COVID-19 moved about our community for 8 days in Springfield, Acacia Ridge and Southbank. Many potential contacts have been identified, and many people tested for Coronavirus. Queensland Health is ensuring a coordinated response to the Coronavirus outbreak .

The Australian government has now effectively closed the international borders for travel in all but exceptional circumstances. For further information, check the Smarttraveller Coronavirus Update for advice from the Australian Government.

About the Coronavirus COVID-19

Coronaviruses are a family of viruses that generally cause a common cold type illness. However, if a new strain of Coronavirus originates in animals and jumps to humans (called a Novel Coronvirus), the new virus can cause much more severe disease. SARS was one example in 2003, where nearly 10% of people who contracted the virus died. Luckily, the 2019 novel Coronavirus from Wuhan in China (now known as COVID-19) appears to be much less serious, and more akin to a bad flu. We are still learning about this virus because it is new, and is spreading rapidly.

The first novel coronavirus case was confirmed in Queensland on 29 January, followed by a second on 30 January 2020, with a third confirmed on 4 February. All cases were from a tour group from China. A 44-year-old Chinese national was the first case, a 42 year-old woman from Wuhan in China was the second, and a child from the same group from Wuhan was the third. All were isolated in a stable condition in the Gold Coast University Hospital.

Coronavirus Treatment

Most importantly, if you suspect you might have Coronavirus, phone ahead or book a telehealth consultation . Your doctor can help assess your likelihood of having coronavirus by video consultation , and make sure you don’t pose a risk to other people. Avoid public places until you have been cleared of Coronavirus. If you arrive in our clinic without declaring potential Coronavirus contact, you could infect your friends, your family or your doctor. This can have a big impact upon us caring for your friends, relatives and community, so please let us know so we can use appropriate precautions. We are happy to help you!

If you are seriously unwell, and have risk of COVID-19, your GP may tell you to go to the hospital emergency department. If you aren't feeling too unwell but could have Coronavirus due to your history, your GP might organise a pathology test. In the current containment phase, your GP will choose one of these options. As the pandemic becomes more widespread, GPs may start to see patients in clinic, or refer you to a fever clinic. In that case, if you need to see the doctor for assessment, when you arrive at the doctor, stay in your car and let them know you have arrived by phone. If it is possible that you have coronavirus, you should expect your doctor to come to your car wearing gown, gloves, glasses and a surgical mask. The doctor will give you a surgical mask to reduce droplet spread if you cough or sneeze.

The first 99 people diagnosed with Coronavirus were treated in hospital in Wuhan, China. Within weeks, 11% had died. However, these first cases were much more sick than the average person with Coronavirus. Since then, it has become clear that many people with coronavirus have much less severe disease. Over time, the mortality rate reported by public health authorities has been falling, and has dropped to around 2 in 100 as of February 2020. This figure has now steadied. We continue to learn and understand more about the true spread of COVID-19.

Treatment required for Coronavirus depends on the severity of the disease. At present, there is no vaccine or specific treatment for Coronavirus. A newer HIV drug may reduce the severity of infection, and is being used in intensive care. Supportive treatment such as intravenous fluids, oxygen and ventilation is provided to those with severe disease. Many of the severe cases experienced early in the outbreak in China had bacterial lung infections complicating their condition. There seems to be a high rate of bacterial pneumonia in those with more severe disease, so doctors will be vigilant for secondary pneumonia, and will start antibiotics where this is identified.

Because there is no vaccine yet available, and because we are still learning about how to treat Coronavirus infection, it is essential that we work together to reduce transmission. The University of Queensland is leading the world in developing a COVID-19 Coronavirus Vaccine .

Related articles:

Keep Up With The Latest Coronavirus in Brisbane News

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Dr Aaron Chambers

Song and Social Connection for Babies

Wed, 29 Jan 2020 19:22:57 GMT

Moving to the Melody… Song and Social Connectedness for Babies

Have you ever found yourself singing a familiar jingle, but twisting its words to guide your infants’ behaviour? We have used the “Sesame Street” jingle to good effect with a frustrated child by singing “Can you tell me how to get, get the shoes on Jonathan’s feet…” it can be enough to turn a tense battle into a fit of giggles. Heaven knows there often isn’t much between tears and giggles when you’re the parent of a toddler! As a parent, learning to cultivate this skill can open new doors to engaging and connecting with your child.

Read on to find out how...

Soothe your child through familiar song

Want to know more about our unique SongLife Connections Music Therapy Program ? Click here to find out more, email us to enquire or book for next term online .

Music Therapy Groups Sherwood & Highgate Hill

Many of our SongLife Connections families comment about how they find they can use any given song in a different context to enrapture their child, to make transitioning from one activity to another much easier. Familiar songs that children hear repeatedly in a context of nurturing and support can be used in a different context to change the mood or behaviour. Parents will notice a positive change in their infant’s facial expression or mood, and will say “it’s as if they already know the melody”.

Our music therapy groups are designed to find a new way for parent and child to connect through songsinging. Parents who attend find that they can sing to their child whilst doing regular daily tasks. Things like getting dressed or tidying toys can suddenly become a source of fun and shared smiles. When your child inevitably has trouble regulating their emotions , using songs can often be more soothing than words. Science tells us that children learn in a multitude of ways, and that the melody of a song is one way that children lay down memories, often ones that are connected to loving moments between parent and child.

Research indicates that this connection between child, parent, and familiar melody runs deep within an infant’s psyche. This study showed that a familiar melody that has been regularly sung by their parent, results in much greater recognition by the infant when they encounter the same melody in an unfamiliar way (for example by a different adult). Even more interesting, was the observation that this increased attention only occurred where a parent had sung the melody, and not when the melody had been experienced coming from a toy, or having been sung by an unfamiliar adult. Furthermore, the amount a child responds to their parent’s melody increases in line with the frequency that their parent sings.

What does this tell us? When a parent uses their unique voice (be it whatever version of ‘in tune’ it might be) this holds great meaning for a developing infant, and acts as a way of reinforcing the social connection between parent and child. Every session we remind our SongLife Connections families to embrace their unique singing voice, because it enhances emotional and social connection with their child.

So next time you feel stuck in a battle with your child’s will and determination, remember to move to the melody by getting your message across using your unique voice. What’s the first melody that comes to mind? It is never too late to find your voice!

Find out more about SongLife Connections

Singing to Your Baby - Music Therapy

Sat, 14 Dec 2019 19:19:18 GMT

Do you remember somewhere deep in your memory how it felt when your parent sang to you? How a soft, caring voice, or a soothing lullaby seemed anchored alongside memories of feeling sad or frightened? When baby is crying, unsettled or distressed, parents frequently feel exasperated or helpless. This doesn’t have to be the case, as there are many ways to soothe a crying baby. It is easy to let your own internal frustration result in shouting or even crying yourself.

Read on to discover how singing to your baby can make a difference...

The soothing power of singing

Want to know more about our unique SongLife Connections Music Therapy Program ? Click here to find out more, email us to enquire or book for next term online .

Music Therapy Groups Sherwood & Highgate Hill

Humans are naturally enraptured by music . As well as intuition, research tells us that infant directed singing leads to babies remaining calm for twice as long compared to infant directed speech . However, singing and creating music in our society now is influenced by the proliferation of radio, television, smartphones, spotify and bluetooth speakers. While these platforms are useful in many ways, they will never replace the singing voice as a form of emotional connection. So what does mean for us as parents and carers of these babies? How do we use our singing voice to connect with, comfort and soothe them?

SongLife Connections was established to help you bridge this gap. Many of the sessions are focused on helping you arouse and sustain your baby’s attention. Our music therapists support you in understanding the differences between infant directed speech and singing. We help you to find the joy in early life by using your voice to genuinely connect with your baby.

One of the great things about singing as a way to settle your baby, is that your instrument is portable, free, and always ready, regardless whether you sing in tune or not! Singing is an easy way to play with your baby, and help them to learn unique ways to regulate their own emotions . It also provides a source of positive stimulation during the day. SongLife Connections is also great for parents to meet in community with one another and an opportunity to form lasting bonds with other parents beyond the music therapy space.

Most parents recognise that the cry of their own baby will trigger a stronger emotional response within, than the cry of another baby. You can use this unique connection between parent and child in a positive way by learning to sing as a sensory tool.

Why not give it go right now? Sing whatever comes to mind. Your baby will love the sound of your voice, and the connection through song will be positive for both you and your baby. Have fun, and sing like no one is looking!

Postnatal Recovery, beyond the first 6 weeks.

Fri, 06 Dec 2019 19:13:46 GMT

Returning to exercise after having a baby can be daunting, and for many women, they are unsure of where to start or where to seek advice. Like so many other aspects of parenthood, there isn’t a simple rule. There are, however, some fantastic guidelines we can follow to help ensure a safe return to exercise and every day activities. The evidence directs us towards low impact, controlled activity in the first 6 weeks where we are aiming to maximise natural recovery and facilitate healing and gentle strengthening of the pelvic floor and abdominal muscles.

Growlife Medical are experienced in caring for you after a pregnancy. Please contact us today for advice.

When can I return to exercise after pregnancy?

Despite how far down the postnatal journey you are, it’s never too late to seek help. We can work with you to improve and potentially resolve your symptoms. Every woman deserves the opportunity to maximise their function and return to a level of activity that makes them happy. As a physiotherapist who works with postnatal women, it’s a real joy to help facilitate this. So, please consider investing in yourself. See a physiotherapist who works in Women’s Health and get the guidance you deserve to improve your strength and function.

It's not too late to seek help

At Growlife Medical we have Brisbane's most comprehensive team of professionals to help your growing family thrive. Our multidisciplinary team consists of Midwives, GPs, Women's Health Physiotherapists, Paediatric Nurses, Paediatricians, Lactation Consultants, Psychologists and Breastfeeding Counsellors.

This article was written by Katie Barry, Physiotherapist at Movement Solutions Physiotherapy . We partner with Movement Solutions to provide outstanding paediatric, women's health and pelvic floor physiotherapy . Movement Solutions consult regularly from Growlife Medical Sherwood .

Growlife Medical Are Postnatal Experts

An examination of the abdominal and pelvic floor muscles should also be done to provide specific feedback on recovery and guidance on appropriate exercise to ensure that strengthening is optimised and not jeopardised by returning to exercise too quickly. There are some common, but certainly not normal symptoms that can occur after having a baby such as:

Urinary incontinence
Faecal incontinence
Pelvic or vaginal pressure
Sexual dysfunction
Perineal pain

These symptoms may occur soon after birth and improve quickly or can occur months, years or even decades following. Whilst it can be daunting at first, seeking help early can reduce the impact on you.

Common pelvic floor issues after pregnancy

It’s a common misconception that reaching the 6 week milestone means that one should be back to their pre-pregnancy clothes, running, attending exercises classes and physically functioning as they were prior to pregnancy. The body has been through a tremendous change from conception to birth and recovery extends far beyond 6 weeks. This journey of recovery is different for every woman and after 6 weeks, some women may be ready to increase their exercise intensity, while others may need a little more time. To help you make an informed choice about resuming activity, I encourage all women to have a thorough postnatal assessment from a qualified physiotherapist who works in Women’s Health and 6 weeks postnatal is a great time to do this. This involves a discussion regarding any concerns or symptoms you may be having and your goals.

Tips For Being Better Prepared for Prep

Sun, 24 Nov 2019 19:08:40 GMT

Starting school can be anxiety provoking for parents and children alike. We want to support your family to make this transition a celebration of new milestones rather than a gut-wrenching battle with separation anxiety. Making a few plans over the summer break can make a big difference. Read on to find out what Highgate Hill Paediatrician Dr Nadia Leonidou suggests for a great start to your child’s prep year.

In this article, Growlife Medical provides some tips on what you can do to be prepared for your child starting school.

If you haven’t already had your child’s vaccinations, hearing, vision and general development checked with you GP, optometrist and audiologist (if needed), make sure you get these sorted before school starts. Children should by now have had their 4 year old vaccination , at which they also get their ears and vision checked. Having a baseline check with your local optometrist is a good idea, and Queensland Children’s Hospital publishes a list of aligned optometrists who have additional training in caring for children’s eyes. If separation anxiety is a big issue, see one of our GPs to discuss whether working with our child psychologists may ease the transition for next year.

Get the basics checked over summer

UCherish these last few weeks before your child starts school. Creating an environment of fun and shared laughter is a great way to help your child feel safe and secure, for them to come back to when feeling get inevitably big and scary after a bad day at school. It may be a good idea to given your children a short stint in vacation care in December or January so that they can meet other children who will be attending school with them next year, become used to the surroundings, and feel comfortable with some shorter days. But mostly, just enjoy the last of your little ones being truly little. From next year, they will be learning more than ever, and the proportion of their learning that they glean from others outside the family will increase exponentially.

Kids love being outdoors and active when given the chance to explore a free-form environment. Gross motor development is an important foundation to ensure good core strength to support the more advanced fine motor activities they will be picking up over the coming years. Consciously creating opportunities for your child to use their body in many ways is a brilliant, fun way to do this. Swimming Lessons, Climbing Trees, Balancing and playing tag all burn off energy to help sleep, and help develop your child’s confidence, coordination and proprioception. Getting plenty of vigorous physical activity has been shown to result in an impressive increase in working memory and consequent learning.

Take time off and have fun as a family

Be active to encourage your child’s development

Sometimes when the reality of prep is getting close, and you don’t feel your child is quite ready, the tendency is to consider holding the back a year. However, unless your child has a diagnosed developmental delay, it is best to let your child make the leap. Whilst it is widely publicised that older children are (naturally) more likely to be school-ready, there are also benefits in advancing with a peer-group due to social connections that children have already established. So feel confident in your decision, and allow yourself to look forward to the coming year. If your child does have a diagnosed medical reason to delay prep entry your GP or Paediatrician will be able to support you through this process.

Your child is likely to be proud of the uniform they will be wearing. Give them a chance to parade it around at home, so that they can be familiar with any buttons, shoes and pants, and can have a chance to go to the toilet whilst wearing their uniform to save any worries on the first day. Similarly, lunch boxes can be a big stress when starting school if anything is unexpectedly hard to open. Create a fun holiday activity by doing a trial run picnic in the backyard or a park during the school holidays, where they can use their new lunchbox. Take note of any difficulties and be prepared to change plans if they can’t open anything. The educator-to-student ratios are not the same as in a Kindergarten environment and teachers have less capacity to help students open their lunch box. So help your child enjoy their growing sense of independence!

Your child is expected to be toilet trained by the time they reach school. If not, book as soon as possible to see one of our GPs so we can help. Read our toilet training article prior to coming, and taking note if your child is having any streak-like stool accidents, as encopresis is a common problem in this age group, and is a form of incontinence that is treatable by your GP. This needs action as soon as possible.

Give yourself a little reward for all the effort you have put in to get your child to this stage. Maybe a massage, a dinner out, some yoga classes or some time for exercise. Looking after yourself to keep yourself physically and mentally strong will gift your child with the same attitude. Children feed off their parent’s emotions, and refuelling your own petrol tank will pay dividends for the year ahead. We also encourage all parents to do the circle of security parenting program that we run regularly, as some dedicated time to consider the values and approach you take as parents growing the next generation.

If you still feel that more assistance is needed, seeing one of our GPs is the best first step, with referral to paediatrician Dr Nadia Leonidou , or to child psychologists Bernadette Sharry , Matthew Simmond or Sharon Dawe , who focus on the support and the development of young children and toddlers, if needed. They work across all age groups in providing emotional regulation assessment, counselling and therapy services for children.

The milestone of your child starting school is filled with emotion, and as parents ourselves, we know that mixed feeling of joy, pride and sadness that comes with seeing your toddler become a school kid. Enjoy this Christmas Holidays and be sure to let us know how you’re going in the new year!

Book a consultation with Growlife Medical today.

Take a trial run of uniform and lunch box

Toilet training

Do something for yourself and your skills as a parent

Don’t Delay your child’s start to school unless there is a very good reason

How to Deal With Tantrums In Children

Sun, 24 Nov 2019 18:50:27 GMT

We all know what a tantrum looks like. But seeing it coming can be much more challenging. Parents of 2 year olds often wonder “why does my toddler have tantrums?”. Why toddlers have tantrums is a common topic of discussion when we see 2 and 3 year olds for a developmental check, and you are not alone if you’re wondering “are temper tantrums normal?”. It can be confronting to see your toddler have a tantrum, and knowing how to react to a tantrum is an important skill, as is knowing how to prevent a tantrum. It is important not to feel embarrassed by behaviours that are developmentally typical.

In this article, Grow Medical and Child Psychologist Matthew Simmond looks at the issue of tantrums in children. We discuss what causes tantrums, what you can do when your child has a tantrum, and actions you can take to prevent tantrums.

Tantrums are developmentally normal in toddlers. This is the stage where they are beginning to learn how to regulate their emotions. Because this process of learning emotional regulation takes a while, there are times when the situations your toddler faces don’t match with their ability to handle them. The result is some very BIG emotions, without the internal mechanisms to recognise and turn down these feelings. Even as adults, we face challenging situations in life where sometimes we feel like we are going to “lose it”. For toddlers, the bar is set much lower before they lose it, and because your toddler is in a phase of testing boundaries, and exploring the world, they come up against many more frustrating road blocks. When these two factors collide, your child might have a tantrum.

Why do tantrums happen?

Understanding why tantrums happen will shed light on when to anticipate a tantrum. We can never be completely sure when our child will or won’t have a tantrum, but there are some thing you can look for:

Conflict

A tantrum will typically occur at a time when your child’s desires conflict with an external influence. For most children, the strongest influence in their life is their parent! So tantrums often occur when parents are attempting to influence their child’s desires. External influences could be an object like a ladder that they wish to climb, but are unable due to their motor development stage. The frustration of being unable to achieve something that they are trying to do can result in an unexpected outburst.

Temperament

Parents with several children know that some traits are hard-wired. You might have one enthusiatic, curious child; another stubborn and emotional; another easy going and good humoured. this influences how quickly and strongly children react to things like frustrating events. Children who get upset easily might be more likely to have tantrums.

Stress, hunger, tiredness

We have all heard of “hangry”, a combination of hunger and anger. Any of these factors lower a person’s threshold for feeling angry and frustrated. So making sure these basics are sorted mean that your child will likely have more tolerance before a tantrum is triggered.

Boredom

Humans are intelligent, inquisitive creatures. Our brains are constantly seeking stimulation. If stimulation isn’t forthcoming, children will aim to liven up their environment. Anyone who grew up with siblings will no doubt recall sitting in the back seat in a long car trip and eventually poking their sibling, resulting in a mini-war. Bored children will find ways to liven up their environment, even if it means taking an action that isn’t socially desirable. So keep that young brain positively engaged.

Being scared or out of their depth

If the world gets too unfamiliar or intimidating, the associated emotions can be too strong and result in an outburst

Strong emotions

Anger, fear or humiliation are difficult to manage even for adults. Trying to deal with these as a child can be tough, and result in emotions boiling over into a tantrum.

Above All, Stay Calm. This is sometimes easier said than done, but remembering the Circle of Security mantra “be bigger, wiser, stronger and kind” can really help you take a pause, think about what is really going on, then be ready to respond to the best of your ability. When a tantrum hits it can be too late, but one of the most important steps parents can take is to look after yourself so that you have sufficient emotional energy available to respond with your best foot forward.

Whilst as parents ourselves we have all felt embarrassed when our child has a tantrum (after all we tend to see our children as a reflection of ourselves), it is important to remember that tantrums are considered a normal developmental phase, and are not an indication of poor parenting.

Try to help your child name the emotion they are feeling. Sometimes, reflecting back to a child and helping them put words to how they are feeling can help them turn the tantrum into the tears of recovery. Something like “You’re really upset that mum is going out without you, hey?” Can help them know you understand, and allow them to feel the emotion, rather than resist the change.

Always stay firm, but kind. Giving in to a tantrum by buying the toy, or reversing an appropriately-placed “no” will reinforce to a child that losing control of their emotions can help them achieve an end. It is OK for a parent to stay firm and say no, whilst still being compassionate and supporting your child’s emotional need and acknowledging their feelings.

What causes tantrums?

What should I do when my child has a tantrum?

Essentially, a tantrum is an explosion of anger, where your child’s ability to regulate their emotions has boiled over. You’re witnessing them losing control of their voluntary behaviour. Every tantrum is different but it is hard to mistake. Think shouting, screaming, hitting, falling on the floor, kicking or other similar displays. Tantrums are an unmistakeable display of anger and frustration.

Prevention is better than cure. Once a tantrum has started, it may just have to run its course, as logic and reasoning don’t really help when the emotional brain is ruling your child’s world. Be sure to remain nearby to keep your child safe, and let them know you’re there to give them a cuddle when they are ready.

Creating an environment of positivity, close attachment and clear boundaries are the main things parents can do to prevent tantrums. By looking at the causes of tantrums above, and thinking ahead of time how to prevent boredom, teach your child to manage conflict, and have sufficient household love and affection to build a sense of security in your child, you are already streets ahead. Remember, no matter how good you are at all these things, life is full of unexpected challenges, and tantrums are a normal part of child development.

