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Blog | Alto Pharmacy

There’s something to be said for the mentality of “age is just a number,” but it’s a fact that our minds and bodies change with time, and new health considerations arise as we grow older.

A Guide to Healthy Aging

Healthy aging, which encompasses your physical, emotional, and cognitive wellness, is a journey rather than a destination. While it requires an ongoing investment in your well-being, small steps and everyday choices can make a big impact. Here’s what to prioritize.

Access to primary care is a challenge in the US, and 40% of US adults report delaying or going without care due to financial barriers. Skipping a routine screening can be serious: according to the CDC, up to 40% of all fatalities linked to the five leading causes of death in the U.S. — heart disease, cancer, chronic lower respiratory diseases, stroke, and unintentional injuries — are preventable.

Since your risk for high blood pressure, high cholesterol, heart disease, diabetes, and other common conditions increases as you grow older, staying on track with preventative care is a key component of healthy aging. If you have been diagnosed with any of these conditions or another chronic illness, attending regular doctor’s appointments is also critical to feeling your best.

If you smoke, quitting is one of the most important steps you can take to maintain good health as you grow older. It’s never too late (or too early) to drop the habit: quitting smoking at any age can lower your risk for cancer, heart attack, stroke, and lung disease.

If you’re having difficulty, don’t be discouraged. It often takes multiple attempts to stop smoking for good. Ask your doctor for resources to support your efforts.

Regular physical activity is fundamental to heart-healthy living and to healthy aging. Not only can consistent exercise increase life expectancy, it is also correlated with a better quality of life and less physical discomfort.

Health experts recommend a minimum of 150 minutes of moderate-intensity physical exercise and two days of muscle-strengthening activities each week. The latter is very important for older adults, as muscle mass naturally declines as you age.

Remember that some physical activity is better than none, and you can break up your weekly exercise hours into smaller chunks that feel more manageable. Find additional tips on developing a fitness routine that works for you here.

More than 1 in 3 US adults report getting less than the recommended seven hours of sleep per night. There are several ways that the process of aging can interfere with a good night’s sleep:

Aging-related changes to your brain chemistry affect your circadian rhythms — the 24-hour cycles that control your body’s internal clock and regulate your mood, hunger, and sleep.

Changes in hormone production, like decreased melatonin levels, can also disrupt sleep as you grow older.

Some of the health diseases that are more common in older adults, like heart disease, diabetes, and arthritis, can contribute to poor sleep.

Aging-related lifestyle changes — for example, a less structured routine in retirement — can also result in more difficulty sleeping.

Simple steps can help improve sleep health. Start with the following:

Maintain a consistent sleep schedule, going to bed and waking up at the same time every day, including weekends.

Avoid the use of electronic devices close to bedtime.

Get plenty of natural light and stay physically active during the day, but avoid exercising close to bedtime.

Avoid consuming food or beverages close to bedtime, particularly caffeine, alcohol, and high-sugar or high-fat foods.

Keep your bedroom dark and quiet and maintain a comfortable temperature.

As you prioritize healthy aging, be sure to give your mental well-being plenty of attention. Many age-related physical changes — including the loss of vision and hearing and changes in memory and mobility — can make it challenging to maintain strong social ties. For this reason, older adults face an increased risk of isolation and loneliness.

Good mental health is important in and of itself — after all, each one of us deserves to experience fulfillment at every stage of life. But there are also physical and cognitive benefits of maintaining positive relationships as you age. Loneliness is associated with a greater risk for dementia, and strong, meaningful social connections are linked to better physical health.

To enjoy the later chapters of life — and to support your cognitive and cardiovascular health — stay connected to friends and loved ones, seek community in various forms, and look for opportunities to give back. Remember that small acts of connection go far — and that four-legged companions count too. (We’re serious — having a pet is good for those cholesterol and blood pressure numbers!)

Choose a reliable and flexible pharmacy partner

Alto Pharmacy makes it simple to live your healthiest life by providing an easier, more supportive, and more affordable prescription experience. Our pharmacists are here with information and answers, even during nights and weekends. And the Alto app gives you control and convenience in managing your medications, with auto refills, medication bundling, and custom dosing reminders.

This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.

