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38 PATY STATE/TERRITORY WINNERS Q+A with 2020 PATY state/territory winners This month in Retail Pharmacy Assistants magazine we chat with the 2020 Pharmacy Assistant of the Year state and territory winners about metabolic syndrome and heart health, also gathering their tips on improving hair quality, strength and lustre – from the inside and out. Joshua Edye, ACT – Erindale Pharmacy What is your advice to customers who want to manage their heart health and to keep blood glucose levels in check? Your local pharmacy offers a range of services to help you keep an eye on your cardiovascular health and blood glucose levels. Regular monitoring of blood pressure and blood glucose can assist in the early diagnosis and prevention of more serious healthcare conditions. There are many lifestyle changes you can make to better manage your blood pressure, as well as assist you in maintaining healthy blood glucose levels, including: • Limit alcohol consumption. • Manage stress – practise relaxation “Maintain a healthy diet, limiting processed foods.” techniques and ensure an adequate amount of sleep every night. • Be active and try to exercise several times a week. • Maintain a healthy diet, limiting processed foods. • Reduce the amount of salt in your diet. • Quit smoking (speak to a pharmacist about strategies to help you quit). What is your advice to customers who are looking to improve their hair from the inside and out? Your hormones, the food you eat, the quality of your sleep and the medications you take can all have an impact on the health of your hair. Your hair can also be an indicator of your overall health. There are a number of things you can do to ensure your hair remains healthy year-round: • Wash your hair using lukewarm water instead of hot water, as this strips your hair of essential oils, making it feel drier. • Avoid washing your hair too frequently – a wash every two to three days will help regulate the natural oils in your hair. • A healthy balanced diet accompanied RETAIL PHARMACY ASSISTANTS • APR 2021