When tantrums are occurring frequently, it is important to press on, and not avoid getting on with life. Children need to be given opportunities to learn and exposure to new environments. Don't avoid new experiences based on the fear of tantrums. Eventually, familiarity will breed tolerance.

If you feel that your child is having more tantrums than other children of the same age, or you feel that you’re having trouble handling them, getting some professional assistance is a good idea. It is better to do something sooner, as talking to other adults and professionals is one of the best forms of self-care. Seeing you GP is a good first step. Take your child with you, and make it fun. Our medical centres are all child-friendly, and we encourage children to draw and play at their appointment and in the waiting room. We recommend that all parents do the circle of security parenting program in the early years, and continue to do parenting courses over time. Investing in your education in bringing up your child is one of the most enduring gifts you can give.

If you still feel that more assistance is needed, a referral to our paediatricians , or to child psychologists Bernadette Sharry , Matthew Simmond or Sharon Dawe , who focus on the support and the development of young children and toddlers, is a good idea. They work across all age groups in providing emotional regulation consultation assessment, counselling and therapy services for children. Speak to your GP about whether a Mental Health Care Plan is needed for your child.

Book a consultation with Growlife Medical today.

How do I stop tantrums?

How Can I prevent tantrums?

What if I need more help with tantrums?

What is a tantrum?

Asthma & Emphysema in Low Air Quality

Mon, 11 Nov 2019 18:24:54 GMT

Due to the fires around Brisbane, there is lots of smoke in the air. This can cause breathing difficulty and coughing, as well as eye and throat irritation. Our Grow Medical doctors in Highgate Hill , Oxley and Sherwood want to ensure you stay well during this time of increased air pollution. Read on to find out how to prevent an asthma flare below.

What action should I take to prevent an asthma or emphysema flare?

Preventer medication is typically inhaled, and contains a medicine the helps reduce inflammation in the lungs. Asthma preventer medication is typically orange, brown or purple. Because asthma preventer medication reduces inflammation, even if particles of dust, smoke, pollen or other air pollution enter the lower airways, your lungs are less likely to respond by flaring up your asthma or emphysema. Because preventer medication does not act quickly, it is important you take it prior to developing any symptoms, so make you take it as soon as you remember. Clinical trials clearly show that taking your preventer regularly results in fewer exacerbations (flare ups) of you asthma.

Take your preventer medication as prescribed

Whilst your preventer should be the first thing you turn to when there is an increased likelihood of a flareup, it is important that you have your reliever nearby. Asthma reliever medication is usually blue in colour, but may be red and white. If you notice yourself or your child becoming wheezy, be sure to take your reliever medication whenever needed and seek medical care if it is required more often than every 3-4 hours.

Your nose has an important function to help filter, warm and humidify the air you breathe. When the air is dusty or smokey, nasal inflammation can result in mucus and blockage. As many people with asthma have co-existing allergic rhinitis (Hayfever), treating your nose with a saline irrigation and nasal cortisone spray in addition to treating your lower airway may help you keep better control of your respiratory symptoms.

Keep your reliever close at hand

Treat your nose if needed

This may seem obvious, but avoidance is one of the easiest things to prevent a flare up when air pollen, smoke or pollution counts are high. Make sure you close all the doors and windows, and put the airconditioner on recirculate. This way, you won't be exposed to as many fine particles entering you upper airway and lungs.

Preventing loss of lung function over time, and reducing the impact on your life by preventing flare ups are important goals for the care of asthma and emphysema. When you see your Grow Medical GP for an Asthma Checkup, you can expect to be well looked after and have all your questions answered. We will check your:

height
weight
lung function
smoking status
It is helpful for you to complete and bring in an asthma score

If you haven't had a checkup of your asthma or emphysema for some time, make sure you book now. To make your visit more efficient, please call ahead to let our receptionists know you need a check of your asthma, so they can schedule a breathing test with the nurse prior to seeing the doctor.

We always aim to have fit-in appointments available for young children and people who are sick on the day. Paediatric respiratory nurse Alison can help with asthma education for parents of children with asthma.

Book a consultation with Grow Medical today .

When did you last have an asthma checkup?

What if I need help with my child's asthma

What is the next step?

Stay Indoors, close doors and windows, and switch airconditioning to recirculate

Assessing Your Risk of Vascular Disease

Mon, 04 Nov 2019 18:19:39 GMT

In Australia, Heart Disease and Stroke make up two of the top three causes of death. Many of these are preventable with good GP care. At Grow Medical we are on a mission to grow Australia’s healthiest communities. To do this we need a physically, mentally and socially healthy society. As the year end comes close, the flu and infections of winter are now past us and we want to spend the time with you that is needed to help prevent Australia’s biggest killers.

We are targeting those at higher risk of heart attack and stroke in order to make sure we have adequately assessed your individual risk, put in place a management plan to keep you healthy, and screened for any current problems requiring urgent treatment. Read on to find out more...

What are the risk factors for vascular disease?

The first milk, the colostrum, creates the normal environment in baby’s digestive system by encouraging the growth of the good bacteria (bifidus flora). This good bacteria is responsible for the mild odour of a breastfeeding baby’s stools. A normal gut environment discourages the growth of harmful bacteria and helps baby’s immune system develop properly.

Health benefits for mum include a lower incidence of Postpartum Haemorrhage, Osteoporosis, Cardiovascular disease, Breast Uterine and Ovarian cancer.

High Cholesterol

For most people, a healthy blood pressure is around 120/80. Hypertension is usually defined as blood pressure over 140/90 in the clinic or over 135/85 on home readings. High blood pressure results in damage to the internal lining of your arteries that results in build up of plaque inside blood vessels, and also can damage your kidneys and result in renal impairment.

High Blood Pressure (Hypertension)

Smoking

This may seem obvious, but one of the strongest risk factors for future heart attack, stroke or blood vessel blockages in the limbs, is previous blood vessel blockages. If you have had one of these events, you should be seeing your doctor at least twice a year, and have an active GP Management Plan in place.

height
weight
blood pressure
smoking status
discuss any symptoms you may have experienced like chest pain, weakness or cramping in the calves.

Book a consultation with Grow Medical today .

What to expect from your vascular checkup?

How can I prevent vascular disease?

What is the next step?

Existing Vascular Disease

Others

Physical Inactivity, Obesity, Kidney Disease and your inherited genes all have a strong impact upon your likelihood of vascular disease.

Should I Space Out My Baby's Feeds?

Fri, 01 Nov 2019 14:41:46 GMT

How to space out feeds, when do babies space out breastfeeds, and how to space bottle feeds are common questions from new families when they are considering establishing a routine for their new baby. In this article, GP Lactation Consultant Dr Sonja Morgan discusses how to approach timing of your baby's feeding. So, should you space out your baby's feeds? Read on to find out...

How do I know when my baby is due for a feed?

Firstly, it is a myth that waiting a good 3-4 hours between feeds so that your baby is hungry will make them have a bigger feed and put on more weight. The opposite is actually true. Breasts produce water faster than they produce fat – this means that the longer it is been since the last feed, the more dilute the breastmilk is and the fewer calories it contains for the same volume of milk. More frequent feeding supports your baby to receive milk with a higher fat content and has been shown to increase baby’s weight faster than spacing feeds.

Spacing feeds out also sends a feedback signal to your breasts to tell them that less supply is needed. Feeding more frequently is the quickest way to increase your milk supply so that more milk is available for you baby. Being flexible with feeding also allows your baby to adjust their intake to their constantly changing needs, such as during growth spurts or times of illness.

How long should I leave between newborn feeds?

It is important to remember that your baby uses a feed for more than just to receive a volume of milk. Your baby uses a feed as a way to calm down and relax, especially if they are upset. When they are feeding they feel safe and have a release of “feel-good hormones” which make them feel calm. This is similar to babies who use sucking their thumb or sucking on a pacifier to calm down. So responding to your baby's needs is more important than measuring the volume of a feed.

Lastly, being flexible with offering feeds is a wonderful way to get to know your baby and for them learn that you are responding to their cues. Just like us they will have times when they are only a little bit hungry for a snack (like when we have a cup of tea and a biscuit) and other times when they are very hungry (like when we go out for a big dinner). If we listen to them tell us when they are hungry and how hungry they are, this is wonderful way of letting them respond to their own body’s cues of when they are hungry and when they are not. In the long term, this is the best way for them to eventually build a good relationship with food and to help prevent food issues such as toddler fussiness later on.

How much should my baby drink?

Feed your baby when they are hungry

Knowing when a baby is “due” for a feed may give a family a sense of control back into their lives, however unfortunately spacing feeds by the clock has many downsides.

For more help with any breastfeeding issues, feel free to book an appointment with Lactation Consultant Sam Foster or with GP / Lactation Consultant Dr Sonja Morgan at Growlife Highgate Hill .

Breastfeeding Support for Newborns

Colic in Babies - Symptoms, Treatment & Relief

Tue, 29 Oct 2019 14:37:38 GMT

It's not unusual for babies to cry and fuss, we all know how difficult it is for parents to get a good sleep. However, Colic is a term for crying that either happens a lot or lasts for a very long time, perhaps even days. The term colic is becoming outdated, and the preferred term is now "unsettled behaviour". Parents often tell us that they feel at the end of their tether when their baby has colic. This article will aim to shed some light on this common and tricky condition.

Grow Medical looks at the issue of Colic babies. What is Colic in babies? Colic symptoms, treatment, relief strategies and if there is a best formula for Colic.

What is Colic in Babies?

The first thing we should acknowledge is that it is perfectly normal for babies to cry and display unsettled behaviour. Babies cry for an average of three hours per day, with some going on for even longer. A baby's crying reaches its peak at six weeks old, before then slowly reducing as the baby ages. Sometimes we are asked how to tell the difference between regular crying and colicky behaviour? The answer is that they are the same thing.

What to check if baby is crying and unsettled:

Is baby getting enough milk?
Is baby comfortable and stable during feeds?
Is baby's sensory appetite being met?
Is there any clearly identifiable cause of pain or discomfort?
Does your baby have a fever? Any baby below 3 months with a fever should see a doctor .

Symptoms of Colic in Babies

Colic will pass on its own without treatment and medication for Colic is rarely useful. Some medication can make your baby sleepy, which can be dangerous. As always, you should seek medical advice before administering any medication to your baby.

Babies are learning everything for the first time. When unsettled behaviour is clearly related to gas or passing wind, we see that this sometimes reflects a baby learning what it feels like to have a gas bubble pass through their gut. After all, a baby has spent its first nine months inside the womb, where there this no gas, and the gut is deflated. Suddenly, their gut is starting to ferment, produce gas, and inflate with wind. This may explain why many babies with no medical problems have an escalation in crying behaviour in the first weeks of life, which later subsides.

Babies do swallow air when feeding and crying. Babies burp this up easily and it is actually not necessary to burp your baby.

Gas in the intestinal tract of babies comes mostly from the same source as gas the GI tract of adults - from the digestion of food. Babies digestive system is also immature for the first 3-4 months. Burping won’t do anything to decrease this gas. All you can really do is comfort and maybe try and take their mind off the discomfort. Step outside, take a walk or a bath for example.

One of the most important things you should do for baby Colic relief is hold your child. This will show your child that you are there for them, even if the crying continues. Close Skin-to-Skin contact has been proven to reduce infant crying, so it not only reassures you and your baby, but also helps the problem. Responding mindfully to crying by taking a pause to think about what your baby is telling you, then responding in this way, will help reduce the crying next time.

Most relief for colic will have to be tried and tested. You will have to find a technique that will help calm your unsettled baby, whether it is using a baby sling, sitting on a rocking chair, or playing soothing and rhythmic music. Music is a great way to connect with you baby and help with settling, which is why we run SongLife Connections music therapy.

You should also be careful that you are not trying too hard to relax your child (too much bouncing, patting or burping). Try laying your child down and see if they settle.

Baby Colic Treatment

Baby Colic Relief

The term Colic is used to describe a baby who cries a lot. The scientific definition was determined in 1954 which stated that it was a baby who experienced inconsolable crying for 3 hours a day, 3 days a week for at least 3 weeks a month. Today, any baby who is fussy is called colicky. Increasingly, we are using the term unsettled behaviour in place of the term colic. So what is colic in babies?

A typical story is that around three weeks after birth a baby becomes fussy, often in the evenings and cries inconsolably. It is tough! And medications rarely help. The only strategies that parents can do to help are offering lots of physical comfort, feeding on demand and regularly changing your baby's sensory environment, such as having warm baths, spending time in a carrier, walking outside, or putting music on.

This type of unsettled behaviour typically lasts for around 4 months. The baby is usually gaining weight well and is otherwise healthy. The good health and happiness of the baby at other times of the day is reassuring. Whilst these babies are well, the frustration felt by parent and children can really be detrimental on a family's wellbeing. So be sure to do something proactive. Our GPs never mind a visit if your baby is unsettled. In fact, experienced doctors are familiar with the concept of a "curative visit". It is amazing how often a baby who has been crying for hours or days will suddenly settle when at the practice. We suspect this is due to achieving a break in routine; parents relax because they are taking action, and babies relax because of the change in scenery, and the palpable sense that mum and dad are happier. A visit to the park, playing music or attending our SongLife Connections music therapy program are all helpful interventions for the well child with colic.

For more information on Colic you can also visit Healthdirect , a free government health advice website.

Very rarely, colic may be increased by issues in either the baby's or the mother's diet. Consequently, if your child is bottle-fed you may wish to rule out the formula as the cause of the colic. To find the best formula for colic, you should discuss with your GP and our other mother and baby experts. If needed they can help find the perfect formula for your baby.

We don't routinely advise extensive changes to formula, or significant elimination diets for mum. Whilst this is sometime helpful, it can result in unintended consequences of nutritional disadvantage. Where it appears there is a particular cause, please book an appointment with us and discuss prior to commencing any exclusion diet.

All our GPs have a passion for early life, and it is best to start with your regular General Practitioner when dealing with colic because there is such a broad range of causes.

For more complex cases, contact Dr Kate Pink (GP) or Dr Sonja Morgan (GP Lactation Consultant) who's expertise include antenatal and postnatal care of mothers, as well as care for newborns. They are particularly skilled in this area, and have assisted many mothers and babies to get through those difficult early days, and continues to care for many throughout childhood.

Dianne Walsh (Midwife Lactation Consultant) offers a holistic and empowering approach to breastfeeding support, as well as help with other feeding, sleeping and settling issues. Dianne can provide education, support and assistance in the comfort of your own home, or a consultation at one of our clinics.

Sharing your experiences with other parents can be one of the most effective ways to get through the early days. Make sure you join one of our Free Parents Groups , facilitated by experienced baby nurse Kay Whitby.

Book a consultation with Grow Medical today .

Best Formula for Colic

Colic in Babies Consultation

Benefits of Breastfeeding

Sun, 27 Oct 2019 14:29:10 GMT

In families who are able to do so, breastfeeding has a myriad of benefits. Babies were born to breastfeed, and breastfeeding is the biological norm for mothers and babies. There are literally thousands of studies comparing breastfeeding with man-made substitutes. The results show striking differences and the benefits of breastfeeding.

During the first year of life babies fed non-human milk have a higher incidence of:

Respiratory disease, including pneumonia and bronchitis
Diarrhoea and other digestive illnesses
Ear infections (up to 4 times higher)
Urinary tract infections
Meningitis
SIDS

Grow Medical looks at the advantages of breastfeeding, the role of colostrum, how to breastfed, how long to breastfeed and breastfeeding support .

Breast Milk

Health benefits for mum include a lower incidence of Postpartum Haemorrhage, Osteoporosis, Cardiovascular disease, Breast Uterine and Ovarian cancer.

Colostrum

Some of the advantages of breastfeeding are:

Breast milk is completely safe for newborns and it’s easy for them to digest.
Breast milk provides babies with all the nutrition they need in their first six months of life.
When your baby needs to be fed, breast milk is ready and the temperature is always right.
Breast milk supports your baby’s immune system. As a result, your baby will be less likely to get infections.
Breastfed babies are less likely to develop allergies and other health conditions.
Overall, breastfed babies tend to grow and develop better.
For mothers, breastfeeding is cost-free and breast milk requires no preparation time.
Breastfeeding may help mothers and babies to develop a closer bond.

We are only just beginning to understand breastmilk. For example, if you are sick, your body produces more immune cells and molecules which appear in your breastmilk. But did you know that your breastmilk contains more immune blood cells and immunoactive molecules even when your baby is sick and you aren't? Researchers are still trying to understand how this process occurs.

Advantages of Breastfeeding

Did you know?

Babies who do not receive human milk are sick more often, have more serious illnesses, are hospitalised more often and for longer. Breast milk plays a vital role in a baby's development.

Adults who were formula fed as infants have a higher incidence of:

Allergy
Asthma
Crohn’s disease
Diabetes 1 and 2
Hodgkin’s Disease
Childhood leukaemia
Coeliac disease
Childhood cancers
Breast cancer
Obesity

The more we learn, the clearer it is becoming, that for a baby’s immune system to be fully activated after birth, human milk's living antibodies are needed for at least the first 12 months. Breastmilk plays a major role in strengthening a baby’s immune system and normal digestive health.

Don’t be concerned if it takes some time for you and your baby to get used to breastfeeding – many mothers and babies struggle at first with how to breastfeed.

There are several positions for breastfeeding a baby. Just be sure you consider the following:

Comfort: get comfortable before feeding. Cushions and pillows may help. Make sure your arms and shoulders are relaxed.
Straight line: the baby’s head and body should form a straight line so that the breast milk can be easily swallowed.
Close hold: your baby should be facing your breast. Support your newborn’s back, shoulders and neck so that they can tip their head back to swallow your milk more easily.
Don’t hold the back of your baby’s head: your baby should be free to tilt their head back so that your nipple is in the right position in the baby’s mouth.
Baby to breast: draw your baby to your breast – and not vice versa – this encourages better attachment.
Nose to nipple: position your baby so that their nose is level with your nipple. This will ensure they fully open their mouth and attach well.

Always get help from a midwife or lactation consultant if you are experiencing difficulties with breastfeeding.

Childbirth alone is an intense experience for many women. Nourishing your baby is just one aspect of being a parent. Breastfeeding can bring up a mixture of emotions from terror to excitement to sheer frustration. The important thing to remember is that good breastfeeding support is available.

A midwife and/or lactation consultant who can visit you at home can make a world of difference. Breastfeeding is a skill and it may take you and your baby time to learn how to do it.

Sam Foster offers a holistic and empowering approach to breastfeeding support. Sam can provide education, support and assistance in the comfort of your own home, at one of our clinics, or via telehealth.

Book an appointment with Sonja Morgan who's expertise includes contraception, antenatal and postnatal care of mothers, as well as care for newborns.

Book a consultation with Growlife Medical today .

How to Breastfeed?

Breastfeeding Support

Lactation Consultation

What to Eat and Drink While Breastfeeding

Sun, 27 Oct 2019 14:20:29 GMT

Contrary to popular belief, there are no foods you should eat or avoid while breastfeeding. Interestingly, you don’t have to drink milk to make milk. Your body has the amazing ability to make milk out of anything you eat. But we do get lots of questions about what to eat and drink while breastfeeding? So here are some of our collective thoughts.

Let's bust some breastfeeding myths straight away:

Most mothers can eat chocolate, spicy foods, onions, broccoli, cabbage. The key is everything in moderation.

Eat to hunger, there is no need to consciously eat extra calories!

Drink to Thirst, not to prescribed amounts.

Research has not yet found a connection between a mothers intake and her milk production.

Growlife Medical looks at the issue of what to eat and drink while breastfeeding, breastfeeding supplements, tea, caffeine and alcohol.

Breastfeeding Diet

Most mothers can get enough vitamins and minerals by eating a balanced and nutritious diet full of fresh fruit and vegetables without the need for breastfeeding supplements. It is often recommended, however, that breastfeeding women take a vitamin D supplement, particularly during the winter months when sunlight is less easy to access. For more information about supplements we suggest speaking with your doctor or lactation consultant .

Breastfeeding Supplements

Some herbal teas (typically containing fenugreek) are postulated to stimulate breast milk production . As a general rule we feel that herbal teas are probably safe , and may have a small effect on increasing milk production based on a small amount of evidence. However, it is important to remember that most herbs contain complex chemical compounds, and in high doses could potentially be harmful to the liver or kidneys. Many herbal teas are great for helping you to relax and unwind, so like anything it is all about moderation.

The most commonly used teas for breastfeeding include fennel, nettle, milk thistle, marshmallow root, coriander, blessed thistle, fenugreek, alfalfa, and caraway. Many commercial teas contain one or more of these ingredients and can be purchased at a relatively low cost.

There is no need to abstain from caffeine while breastfeeding . One or two cups of coffee or other caffeinated drinks per day is unlikely to be a problem for most breastfeeding mothers and babies. We are on board with this one, as we have a lot of coffee lovers at Grow Medical !

Breastfeeding Tea

Caffeine Breastfeeding

What do you do if your baby seems to react to something you have eaten as a result of your breastfeeding diet?