A chronic illness diagnosis is a significant unexpected life event, one that can understandably bring many feelings to the surface, from fear and anger to grief and shame. It often means changes in day-to-day life and potentially shifts in your identity and relationships as well.

Facing a Diagnosis of a Chronic Illness

It’s not uncommon for the uncertainty of a diagnosis to affect a person’s mental health. About one-third of everyone with a serious chronic illness experiences symptoms of depression. Those with a history of depression or who faced significant stress prior to their diagnosis may have a higher risk for mental health issues. But no matter your health history or the specific challenges of your condition, taking good care of yourself and prioritizing your emotional needs can help you adjust to life after a diagnosis.

While learning to live with a condition is an ongoing and personal journey, the tips below can give you a starting point as you move forward and find the coping strategies that work best for you.

Instead of self-blame, focus on moving forward

When facing a challenge or in times of shock, it’s only natural to want to know why, or to think about what we could’ve done differently. Unfortunately, in the context of a chronic illness diagnosis, there isn’t always a satisfying answer to be found. Sometimes a condition runs in your family. In other cases, there may be no explanation of why you developed your illness.

Even if your condition is preventable, considering what you could have done in the past won’t give you more control over present circumstances. The best thing you can do for your health at this moment is to face your diagnosis head-on and move forward.

That means different things to different people, but acknowledging the limitations of a chronic illness while staying hopeful is key. You may not be able to do some of what you could once do easily, and you may need to adjust your responsibilities with work, school, or caregiving. However, that does not mean that everything is beyond your control.

It can be helpful to get literal about what’s changing. One strategy is to make a list of activities or tasks that are challenging to do with your illness and proactively think up solutions or alternatives. Depending on the specific challenges you’re navigating, that could mean asking for assistance with meal prep or taking up gentler forms of exercise.

As important as it is to move forward, it’s okay if it takes you time to do so. You are processing a substantial life change, so give yourself the space that you need.

Your health journey is yours, with options and choices to make about treatment, lifestyle changes, and forms of support. Knowledge can empower you to decide how you want to live with a chronic illness.

Finding a provider that you trust is a crucial first step in learning more about your condition. It’s important that you can openly share your concerns and ask any questions you need to. In addition to looking for a physician with the appropriate expertise and credentials, make sure that you feel comfortable around them.

Though your provider may be treating you for a physical condition, let them know how you feel emotionally as well. Mental health issues can make it more challenging to stay on top of your treatment needs and manage your condition. Your provider is here as a resource and can offer referrals for counseling or medication if needed.

Medication is critical to the management of many chronic conditions. Appropriate medication use is necessary to experience the full therapeutic benefits, but unfortunately, medication is only taken as prescribed 50% of the time.

You’ll likely gain comfort and familiarity with your treatment plan in time, but there may be a learning curve to managing your medications, especially if you take more than one. Here are several tips.

Educate yourself about potential interactions and side effects

You should always know the answers to the following questions about any medication you take — your pharmacist is a great resource for information.

Can I take this medication with other medications?

Should I avoid certain foods or drinks when taking this medication?

Are there known potential medication interactions? If so, what signs should I watch for?

Even if you experience side effects, never stop taking a medication without first consulting your doctor. Rather, keep a log of side effects and share them with your care team. Your doctor may be able to adjust your dosage or help you safely switch to an alternative medication.

Find your preferred medication reminder system

There are a variety of tools to help you remember when to take your medication, from pill organizers to setting alarms and linking the act of taking your medication to another daily activity. The Alto app includes custom medication reminders.

It’s also important to find your preferred system for remembering refills. Our app’s medication management features include auto refills and medication bundling. If you aren’t using a medication management app, check your prescription labels regularly to see how many refills are remaining.

This is your health journey, but you don’t have to go at it alone. One of the best ways to reduce stress during this time is to take some responsibilities off of your plate. That will likely mean leaning more on others, so make sure to surround yourself with supportive and reliable people.

Nonprofits related to your condition can provide additional support and valuable resources. If you feel overwhelmed by the feelings that have arisen, don’t hesitate to ask your provider for referrals to a therapist for individual counseling.

Read Finding Support After a Chronic Illness Diagnosis

Mindfulness and physical activity are both important tools as you navigate this health journey. The former is all about present moment awareness and focusing on what’s happening right now, which is important since you may have many anxieties and fears about the unknown. Studies have also shown that mindfulness practices can help you cope with pain and stress. It doesn’t have to be a big endeavor. Just several minutes of quiet meditation, breathing exercises, guided imagery, or listening to music each day can make a big difference.

Physical exercise isn’t just good for your physical health — it’s also linked to improved mood and mental wellness. If some of your go-to activities are no longer possible because of your illness, there are plenty of alternatives to consider. To ensure that your fitness habits are appropriate for your needs at this time, consult your provider before trying any new exercises.

As a reliable pharmacy partner, we make sure you’re never on your own in navigating the complexities of treatment for a chronic illness. Our pharmacists are here with information and answers, even during nights and weekends. And the Alto app gives you control and convenience in managing your medications, with auto refills, medication bundling, and custom dosing reminders.

A diagnosis of a chronic illness brings significant changes to many areas of life. While the journey of learning to live with a condition looks different for everyone, the importance of support is universal.

Support can and should take many different forms. New physical and mental health needs are both common when navigating a chronic condition, and there are resources to draw on for both facets of your wellness.

Finding Support After a Chronic Illness Diagnosis

A diagnosis of a chronic illness brings significant changes to many areas of life. While the journey of learning to live with a condition looks different for everyone, the importance of support is universal.

Support can and should take many different forms. New physical and mental health needs are both common when navigating a chronic condition, and there are resources to draw on for both facets of your wellness.

We encourage you to think broadly in building your support system, even when focusing more specifically on your physical or mental health. In the case of physical health, specialists like diabetes educators can supplement a provider’s care with more personalized guidance. And with mental health, different forms of support may be necessary to address the various ways that a diagnosis affects you individually as well as your relationships.

Here are some suggestions to help you build a strong support system after a chronic illness diagnosis.

Many chronic illnesses require medical care from a specialist with the expertise to address specific symptoms rather than a primary care physician. Medical specializations for chronic conditions include the following.

A pulmonologist specializes in the treatment of respiratory conditions including chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

An endocrinologist specializes in the treatment of endocrine disorders including diabetes.

A rheumatologist specializes in the treatment of inflammatory autoimmune diseases including rheumatoid arthritis and lupus.

A gastroenterologist specializes in the treatment of digestive health conditions including celiac disease and inflammatory bowel disease.

A neurologist specializes in the treatment of diseases of the brain, spinal cord, and nervous system including dementia, Parkinson’s disease, and epilepsy.

Your primary care provider can help you make sure you’re seeing the right specialist for your diagnosis. In some cases, they may have the necessary expertise to treat your condition themselves. For example, if a primary care provider is board-certified in infectious diseases and internal medicine, they may be able to oversee antiretroviral therapy treatment for HIV.

There are many possible ways to look for a specialist. You can ask your primary care provider for referrals, contact your insurance company, or reach out to others you know with the same condition. If you don’t know many people affected by your illness, joining a support group can be a great way to build connections and get recommendations.

Many of the factors that people consider when looking for a primary care physician — communication style, for instance — are also relevant to finding a specialist for treatment of a chronic condition. How comfortable you feel around your provider can significantly affect your experience of living with an illness. Facing a diagnosis head-on requires you to feel informed, and to feel informed, you need an open dialogue with your medical team.

A provider’s background and training is particularly important when looking for a specialist, since treatment is often more complex. How many years they’ve been practicing can be an indicator of experience, but remember that it’s just one metric. Depending on your needs, you may be well served by working with a physician in the middle of their career.

Other factors that reflect a provider’s qualifications include research interests, and active involvement in research, and their affiliation with organizations related to their field. You may also consider where they completed residency and fellowship training — some hospitals and institutes are known for certain medical specialties.

Depending on your specific diagnosis, it may be important to look for a provider who is affiliated with a specific hospital. For example, more advanced COPD can cause flare-ups, or periods of intensified symptoms, which in some cases may require treatment in a hospital setting.

You may encounter treatment-related decisions that depend on personal preference. For example, some people who experience chronic pain as a result of their illness want to explore non-pharmacological options, or ways to manage pain without medication. If that’s of interest to you, look for a provider whose care philosophy aligns with your needs and views.

You may benefit from working with specialized healthcare professionals in addition to your medical team. Diabetes educators are professionally certified to coach individuals living with the condition. They offer support for numerous aspects of diabetes management, from insulin administration to insurance navigation and lifestyle changes.