Remember first of all, that almost all babies have fussy periods. Your baby's fussiness is probably unrelated to your diet, especially if you do not see other physical signs of allergy or sensitivity such as rash, congestion or digestive upset.

If you do suspect a food is affecting your baby, it is best to see one of our GPs for an initial examination to check for common problems like problems with latch, hunger, growth & development and causes of pain such as an ear infection or sore throat. If it appears likely, your doctor may suggest eliminating the suspect food from your diet. It may take a couple of weeks for you to notice a difference. Cow’s milk and dairy are the most common foods to cause allergy and associated gastrointestinal upset. If dairy is the cause, two weeks of complete elimination should be enough to resolve the problem. It is important to reintroduce the suspected food, as a recurrence of the symptoms will confirm the diagnosis. Never restrict your diet longer than two weeks without seeing a paediatric dietitian .

Most common foods that cause allergies are dairy, soy, egg, peanuts and wheat.

Before trying an elimination diet, it is advisable to seek professional help from an IBCLC first to ensure that attachment is good and milk transfer is efficient. Poor fit and hold with breastfeeding, and switching breasts too soon, could lead to too much lactose which can cause digestive issues and an unsettled baby.

We are likely to see increased recommendations against consuming alcohol whilst breastfeeding in coming years. Historically it has been believed that drinking alcohol in moderation whilst breastfeeding does little harm, but it may be that we have not fully appreciated the impact of even low levels of alcohol consumption.

Moderate to heavy drinking whilst breastfeeding poses a risk to your baby's brain development. Occasional alcohol is likely to be less problematic, but may result in more disrupted sleep in your baby . Alcohol consumption may also cause a reduction in breastmilk supply . The alcohol from one glass of beer or wine is out of the milk within two to three hours.

You do not need to express your milk for the alcohol to pass out of it. Alcohol leaves your milk automatically as blood levels decrease. Pumping does not speed the removal of alcohol from your breastmilk.

Sonja Morgan is a GP Lactation Consultant who's expertise includes contraception, antenatal and postnatal care of mothers, as well as care for newborns.

Book a consultation with Growlife Medical today.

Breastfeeding Alcohol

Breastfeeding Support

Lactation Consultation

Mastitis - Inflammation Of The Breast

Tue, 08 Oct 2019 14:11:50 GMT

Mastitis, put simply, refers to any inflammation of the breast with or without a fever. The condition is associated with breastfeeding and is often caused by a build-up of milk in the breast. It is important that people with symptoms seek medical attention promptly as untreated mastitis could develop into a breast abscess. This is a more serious condition that may require more invasive intervention such as drainage under ultrasound guidance, or surgery.

Grow Medical looks at the issue of Mastitis. What is Mastitis, it's symptoms, causes, treatment, prevention, relief and the use of antibiotics.

Mastitis causes may include:

Broken skin on the nipple.
Bra too tight.
Sudden change in feeding patterns such as when baby stars sleeping longer through night.
Sudden weaning.
Thrush.

Sometimes baby may refuse the breast when infection is present as the taste of milk changes. You will need to express regularly in this situation.

If you need antibiotics this is safe for baby. Giving your baby breastmilk with a tiny bit of medication in is still far better than giving formula. The amount of medication in the breastmilk is a very small amount of what you take (often less than 1%of your dose) There are very few medications that are not recommended for nursing mothers (Thomas Hale Medications and Mothers Milk 2014).

Mastitis Symptoms

Mastitis Causes

Fortunately, mastitis is very treatable. Mastitis treatment suggestions can include:

Continue breastfeeding and if baby is not attaching use a breast pump to keepyour breast well drained.
If you have fever and flu-symptoms see your doctor. You may need a course of antibiotics.
Ensure you feed baby when they cue to feed and not to any schedule.
If it is painful to feed, you can use over the counter ibuprofen for pain relief.
Massage lumps out towards nipple while feeding/pumping or pop into a warm shower and massage.
If you have a plugged duct, you could apply heat prior to feeding/expressing to help loosen plug
Avoid tight or restrictive clothing while healing mastitis. Check your bra isn’t too tight.
Rest.

Consider seeking help from a lactation consultant to check attachment is optimum for effective breast drainage. Often poor positioning at the breast can lead to damaged nipples and poor milk transfer.

There are a number of ways to reduce the likelihood of mastitis occurring if you are breastfeeding. For mastitis prevention, firstly, it is important to know what to eat and drink while breastfeeding and to avoid smoking. This will help lower your chances of developing an infection. You can also reduce the risk of occurrence by breastfeeding in a way that reduces the build-up of milk in your breasts. This can be achieved by:

If possible, breastfeeding exclusively for about six months
Encouraging feeding on demand and frequent feeds, particularly if your breasts feel too full
Allowing your baby to finish their feeds properly - most babies will latch off the breast when they are full
Cut feeds down gradually rather than suddenly switching to formula
Avoid wearing tight clothing (particularly bras) that put pressure on your breasts
Pay attention to how your breasts feel before and after a feed, so you can identify and empty any blocked ducts early

There are a number of ways you can relieve the symptoms of mastitis at home. A warm compress, for example, can provide some mastitis relief if applied before and after feedings. Alternatively, an ice pack may be effective if applied after feeding. It is important to note, however, that ice packs should not be applied before feeding as this can slow down the flow of milk.

Over-the-counter pain relievers are a viable option for many women and can make the condition manageable. Drinking lots of water might speed up the recovery process as dehydration can make the condition worse.

Although home remedies can be effective, remember that it is important to visit your doctor if you suspect you have mastitis. They will be able to determine whether you need to be treated with antibiotics.

If your mastitis is caused by a bacterial infection, your doctor will prescribe a course of antibiotics (usually around ten days long). A Penicillin-based antibiotic is usually the first choice, with alternatives available if you are allergic. It is important to complete the course of antibiotics to ensure that it does not come back. If antibiotics do not solve the problem, you should follow up with your doctor.

The Australian Breastfeeding Association (ABA) runs the National Breastfeeding Helpline 1800 mum 2 mum ( 1800 686 268 ). The Breastfeeding Helpline is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. It is staffed by trained, volunteer counsellors who answer calls on a roster system in their own homes. Note that if you have current mastitis, you should book an appointment today with a Grow Medical GP, rather than using this helpful phone support resource.

It is important to note that all our GPs at Grow Medical can treat mastitis, and because prompt treatment is essential, it is best to book with the first available doctor on the day you notice symptoms. More specialised follow-up can be arranged in a less urgent fashion after you have commenced treatment.

Sonja Morgan is a GP Lactation Consultant who's expertise includes contraception, antenatal and postnatal care of mothers, as well as care for newborns.

Book a consultation with Growlife Medical today.

Mastitis Treatment

Mastitis Prevention

Mastitis Relief

Mastitis Antibiotics

Breastfeeding Support

Lactation Consultation

Mastitis symptoms can include tender spots or lump in your breast, red or flushed breast fever and achy, and flu-like symptoms. The condition tends to come on very quickly.

Common Breastfeeding Problems

Mon, 30 Sep 2019 14:09:18 GMT

When breastfeeding is difficult, painful or the mother is not producing enough milk for her baby, feelings of guilt or inadequacy can arise. These feelings are almost unavoidable due to the social pressures surrounding breastfeeding. However, it is important to not let them overtake you. There is help available...

Growlife Medical looks at some common breastfeeding problems including breastfeeding pain, mastitis , and the role of a lactation consultant providing breastfeeding support.

Breastfeeding Pain

Mastitis is an inflammation of the breast that is sometimes accompanied by flu-like symptoms. This condition may lead to progressive infection or abscess if not promptly treated.

There are many causes of mastitis, a lactation consultant can provide you with the assistance you need to prevent or alleviate the symptoms of mastitis particularly by helping you with any latching issues your baby may have.

This may help prevent the onset of mastitis caused by overfilled breasts. We recommend that you immediately visit your doctor if you think you have mastitis.

Mastitis

The only correct breastfeeding positions is the position that works best for you and your baby. There are almost a dozen different positions that address many unique needs. There are positions that can help if your baby is having problems with acid reflux. There are also positions that are best if you are recovering from a cesarean.

Experts like our Sam Foster or Sonja Morgan whose years of experience around antenatal and postnatal care of mothers, as well as care for newborns can give you unique insight into how best to hold your baby during feeding time.

Another cause of pain during breastfeeding is thrush a yeast infection of the nipple and breast caused by the Candida albicans fungus. Thrush breastfeeding pain can be severe and may cause a mother to end breastfeeding before she or her baby is ready. The pain is usually very sharp, the nipple may be red and pain is worse particularly at the start of a feed. Your baby may have white plaques that may bleed inside their mouth, particularly on the cheeks.

It is best to get assistance from your GP and a lactation consultant as soon as possible if you suspect thrush.

It is possible to continue breastfeeding while being treated for thrush. However because thrush is highly contagious it can cause mother and baby to be caught in a cycle where they are continually reinfecting each other.

While breastfeeding is natural, even instinctive, the idea that breastfeeding should come easy to a mother is a myth. It is a learned skill like any other and becomes less challenging with practice. No one expects to ride a bicycle like an expert on their first go. Feel free to take your time, as you and your baby learn how you fit together in this world.

Breastfeeding Positions

Thrush Breastfeeding

The breasts are a very sensitive area. Cracked nipples, infection, thrush, raynauds of the nipple, latching difficulties or the breast not being properly drained can be the cause of great discomfort and cause breastfeeding pain.

One of our friendly lactation consultants from Growlife Medical's lactation consultant service can help you identify, address and hopefully eliminate the cause of the pain or the breastfeeding issues causing mother and baby frustration.

One of the common concerns mothers have around breastfeeding is the worry that their child is not getting enough breast milk. A qualified lactation consultant can help guide you through several ways on how to increase breast milk supply. One of the first issues they will address is the fit and hold or "latch" between you and your baby. Addressing latch issues may help, as if the baby is not latching properly there is a greater chance your breasts are not emptying efficiently. This can result in symptom in your baby of crying (due to hunger and frustration), and poor weight gain.

They can advise you as to whether or not you should adjust the frequency of your baby’s feeds or feeding time. This means that your breast will empty more quickly, causing the rate at which you produce milk to increase.

Your lactation consultant can also teach you breast compression methods, a technique that stimulates and increases the flow of breast milk.

Remember, the more your breasts empty the more they refill. If your baby is not latching and as a result not getting sufficient milk, this may create a real catch 22.

Lactation consultants are professionals who provide breastfeeding support to mothers who are experiencing breastfeeding issues. They will address your feeding challenges including but not limited to low milk production, babies who are having trouble latching onto the nipple, sleepless babies, low weight gain or painful breastfeeding.

In these instances the service of a lactation consultant are invaluable. Lactation Consultant Sam Foster provides education, support and assistance in the comfort of your own home, or at one of our clinics. Dr Sonja Morgan is a GP lactation consultant who can assist with complex breastfeeding or newborn difficulties at our Highgate Hill practice.

Sam and Sonja form Growlife Medicals professional and holistic lactation consultant service and an empowering approach to breastfeeding support, as well as help with other feeding, sleeping and settling issues.

Growlife Medical offers a holistic and empowering approach to breastfeeding support . Our lactation consulting team provide education, support and assistance in the comfort of your own home, or a consultation at one of our clinics.

Book an appointment with Sonja Morgan who's expertise include contraception, antenatal and postnatal care of mothers, as well as care for newborns.

Book a consultation with Grow Medical today .

How to Increase Breast Milk Supply

Breastfeeding Support

Lactation Consultation

Guiding Children’s Behaviour in Positive Ways

Sun, 22 Sep 2019 17:04:51 GMT

Sometimes it can be very difficult to get your child to practice a certain skill, whether it be homework or extra-curricular activities. Grow Medical looks at the ECDC Research Results , published in January 2018, by the Early Cognitive Development Centre , School of Psychology at The University of Queensland . This article will look at the importance of imagined future feelings in guiding children’s behaviour in positive ways.

Positive Behaviour for Learning

With this in mind, the ECDC study was focussed on determining whether or not future feelings, using positive behaviour support, could also have an impact on the motivations of children.

The 2017 study examined over 150 children aged between six and nine. The study gave children three skill games in which to partake and informed the children that they will be tested on one of the games later. The children were not told to practice, they were simply left alone with the games. However, before leaving the children to their own devices, the children were asked to imagine a scenario in which they passed the future test. Half of the children were told to imagine how they would feel should they pass the test, whereas the other half were told to imagine being successful (without any mention of emotion).

The study found that children who considered how they would feel if they were successful practiced their test games for 60% longer than the children who weren't told to consider their future feelings. For children between eight and nine years old, the difference was even greater. Those who considered their future feelings practiced twice as long as those who did not.

The study shows that encouraging children to consider their future feelings could be a fantastic way to get children to practice more, most notably for children over the age of eight.

Positive Behaviour Support

In addition, another UQ School of Psychology study examined how income inequality can affect children’s giving behaviour. In adults, economic inequality can have an impact on how we treat others, with studies showing how economic inequality can lower helping behaviours.

Participating children were given several games to play involving puppets, with each child gathering tokens during the games.

During the games, the children were playing with one of two kinds of puppet:

Puppets with high inequality of outcome (some of the puppets received lots of tokens, whereas others did not).
Puppets with a level outcome equality (the puppets received an equal amount of tokens).

After the games were finished, children swapped their tokens for stickers. An image of a poor child was then shown to the children and they were asked if they would like to give their stickers to the child. The study found that the children who had witnessed high levels of inequality gave fewer stickers to the child, whereas those who witnessed lower inequality gave more tokens. The study showed that even four-year-old children can perceive economic differences and this can have an impact on how they treat others.

Our clinicians are constantly reading and learning about how to better grow our citizens of tomorrow. They love drawing on the amazing research happening in Brisbane to provide practical solutions for you and your family. Book an appointment with Bernadette Sharry , Matthew Simmond or Sharon Dawe who focus on the support and the development of young children, toddlers, children and adolescents. They work across all age groups in providing Children's Behaviour assessment, counselling and therapy services for children.

Book a consultation with Grow Medical today .

Children's Giving Behaviour

Children's Behaviour Consultation

It is vital for children to practice skills for the future. Whether it's their maths homework, their footballing talents, or their piano skills, it is important that your child keeps practicing them. Not only will practice help improve the specific talent, but it will also result in a more disciplined, focused, and well-balanced adult in the future. The interesting challenge for parents is how can we influence this positive behaviour for learning?

Practicing a skill can often be dull and repetitive, particularly in contrast to playing a new video game or watching a new TV show. In order to make sure your child continues to practice their skill, parents may find themselves nagging their child. This can be annoying for both parents and children, as both get frustrated with each other.

In order to find a better way to guide children's behaviour in positive ways, the Early Cognitive Development Centre (ECDC) at the University of Queensland set out to find the best way to facilitate positive learning behaviour in children.

As adults, we often realise that we need to do something we don't enjoy (or refuse to do something we would enjoy), in order to benefit our future self. For instance, we may wake up earlier to fit in a thirty-minute jog, or we may opt against socialising in order to fit in some more study or work. We do this because we understand that they will benefit us in the future, meaning that our future feelings are motivating our behaviour. These feelings can either be positive (avoid the cake to lose weight), or negative (study to pass a test).

Emotional Regulation in Children

Sun, 22 Sep 2019 11:29:12 GMT

Emotional regulation in Children is not always an innate skill; this can be seen most clearly in toddlers. Toddlers struggle to control their emotions. Consequently, their emotions can swing from one extreme to the other. Helping our children to learn emotional regulation is one of the most important skills we can impart.

In this article, Grow Medical looks at the issue of emotional regulation in children. Emotions and kids can be a challenging topic, so we discuss symptoms of emotional regulation problems, and emotional regulation skills for kids.

Emotions and Kids

Sometimes it can be difficult to spot the emotional regulation symptoms that a child has, as emotional regulation can manifest in several different ways. For instance, some children may have an immediate reaction without any build up when faced with something unfamiliar, or asked to change from one activity to another. Conversely, some children may bottle up their emotions over time, then release it in an unexpected emotional explosion.

It is important to remember that most of these experiences are entirely normal! Observe an experienced grandparent in the corner when one of these outbursts occurs, and you will see a wry smile, and a quiet comment about it being "just a phase". We have all experienced the toddler wanting a toy at the supermarket falling to the floor and screaming when hearing the word "No". This is a perfect example of the normal process of a young child struggling to regulate their strong emotions.

If you believe that your child is frequently overreacting to situations, especially if it is affecting your family's dynamic, they may benefit from some emotional regulation help. This is usually best achieved by teaching parents ways they can help their child, as teaching is much more effective when delivered every day, rather than just in short sessions.

Emotional Regulation Symptoms

The goal when working with children who are struggling with their emotional regulation is to help them learn to connect their logical, decision-making brain with their emotional, volatile brain so they can keep control of those strong emotions. A great way to think about how to achieve this is the concept of the parent-coach. Our role as parents is not to solve every problem for our children, but to be there to help them face challenges they see at that time as insurmountable, and be their coach to teach the skills they need, and invoke the confidence they need to be brave. The Circle of Security parenting course captures this perfectly by noting that parents need to be "bigger, stronger, wiser and kind". Where we remain calm and confident in the face of adversity, our children feel and are inspired by that, and can learn from that experience.

As parents, we can help our children understand that an impulsive, emotional response is not an effective way to respond to a difficult situation. We can do this both by modelling and by teaching. The aim of teaching emotional regulation skills for kids is to show them how to notice their emotions earlier, take their time to calm a little, and assess the situation. Of course this process needs to be tailored to the age and developmental stage of the child. For younger children and toddlers, a parent's role at supporting this process by providing a secure environment for experimenting is much more important. For older children, helping them to learn skills and techniques becomes increasingly relevant.

It is important to tackle any issues that your child may be having head on, rather than avoiding them. The goal should be to coach your child through the difficult situation, giving them some support through the challenge. In therapy circles, this technique is known as scaffolding and allows your child to gain some experience and practice before they handle difficult experiences on their own.

The purpose of scaffolding, then, is to isolate a situation in which negative emotions are present and support the child through the scenario, rewarding better behaviour and attitudes. For instance, if your child is experiencing negative emotions while completing homework, they could learn new behaviours that can help complete the work rather than emotional outbursts. For example, your child may get up and have a snack or a drink if feeling frustrated, or allow themselves periodic breaks. Checking in with your child and rewarding them for their efforts will help them build confidence and persistence.

It is important to remember that practice is key and it may take time before they start showing any improvement. It may require starting small and slowly building from this foundation.

These can be challenging skills to learn and to teach. As parents most of us spent a long time studying our career, but being a parent just happened! At Grow Medical, we believe it is worthwhile for all parents to do a course in parenting, which is why we sponsor the facilitated Circle of Security parenting program at the practice on a regular basis. We recommend that all parents do the Circle of Security Program in the early years, and this program is also a great first step if you're having difficulties. If you find yourself frustrated and struggling to deal with your child's emotional outbursts, be sure to seek some one-on-one professional help as well. Our General Practitioners all understand how important this issue is for your family's wellbeing. Booking and appointment with your GP is the first step. Your GP can help assess what is happening, provide support, assist with diagnosis (if any), and help with obtaining Medicare funding for a Mental Health Care Plan if applicable.

Book an appointment with our paediatricians , Bernadette Sharry , Matthew Simmond or Sharon Dawe who focus on the support and the development of young children and toddlers. They work across all age groups in providing emotional regulation consultation assessment, counselling and therapy services for children.

Book a consultation with Grow Medical today .

Emotional Regulation Skills for Kids

Emotional Regulation Consultation

Emotional regulation is the ability to manage your emotions and behaviours depending upon the situation. This includes the ability to manage your emotions in response to upsetting and challenging stimuli, allowing you to calm yourself down and handle the situation without emotional outbursts. Emotions and kids, and developing this skill, is a crucial developmental process as a child grows older, helping them to interact with other people in a constructive manner. Getting this right can help improve your relationship with your child, as well as help your child to grow a favourable personality, allowing them to create new friends in the future. Humans are social creatures, and helping your child to navigate social relationships is one of the most enduring challenges of parenthood.

Emotional regulation will also help your child focus their behaviour onto achieving a goal, allowing them to overcome the unpredictable nature of life and not be hampered by life's complications. This can allow their academic performance to increase and improve their problem-solving capacity.

Supporting Kids in Need - 2019 CRW 300 Fundraiser

Sat, 07 Sep 2019 11:23:56 GMT

At the core of our values at Grow Medical , is supporting children and families to reach their potential. We believe that by supporting individuals, building the strength of families, and growing social connection in communities, we will have Australia's healthiest population. That's why we are dedicated to supporting community groups, schools and charities. For the third year running, we are sponsoring the Chain Reaction Women's 300 , and this year are a team major sponsor .

Children represent our future, and service to others builds closer communities. By supporting Chain Reaction, and improving the lived experience of children now, we help to provide the solutions to our future problems.

This year, the Chain Reaction Women's 300 is raising funds for AEIOU Foundation for children with autism and the Mater Foundation . So far, the Grow Medical ATG Team have raised over $25,000. Read on for more details on why we support this great cause, and what you can do to help.