Read What Does a Diabetes Educator Do and How Can They Help You?

Similarly, registered dietitian nutritionists who specialize in COPD can help you make dietary changes as part of treatment for the condition. (Since food affects your breathing, people with COPD are typically advised to consume more fats while reducing their intake of carbohydrates.)

Building a support system often involves asking for more help from your friends and family. Since stress management is part of navigating a chronic illness, look for opportunities to take responsibilities off of your plate. Communicate what you need as specifically as possible, and remember that people are ready to help.

You may find that you have less energy to focus on others. Prioritize relationships with supportive people who are sensitive to what you’re experiencing, and whom you want with you on this journey — it’s your decision who you share personal health details with.

Chronic illnesses can bring shifts in identity as you make changes to your routine and lean more heavily on others. Stress is common, too, as a diagnosis often comes with much uncertainty. For these reasons and others, your diagnosis may affect your mental health. In fact, some studies have found that living with a chronic condition increases a person’s risk of depression.

Therapy offers the support you need to process the emotional experience of a diagnosis. For many people, individual counseling provides a safe space to openly share their feelings and concerns related to illness. Many therapists have special training to support you in coping with a chronic illness, so look for this expertise as you search for the right practitioner.

If you have kids, a therapist can also support you in sharing your diagnosis with them in age-appropriate ways. If you are concerned about how your diagnosis has affected the entire family unit and your relationships, family and/or couples therapy may help you navigate the changes together.

There’s no substitute for support from those who have been in your shoes and faced the same challenges. Peer-led support groups give you the opportunity to express your feelings to people who have firsthand experience of your condition. They can also share the coping strategies they’ve found most helpful.

As a starting point, look for a nonprofit related to your specific diagnosis. Many organizations offer both in-person and virtual groups, so connecting with others is not confined to geography. 

One final component of a strong support system: a reliable pharmacy partner. Our pharmacists are here with information and answers, even during nights and weekends, and the Alto app gives you control and convenience in managing your medications, with auto refills, medication bundling, and custom dosing reminders.

From strengthening your heart to promoting better sleep, regular exercise offers a number of physical and mental health benefits. But getting up and moving can be easier said than done. Here are some suggestions for building a fitness routine that sticks.

How to Start and Stick to a Fitness Routine

No one is immune to the physical and mental benefits of exercise. Beyond helping to manage a wide range of health conditions — from hypertension and diabetes to COPD and anxiety disorders — regular physical activity strengthens cardiovascular health, supports healthy sleep patterns, and lowers your risk for many preventable diseases.

But while there are many reasons to exercise, getting up and moving is often easier said than done. Less than 5% of US adults get 150 minutes of weekly exercise — the minimum suggested by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. And up to 65% of all those who begin a fitness program don’t continue it beyond the 3-6 month window, according to the New York Times.

Whether you’re trying to get back in the swing of a fitness routine or struggling to carve out time for your favorite workout, use the suggestions below to build an exercise plan that sustains you for the long haul.

On those days when life gets in the way of sticking to your routine, it’s easier to stay committed if you have a clear reason to prioritize exercise.

While the benefits of physical activity are universal, motivation looks different for everyone. Perhaps you’re navigating a recent diagnosis of a chronic condition or proactively taking care of your mental health. Whatever your reason may be, keep it in the back of your mind. And if you haven’t found one yet, here are some additional exercise benefits to consider:

It can help slow aging-related changes like the loss of bone density or shifts in cognitive function.

It’s fundamental to practicing a heart-healthy lifestyle.

There are as many reasons to exercise as there are activities to choose from. And if you don’t consider yourself an “exercise person,” there’s a good chance you haven’t found your go-to workout just yet.

As you make your fitness plan, give some thought to how you really want to spend those 150 minutes each week. Research and experts both agree that people are more likely to stick to an exercise routine if they actually enjoy it, and your chosen workout often plays a role in the consistency of your habits.

Take your interests, strengths, and personality all into account. Are you most comfortable at a fast or slow pace? Inspired by nature? Enjoy a healthy dose of competition? More fond of team sports or solo challenges? You might be surprised by the amount of options.