Family Doctors Supporting Autism and Premature Babies

Major charity partner, the AEIOU Foundation for children with autism, will direct funds raised from the event to a refurbishment and fit out of its Toowoomba centre, enabling more children in the region access to a safe, secure and modern facility for care and therapy.

The AEIOU foundation is a leading provider of early intervention for autism, by integrating multi-disciplinary neuro-developmental care into their specialised early childhood education centres.

Autism Early Intervention

Minor beneficiary, the Mater Foundation, will receive funds to go towards purchasing an in-hospital shuttle to safely and easily transport critically ill babies to theatre, thus significantly reducing the risk of serious clinical problems.

After raising $440,000 last year, the Women's 300 is back to experience the best the Sunshine Coast has to offer with a new and improved course. We believe that women breaking down stereotypes, and the glass ceiling, is great for the health of our communities. So many of our parents balance having children with being a parent and staying part of the corporate world. So the CRW300 is a great fit.

For 3 days the all-female peloton will cycle 300+ kilometres on arguably the best cycling areas in Queensland on the Sunshine Coast - including iconic beaches, beautiful hinterland and a finish in Brisbane - all to raise much needed funds for children's charities in Queensland.

This event is for female business leaders who have a passion for cycling and sense of their corporate social responsibility to come together for a challenging and rewarding experience. Each event is different but all riders come away with an incredible sense of achievement both personally and for the kids and their families supported through our charity partners. Grow Medical's rider Alison Chambers is a Midwife, Mother, Community Nurse and corporate leader.

Help build the strength of our community by supporting these charities. Click here to donate now .

Care for Premature Babies

General Practice for Corporate Women

Donate Now

The team in Sherwood, Oxley and Highgate Hill are passionate about caring for children, and have a strong sense of social justice. That's why we are proud to support two outstanding charities by being a major sponsor of the 2019 Chain Reaction Women's 300.

Chain Reaction Women's 300

Travel Vaccinations for Bali, Thailand and Vietnam

Tue, 03 Sep 2019 11:15:17 GMT

Whether you're looking for a last-minute break, or planning ahead for a big holiday next year, one thing it's always worth considering is how to protect your health whilst you are away. If you're considering a holiday outside of Australia, it's worth remembering that you may need to take additional precautions in order to stay healthy abroad.

For Brisbanites, the popular holiday destinations of Bali, Vietnam and Thailand may all present additional health hazards. One of these relates to communicable diseases which may be found in the water, food or air. Travel vaccinations for Bali, Thailand and Vietnam can protect against many of the most common diseases found in these countries.

Here we take a look at what diseases and health risks are more common in these top holiday destinations, as well as what vaccinations you can take advantage of to help protect you and your family.

An important health risk often overlooked for travel to Bali, Thailand and Vietnam is traffic accidents. You should be aware of the dangers of driving motor vehicles or scooters in unfamiliar and some what challenging road conditions and surroundings. Many Australians are seriously injured or killed each year from motor vehicle accidents whilst abroad. It is also important to note that in many cases travel insurance policies to do not cover you if you are in an accident and have consumed alcohol.

Grow Medical recommends that travellers take out comprehensive travel insurance before you depart and also ensure you have adequate levels of any regular medications for the duration of your holiday. You may not be able to get your prescription medicines in Bali, Thailand or Vietnam. We also think it's a good idea to consider having the influenza vaccination before traveling overseas.

Travel vaccinations for Bali

Bali Health Risks

For travel with children, regardless of destination, we recommend that all routine childhood vaccines are up to date including:

Polio
Measles / Mumps
Hepatitis B
Meningococcus
Tetanus
Pertussis (Whooping Cough)

We recommend some or all of the following vaccines for Bali travel:

Typhoid
Tetanus and Pertussis Booster (if not up to date)
Hepatitis A
Rabies

In some seasons, and depending on your location of travel, your doctor may discuss tablets to protect against Malaria.

Vaccines for Bali

In a similar way to Bali, the leading cause of Thailand health risks comes from road accidents, unwise food choices and accidentally drinking contaminated water.

The Zika virus has been reported across Thailand including in Bangkok. There is no vaccination available against the Zika virus. We strongly recommend you consult with your doctor before any travel if pregnant.

The Australian Smart Traveller website also states that Australian travellers should exercise a high degree of caution traveling in Thailand, including Bangkok and Phuket, due to a heightened risk of political unrest and threat of terrorist attack.

Mosquito born viruses such as Malaria and Dengue Fever are a concern during the rainy season, although apart from border regions, most areas of Thailand are now considered Malaria-free . There is no vaccination or specific treatment available for Dengue Fever. Things you can do to protect against mosquito born viruses include:

- Make sure your hotel room is mosquito proof

- Protect against insect bites by using insect repellent (20% DEET) and wearing suitable clothing

- Discuss your travel plans in detail with your doctor before you travel

For people with respiratory concerns, be cautious about poor air quality and smoke pollution in Thailand. This could make medical conditions such as sinus issues or asthma worse.

Vietnam health risks largely come from contaminated food and water, and the bites of infected animals and mosquitoes. Whilst many of these risks can be minimised through sticking to the main tourist areas, eating at tourist hotels and similar precautions, it's still possible to get unlucky and end up with a serious infection. For this reason, prospective visitors to Vietnam should make sure that they're protected with suitable travel vaccinations for Vietnam.

Major Vietnam health risks include mosquito born viruses such as Malaria and Dengue Fever, and Rabies from being bitten by an animal.

Recently in Vietnam, there have been reported cases of Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease which usually effects children under the age of 10 years. Outbreaks of Conjunctivitis are also prevalent.

For all destinations, we also think it's a great idea to take a home medical kit with over the counter medicines to treat coughs, colds, pain, cuts and stomach upsets.

If you're planning a holiday to Bali, Thailand or Vietnam, don't leave it too late to bring your vaccination schedule up-to-date. Grow Medical travel doctors specialise in travel vaccinations. Contact us at least eight weeks before your proposed date of departure so we can ensure you are covered for your trip.

Book a travel vaccination consultation with one of our Grow Medical travel doctors today.

Travel vaccinations for Thailand

Thailand Health Risks

Travel vaccinations for Vietnam

Vietnam Health Risks

Travel doctor Consultations

Bali is a developing country where visitors should prepare for health risks they do not normally associate with in Australia such as contaminated drinking water, poor food hygiene and unhealthy sanitation. If you are planning to visit more remote areas, there is also a higher risk of acquiring water-borne diseases and also diseases carried by mosquitoes such as Malaria.

Bali health risks to Australian's traveling to Bali include Rabies from being bitten by an animal; in particular dogs, monkeys and bats. Outbreaks of measles have been reported across Indonesia. Sporadic cases of the Zika virus have also appeared across Indonesia and the Australian Department of Health advises pregnant women to consult their doctor before traveling.

Dengue Fever is prevalent throughout Indonesia, including in Bali and other major cities. It is more common during the rainy season. In recent years, Australian health authorities have seen an increase in dengue virus infections in returned travellers from Bali. There's no vaccination or specific treatment available for Dengue Fever. Mosquito avoidance is the recommended strategy, typically with long sleeves, long pants and a DEET containing mosquito repellent such as Bushman's 20% .

It's also important to recognise that poisoning is on the rise in alcoholic drinks, contaminated by harmful substances including methanol. There have been cases of Australian's falling seriously ill and or have died.

Vaccines for Vietnam

We recommend some or all of the following vaccines for Vietnam travel:

Typhoid
Tetanus and Pertussis Booster (if not up to date)
Hepatitis A
Rabies

In some seasons, and depending on your location of travel, it may also be worth taking tablets to protect against Malaria. Malaria risk is low to moderate in Vietnam. Check your travel itinerary carefully against this map of malaria risk in vietnam .

The Silly Side of Being Ready For Fatherhood

Thu, 22 Aug 2019 11:43:32 GMT

One of our finalists in the 2019 Grow Medical Essay Competition "Stories of Fatherhood"

The silliest, yet unsurprisingly most common question the soon-to-be father receives is, “so are you ready to become a Dad?” It wasn’t ‘til just today I realised that it actually isn’t a question at all. It’s a naivety test. If you say anything but a confident “No” then sorry, you failed that test.

That isn’t meant to be a segue into how difficult/beautiful fatherhood is. It is. It absolutely is. It’s not that all the horror stories and foretellings of woe go unheard, it’s just that so many less fortunate parents have done it, so we think surely it can’t be that bad!?? Right? I was warned about the sleepless nights, the illnesses, the nappies, the everything - more times than I care to remember and funnily enough they all came true. So I choose rather to focus on what I found one of my greatest sources of joy, how I’ve completely and unashamedly embraced the silly side of life again. You know the kind of silly that you haven’t enjoyed since you had to pretend you didn’t like watching power rangers (thanks Mum and Dad for giving me a younger brother).

There is precedent for the adult yearning to be silly again, most likely you find it in your Mums kitchen. The annoying poster that says something along the lines of ‘Dance like nobody is watching’ or to a less obvious yet more annoying extent ‘Carpe Diem.’ But nobody outside of the influence of performance enhancing drugs actually abides by this rule. Until now. And unfortunately I fear it’s going to have a shelf-life of max 10 years, before the shame-wash of the adult world inevitably strikes my own children so it’s time to make hay!

You might sing your lungs out in the privacy of your own car. Well since my little sproglet came along, the car doesn’t quite manage to contain that enthusiasm. The soundtrack may have changed, but singing the theme to Pooh Bear whilst picking out flavours of pouch yoghurt is now a thing. Not exactly sure if the public mind, I’m sure a number of them do, but I’ve found that not only does my young one enjoy it, a few random others do too! My daughter is two years old so I guess to them this is considered acceptable behaviour. Yet now imagine she isn’t there. Would you expect anyone else to cheer me on?

Not to mention play parks. If you’re like me you haven’t stepped foot into a Macca’s play zone since you breached the recommended age. You probably also haven’t wanted to. Well guess what new Dad’s... the cheeseburger is now your secondary reason for going. Sure the sign says for children ages 3-12 but there aint no playland police for this, now you’re being silly AND a rebel! The other dirty secret I have is the fact I find myself at Bunnings more than cafes these days. Sorry Bunnings sausage, you’re no longer the prime reason you’ll find me here (still love you though.)

The grand final for the newly-crowned Dad is undoubtedly Fathers day. If you had a silly-card credits before, well they quadruple on Fathers day. If you’re lucky enough to have your daughter create you something at daycare, you wear that item. If Mum spoiled you with a silly t-shirt. You wear that shirt. You wear that hard. And I don’t mean in the comfort of your lounge room, you still like being taken out for lunch. I promise you, no bartender with their salt will give you a hard-time for wearing a ‘Dad-joke supplier’ t-shirt with a hand crafted cardboard tie and the only thing legible on it is the word Georgia that was clearly written by Miss Ricky (and also has buttons for some reason??)

Alas all good things are bound to come to an end though. She’ll no longer enjoy my singing, she’ll too outgrow the play park and heartbreakingly I’ll probably get better crafted presents. I know I’m destined to become the embarrassing Dad, and I will try my best to keep my embarrassment level below 7 but I know I’m going to slip-up. The world is just too boring to not Dad-dance, it’s too delicious to not have a Dad-bod and dammit, it’s just too darn short to not have Dad-jokes.

After writing this now I feel like contradicting myself. It feels too trivial and self-centred to say that I’ve enjoyed being silly so much. It is without doubt my way of showing my complete and hopeless devotion to my family, that I don’t care so much about the way I am expected to behave, if it sparks joy for my family to show my love in public, I don’t hesitate. As luck would have it turns out the public aren’t as conservative as what we think. So to my darling wife, to my Georgia and my soon to be Jephph, please accept this as my pre-apology, for I am sure to misjudge the appropriate time that I am meant to reign it back in.

Make Sure you vote in the Grow Medical 2019 Essay Competition by going to our Facebook Page , and liking and sharing your favourite Story of Fatherhood.

See our other finalist essays on the privilege of fatherhood and being a father and a grandfather .

The Privilege of Fatherhood

Thu, 22 Aug 2019 11:07:50 GMT

In hindsight, fatherhood was always going to be one of those things I was never actually ready for. Like jumping into a pool at the wrong time of year, there comes a point when you need to stop debating the merits, take a deep breath and jump in.

However, unlike jumping into freezing water where the shock of the cold brings instant breathtaking clarity, my journey into fatherhood was more a fog that crept up slowly, such that I only recognised the haze once it started to clear years later. To this day I’m still unpacking experiences long past and finding new understanding and significance.

We lost our first child to miscarriage in a surreal passage of time that I still only recall through fragmented vignettes of memory. I barely even remember my wife falling pregnant before our unborn child was lost. I have cinematic recollections of me wandering deserted hospital halls at night searching for her, following some poorly understood post-miscarriage procedure. Then memories of home and my love, lost in her grief, while I stood in the background, isolated and alone with my confusion.

It is only in hindsight that I can start to understand the significance of that miscarriage. For me at the time it was merely one more in a series of abstract medical occurrences that surrounded our attempts to start a family. My wife had been disappointed to not fall pregnant immediately upon trying and here we were once again, still not pregnant. To me nothing had changed apart from my wife who, I much later came to understand, was mourning the death of our child. Parenthood was strange, unfamiliar and quietly threatening territory and I had landed without so much as a map.

The arrival of our happy and healthy first-born one year later remains to this day the single most disruptive event of my life. From the moment he was born I was changed in ways I did not expect. I was smitten with this tiny, warm bundle that filled a part of me I did not know existed, while at the same time struggled heavily with the feeling of having been abandoned by my wife, my best friend and companion, as she blissfully immersed herself in motherhood, leaving little time for me. The first six months were particularly hard as I struggled to find my place in our new family. My wife meanwhile had found support elsewhere through her large family, close friends and welcoming mothers’ group.

By the time our son was six months old I was slowly beginning to adjust to my new place in the world. I was coming to the realisation that while my wife’s role was to support our child, my role was to support her. This newfound understanding helped give me some small purpose and direction from one day to the next, as well as an emerging sense of connection and belonging within our nascent tribe.

I was also surprised to feel the first welcome glimmers of connection with my newborn son, as he slowly became aware of my existence, starting to share with me the grins, play, and treasured, soul bonding gaze so unique to infants. These precious early experiences guided me as I slowly readjusted my focus in life, coming to prioritise time with my family and their well-being above everything else.

As our small tribe grew from one, to two, and then to three over the span of four short years, the fog of fatherhood grew thicker. The usual pressures of life and work were compounded by the pressures of our happy, busy young family. My predominant impression of this period is one of missing out. Of being involved, but slightly to one side. Of events that should have been meaningful or fun, but of being too tired and harried to realise this at the time.

As with driving through a fog where the world appears to shrink to a radius of mere meters around, my world had shrunk to contain only the five of us. Everything beyond was a blur, invisible or irrelevant before rushing into view and then away again into the mist. It was during this period that I came to learn the importance of ‘leaning in’ with my wife, and that I wasn’t in this alone as my identity slowly (and sometimes painfully) transformed into that of a father.

I came to recognize that when things felt hardest it was usually because I was conflicted; unknowingly torn between my young family and other demands. When I was able to see this, and then lean further in to my wife and children, things would inevitably get easier. Although our journeys were our own, we were travelling the same road, and together we were able to grow as a team, parenting our boys safely along the road even if we couldn’t see what was ahead through the fog.

In hindsight my first three years of fatherhood were relatively uneventful, although of course I didn’t realise this at the time. The following years were to truly test me as our family motto became “learning to love rollercoasters”. Over this period of time, we would welcome our youngest son who arrived pre-labelled with Down Syndrome (a true blessing in disguise), bury him four years later after three harrowing weeks in ICU, whilst also successfully seeing our eldest through a treatment protocol for Leukemia.

Many days it would take every ounce of strength I could muster simply to hang on, as the rollercoaster that was life threatened to toss me aside. More times than I can remember, the only thing that got me out of bed was my commitment to my family and the need to keep the wheels of life turning; dropping kids to school, hospital visits, work. I became accomplished at simply putting one foot in front of the other and grinding through what needed to be done, whatever the price I would later come to pay. On the occasions I did let myself feel the gravity of our situation, I would collapse under the weight of it.

It was during this time I was startled to realise how many people cared about me and were there to help. I came to understand that they had been there all along, but I had been blind to it. Every time someone had asked how I was, or offered support, I had automatically dismissed it as a social pleasantry, not a genuine offer. I could never understand why anyone would want to spend time with me, let alone go out of their way to support me through these dark times. Now on my worst days when I could barely bring myself to stand, I would find myself brought to quiet tears by neighbours mowing my lawn unbidden, friends ferrying my children to and from school, or simply sharing a hug and a tear when I needed it most. I had watched enviously as my wife was supported by others through these times, oblivious to the fact that the same support was there for me - I only had to accept it.

Despite the curve-balls that life has thrown, above all fatherhood has been the greatest gift I could imagine. It has allowed me to give thanks to my own elders by leaning on their lessons and teachings. It has provided the opportunity to break cycles, disrupt damaging patterns of behaviour and improve on generations past. It has taught me patience. It has prompted me to reconsider my priorities. Fatherhood has shown me grief and a love so pure it almost sings like crystal, and it has forced me to reflect deeply on myself through the mirror of my children.

Fatherhood is not always an easy path to follow. It can bring joy, growth and fulfilment but it can also require immense courage to allow ourselves to let go of who we were, and accept the privilege of fatherhood.

Make Sure you vote in the Grow Medical 2019 Essay Competition by going to our Facebook Page , and liking and sharing your favourite Story of Fatherhood.

See our other finalist essays on being a father and a grandfather and the silly side of fatherhood .

One of our finalists in the 2019 Grow Medical Essay Competition "Stories of Fatherhood"

On Being a Father and Grandfather

Thu, 22 Aug 2019 11:04:19 GMT

After growing up in a very tough and disciplined environment in Scotland during the War, I arrived in Australia, stayed and got married. I was ready to raise a family in this wonderful country and I had all my ideas on the rearing of children.

What a shock was in store for me. Children, I discovered, all have a mind of their own and no fear of expressing it. All my preset ideas had to be modified and adapted for each of my three. But we did try to create a carefree, happy environment, encouraging enterprise and free expression – except of course on the odd occasion when the bounds were abused, and admonition applied.

But love was unconditional, although sometimes hard to do. This I believe was, and is, still reciprocated today, and to that end I think my wonderful wife and I succeeded.

Now being with my three grandchildren gives me enormous pleasure. My youngest, a little beauty at almost one, is a cuddly delight and is changing by the day. So adventurous, she will soon be walking and talking, and this will be another adventure.

My two grandsons, now 7 and 9, are great young lads, and as they have grown up they have kept me young. But nowadays, hard as I try, they can out-bat, out-bowl and outrun me. But not quite outfox me yet!

Children and grandchildren of all ages are life’s greatest pleasures. Nurture them and it gets returned manifold. You realise late in life that family is paramount. Never forget it.

Make Sure you vote in the Grow Medical 2019 Essay Competition by going to our Facebook Page , and liking and sharing your favourite Story of Fatherhood.

See our other finalist essays on the privilege of fatherhood and the silly side of fatherhood .

One of our finalists in the 2019 Grow Medical Essay Competition "Stories of Fatherhood"

Fever In Children When To Worry

Wed, 21 Aug 2019 10:59:40 GMT

We know how terrifying it can be as a parent, to discover that your child has a high fever. We often don't know though what is a high fever and if it is worth seeing your doctor about. This article will seek to help worried parents to understand fever in children and when to worry.

Here, Dr Aaron Chambers from Growlife Medical explores the topic of fever in children. Topics discussed include when is fever too high for a child, when to see a doctor, when to go to hospital, how to monitor a child with fever, and fever prevention.

When Is Fever Too High For A Child?

A fever by itself is usually harmless and will only result in your child being uncomfortable. You should certainly monitor your child closely if they are feverish. The question still remains though, when to see a doctor? Unfortunately, the answer is not always clear and will depend upon several factors, such as the age of your child, and the symptoms they have associated with their fever.

It can be difficult for parents to determine if a baby has a serious illness. If your child is under the age of three months old, they should be taken to the doctor immediately as a precaution. We will always try and find an appointment for a baby under 3 months with fever, so please phone us if you are unable to book online.

If your child is between three and 12 months, you should take them to a doctor as soon as possible. While it is less urgent than if your child is less than three months old, a fever could still be a sign of a serious illness. Book an appointment with a family friendly GP from Growlife Medical.

If you need medical advice call 13HEALTH (13 43 25 84) for health information, advice or referral services. This service is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

When to see a Doctor?

The best advice as a parent deciding when to go to hospital is that if you ever think that the situation is an emergency or that your child’s life could be in danger, call Triple Zero ( 000 ) for an ambulance immediately. Especially in the following situations:

severe breathing difficulties
unconsciousness
infants who are having convulsions
sudden onset of weakness, numbness or paralysis of the face, arm or leg.

Monitoring a child with fever is more about making your child as comfortable as possible, rather than trying to suppress the fever.

How to treat a fever? The first thing you should do is make sure your child is well hydrated as possible, this will help the kidneys to filter waste and ease potential nasal congestion. You could also give your child the recommended dose of liquid paracetamol or ibuprofen to lessen other symptoms they may be having.

You should avoid trying to lower your child's temperature by bathing or fans, this can make your child more uncomfortable.

Fevers and illness will be commonplace throughout your child's infancy, so it can very much help to understand what causes fever in children . In their early years, children will typically catch several viral infections such as the common cold. In fact it is normal for a young child in daycare to have up to 12 viral infections per year, each lasting two weeks. That is six months per year sick! However, when it comes to fever prevention and bacterial infections, some particularly serious infections can easily be avoided. If you vaccinate your child and keep up to date with their vaccinations, you will be able to rest far easier knowing that a fever is much less likely to be a serious bacterial infection.

Dealing with fever and want to see a doctor? Book an appointment with a family friendly GP from Growlife Medical.

When to go to Hospital?

How to monitor a child with Fever?

Fever Prevention

When it comes to young children, you will have to monitor their corresponding symptoms closely and also trust your gut instinct. You know your child better than anyone. When is a fever too high for a child? If your child develops one of the following fever symptoms, you should take them to the doctor promptly:

If they appear to be getting worse (weaker, paler, more fatigued etc)
Floppy or disinterested in the world
Pale, Blue or cold to touch
Breathing problems
Dehydration
Drowsiness and difficulty waking up
Neck stiffness
No improvement over 48 hours
Decreased skin elasticity
Rash

The importance of your gut instinct cannot be overstated. You will notice that none of the important signs above include the recorded temperature. This is because the level of fever is less important than how your child looks. If your child is acting out of character, and looking very unwell to you, then you should take your child to the doctor. It is worth reading the excellent Queensland Health guide for parents on recognising serious infection in your child called Could This Be Sepsis?

Dealing with fever and want to see a doctor? Book an appointment with a family friendly GP from Growlife Medical.

Growlife Medical Fever Consultation

What Causes Fever in Children?

Mon, 19 Aug 2019 10:51:40 GMT

Almost every child will develop a high fever at some stage in their lives. So what causes fever in children? In most cases, a fever will pass in a few days with no ill-effects; occasionally, a fever may be a sign of a serious illness which requires intensive management in order to reduce the risk of unwanted complications and after-effects.

Here, Dr Aaron Chambers from Growlife Medical takes a look at how you will know your child has a fever, what causes fever in children, and what to do should you discover that your child has a fever.

A fever occurs when a child's body temperature rises higher than 37.6 degrees Celsius. 38 degrees is a frequently used cutoff for considering fever. Typically, normal body temperature is around 37 degrees. During the course of the day, it will vary slightly and may also alter due to the external temperature, consumption of a warm beverage or enjoying a warm bath. A temperature higher than 38 degrees, however, indicates a fever. What causes fever is usually some form of infection. As well as a raised temperature, your child may present with some, or all, of the following symptoms:

- Chills, shivering or shaking

- Flushed skin that is warm to the touch

- Excessive sweating

- Headache

- Rapid or irregular heartbeat

- Generally feeling unwell: children may be more irritable or cry more easily and not be comforted as readily as usual.

What causes a Fever?

As some fever conditions can be life-threatening, it is critical to know when is fever too high for a child ? It's important to make sure your child is seen by a medical professional in a timely manner, particularly if they are less than a year old. This is because younger children may be suffering from a serious illness, but are unable to communicate their condition effectively. Baby immune systems are also more vulnerable than those of older children. In the majority of cases, what causes fever is a virus.

Hospitalisation may be needed if the effects of the virus are severe - although in older children initial symptoms of fever can be treated at home for the first forty-eight hours, if symptoms worsen, additional symptoms are displayed or the fever decreases, then becomes worse again, further medical attention is needed.

When to see a Doctor for Fever?

Initial treatment for a fever with mild symptoms may include:

- Fluids - encourage your child to drink

- Light clothing

- Paracetamol and/or Ibuprofen, taken according to the manufacturer's instructions

Avoid fans, cold bathing or other methods to bring the temperature down artificially: these may cause the child to feel uncomfortable and won't actually stop the progression of the fever, which is the body's way of fighting the infection.

In the majority of cases, fevers are short-lived, as children tolerate them well and recover quickly. That said, if you see any signs that your child's condition is degenerating, or the fever persists for more than 48-hours, it's important that they are seen by a medical professional. Occasionally, children with a fever may experience a febrile convulsion (a fit). Whilst these rarely have any long-lasting consequences, if you see that your child is losing consciousness or showing other signs of a fit, prompt medical attention is needed.

Most causes of fever in children are viral, meaning you don't need to worry. The fever and infection will heal on its own over a few days. The main priority during this time will be the comfort of your child, as a fever can make a child very uncomfortable. The first thing you should do is make sure your child is well hydrated, this will help the kidneys to filter waste out of the body, and help to ease potential nasal congestion. If your child is suffering from body aches or headaches, you can consider giving your child the recommended dose of liquid paracetamol or ibuprofen in order to lessen the other symptoms they may be having.

Your doctors keep urgent appointments available each day, which become available at midnight. So, if you’re caring for a sick child in the middle of the night, you can relax slightly knowing that you can reliably book online for the next morning. It is important to remember that, while a visit to the doctor can generally wait until the next morning, if your child is getting worse rapidly, then you should take them to the nearest emergency department.

Dealing with fever and want to see a doctor? Book a flu appointment with a family friendly GP from Grow Medical .

Treatment for Fever

Comforting your child with Fever

Growlife Medical Fever Consultation

So what causes a fever? A fever is actually part of the body's natural response to a virus or bacteria which is causing an infection. Part of the inflammatory response, a fever shows that the body's immune system is working hard to clear the infection. The infection may be caused either by a virus or by bacteria:

How Can You Stay Healthier for Longer?

Sun, 04 Aug 2019 10:45:54 GMT

With the middle of winter upon us, this time of year is often one where the waistline blows out from rich winter food, and the dark mornings mean that physical activity drops off. Now is the time to start turning it around. Not just for summer, but for the long run.

Most of us look forward to retiring one day. Heading overseas and spending the kids inheritance! But retiring healthy is a lot different to retiring with a chronic disease. Developing diabetes , having a heart attack or being diagnosed with cancer are a big burden in terms of medication, doctor’s appointments and mortality. It can limit your lifestyle options for travel, hobbies and more.

With over 80% of Australians over the age of 65 having a chronic disease, it is important to act whilst you are still in your 40’s or 50’s to prevent going down the path of chronic disease.

But what can you do?

Knowing the risk factors that you can change is the key. Here they are:

1. Smoking

Fortunately, the rate of smoking is falling, but it is still the biggest contributor to vascular disease. If you’re someone who is still smoking, but doesn’t want to, your doctor can help you quit.

2. Overweight and Obesity

The rate of excess weight in Australia is climbing, and unfortunately it is a risk factor for diabetes, cancer and more. Fortunately, getting your weight under control can dramatically reduce your chances of developing diabetes.

3. Alcohol Use

Whilst it is a great social lubricant, and strongly embedded in our culture, alcohol plays a role in elevating your risk of chronic disease. Moderation is the key.

4. Physical Activity

Our built environment and working habits mean we don’t get as much incidental activity as we should. Staying active improves your lean muscle mass, can improve your bone strength and balance, and reduce your risk of cardiovascular disease. It is also good for stress.

5. High Blood Pressure

As one of the major risk factors for stroke and heart disease, knowing your blood pressure and taking steps to keep it in a healthy range is vital. It is even more important if you have a family history of any of these conditions.

The unspoken factor in addition to the top five is stress and anxiety . We too often see a vicious cycle of workplace stress leading to a deterioration in healthy lifestyle. It can make all the top five factors worse. Addressing this aspect of our society is one of Grow Medical’s broader missions . We believe in looking outside the box, to treat you as a whole person by understanding the context of you, your family and friends, and your community.

Do you know you numbers?

Make a booking online for a comprehensive check up with a doctor in Highgate Hill , Oxley , Sherwood . We will check the basics, ensure your blood pressure and cholesterol are in a healthy range, and perform more detailed assessments for those whose history suggests an elevated risk. Take Charge of Your Lifestyle by taking a positive step today.

Read this 5-minute brief health check to find out...

Should Your Family See a Doctor Before Travelling Overseas?

Fri, 19 Jul 2019 10:34:22 GMT

Have a Health Check before Travelling

Your doctor needs to confirm your current health, medical history, medications and immunisation status. It is important to make sure you and your family are fit to travel, have enough medications to last your trip and ensure your routine immunisations are up to date.

Destination and Duration of you Trip:

Whether you are travelling to a developed or developing country, rural or urban location makes a big difference to the vaccinations you need and whether you might need protection against malaria.

Certain countries in South America and Africa require compulsory yellow fever vaccination. You can read Australia's list of yellow fever risk countries here . Other vaccinations and malaria medications are often needed as well. Note, in a young child the dose will need to be calculated and adjusted accordingly. Certain vaccines require multiple doses over weeks, and some vaccines take a few weeks to be effective. For this reason, it is best to plan ahead and have your initial travel medical consultation many months prior to your planned trip.

Which Vaccinations might you need?

The particular vaccines you need very much depend on your previous vaccination history and where you are travelling. This is a key reason you should see your doctor prior to travelling. As a rule, travelling to other developed countries similar to Australia means fewer additional vaccinations, but all travellers need to review their influenza, measles and whooping cough currency. For most people, travel to Asia, Africa, South America and the Pacific will mean you will need to update your travel vaccinations . Hepatitis A and Typhoid are the most common additional vaccinations required, as they are recommended for travel to common destinations like Thailand, Vietnam, Bali and Fiji. Particular consideration should be taken for travel to parts of Africa and South America where Yellow Fever vaccination is required. If you're travelling to the Middle East during the Hajj, a meningitis ACWY vaccination is recommended.

Do I need Malaria Protection for my travel?

Your doctor will discuss this with you during your consultation. Bringing as much detail about your itinerary as possible is helpful. The UK government site Fit for Travel has some excellent maps available that illustrate Malaria risk in countries around the world.

Activities that might affect your health:

Your destination can affect your medical condition, and the conditions at your destination can cause medical conditions. Topics to discuss with your doctor include altitude, interactions with wildlife, and exposure to mosquitoes. Make sure you are prepared with lots of detail about your itinerary, as your doctor will need to consider these factors when providing you travel health advice.

What else do I need to consider before travel?

Adequate travel insurance is essential, including making sure you get any existing conditions accepted by your insurer. Consider registering your trip on smartraveller.gov.au

Prevention is better than cure – mitigate jet lag by timing your sleep and staying well hydrated, avoid deep vein thrombosis by moving in flight. At your destination pay attention to mosquito deterrence and food and water hygiene

Do you need an Emergency kit?

Consider medications (such as anti-fever, anti-diarrhoeal, anti-nausea, antibiotic, anti-histamine, etc), oral rehydration salts and bandaids. Caution should be taken and these topics discussed carefully with your doctor. For example, we have seen some people become severely unwell after taking antidiarrhoeals for a bacterial gastroenteritis, as the infection subsequently entered the blood stream. Where possible, travelers are often better to seek medical care rather than taking an exhaustive medical kit.

What else do I need?

Remember to pack your medication, immunisation history and a health summary sheet - some countries have restrictions for certain medications so it is good to check before departure. Think about asking your doctor to publish your My Health Record Shared Health Summary so you can access your medical history online from overseas.

Travel can be fun, but also complex, especially if you have a health condition. Due to differences in your health and your destinations, it is prudent to obtain individualised medical advice prior to travelling. Book a travel consultation now at Growlife Medical. Read more about our Brisbane Travel Doctors .

Yes!

It is recommended that you and your family see the doctor for a long consult at least 6-8 weeks prior to your overseas trip.

Read on to find out why this is important...

Flu Season Interview on ABC Radio

Thu, 18 Jul 2019 10:29:23 GMT

Dr Aaron Chambers from Grow Medical explores the how to stay on top of the flu season on ABC Radio. Topics discussed include flu prevention, flu treatments, and when to see your doctor.

Flu Season and Treatments

ABC Presenter

Flu season came early this year and the figures are pretty shocking. Nearly ten thousand five hundred people have fallen ill with the flu so far this year in Queensland. More than 800 people have been admitted to hospital. So, if you had a cold or the flu, did you take any tablets? Did you use those lemon powders to make hot drinks? Did it make any difference? Cold and flu tablets, that’s what we're looking at this afternoon. Are they really worth it? Well helping us out today is Dr Aaron Chambers who's a local GP with Grow Medical at Highgate Hill. Great to have you along. I've read somewhere that Australian’s spend around $500 million dollars a year on cold and flu medicines. Does that surprise you?

Dr Aaron Chambers

Well it's a huge industry out there trying to treat all these things that are often not treatable. I guess from a general practice point of view, it doesn't surprise me because you see people spending enormous health dollars on all sorts of treatments whether they work or not.

ABC Presenter

Before we get to whether cold and flu tablets are worth a dollar, can we just talk about what they are and what they are supposed to do?

Dr Aaron Chambers

I think really the first message when we had a chat about this in our tea room, was, you know there's a really clear message that antibiotics don't work. We are seeing increasing rates of antibiotic resistance in the community, and with cold and flu typically antibiotics have no role. So probably that's the first message. And the other one is that prevention is really best. You know you've got to get in early and prevent this from happening by getting your flu vaccination. Making sure you don't get sick in the first place. I think they are the first messages right up front before you’re even talking about whether these things work or not.

ABC Presenter

Okay, so washing your hands, and absolutely coughing into your sleeve has shown to be much better than coughing into your hands. I’ve been doing that lately and I've had all sorts of interesting things emerge in between my elbows. But I wanted to know okay? Cold and flu tablets we might think, oh, I feel a cold coming on and certainly the marketing is around, well, as soon as you feel the first symptoms of a cold pop down to your local pharmacy and pick up some cold and flu tablets. What is it that the cold and flu tablet is supposed to do for you?

Dr Aaron Chambers

Yes, so are you treating the symptoms? Are you aching, are you treating it with paracetamol? Are you congested? Do you need a decongestant? Or, are you just feeling generally rubbish and you need something to just make you feel a little bit better. You're just treating the symptoms, and I guess there are specific tactics you can take depending on the symptom that's bothering you. Is it sore throat? Is it congestion? And there are different treatments that will attack each of those aspects.

Do Antibiotics Help With The Flu?

ABC Presenter

Okay. I kind of want to come to this question a little earlier than I would otherwise, because I have a feeling you might be able to tell us about some other things that might help? Are cold and flu tablets in your view Aaron as a GP generally worth it?

Dr Aaron Chambers

Well, they definitely help symptomatically. So, the combination type treatments can help you. They don't reduce the duration and severity of the illness. It's probably one or two things that might. But, your typical cold and flu tablet which might contain paracetamol, a decongestant, and an antihistamine, they might make you feel a little bit better. There's pretty good data that says that. But not a whole lot, and they definitely don't make you better any quicker.

ABC Presenter

Okay. So, tell me about the things that may help, if I've got, let's look at the cold, just a cold, like a bad cold.

Dr Aaron Chambers

Yep, so you’ve got a bad cold. Look you’re probably all congested, decongestants will help. So, pseudoephedrine used to be really popular. You’ll get looked at a little bit funny now if you go to the pharmacy and try and ask for some sort of pseudoephedrine upfront. But, I think the one thing that is really there is some pretty good evidence. Let's say you got a flu or some other respiratory viruses. The black elderberry has actually been shown to be pretty useful, and it's a natural treatment, and a lot of doctors might particularly frown on some natural treatments, but it's been shown to be pretty good at actually reducing the duration and severity of the flu, and it's got a very valid scientific mechanism and it actually works.

ABC Presenter

But obviously if we do have concerns than the first step is to consult with your GP as this advice is general in nature.

Dr Aaron Chambers

Yes. And I think it's particularly important there are some red flags. You know young infants in particular, if they've got fever, they really must be seeing their doctor. And the whole advice around you know if your symptoms last longer than 48 hours please see a doctor. Absolutely. I think that's good advice.

ABC Presenter

Dr Aaron Chambers thank you so much for your time. Thank you. Dr. Aaron Chambers from Grow Medical in Highgate Hill.

Have the flu and want to see a doctor? Book a flu appointment with a family friendly GP from Grow Medical.

Are Cold and Flu Tablets Worth it?

When Should You See Your Doctor?

Grow Medical Flu Consultation

Toilet Training Your Pre-Toddler

Fri, 12 Jul 2019 10:17:32 GMT

When we see children for their six month checkup, parents are often surprised when we bring up the topic of potty training. It is a common misconception that pre-toddlers are not developmentally ready to toilet train. Our experience with our own children, and countless other families shows just how proud an 8 month old can be when they nail their first poo or wee on the potty!

Read on to find out how you could save the planet, save your sanity, and give your little one a chance to feel proud at their evolving independence…

How do I know if my child is ready to toilet train?

In many cultures around the world, cued toileting (sometimes known as elimination communication) has been used for generations to help children associate a certain sound with urinating. A number of paediatric scientific papers have noted this commencing around 4-9 months of age. This age works well, as most children are starting to be able to sit in a supported fashion at a high chair, and can do so on a potty with a little help. If you notice your very young child tends to wee or poo at a predictable time, you can support them against your body over the toilet.

How do I know if my child needs to go?

Most parents rapidly start to recognise the signs of their own child needing to urinate or defecate with a little observation. This will commonly occur around feed or change times. You might notice your child shiver prior to passing urine, or strain and grunt prior to opening their bowels.

How do I start toilet training my child?

First step is to go out and get a number of potties. Have them easily accessible around the house, in the car or wherever the call of nature might occur.

Once you have noticed the signs your child displays when they need to go, it is simply a matter of working with your child to reward when they associate a desirable location (like the toilet or the potty) with doing a wee or poo. As soon as you notice a shiver, pop their nappy off, support them to sit on the potty, and make whichever sound makes sense to you for them to associate with doing a wee. Many parents will make a soft psspssspsss sound. If you notice a look of concentration and grunting (especially around meal time), it is a sure-fire sign that a number two is on the way. Take advantage of the warning by having a potty nearby, and quickly take their nappy off whilst moving your child onto the potty. Some parents find impersonating the grunting noise your child is making can help them make the association. If many claps and smiles ensue from a successful mission, your child will be very happy to poo on the toilet after only a few successful attempts. The key here is taking delight in their achievement, and taking it all in your stride if things don’t work out so cleanly.

What if they aren’t so keen?

Keep it fun! If your child isn’t interested or protests, just go with the flow. Particularly in older children who haven’t started as early, they need an incentive and potty time has to be enjoyable. Try some pants off play time every day in the garden to help both parent and child increase awareness around toileting habits. With older children, if they have a favourite toy, love being read a book, playing with stickers or blowing bubbles, try doing these activities with their pants off on the potty. Anything you can do to make potty time a time of fun and interaction will help.

Why start potty training so early?

With the average age of toilet training pushing 4 years of age in some western countries, we are habituating children into nappies with the associated nappy rash and enormous landfill waste. We suspect that a contributing factor is that modern nappies are keeping children so dry that they aren’t getting as much feedback about what it feels like to wee in clothes. A change from disposable to reusable nappies may help your child understand what is going on.

We are all becoming acutely aware of how scarce our world’s resources are, along with the change in our own pockets. By giving this toilet training approach a go you could save yourself thousands in the cost of nappies, and do your bit to save the planet on the way. At the very least, you may find it easier to transition to reusable nappies if your child is able to toilet at least some of the time. For children with sensitive skin, the early escape from nappies can pay big dividends.

Importantly, starting early isn’t just about the planet either. From 9 months to around 18 months most children are an absolute delight, and seem to be genetically wired to demonstrate maximum cute factor. Whatever you think is cool, they do too! When you delight in something they have achieved, the bond of affection between parent and child is palpable. Even if it is over their ablutions! Fast forward a few more months, and children are approaching the fabled “terrible twos”. Whilst two year olds aren’t terrible, they are flexing their ability to influence the world, and are enjoying mastering their new skill of saying “no!”. This oppositional phase is normal and healthy, but does present some barriers to helping a child acquire a new skill like potty training.

So, why not give it a go? This approach to potty training can result in great fun, and turn a mundane interaction into a chance to communicate, delight in your child and increase that lifelong bond.

Who would have thought wees and poos could be so much fun?

If you want to chat more about how you can introduce elimination communication to your child, either come to our weekly parents group or call reception and ask to see paediatric nurse and midwife Alison Chambers

Free your child from nappies!

We all know someone living with Multiple Sclerosis

Sat, 08 Jun 2019 10:12:56 GMT

Dianne and Tristan have Multiple Sclerosis (MS). This is their story.

The Brissie to the Bay ride to fight MS is on next weekend Sunday 16 June 2019. Grow Medical’s midwife and paediatric nurse Alison Chambers is riding for a school friend, a uni friend, her Aunt and many patients she has met over the past 20 years.

Read on to hear Tristan and Dianne’s stories of adversity, optimism, and maintaining a sense of purpose.