When in doubt, think of activities you feel confident doing or skills you would like to continue to build. If certain types of exercise aren’t the right fit, there’s often an alternative to consider. For example, the rowing machine is a great alternative to swimming for anyone seeking a low-impact cardio workout.

Create a routine that sustains your goals.

Repetition and consistency will keep you going when motivation wanes, so build a routine that sustains your habits.

First and foremost, make sure there’s time in your schedule for exercise. Block off a half hour for a workout on your calendar, just as you would for a meeting or doctor’s appointment. Make sure to have a back-up plan, too — if your 7 am pilates class isn’t feasible one week, leave room for a midday walk or run around the neighborhood.

Life too busy? We have a couple of tips for those short on time:

High intensity interval training (HIIT), which alternates quick spurts of intense effort with brief rest, is a great way to fit aerobic exercise into a packed schedule.

Take a few shorter walks throughout the day instead of a 30-minute or hour-long stroll — you’ll still reap the benefits!

Goals are a key component of any exercise plan, but it’s important that they are achievable. Over-ambition is one of the biggest barriers to progress and consistency: if you aim too high right out of the gate, you may find yourself quickly discouraged and decide to throw in the towel altogether.

Be specific: Rather than setting out to “exercise more,” commit to exercising for a certain number of days a week.

Be flexible: Aiming for a range of 3-5 days each week can help you still feel accomplished if you need to slightly scale down during busy times.

Focus on the process: Many behavioral science experts suggest structuring your goals around the process or activity — for instance, how long you exercise — rather than an outcome, which is less within your control. It takes time to form a new habit — 18 to 254 days, to be precise — so simply showing up is a worthwhile goal to work toward.

Gradually build on your goals: Once you have a foundation in place, keep yourself motivated by expanding your goals. If you’re a runner, you might try to gradually increase the length or distance of your regular workout. Make sure to check with a doctor or fitness expert about finding an appropriate level of fitness intensity.

Eliminate obstacles through small actions.

Look for opportunities that make it easier to follow through with your fitness intentions. Having to choose an outfit for your morning workout might not seem like much effort, but packing a gym bag in advance or folding your workout clothes by your bed the night before removes an extra step from the process.

If you’re starting to work out in a gym, plan a specific workout in advance so that you can maximize your time once you’re there.

For an extra boost of motivation, make your fitness routine more social. Research has found a link between the success of a workout program and social accountability. So dig through your personal network to find a gym or yoga buddy, or search for a local running club. Not only will you benefit from the extra accountability — you’ll be offering it in return.

Navigating exercise with a chronic health condition

There’s often a misconception that certain conditions, including diabetes and COPD, prevent exercise. In actuality, regular physical activity is part of managing many chronic conditions. However, there may be additional considerations to account for when creating an exercise routine.

Here are some general guidelines to be mindful of when exercising with diabetes, COPD, asthma, osteoporosis, or arthritis. Always speak with your provider to discuss what activities are appropriate for your personal health history.

Maintaining healthy blood sugar is a crucial part of diabetes management. Exercise is a factor in your glucose levels, and some people experience decreased blood sugar during or after exercise. 

A variety of factors can affect your blood sugar response to exercise, including:

Your blood sugar levels prior to exercise

To exercise safely as a person with diabetes, check your blood sugar before, during, and after exercise, and be prepared to treat low blood sugar, or hypoglycemia.

In strengthening your respiratory muscles and making it easier to breathe, regular physical activity is key to maintaining an active life while living with COPD. However, it’s important to practice gentle exercises that don’t overexert your lungs. Your provider can help you determine appropriate activities.

You may also benefit from pulmonary rehabilitation, an outpatient exercise and education program that helps those with COPD manage the condition.

As many as 90% of people with asthma experience respiratory symptoms during physical activity. For some, symptoms begin right at the start of exercising while others experience airflow obstruction after returning to a state of rest. In some cases, symptoms quickly resolve, but they may last up to 24 hours in others.

Rather than avoiding exercise to prevent an asthma flare-up, speak with your healthcare provider about your asthma treatment plan and look for forms of exercise with an appropriate level of intensity.

The weakening of the bones in osteoporosis increases the risk for fractures, so those with the condition should take precautions to avoid exercise-related injuries.

Here are some general guidelines for exercising with osteoporosis. Check with your provider about which activities are the best for you. 