Dianne is a retired police officer, and has had MS from early in her career. She managed to work her entire career until retirement age, and achieved the impressive milestone of 40 years of police service. She lived with MS for over 20 of those years, enduring misplaced offers of help, suggestions to quit and the occasional embarrassment of falling at work. She is determined to prove that people with MS can remain a productive member of society.

Dianne proudly breaks stereotypes and demonstrates that a disability does not equate to an inability, including once appearing in uniform as a police officer for an MS television commercial. She sums up by saying “I’ve got MS, but MS doesn’t have me”.

Having lost the majority of his vision, and requiring an electric wheelchair, Tristan is markedly disabled by any definition. Despite this he retains an optimism for life. Tristan says “there is no plan B. I used to have a really big life, but a lot friends have dropped off. Sometimes you don’t feel like getting out of bed, but you just have to. You just have to keep going otherwise you perish.”

As a testament to this fighting spirit, Tristan completed a degree in pharmacy after his original diagnosis, inspired by the dream of finding a cure for MS. He worked for some time in pharmacy, but had a big relapse of his MS and became unable to work due to his symptoms. Still, he maintains an active interest in future therapies to stop MS rather than treat the symptoms. As Multiple Sclerosis results from a loss Myelin (the insulating coating of the nerve cells), he is excited about some new therapies that may be able to replace this Myelin sheath; he describes a case of a woman who was confined to a wheelchair who was able to walk along a beach after receiving the novel treatment. He is disappointed that previous treatment he has received means that he is not eligible for this potential new therapy.

Dianne and Tristan agree that the phrase “sometimes beaten but never conquered” is a good analogy for the way they approach life with a mixture of struggle and optimism.

For both, the social impact of the condition has been large. Fatigue has been a problem for Dianne, as she often lacked the energy to socialise after work. She has devoted herself to service to others, through her career at work, volunteering for meals on wheels, contributing to the Redbank school of art, and caring for her elderly mother. Tristan has maintained a sense of purpose by composing hip hop music, and has cleverly overcome the challenges of visual impairment by using a video magnifier to continue composing. One of his beats has recently been published in an album by a Brisbane rapper and is available on Spotify.

Multiple Sclerosis is no piece of cake. Tristan is only 37, and describes having recently fallen, spending 6 hours on the floor unable to get up. He makes the most of modern technology by using an apple watch to be able to appeal for assistance when needed in situations like this. Unfortunately he had taken the watch off when he fell. He remains light hearted “If you can’t laugh at yourself what hope have you got?”

So, what would Dianne and Tristan like you to know?
We don’t want to be treated any differently. Don’t treat us like we are disabled. We are still normal people, and just have limitations. We will ask for help if we need it. Tristan notes how variable MS can be - he is in a wheelchair after 13 years of symptoms. Others in their 60’s can still remain mobile after 40 years of symptoms.

Both want to see the proceeds of this year’s Brissie to Bay ride for MS be used to search for a cure, and to raise awareness that MS is diverse both in symptoms and the people affected. They appreciate the sense of solidarity that comes from so many people devoting time and energy to raise money and awareness.

Be sure to continue this conversation. Challenging stereotypes and creating an inclusive community is a task for all of us.

Growlife Medical is proud to have raised money to find a cure for MS.

“I’ve got MS, but MS doesn’t have me”

Read this before your snow trip!

Sat, 01 Jun 2019 10:10:30 GMT

The days are shortening, jumpers have been dug out from the closet, snow is blanketing the southern ski fields and with single digit temperatures already in Brisbane, winter has well and truly arrived. If you are lucky enough to have an upcoming ski or snowboard holiday planned you may have already taken advantage of recent snow sales, but have you forgotten one of the most important pieces of equipment? A helmet!

When hitting the slopes you may not usually wear a helmet. However, wearing one when skiing or snowboarding is just as important as wearing a helmet riding a bicycle or a seatbelt in the car. It is well known that snow sports hold a significant risk of injury with children and young people being most susceptible. According to Sports Medicine Australia, of all downhill skiing & snowboard related presentations, head and neck injuries were the third most commonly treated at hospitals, as a result of falls or collisions with objects & other people. Further to this, European safety authorities attribute more than 50% of all severe and fatal injuries in snow sports to be related to the head. Helmets, if worn properly, can reduce the impact of a collision or crash and thus greatly reduce the severity of injury.

As a young teen learning to ski on the slopes of Falls Creek, I hardly remember anyone wearing helmets, let alone myself. It wasn’t until I became a ski instructor responsible for the safety of others, that I understood how important they are. I saw how I could set an example for newcomers and children to the sport, so for the last 12 years I’ve never skied a day without one. And now, I couldn’t imagine wearing anything else on my head. Not only do helmets protect from the unexpected, but also when properly fitted they are incredibly comfortable and fantastic at keeping you toasty warm on those long chairlift rides!

So if you are counting down the sleeps until your next winter adventure (33 for me!), regardless of your skill level, don’t forget to add a helmet to your packing list for every family member. We highly recommend the team at Snowcentral in Keperra and Underwood. They have a fantastic and affordable range of helmets for all ages (even rentals) to help you have a safe and fun filled holiday.

Dr Pink’s Safety Tips for skiing & snowboarding:
Undertake pre-season conditioning and training to build up your fitness, strength and flexibility. Dr Pink can work with you and your physio if you have a niggling injury.

Seek professional advice when choosing or hiring equipment. Select equipment suited to your activity, skill level and physical characteristics.
A helmet is recommended for all ages! Ensure it is in good condition
Wear appropriate clothing and layer for the conditions.
Eyewear that gives ultra-violet protection and a sunscreen with a high SPF should be worn even on cloudy days and re-applied regularly
Assess the snow conditions and take them into consideration, along with your skill level, before skiing or riding
Be familiar with, and follow the Alpine Responsibility Code
Adequate rest, nutrition, hydration and energy replenishment (i.e. regular snacks) will enhance performance and reduce the likelihood of injury
Visit www.snowsafe.org.au for more information

Dealing With Work Stress and Anxiety

Sun, 24 Mar 2019 10:07:43 GMT

As 2019 really starts to get moving in terms of work, school and the other necessities of life, we have been struck by the number of people who have been into the clinic recently because they are feeling stressed, anxious, worn out or uncertain, despite a recent holiday.

Welcome to the age of face-paced change, increasing work demands, job uncertainty and an increasingly disconnected society; a society rife with loneliness and fertile ground for anxiety.

At least 15% of the Australian population has an anxiety disorder , with a much larger number experiencing symptoms of anxiety without necessarily having a medical diagnosis. This means that in most families like yours, someone will experience anxiety sooner or later.

We've broken it down into the most common concepts we see, and that we think you need to know.

1. You are wired to feel anxious
Anxiety is normal. Everyone gets anxious. It can even be healthy - scientists speculate that anxiety in fish may protect them from dangerous situations like getting eaten - as their behaviour appears to be much more risk-taking (putting them at risk of being eaten) when they are exposed to anti-anxiety drugs as reported in Science. Your body courses with adrenaline, cortisol and other stress hormones as a normal part of life, surging to prompt action when you are threatened. The feeling of a racing heart, tight chest, falling stomach, flushed face and a need to run away or fight. This adrenaline rush is designed to help us deal with situations of danger via this “fight or flight” response.

A moderate amount of anxiety is useful. It provokes us to perform, by making us worried what might happen if we don’t prepare for a presentation or train for an upcoming event.

However, there is a limit to the benefit of anxiety. Our modern society means you now can’t run away from a problem like a caveman faced with a sabre toothed tiger. And you definitely can’t punch your boss, business partner or anyone else, no mater how high your adrenaline levels run.

Consequently, high levels of unresolved anxiety tend to result in decreased performance with complex tasks, as our minds play on loop about the issue we are worried about, and the unused adrenaline makes us feel restless and fidgety.

So it is important to acknowledge that anxiety is normal, it can be your friend, and that learning to manage it wisely is the best strategy for long term success.

2. Setting life’s priorities can set you free
As GPs, we talk to people from all walks of life. From children to the elderly, unemployed to CEOs and large business owners. A common theme across these groups is that anxiety represents an imbalance in life that means stress is not allowed to resolve.

The most common story is that of work demands piling up, resulting in a lack of attention to family life. We see that lack of attention affect both the primary carer and the main breadwinner.

The irony is that when prompted, most people list their life priorities in roughly the following order:

1. Family
2. Friends
3. Health
4. Everything Else

And yet our behaviour is often driven by work or money. Ask yourself: is your work more important than your family? Does the culture of your workplace improve the wellbeing of the things most important to you or detract from it?

An exercise as simple as sitting down alone, and then with your family, and listing your priorities, can help crystallise this idea.
Then be brave and start pursuing your main priorities.

3. Exercise is your biggest friend
We mentioned Adrenaline before. If you’re feeling anxious, it typically means that the source of your anxiety has not been dealt with. Cavemen used to relieve their anxiety by running away or fighting the source of their anxiety. As we said before, you can’t do this in our society, but you can deal with the hormonal consequences.

Any sort of exercise that feels intense to you can help. Just ensure it is hard enough to cause you to feel a bit out of breath, and to have trouble concentrating on anything other than the exercise you are doing.

This is a great way to burn off that excess adrenaline, and will have a myriad of health benefits along the way.

A good tip is to aim for a group activity. Data from the exercise-monitoring giant Strava shows that people exercise up to 50% more when they are with someone else. Social contact, anxiety reduction, and increased fitness all in one place. Much better than any counselling session or prescription tablet.

4. Alcohol may make you feel better in the short term, but worse in the long run
There isn’t anything quite as relaxing as a well-earned beer or wine on a Friday evening. Or is there?

Many people don’t realise that alcohol has a paradoxical effect to be initially relaxing, but to trigger rebound anxiety the next day. This creates a classic reinforcing effect of stress and anxiety during the day, relieved by a drink at the end of the day, only to leave you with more rebound anxiety the next.

Surprisingly, it only takes as little as one or two standard drinks to cause this rebound anxiety. And the effect can last for several days after. Because alcohol is so ubiquitous in our social lives and dining culture, it can be years since you have had an extended period of abstinence to notice this effect. And when stress levels at work or at home go up, alcohol consumption is frequently used as a coping strategy.

If this is the case for you, choosing to take a month completely off alcohol can reset the balance, and allow you to break the cycle. Call it Dry July, NO-vember or whatever you wish. Give it a go and you will likely notice yourself more productive, less stressed, and with more energy to do the things that are truly important to you.

5. Our society is overwhelmed by keeping up with the Joneses.
We all need to work to support ourselves, but some of the happiest people I know have honestly appraised their life and chosen to pursue family happiness over material wealth. I have seen people drop their income by half after making this decision, to report back years down the track that it was the best decision they have made.

This phenomenon impacts so many aspects of our lives. We need a flash car, our social media personas need to be closely curated, our kids can’t yell at one another, and the house must look perfect, even if we are bringing up 3 children under 5.

We believe that working for a purpose, and striving for constant improvement is a necessary part of being human; it is part of the reason we live in such a wonderful society. But feel free to given yourself a break now and then. Leave the dishes, spend more time chatting with the people you love at the dinner table, and don’t feel embarrassed about the mismatched clothes your children are wearing. Your friends will thank you for it. And will be more likely to remember the shared laughter than the brand of table cloth.

What next?
We want the the Grow Medical community to be the healthiest in the country . That means we need doctors , nurses , allied health , receptionists and patients to have positive mental health, a healthy family and be part of a thriving community. Please do your part to make this happen by sharing this widely with those you love, by clicking the share buttons below, as a way to start a conversation about what sort of society you want to build. All too often we don’t see fathers in the clinic, exactly because life is taking them in a direction they hadn’t intended. We believe this is the next frontier in growing the strength of your family. In fact, we believe so strongly in elevating the conversation around this topic, we have launched an annual essay competition . 2019's topic is "Stories of Fatherhood ". Sitting down and writing an entry may help you focus your priorities, and even inspire someone else to sharpen theirs.

If you read this article and noticed warning signs in yourself, or someone you love, please ask them to see a doctor. Acting sooner rather than later is really important, as once you have crashed it is much harder to pick yourself back up again and move on with life. Your doctors and psychologists are experts in physical, mental and family health. Speaking to someone independent and trustworthy outside of your family can sometimes be the factor that starts you on the path to recovery. In the the mean time remember:

1. Acknowledge anxiety for what it is and book now to see your GP.
2. Focus on your life priorities
3. Start exercising with friends, family or a group
4. Give alcohol a break
5. Don’t worry about the Joneses

See you soon. Remember to share via social media or email by clicking the buttons below. And thanks for reading

School Sores (Impetigo)

Thu, 21 Feb 2019 10:01:12 GMT

We have had a number of children attend with school sores recently. This condition is highly infectious, and it is best to get onto it early, so we thought we should share these tips with you...

We all know that children are great at sharing. School Sores are highly infectious weeping sores that spread easily amongst children - hence the name. Outbreaks commonly occur in families, daycare centres and schools. These highly infectious bacterial lesions typically present with a golden crusted non-healing sore that easily weeps, and may also bleed. It also occurs as a bullous (blistering) form. Commonly affected locations are around the nose, mouth, backs of knees and behind the ears.

Impetigo is typically caused by Staphylococcus or Streptococcus and is spread via direct contact or contact with an infected surface. The classic example was the old-fashioned wooden school chairs scratching the back of children’s knees and causing outbreaks of school sores. Both “Staph” and “Strep” are normal bacteria on the skin, and it is thought that the infectious form represents a particularly virulent strain.

Once one lesion develops, it is very easy to spread the infection to other areas of broken skin, simply by touch or scratching. Because staphylococcus tends to colonise the nose, nose picking is also a common mechanism for spread.

Luckily, School Sores are readily treated, although meticulous attention to eradication is important to prevent recurrence, and children should be removed from school until exposed lesions are dry or able to be covered. We recommend a multi-pronged attack on the infection:

Daily use of Phisohex antiseptic body wash for the whole family until the bottle is empty. Pay particular attention to taking the crust off lesions, and to cleaning the groin, buttock crease, armpits, and behind the ears where Staph tends to colonise.
Topical use of betadine or prescription antibiotic ointment to infected lesions
Nasal treatment with either antiseptic nasal cream or antibiotic ointment to eradicate the virulent Staph from the nose
Careful attention to disinfecting items that may spread infection (eg hot wash of bathroom towels)
Oral antibiotics may be required for the treatment of multiple or widespread School Sores.

If you notice multiple or rapidly spreading lesions, we recommend you see your

GP in order to ensure you get the sores under control as soon as possible.

Children with eczema are more prone to developing school sores due to their broken skin barrier. Infection with Staph or Strep can also make eczema worse, which is why bleach baths or bath oil with antiseptic is sometimes recommended. Our paediatricians specialise in atopy and eczema, and has great success at working with you GP to get your child's skin in good shape.

Grow Medical has Medical Centres in Highgate Hill (Gladstone Road near the corner of Dornoch Terrace) and Sherwood (Opposite Sherwood State School).

Click here to book now .

National Immunisation Program Schedule Updated

Tue, 19 Feb 2019 09:52:50 GMT

Dr Kate Pink, our new GP at our Highgate Hill Medical Centre discusses some changes to the childhood immunisation program.

Immunisation is important to protect children from serious and often life-threatening diseases. It not only helps protect individual children but also protects the broader community by minimising the spread of these illnesses. From the 1st of July 2018, The National Immunisation Program (NIP) schedule has been updated to improve protection against meningococcal, pneumococcal and haemophilus influenzae type B diseases. Your child’s due date for their next immunisation/s has not changed. Immunisations are still given at 2*, 4, 6, 12, 18 months and 4 years of age.

For some children, the updated schedule may differ slightly to what is in your child’s Red Book, so we thought we would give you plenty of information about the changes ahead of your child’s next vaccination.

The update includes:

At 12 months of age, children will receive a meningococcal ACWY vaccine (replacing meningococcal C vaccination);
At 18 months of age, children will receive the booster Hib vaccine dose, protecting against haemophilus influenzae type B (previously given as a combined vaccine with meningococcal C at 12 months)
At 2*,4 and 12 months of age, children will receive a pneumococcal vaccine (previously given at 2*, 4 and 6 months)

Meningococcal Vaccination
Meningococcal is a rare but very serious infection that can lead to blood poisoning (septicaemia) and brain infection (meningitis). Meningococcal disease is caused by different types of the meningococcal bacteria—A, B, C, W and Y. Previously, people with an infection from meningococcal types W and Y were rarely seen in Australia, however these have been increasing in recent years. The new vaccine will help protect against four types of meningococcal disease (A, C, W and Y) instead of one (C). There is also a Meningococcal B vaccination which is available privately through our clinics (not funded under the NIP)

Who is eligible for the meningococcal ACWY vaccine?
Meningococcal ACWY vaccine will be given to all children who are due for their 12 month vaccinations from 1 July 2018 onwards. Children who have already received their meningococcal C vaccine at 12 months of age are not eligible to receive the meningococcal ACWY vaccine under the NIP. Parents may purchase the meningococcal ACWY privately if they wish.

What if my child has already received meningococcal ACWY vaccines before 12 months of age?
Even if your child has had one or more meningococcal ACWY vaccine doses before 12 months of age, a booster dose from 12 months of age (and at least 2 months of age after a previous dose) is required for the best protection.

H aemophilus influenzae type b (Hib) vaccination

Hib (also called Haemophilus influenzae type b) is a serious disease in young children. It can affect the airways, skin, joints, ears or brain. Previously, a Hib vaccine booster was given in a combination vaccine with meningococcal C to children at 12 months of age however will now be given separately.

Four doses of Hib vaccine are still being provided through the NIP:

as part of a combination vaccine at 2*, 4, and 6 months of age; and
alone at 18 months of age.

Immunisation experts have reviewed the evidence and recommended the fourth dose be moved from 12 months of age to 18 months of age. It has been judged safe and effective to move this dose of Hib to 18 months of age.

Pneumococcal vaccination
Previously, pneumococcal vaccination was given to all children at 2*, 4 and 6 months of age. Immunisation experts have reviewed the evidence and recommended that Australia move pneumococcal vaccination to 2*, 4 and 12 months of age.

While the total number of doses has remained unchanged, the change in the schedule is expected to improve the protection provided by the childhood vaccination program.

For some children who have specific risk factors, four doses are recommended at 2*, 4, 6 and 12 months of age. These will still be provided for free. Your doctor will advise if your child should have 4 doses rather than 3.

Safety of vaccines
All vaccines used in Australia must be approved for use by the Therapeutic Goods Administration, which monitors the safety of medicines in Australia. Before a vaccine can be licensed, it is rigorously tested over several years to ensure it is safe and that it works. The safety of vaccines is always being monitored. For more information, visit: tga.gov.au or health.gov.au/immunisation

All vaccines have the potential to cause side effects. Common side effects that may occur and resolve quickly include:

injection site pain, redness and swelling
low grade fever
children can be unsettled, tired and grumpy.

Serious or unexpected vaccine reactions are very rare and should always be reported to your vaccination provider. If you have any questions or concerns make an appointment with one of our GPs.

Keeping up to date
Your child isn’t fully protected if their vaccination is overdue, even if they have been up to date in the past. It’s important to keep an accurate record of your child’s immunisations. You can also download the free VacciDate app to get reminders when each vaccination is due and keep immunisation records for all the children in your family.

If you have any questions about vaccinations for your child, please make an appointment with one of our GPs at Sherwood, Highgate Hill or Oxley. Book Online Now.

*Vaccinations due to be given at 2 months of age may be given from 6 weeks of age

Christmas is almost here!

Fri, 07 Dec 2018 09:46:26 GMT

Is this yet another blog about health and moderation? Roll your eyes, delete. Or another call to buy, get or give? Sigh, delete.

No, I didn’t want to write yet another article about making smart party food choices and drinking in moderation, although that is very very sound advice. (Read more about it here, Heart Foundation )

Nor do I need to write an article about being aware of those less fortunate than most, although if you haven’t yet considered giving to a family doing it tough, you can here, Salvos or here, Stuff the Bus .

This time of year is busy and I wanted to take the opportunity to remind our Grow Medical Families about using the Christmas period to take a breath, minimise fuss and recharge for 2019.

My little family is going to the beach over Christmas, we have 5 days to spend time together and with other family. It has the potential to be super relaxing or super stressful. Stressful because I often get caught up in the get more, buy more and organise everybody and everything to make this a memorable event for everyone else- every single year.

This year I have decided to take a different approach, I am going to keep it simple and lower my expectations. I am going to go for long walks on the beach and headland, maybe even alone. I am going to enjoy the moment, I am not going to constantly plan what we are doing next or who else we need to see and visit. I am not going to cook elaborate dinners, (except for maybe the glazed Christmas ham, yum!), we can eat hot chippies or toasted sandwiches. This year, I have chosen not to buy toys and plastic junk to fill stockings, there is enough landfill in the world, (#waronwaste).

I will spend time, not money and invest in relationships, not extravaganza.

Christmas is a special time of year, so for those of you on the ‘working, kids, school drop offs, pick ups, swimming lessons, ballet performance, cricket try outs, birthday party’s,’ treadmill, try and pause and enjoy the moment. Don’t worry about what people might think, take a breath and enjoy the moment. It's good for you.

Merry Christmas!

We will be closed on the public holidays but open as usual if you need us for all things urgent or routine.

Be safe and keep it simple,

Dr Anna.

Harry's sleep journey

Wed, 21 Nov 2018 09:42:56 GMT

I know how frequent night waking can almost break you as I endured it with my son Harry for over a year. By the time I went to Grow Medical I was exhausted. Actually, by the time I listened to the guidance of Grow Medical I was exhausted. You see I’d been there earlier and the Nurse Lactation consultant helped me understand infant sleep and the reasons as to why Harry wasn’t sleeping more soundly at night. I listened, and everything made sense, but when I started talking to people doubts about the program crept in. Many people said, “never wake a sleeping baby” and “babies need a certain amount of sleep each day” and “good long sleep promotes more sleep”, so I didn’t put into action any of the information I was told. I continued trying to promote long day time sleeps by sleeping beside my son and taking him for long walks and car rides in an effort to make him sleep longer under the belief that if he had a good sleep during the day he would sleep better at night!!

Why won't my baby sleep?

Fast-forward a couple of months and after another very broken night I called Grow Medical again. I saw a specialist GP who listened to our story with empathy and was so kind that I wanted to give her a hug! The doctor wrote out a management plan and I left feeling confident that in a couple of weeks we would be having much fewer wake ups.

The first week was hard. It was really hard. Because I had been prolonging Harry’s daytime sleep for so long it was like he had “jet lag” and by day 4 and 5 that “jet lag” feeling really hit him and it was really difficult to keep him awake. I found myself running to our local park to keep him awake! Honestly we spent 2 hours at our local park just trying to keep him awake!

One of the key take-aways from Grow Medical is that not all babies need a huge amount of sleep and really trying to promote long daytime sleeps can have such a detrimental effect to night time sleep! I have a better understanding of my son Harry’s sleep and we have gone from a VERY frequent night waker to the normal 1-3 times per night. My only regret is not listening to them sooner and trusting their evidence based and, most importantly to me, gentle methods!

Thanks for reading,

Kaitlyn

At Grow Medical we have a wide range of General Practice, Nursing & Specialist services designed to help individuals, and to Grow the strength of families. They range from parents groups and drop in baby clinics with Kay Whitby, to consultations with Lactation Consultant GP Dr Sonja Morgan and Specialist GP Dr Kate Pink. Read more about our mothers and babies service here.

Call our Highgate Hill Team on 07 3036 4081 or email highgatehill@growmedical.com.au to see how we can help you.

Click Here to Book a clinic visit Online. Click Here to Book an Online (Skype) Consultation.

We made it through the week and the first thing I noticed was how easy it was to get him to sleep. No more 20-30min nighttime feeding/rocking to sleep in a quiet room. Now it only took 5 minutes in the lounge room talking with my husband and BAM- Harry was asleep. AND this has continued ever since! At the end of week 2 we were experiencing about 4 night time wake ups, so we cut out time from his sleep. We woke him 15 minutes earlier in the morning and he went to bed 15mins later. By the middle of week 3, we got there. We had only two nighttime wake ups for the first time in over a year! We are now about 8 weeks into the program and Harry wakes anywhere between 1-3 times per night A HUGE difference from the 5-10 times that he was waking prior to going to Grow Medical.

One of the reasons why it took me so long to seek any medical help for Harry’s sleep was that I was so afraid of what they would instruct me to do. I have had many conversations with women who have used some sort of Cry It Out (CIO) method after advice from health professionals. However, this approach didn’t feel right for us.

I did have one doctor telling me to night wean Harry as they believed that this would reduce Harry’s frequent night waking, not a chance this would have helped, and I can only think of how traumatic and hard this would have been for both Harry and I! The program is gentle I could still boob to sleep and tend to every one of Harry’s cries, I did not have to ignore him even for a second.

How long should my baby sleep?

Do I need to sleep train my baby?

What can I do to help my baby sleep?

Baby Sleep Clinic in Brisbane

Want more great tips from our GPs who are great with kids?

Read How to Easily Toilet Train your Pre Toddler ...

Common Symptoms of Pregnancy (and How to Manage Them!)

Sat, 17 Nov 2018 09:31:12 GMT

Our GPs in Highgate Hill, Sherwood and Oxley love working with you, your midwife and obstetrician to ensure you stay healthy. Here Growlife Medical discusses some of the common symptoms women can experience in their first trimester of pregnancy and how to manage them.

Nausea & Vomitin g
Commonly known as “morning sickness”, nausea and vomiting from pregnancy can actually occur at anytime of the day although a lot of women report it being worse first thing in the morning. It generally develops between weeks 4-9 of pregnancy and for the majority of women it will subside by 14 weeks. Some tips for managing include:

Avoiding an empty stomach by eating regular, small snacks

Try to eat immediately on waking. For some women this will mean before they even get out of bed. This is the time when having a few crackers on the bedside table or a partner to fetch you a piece of toast can be helpful.
Avoid over-eating at meal time as a really full, distended tummy can also make nausea worse
Stick to low fat, carbohydrate based foods such as toast, pasta and crackers
Avoid strong tastes and smells that you know trigger your sickness
Drink plenty of fluids but again have this in regular, small amounts as sometimes over-filling with water can also make you feel sick. Sometimes flavoured water or sparkling water can help.
Sometimes women will need medication to help manage nausea and vomiting. If the suggestions above are not enough, then speak to your GP, Midwife or Obstetrician.

Fatigue

Some women find that they feel exhausted in the early stages of pregnancy and they are not alone. It is tough work creating a new life and your body is working on over-drive. Whilst fatigue can be troublesome at any stage of pregnancy, a lot of women report it being worse in the first and third trimesters. It is important to ensure that other causes for fatigue are considered such as low iron and abnormal thyroid function. But otherwise remember to give yourself a break, take a chance to have an afternoon siesta and accept support from family and friends to help out.

Reflux
Reflux can become problematic in pregnancy even from early on. It makes sense that the growing uterus starts to put pressure on other organs in the abdomen including the stomach. But even in early pregnancy, the extra hormones running around the body can lead to relaxation of the oesophageal sphincter (the valve that stops food from regurgitating back into the food pipe from the stomach) and lead to reflux symptoms. Some things to help include trying to eat small, regular meals and remaining upright after a meal. Identifying and avoiding trigger foods such as caffeine and spicy food is also helpful.

Constipation
Just like reflux, pressure from the growing uterus and hormonal changes can also make constipation a problem for some women in pregnancy. It is really important to not ignore this as good bowel function is important to protect the pelvic floor in pregnancy. Make sure you are drinking plenty of water, trying to eat high fibre fruit and vegetables and staying active. If constipation is troublesome then medication may be needed so make sure you chat to your GP, Midwife or Obstetrician.

Increased vaginal discharge
It may not be something you commonly sit around and talk about with your pregnant friends but many women will experience an increase in discharge in pregnancy. So just because others aren’t talking about it, doesn’t mean they aren’t experiencing it. It is quite common for women to experience an increase in vaginal discharge which is generally clear to white in colour and quite liquid. If you notice any change in colour, offensive smell or itch then make sure you get it checked out.

Pregnancy and Early Life Care at Growlife Medical
We hope you enjoy the experience of growing a new member of your family. We believe that pregnancy is a time where the focus on your health can make a life long impact in improving not only your own health, but also your child’s health. A relationship with your GP through pregnancy means that the days and months afterwards form part of a shared journey, which makes for a great start to your baby’s life. Our team of midwives, lactation consultants, GPs and allied health practitioners can’t wait to meet you!

Book Online Now to start your journey to better health.

Boobs, Pecs & Breast Cancer Awareness Month

Sat, 20 Oct 2018 09:26:22 GMT

Right, now we have your attention, October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

In Australia, breast cancer is the most common cancer diagnosis in women.

The average risk of being diagnosed with breast cancer, (before the age of 85), is 1 in 8 for women and 1 in 631 for men. Yes, men can have breast cancer.

There are 50 new cases of breast cancer diagnosed in Australia every day, equating to about 18.000 new cases each year. Australia has one of the highest survival rates for breast cancer in the world. Increasing survival is due to earlier diagnosis through screening and due to improved treatments.

Australia has a FREE national screening program for all women over the age of 50, (eligible from the age of 40). However, despite these gains over 3000 people, men and women, still die from breast cancer every year in Australia.

So, if you are reading this and have a family history of breast cancer in a male relative or a female relative under 50, or are concerned about a change you have noticed in your breasts, your chest or your armpits, please make an appointment to see one of our family doctors at Grow Medical, phone 31542393 or book online today. We are always happy to talk to you about your health, so if you have any other questions please book online too.

If you have been putting off attending routine screening, and are over 50, call BreastScreen now on 13 20 50 or book online directly with Breastscreen Queensland . If you are under 50 and think you need a breast check, book to see us to discuss your screening needs further.

Reference

https://www.bcna.org.au/media/6101/bcna-2018-current-breast-cancer-statistics-in-australia-31jan2018.pdf

Dr Krystyna de Lange appointed to National RACGP Position

Sat, 06 Oct 2018 09:20:08 GMT

We are proud to announce that popular Grow Medical Highgate Hill GP Dr Krystyna de Lange will be appointed this week as The Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP) Registrar representative. She will hold this position to act as the voice for training GPs across the country, whilst continuing her clinical role at Grow Medical.

Dr de Lange will take up the national representative role from 11 October 2018 at the RACGP annual conference and education event GP18. Dr de Lange will bring an amazing array of skills to the position, with degrees in both Pharmacy and Medicine, along with Diplomas of Obstetrics, Gynaecology and Child Health and a Certificate of Emergency Medicine. All this in addition to completing GP training and raising a young child!

RACGP Council Chair Tim Koh was quoted as saying that Dr de Lange was passionate about the future of general practice. We see that passion in practice every day, and congratulate her on being appointed to such a position. We look forward to helping her balance her representative role with her consulting at Highgate Hill.

Dr Lange returns this week from a month long holiday, which we hope was a welcome break in preparation for a busy year ahead.

Supporting Kids In Need - 2018 CRW 300 Fundraiser

Sat, 29 Sep 2018 09:17:26 GMT

At Grow Medical , we believe in supporting individuals, building the strength of families, and grow the communities in which we live. We are experts in family health and early life care. A deep sense of social responsibility is part of who we are, and that is why we support community groups and charities that fit with our core purpose of strengthening individuals, families and communities.

For the second year running, we are supporting the Chain Reaction Women’s 300 (CRW300) to support kids in need. This ride of female corporate leaders will be riding 360km over 3 days from 12 - 14 October in an effort to raise over half a million dollars. This year, we are proud to have increased our engagement by becoming a team sponsor, as well as entering our midwife and paediatric nurse Alison Chambers .

The 2018 recipients of the CRW300 fundraising are the AEIOU foundation for children with autism, and Youth Advocacy Centre for teenagers in the youth justice system. We believe both organisations have the potential to transform lives. Take a look below at the impact AEIOU has on families of children with autism.

We encourage you to join us in supporting kids in need by donating here , and by spreading the word to friends and family.

Iron Infusion Service Brisbane

Fri, 21 Sep 2018 09:13:51 GMT

Grow Medical can safely perform intravenous iron infusions . Safety is paramount at our medical centres in South Brisbane, just South of the Brisbane CBD. Our Iron Infusion service is provided by clinicians experienced in intravenous infusions. If you need an Iron Infusion in West End, our Highgate Hill location is convenient, and we also provide this Iron transfusion Service in Oxley and Sherwood.

Iron deficiency is a common cause of anaemia. We discuss common causes of iron deficiency and the importance of a thorough assessment for a cause of your anaemia here .

In Australia, it is generally recommended to use oral iron (in appropriate doses and for sufficient duration) as first-line therapy for most patients with iron deficiency. Dietary inadequacy should also be addressed by seeing a dietitian. Dietitians are experienced in this area and consult regularly at Highgate Hill and Sherwood .

However, oral iron therapy and dietary intervention may be of limited benefit to some people, including those with impaired intestinal iron absorption such as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), chronic kidney disease, history of weight loss surgery, prolonged reflux/heartburn who are on medication to reduce stomach acid, or who experience gastrointestinal side effects that reduce people tolerating and completing an oral iron course of therapy (e.g. nausea, constipation and abdominal pain).

Oral iron therapy may also be inappropriate in cases of severe iron deficiency anaemia, in which rapid iron repletion is required to prevent decompensation, or in patients who are about to undergo major surgery where it is likely blood loss will occur. Giving IV iron supplementation is often preferred and safer than requiring a blood transfusion.

Clinical trials have demonstrated that iron infusion is effective in patients with anaemia caused by inflammatory bowel disease, chronic kidney disease, chronic heart failure, heavy menstrual bleeding, pregnancy related and after blood loss associated with giving birth.

In key trials, ferric carboxymaltose (Ferrinject, intravenous iron medication used at Highgate Hill) improved anaemia and replenished iron stores as effectively as IV iron sucrose but required fewer doses with and had an improved safety profile.

Overall, intravenous iron therapy (≤ 1000 mg per infusion) was at least as effective, or more effective, than oral iron (ferrous sulphate 325 mg three times daily or 100 mg twice daily) at correcting anaemia and body stores of iron. Not surprisingly, improvement in patients’ anaemia were more rapid than with oral iron therapy.

It is great that we can now offer this service in a convenient, reliable general practice setting due to increased safety of the product. Please book online or ring Grow Medical Highgate Hill on 07 3036 4081 for more details regarding this service.

Note: Ferric carboxymaltose (Ferinject) is PBS listed for the treatment of iron-deficiency anaemia, where oral iron preparations are not tolerated, ineffective or otherwise inappropriate. The diagnosis must be based on laboratory tests. Ferinject is also non-pbs indicated for treatment of iron deficiency when oral iron preparations are ineffective or cannot be used.

Should I have a My Health Record?

Sat, 25 Aug 2018 09:11:09 GMT

There has been a lot of controversy in the media recently about My Health Record . Concerns have been raised about privacy, but little of the discussion has focussed on the benefits, and how these privacy concerns are being addressed. At Growlife Medical, we believe in a team approach to your health, and in being leaders at educating the next generation of GPs. We were impressed recently when University of Queensland medical student placed at Growlife, Lucy Wang, created the attached explanation of the My Health Record. Take a look if you want to understand more about the My Health Record

At Growlife Medical we are committed to your privacy, and ensure this is part of every conversation where it is relevant. Importantly, the My Health Record provides many possibilities to improve health safety by better transferring information between clinicians involved in your care.

For example, should you have significant allergies, medical history or medication, and (touch wood) end up unconscious in emergency due to an accident or illness, having a My Health Record means that the Emergency Physicians treating you can safely navigate your treatment with access to vital information.

We believe that for most people, the benefits far outweigh the risks, and encourage you to speak to your GP at Oxley, Highgate Hill or Sherwood in order to create a health summary in you My Health Record.

How do you build your child's core strength?

Fri, 13 Jul 2018 09:08:21 GMT

When assessing a child's development, a common question parents have is how to encourage gross motor development. Rolling over, standing, walking, and balancing are all important gross motor milestones. Increasingly, we are seeing children who lack good core strength. This can impact upon concentration, handwriting, and self confidence, as if your child is having to use a lot of energy just to stay upright, they have less capacity to invest in learning other tasks. Many children have hypermobile joints, and need a little extra work to keep their joints stable and protected. Movement Solutions Paediatric Physiotherapy are renowned for their expertise in childhood motor development for children of all abilities, and run regular group-based gross motor classes at Grow Medical Sherwood. Read on to find out how to encourage gross motor development in your child through our regular Coordinated Kids Gross Motor Development Classes.

Co-ordinated Kids

Sometimes children need a little extra help when it comes to learning about their balance and coordination. If you have concerns about your child's motor development, book a doctor appointment with your GP at Grow Medical in order to have a thorough assessment of your child's development. If necessary, they can refer to our Paediatrician for further assessment. No matter what the issue, children respond well to extra activities focussed on their area of difficulty. We take the approach that building on a child's strengths, and helping them with areas of difficulty, will help them make the most of what they have been given, and grow into happy and productive members of society.

Our physiotherapy partners Movement Solutions believe all children should have the opportunity to learn and practice these skills to be the best they can be, so they can actively participate with siblings and friends at home, daycare and kindy.

To this end, Movement Solutions run regular Coordinated Kids Classes at our Sherwood Practice.

These classes are especially popular for children preparing to start school. They are run by our physiotherapists in the gym space and are fun and encouraging.

Classes are circuit style with a number of different stations each with a different challenging but fun task to try. While the classes are run by a physiotherapist the children do require parental supervision and assistance at all times. The classes are limited to a maximum of four children. These 45 minute sessions suit their concentration span and energy levels.

These sessions are ideal for:

Low muscle tone
Premature infants
Developmental delay
Motor dyspraxia
Cerebral Palsy GMFCS I and II
Genetic conditions

Programs focus on a number of goals:

Co-ordination and balance
Gross motor skills
Walking and running style
Hand eye co-ordination
Turn taking
Socialising and group play

When does Co-ordinated Kids run?
· Friday 9.30am

Costs: $40 per session paid at the start of the term as a package. To secure your placement, please ensure that payment is arranged prior to the first class. Please talk to our reception staff about payment methods * Private health fund rebates vary according to your fund and level of insurance ** Better start or NDIS funding eligible.

Please call Movement Solutions' receptionists at Coorparoo on 07 3324 2490 . No refunds or credits can be given for missed classes.

Kay Whitby Joins Grow Medical

Thu, 28 Jun 2018 09:03:31 GMT

Well known nurse Kay Whitby has been providing drop in clinics for mothers and babies in Oxley and the Centenary suburbs for many years. She is very well respected and loved locally, and has been a support for many through their pregnancy and mothering journeys.

Kay is known for her role in supporting breastfeeding through the Australian Breastfeeding Association . After many years at the Priceline Pharmacy in Oxley, when we heard that Kay was looking for a new home to provide her free drop-in baby clinics, it just seemed the right thing to do.

Grow Medical believes in improving health through deep personal connection. We believe that Kay embodies this spirit, with her commitment to the community she serves. We welcome her warmly, and look forward to a long association.

You can see Kay each Tuesday morning at our free baby clinic between 9am and Midday at our Sherwood General Practice .

Kay is here to provide general advice around your infant's health, and can assist with breastfeeding counselling or feeding issues in non-breastfeeding infants. She can also link you with our lactation consultants Dianne Walsh and Renee Keogh , who can provide home visiting services for infant sleep and breastfeeding issues.

Boost your health this Saturday

Thu, 14 Jun 2018 08:47:47 GMT

Our Doctors at Grow Medical Sherwood are available for Saturday consultations. Ease your time pressure, have a coffee next door and prioritise your health. Book Online Now .

We have noticed this last few months that a lot of patients are mentioning that they feel burnt out. Work expectations appear to only be getting higher, despite the promise of a technology revolution making our lives easier.

If you're feeling that work pressure has caused your physical health to suffer, feeling stressed, or soldiered through the week with an illness you think needs treatment, Book Now to see one of our Saturday Doctors.

Helping Patients With Better Use of Technology

Fri, 23 Mar 2018 08:45:38 GMT

Information is key to much of what we do in today's society. When it comes to your health, it is critical that the clinician treating you has access to all the information they require in order to make the best decisions.

At Grow Medical, we have a single record for every patient. After a lot of intensive integration work over the last few months, this now means that no matter which practice you go to, or which clinician you see, they will have access to a complete picture of your health.

This also means that you are able to book for any member of your family at any location using our online bookings. Please talk to the receptionists at your next visit to ensure your family is linked in our system, and that your address, email and phone details are up to date.

On Saturdays, Sherwood GP Medical Centre is open to all Grow Medical patients, for those unable to come during the week. The integrated record means the Saturday Doctor has all your data to hand.

The final stage of integration has been an upgrade to our phone system, so we can now transfer your call between practices, and answer your call more quickly. All for a better patient experience!

Increase in Tongue Tie Operations Outpaces Evidence

Tue, 13 Feb 2018 08:41:55 GMT

In September, 2017, in an article in the Medical Observer, Possums founder Dr Pamela Douglas wrote:

“Our breastfeeding babies appear to be in the grip
of a tongue-tie epidemic.
Or more accurately, in the grip of a tongue- and upper lip-tie epidemic”

Now the evidence is in, with the release of an article in the Medical Journal of Australia this month revealing that Medicare-funded frenotomy (tongue tie release surgery) rates have increased 420% in a decade from 2006 to 2016. Even this figure is likely to under-estimate the total number of frenotomies being performed Australia-wide given it is only capturing procedures performed under Medicare funding. Those procedures being performed in the public hospital sector or privately with dentists will not be captured in this data. In fact, in the ACT, where there were no dentists performing this procedure during the time studied, there was a 3710% rise in frenotomies being performed. This suggests even the 420% rise nationwide is likely an under-estimate of the true numbers.

These increased numbers are likely a reflection of an underlying commitment to helping women breastfeed, and it's true that classic tongue-tie was missed for decades. Unfortunately the evidence is just not there to show that frenotomies, particularly those done for posterior tongue ties, improve outcomes. In fact, in another paper that's just come out, Dr Douglas and Associate Professor Donna Geddes analyse the most recent ultrasound studies performed around the world of breastfeeding mother-baby pairs. They demonstrate that the structural model of infant suck dysfunction, upon which the decision to proceed to frenotomy in the absence of classic tongue-tie is based, is inaccurate.