Unless otherwise informed by your doctor, avoid high-impact exercises and activities that involve frequent bending or twisting, as they may increase your risk of fractures.

Explore weight-bearing aerobic activities to strengthen bones in your legs, hips, and lower spine.

Try simple balancing exercises or movement-based stability exercises such as tai chi to maintain good stability and balance.

Opt for gentle activities like water exercises, tai chi, yoga, and stretching, all of which reduce joint pressure and expand your joints’ range of motion.

Let Alto support your health and wellness

Staying on top of your health should be as simple as possible, and we’re here to support you with exceptional pharmacy care. We offer fast and reliable courier delivery and medication management tools like reminders and auto refills in our mobile app.

IVF is often a rewarding journey, but it is also a physically and emotionally taxing experience. For many people, uncertainty can be one of the most difficult aspects of the process.

How to Prepare for Your IVF Cycle

Many factors shape each person’s experience of IVF. You have more control over some than others. Preparation includes both taking steps to increase your chance of success while also learning what challenges to anticipate and how to navigate them. Here’s more on what to expect.

It’s important to know upfront that the IVF journey can be longer than hoped or expected and multiple cycles are common. Of those who eventually conceive through the process, it takes an average of 2.7 cycles to become pregnant.

However, certain health and lifestyle factors can influence the likelihood of a successful cycle, and it is definitely worth doing everything you can to be at your healthiest when you begin treatment. Use the following suggestions below as a starting point — note that they also apply to physical preparation for an egg freezing cycle.

Research has found that weight can factor into the outcome of fertility treatment. Being underweight or overweight can both impact your body’s response to IVF medications. Having a healthy weight as you start your cycle may increase your chance of success.

Keep in mind that there are many factors in a person’s overall health, and being at a healthy weight looks different for everyone. Your provider is an important resource and can advise you on whether your weight may impact your fertility.

A well-balanced diet can help you maintain a healthy weight and feel your best throughout your IVF journey. In general, load up on fruits and veggies, lean proteins like fish and poultry, and whole grains. Opt for healthy fats such as avocados, nuts, and seeds as much as possible. It’s recommended to limit your intake of red meat, sugar, and processed foods.

Most health experts advise against any significant changes to your diet before or during an IVF cycle.

Taking prenatal vitamins may improve the quality of your eggs — which is important for a successful embryo transfer during IVF — and prepare your body for a healthy pregnancy. 

Prenatal vitamins that include folic acid, coenzyme, iron, calcium, and omega-3 fatty acids like DHA are typically most beneficial, but check with your provider about the best option for your needs.

Some evidence suggests that healthy vitamin D levels can impact your IVF experience. Ask your provider if you would benefit from a vitamin D supplement.

Avoid unhealthy habits and lower your caffeine intake

You’re likely already aware of the dangers of smoking during pregnancy, but the reasons to avoid the habit while preparing for IVF go beyond the obvious.

While research on the link between IVF and smoking is ongoing, there’s strong evidence that smoking leads to lower success rates. More specifically, it can decrease the thickness of the endometrium, the layer of tissue lining the uterus. This can lower the chance of successful embryo implantation.

Research has also found a link between alcohol consumption during IVF and live birth rates.

Don’t be afraid to ask your provider for support if you are attempting to give up smoking or drinking in preparation for fertility treatment.

Experts haven’t yet determined specifically how caffeine impacts fertility, but several studies have found a link. It is recommended to limit your daily caffeine intake to 200 mg — approximately two 8-oz cups of coffee — during preconception and the first trimester of a pregnancy.

Not only will staying well rested improve your mental and emotional well-being during IVF, some studies have found a correlation between sleep quality and IVF success.

Of course, getting enough rest can be easier said than done: 1 in 3 U.S. adults report that they sleep less than the recommended minimum of seven hours per night. To improve the quality and duration of your sleep, try the following strategies:

Avoid use of electronic devices close to your bedtime.

Avoid eating or drinking close to bedtime, particularly caffeine, alcohol, and high-sugar or high-fat foods.

Staying physically active is part of maintaining good health as you prepare for the IVF journey. Check with your doctor about your individual needs, but 150 minutes of moderate physical activity per week is generally a good target to aim for.