For a genuine alternative to frenotomy (in the absence of classic tongue-tie) parents might be interested in trying gestalt breastfeeding, based on a completely new evidence-based model of infant suck. Book an appointment with one of our Possums accredited GPs or Lactation Consultants .

General Practice Open Saturdays

Wed, 07 Feb 2018 08:38:36 GMT

We believe in increasing connection to your doctor, at a time that suits you. From this Saturday 10 February 2018, our Sherwood practice will be open for GP consultations from 8.30am to Midday every Saturday.

We have done lots of background work over the last two months to ensure that now, no matter which clinic you are seen at, our clinicians keep notes in a single medical record. This means your doctor will have full access to all the information they need to keep your health on track. So whether you normally attend Highgate Hill or Sherwood, you're welcome to use our Saturday service.

All Saturday appointments are charged privately according to our normal fees. No appointments are bulk billed.

Book online for appointments or phone 0731542355.

There are more ways coming to better connect to your doctor in the very near future. Stay tuned!

New Cervical Cancer Screening - What You Need to Know

Mon, 05 Feb 2018 08:36:18 GMT

From 1st December 2017, a five yearly cervical screening test replaced the two yearly pap test. Here's what you need to know.

New Cervical Cancer Screening FAQs

What is the new test?
Until December, 2017, the pap smear has been used in Australia to screen for cervical cancer. The pap smear is performed by collecting cells at the junction of the endocervix (inside of the cervix) and ectocervix (outside of the cervix) with a brush. These cells are then placed on a slide or in a liquid and looked at under a microscope to see if there are any abnormal cells that may indicate pre-cancerous or cancerous changes. With the new test, instead of looking directly for abnormal cells, the cervical screening test will look for the virus, human papillomavirus (HPV). Women will still need the same procedure involving a vaginal examination but instead of the lab looking for abnormal cells, they will first be trying to detect the presence of HPV.

What is HPV?
HPV is the virus that pre-disposes to cervical cancer and is responsible for more than 99% of cervical cancer. HPV is very easily transmitted via skin contact during sexual activity and is extremely common in both men and women who have ever been sexually active. In fact, most people who have ever been sexually active will have been infected with a strain of HPV at some point, often without even knowing it. Like most viruses, the body’s immune system will try to fight it naturally and generally is successful at removing it. But sometimes, the virus is able to cause the cells of the cervix to become abnormal and rarely, results in cervical cancer. So by looking for HPV on the new test, we are looking one step before the abnormal cells develop.

What does a positive test mean?
A positive result on the new cervical screening test means that HPV has been found in your sample. All abnormal results should be discussed with your doctor to decide on the management plan most appropriate for you. You may need increased surveillance or you may require a referral to a specialist to have further testing.

What age should women start having the cervical screening test?
Traditionally women have started having pap smears between the age of 18 to 20. With the new cervical screening program, women will not need to start having the HPV test until 25. This is great news for many women. One exception to this is if you became sexually active at an age under 14. For these women, a once off cervical screening test between the age of 20 and 24 is funded by the Government.

I had the HPV vaccination, do I still need screening?
A vaccination against HPV has been on the National Immunisation Program since 2007. Currently males and females receive this vaccination for free in Queensland as part of a school based program in year 7. It requires three doses over a six month period for complete effect. This vaccination directly targets the strains of HPV most responsible for causing cervical cancer. However, it does not protect against ALL strains. So whilst the vaccination is good news for reducing cervical cancer, it is still recommended that women undergo regular cervical screening even if they have received the full course of the vaccination.

How often should women have the cervical screening test?
The music to most women’s ears is the reduced frequency of cervical screening. Instead of the two yearly pap smear, the HPV cervical screening test will only need to be performed every five years. This applies to women who have always had negative results in the past and have no symptoms. Any woman who has had previous abnormal pap smears or is experiencing symptoms such as discharge or a change in bleeding (eg after sex or in between periods) should see their GP or gynaecologist to work out what testing is best for them.

Does this mean I can wait five years since my last pap smear?
Unfortunately, no. Because your last screening would have used the pap test you still need to return at the two year mark to have your next cervical screening test. Once you have had this test and providing it is all normal you can then wait the five years.

When can I stop having cervical screening?
Women will be eligible to exit the cervical cancer screening program once they have a negative result between the age of 70 and 74.

More Questions?

Read more about our Brisbane Women's Health Clinic .

Need to Update your Cervical Screen?

Book Online Now . We have female doctors in Highgate Hill , Sherwood and Oxley

Slip Slop Slap this Summer

Sat, 18 Nov 2017 08:30:56 GMT

With the weather having been relatively cool and rainy this November, it is easy to slip into bad habits with sun safety. School holidays are just around the corner, and with it comes beach holidays and time outside. Be kind to your skin by paying attention to yourself and your children's sun exposure this summer. Remember to adhere to all the elements of sun safety: Keep out of the sun at peak times, wear a hat, sunglasses, long sleeves if possible, and suncream for any uncovered areas.

Have a fun Summer!

Take Charge of Your Lifestyle

Fri, 10 Nov 2017 08:28:36 GMT

With most of Growlife's doctors having families of their own, we understand how busy life can get. Broken nights, deadlines at work, a mortgage, relationship stress. In today’s society we seem to have more and more conveniences but less and less time. All too often, the solution is faster food, skipping exercise and resorting to alcohol to manage stress.

It’s no wonder that by age 55, nearly 40% of Australians are obese . Two in three are overweight or obese.

Daily, we see the health consequences of a society driven in such a way. Hypertension , diabetes , heart disease , depression , gout and many more conditions are different sides of the same coin. Often, conditions like this are framed as a choice. However, does anyone really choose to eat too much? To exercise too little? To overindulge in alcohol?

We see things differently. The downside of our privileged existence in Australia is living in a system that makes consumption easy, and energy expenditure difficult. Our society struggles with the opposite problems to previous generations where food was scarce and the world not nearly so automated.

Consequently, we think the solution to the diabetes and obesity epidemic is to start early, think at a societal level, and to continually assess and support individuals to maintain positive habits. It starts with our children. Creating lifelong habits of healthy food choices, group sport and incidental activity. In your 20’s it is easy to let exercise slip. Addressing this, and building it into your routine is important at this age.

The 30’s and 40’s are often where the wheels of health start to get wobbly. Life gets busy with children, work and home life, and quicker food is an easy solution to plug the gap. Being mindful about what you eat, and avoiding hidden traps is important at this stage. Exercise often goes out the door. Partnership and coaching with your healthcare team can help keep you focussed on the long term.

The 50’s are where genetics and the previous few decades often deliver the news of high blood pressure or diabetes. Early detection and management is important at this stage.

If any of the above apply to you, we encourage you to talk to your doctor, and work with our multidisciplinary team to make the most of your health now. Sister Brenda Dyer at our Sherwood practice has a wealth of experience in managing issues like obesity, diabetes and other chronic conditions. Our dietitians can provide even more specialised advice. Where necessary, we can provide comprehensive assessment with blood tests, anthropometry, 24 hour blood pressure monitoring, ECG, lung function testing and more.

Depending upon your age and condition, we can often help you take proactive steps to improve your health with little or no out of pocket cost. In particular, patients from 45 to 49 years of age who are at risk of a chronic condition are eligible for a comprehensive check up. For those with diabetes, our comprehensive diabetes clinic is generally bulk billed.

If you have a young family, and notice that your lifestyle is suffering, why not take steps now to improve the health of your children, and take yourself along for the ride? Our child nutrition groups with dietitians at our Highgate Hill practice are a perfect way to start.

With the new year not far away, it is a great time to start. Book online and start the conversation now.

Sherwood Mother's Group

Thu, 09 Nov 2017 19:02:23 GMT

As part of Grow Medical's commitment to growing the strength of our community , we are pleased to announce that the Mother's groups for children aged 0 to 4 years of age commenced from 23 November 2017 at our Sherwood clinic .

We now run regular parents groups at our locations - find out more about our free mothers groups

We hope you agree that the community space at the rear is looking pretty good:

Over the coming months, we will have a series of clinicians drop in to have a quick chat about common questions encountered in the early years. For those who come to our first session, we will be providing a free coffee at one of the cafes her at Sherwood Square. Be quick, numbers are strictly limited to 16. Phone our Sherwood practice on 07 3154 2355 to register your interest, or register on our Facebook event page .

We intend for this area to become a thriving hub of community activities, so make sure you like us on Facebook to stay up to date.

Find out about our other parents group locations

Mater Pathology Opens in Sherwood

Mon, 11 Sep 2017 18:57:12 GMT

Grow Medical is proud to partner with Mater Pathology at our Sherwood General Practice. Mater Pathology is proud to join the Sherwood community and to provide their holistic and dedicated service to patients.

Mater Pathology is the only not-for-profit private pathology laboratory in Brisbane. They are also 100% Australian owned and operated.

"All of our profits are reinvested into advancing treatment options and improving care and outcomes for patients."
--Mater Pathology

The opening hours for Mater Pathology's Sherwood collection centre are 7am to 3pm Monday to Friday, with a short closure for lunch between 12.20pm to 1pm.

We look forward to meeting you and looking after your pathology needs.

Chain Reaction Ride

Sun, 27 Aug 2017 18:55:16 GMT

At Grow Medical we believe that children represent our future. We believe that service to others builds closer communities. That the lived experience of children now, provides the solutions for our future problems. That’s why we are supporting the first Chain Reaction QLD Women’s Ride in October 2017, by entering a rider and helping to raise funds.

The major beneficiary of this ride will be Hummingbird House , Queensland only children's hospice. Prior to it opening in mid 2016 families of children with life-limiting illness had to travel interstate for symptom management and end of life care. This centre provides family support and care to help families discover moments, and create memories to last a lifetime.

A secondary beneficiary is Youth Advocacy Centre inc (YAC). YAC offers free legal services to young people, youth support and family support assistance, particularly those involved in the child protection system, and/or are homeless and/or at risk of homelessness.

Our rider Alison Chambers is a mother of three young children, a midwife, children's nurse, new company director and enjoys riding socially. She will be riding 300km from Byron Bay to Brisbane. Alison and Grow Medical have already raised over $2000.

Alison said “I am looking forward to completing the Chain Reaction womens ride this year as the beneficiaries are close to my heart. I have been involved in children's health care for many years and have seen the impact of inadequate palliative care services for families in Queensland. Grow Medical is a grass roots general practice service dedicated to improving the health of patients, families and communities. Chain Reaction aligns directly with Grow Medicals core values.”

Help build the strength of our community by supporting these charities. Thank you to those who donated!

GPs at the forefront of better healthcare | Growlife Medical

Sat, 22 Jul 2017 18:52:52 GMT

Growlife Medical GPs are at the forefront of changing ways of delivering healthcare. Dr Jane MacLeod and Dr Aaron Chambers are participating in project ECHO - a new way of providing specialist treatment to Queensland's Children. Watch the video to find out more!

Growlife Medical GPs and Project ECHO

Growlife's Doctors are excited to be among the first in Australia to be using this new technology, which has been pioneered in Australia by the Lady Client Children's Hospital. Initially, the focus is helping children with ADHD. Specialist paediatricians, psychologist, dietitian and school guidance counsellor provide advice and feedback to the GP via videoconference. This enables education, information sharing, and ultimately improved care for children at their family's regular general practice.

Multidisciplinary teams like this are recognised as the optimal way to deal with complex conditions. However, up until now it has been difficult to make general practice part of this team. Project ECHO overcomes some of these barriers and allows clinicians to work more collaboratively.

We have plenty more plans for technology to provide better care to you and your family, and some other big announcements coming soon. Stay tuned!

What is Project Echo?

Meningococcal ACWY Vaccine for Year 10 Students in Queensland

Mon, 03 Jul 2017 18:46:17 GMT

The Queensland Government has announced they will be providing free Meningococcal Vaccination to Queenslanders aged 15 to 19 years through their doctor from June 2017 until May 2018. They will also be providing this vaccination to year 10 students in 2017.

Meningococcal disease is a bacterial infection that causes very serious illness. The peak ages of infection are in the 15-19 year age group, and very young children.

mplementation of routine vaccination in infancy against the C strain of Meningococcus has resulted in a marked decrease in this infection. Children can also be vaccinated with a privately available vaccine against the B strain, known as Bexsero.

If you would like to book your teenager to have the ACWY vaccination at Grow Medical, please contact us via email or phone 3154 2355 prior to booking to ensure adequate supply is available, as there is likely to be high demand for this vaccine as part of the new government schedule. If you have a younger child and would like to discuss meningococcal vaccination or other immunisation requirements, book now to see your doctor.

Detecting and Managing Type 2 Diabetes

Wed, 28 Jun 2017 18:42:58 GMT

Do you have Type 2 diabetes? Are you struggling to achieve your health goals? Do you need an understanding team to help optimise your health?

Here at Growlife we offer an comprehensive in-house diabetes management program and strive to provide the highest possible quality of care in diabetes. We recognise that diabetes is a huge challenge for Australia’s population, and therefore are committed to providing Bulk Billed Diabetes Care where possible. All patients enrolled with Growlife for their diabetes care are eligible for at least 4 bulk billed consultations at our diabetes clinic per year.

Together we can assist you to better manage your diabetes care at home.

Our aim is to help you achieve your health goals – we are here to support you which ever stage you are at on your journey.

Diabetes Australia recommends a team approach to the coordination of your diabetes care. We provide this with doctors, practice nurse and other members of the health care team (including dietitian, exercise physiologist, podiatrists, psychologist, dentist and pharmacist) working together to help you get where you want to be.

Live well with diabetes book now or phone us on 31542355 for an appointment today.

Drop-in Baby Clinic

Sat, 24 Jun 2017 18:39:11 GMT

Are you a new parent? Recently welcomed your second, third or fourth baby but feel like you are a little lost?

Do you have questions, concerns or ideas around your baby that you’d like to run by an experienced midwife?

If you’re short on time between sleeps and value local connection there is now no need to go beyond your local community.

Every Friday at Grow Medical we have a free baby clinic.

Drop in any time between 10am and Midday.

We can provide:

Weight and measurement
Simple feeding support and advice
Sleeping and settling advice
Baby checks
Postnatal checks
Parenting questions and queries

Local support networks are important when you have a growing family. Our vision is for Fridays at Grow to become a thriving hub of social contact for parents, with links to local Mother’s Groups and the Australian Breastfeeding Association. Families from Chelmer, Graceville, Sherwood, Yeronga, Tennyson, Fairfield, Corinda, Oxley and surrounds are welcome.

Having a trusted ear to listen and support you over your journey is invaluable. At Grow medical we are here for you and your family as your needs change over time.

If you have a more complex concern or would prefer a one on one appointment with a doctor or midwife, please call our reception to book in or book a GP appointment online. All midwife appointments are one hour long and privately billed at $50. If you require a GP review this can usually be arranged at the time of the midwife appointment and will be bulk billed. For those who want a truly connected experience for their pregnancy and postnatal care, we offer comprehensive shared care and postnatal home visits from our midwife.

Midwife & GP Pregnancy Care With Home Visits

Sat, 10 Jun 2017 18:35:05 GMT

With a new family focussed service, Grow Medical is pleased to launch our General Practice based Midwifery antenatal care & postnatal home visits. Traditionally, midwives have been responsible for pregnancy care in the hospital system, working alongside Obstetricians to provide antenatal clinic visits, care during your confinement, and postnatal care either in the clinic or at home.

At Grow Medical, we believe the best place to grow your baby is in your local community; it really does take village to grow a child. Australia's hospital based care is second to none, and is the safest place to deliver your baby. However, the sooner you are home, feeling supported to breast feed and start your journey getting to know the newest member of your family, the better.

That's why we would like you to develop a trusting relationship with our midwife and doctors during your pregnancy. For a limited time (until 1 September 2017), any woman who registers for antenatal care at Grow Medical Sherwood will receive two complementary postnatal home visits with our midwife Alison. She can discuss infant settling, breastfeeding advice, adjustments to parenting or any other aspects of your postnatal care. By having a midwife working as part of Grow Medical, you can be assured of a consistent team approach to caring for your growing family.

As your baby grows, you can also take advantage of our drop-in clinic for simple concerns, baby weights and measures. And we have plenty more plans for the future to help you feel the best you can during these precious days, weeks, months and years.

Call us on 31542355 to book your antenatal visit.

Conditions: Eligible patients must register for their GP antenatal care (medicare item number 16591) with Grow Medical Sherwood prior to 1 September 2017 in order to receive two complementary midwife visits in the postnatal period. Our midwife only conducts home visits in following suburbs: Sherwood, Graceville, Corinda, Chelmer, Oxley, Seventeen Mile Rocks, Tennyson, Yeronga, Yeerongpilly, Fairfield, Annerley, Dutton Park. Specific requests for alternate locations will be considered but not guaranteed.

Grow Medical's Sherwood Medical Centre Now Open

Sun, 28 May 2017 18:30:17 GMT

Grow Medical Sherwood is now open for new and existing patients. Our doors opened this morning, after a hectic week of final preparations. Thank you so much to all of you who have inundated us with bookings in our opening two weeks. We hope you enjoy the attached pictures, and that your experience is calm and uplifting when you come to visit.

The Transformation is Nearly Complete

Wed, 24 May 2017 18:28:03 GMT

It has been amazing watching the tradies from Elite Fitouts do their work over the last month or so. From an empty shell, to very nearly a functional practice. Tomorrow is going to be a busy day as Grow Medical turns from building site to General Practice. We are looking forward to you joining us next week to say hello. Here are some progress photos:

Online Bookings Now Live!

Mon, 15 May 2017 18:23:36 GMT

Grow Medical is pleased to announce you are now able to book an appointment online, or through the App on your phone. Go to our bookings page to make a booking using your internet browser, or to download the App. Or you can click here to go directly to our online booking platform.

You can start pre-booking your appointment now, with appointments available from 5 June. The practice will be finished next week on Friday 26 May. If you want to drop by during the week after to say a casual hello, our doors will be open, and we would be pleased to see you. We will be accepting bookings by phone from Monday 29 May.

In the mean time, there is plenty of work still to be done to put the finishing touches to the practice. See you soon!

Rotary Fun Run 2017

Sat, 13 May 2017 13:21:39 GMT

As part of our commitment to promoting a health community, Grow Medical is proud to be a Major Sponsor of this year's Rotary Fun Run on Sunday 21 May from 7am at River Rocks Park.

Events like this are important for bringing a community together, and encouraging an active lifestyle. This year's event is raising money for The Wesley Hospital Choices Cancer Support Centre and Beef Bank .

Participants have the choice of a 5km walk or run, or a 10km run. But hurry, entries close at midnight on 17 May. The team from Grow Medical look forward to seeing you there!

Sherwood Clinic Getting Close

Mon, 08 May 2017 13:15:46 GMT

The clinic is really starting to take shape. All the internal walls are now up, and changes are happening on a daily basis! Our Doctors & Nurses are enthusiastically planning better ways to serve Sherwood.

We are excited to be taking our first steps into the local community as Grow Medical. We will be at the Sherwood State School Fete, helping celebrate their 150th Anniversary this Saturday 13 May.

Check out their Facebook page, and we look forward to seeing you there. Look out for Dr Thomas Perkins handing out some free apples!

We are starting to Grow - new Sherwood Medical Centre

Sat, 08 Apr 2017 13:06:04 GMT

Very exciting news at the end of this week... the fit out of our new Sherwood Medical Centre has begun! We will keep you posted as the Practice takes shape. Here is our first photo:

From Little Things... Big Things Grow

Tue, 04 Apr 2017 12:59:13 GMT

We look forward to welcoming you to our brand new Sherwood General Practice , opening in late May 2017. Grow Medical began with the belief that every Australian has a need for equitable access to quality healthcare. We believe that the connection between doctor and patient should be based on lifelong continuity.

At Grow Medical, we see the isolation created by an increasingly digitised and disconnected society as a challenge and an opportunity. The patient is at the centre of everything we do, and we believe that used correctly, today's technology can improve your health. We strive to provide constant improvement and innovative healthcare, and to use technology to increase your connection to your doctor, at a time that suits you.

Whilst digital communication promises immense opportunity, it is also does not replace the deep connections between individuals created at the cafe, the schools, the community organisations, the park and the sporting clubs. That's why we want to work with, and build the strength of the local community to support the wellbeing of all its members.

From pregnancy to early childhood and beyond, at Grow Medical, we want to grow with you, in whichever stage of life's journey you are. Grow you as an individual, Grow your family, and Grow your community. We can't wait to meet you!

Growlife Medical Health Blog

ADHD Assessments in Australia: Who Should You See - a GP or a Psychologist?

ADHD Is More Common Than You Think

Recognising Symptoms: When Everyday Challenges Become ADHD

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What a Psychologist Can Offer

Working Together: GP and Psychologist Collaboration

You can learn more about ADHD screening & assessments at Growlife Medical here .

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