High-impact cardiovascular exercise isn’t recommended during IVF, but low-impact exercise is typically safe. However, some clinics advise against exercising altogether during an IVF cycle. Your care team can provide individualized recommendations.

Remember that your partner’s health matters, too

If you are a woman attempting to conceive with a male partner, remember that, while you are the one undergoing the process of IVF, your partner’s health can also affect the outcome of treatment.

There are many factors in sperm quality, including sleep, exposure to chemicals and toxins, and lifestyle habits like smoking and alcohol consumption.

Steps that a male partner should take before IVF include limiting alcohol intake, quitting smoking or using other harmful substances, maintaining a healthy weight, and eating a nutritious, balanced diet.

Review current medications with your doctor and make treatment adjustments if necessary

Some over-the-counter and prescription medications can impact your body’s response to fertility medications and the outcome of treatment. Make sure your doctor is informed of all medications and supplements you take. If any aren’t recommended to take during an IVF cycle, discuss how to safely taper off of them and whether to switch to an alternative medication.

Fertility treatment is a highly personal experience, and the process — including how stressful it is — looks different for each person. One thing that’s universal, however, is that information and support make the journey more manageable.

IVF is a significant financial investment, and the cost of treatment is a common source of stress. It isn’t always possible to predict the course of treatment, or how much it will cost, since there are so many variables, but doing preliminary research and mapping out your personal goals can help you prepare.

If you have health insurance, look into the details of your plan as a starting point. Coverage of fertility treatment varies significantly from one plan to another.

If your insurance plan covers IVF medications, that coverage may fall under the medical portion of your plan rather than the pharmacy one. We encourage you to contact your insurance carrier for an in-depth explanation of your fertility benefits. Additionally, some clinics have an insurance department, which can be another resource as you do your research.

As you prepare for the financial aspects of IVF, it is helpful to determine how many cycles you are willing or able to try. Keep in mind that there are many financial resources that can help you manage or lower the cost of IVF.

Beyond the emotionally taxing nature of fertility treatment, IVF can cause anxiety purely as an unfamiliar medical treatment. Take time to discuss the process with your clinical team. Some phases can cause additional stress, like the egg retrieval and embryo transfer. Knowing what to anticipate will likely help.

You should also prepare to make certain decisions, including how many embryos to transfer and what you will do with unused eggs or embryos. For some individuals and couples, the IVF process involves donor sperm or eggs. Discuss your options with your care team and give yourself time to determine what the right choice is for you.

Additionally, familiarize yourself with common side effects and make a plan for treating them. Injections can be particularly stressful to navigate, so take time reviewing the techniques. As an Alto customer, you’ll have personalized videos for each injectable medication in your protocol in the app.

Reducing stress and building a support system

Be mindful of your emotional and mental well-being throughout your fertility journey and make a plan for reducing stress. Don’t hesitate to lean on your friends and family for support — especially those who have gone through the IVF journey themselves — but remember, too, that sharing your decision to pursue IVF is a personal choice.

A pharmacy partner for your fertility journey

Fertility treatment can be a challenging journey, but Alto is with you every step of the way. We offer same-day hand delivery of your medications and fertility resources like personalized injection guide videos and access to fertility-trained pharmacists.

Interested in learning more about how Alto can support your treatment? Request a price quote online or reach out through secure in-app messaging.

Every year, June marks Men’s Health Month, a reminder of the importance of prevention and healthy lifestyle habits. This June, take a minute to recommit to your health — or encourage the men in your life to do so! To help you start, we’ve rounded up several of the top health risks for men, along with key preventative steps. Read more!

How to Honor Men’s Health Month | Alto Pharmacy

Every year, June marks Men’s Health Month, a reminder of the importance of prevention and healthy lifestyle habits. U.S. men have a shorter life expectancy than women and are less likely to go to the doctor. Many leading men’s health issues are preventable, and even small actions can have a big impact.

This June, take a minute to recommit to your health — or encourage the men in your life to do so! To help you start, we’ve rounded up several of the top health risks for men, along with key preventative steps.

And if you haven’t been to the doctor in a while, you’re far from alone, so try not to feel discouraged. The important thing is to move forward on healthier footing — there’s no time like the present to make some positive changes.

Heart disease is one of the most prevalent health issues in the country and a leading preventable cause of death for U.S. men. The condition develops gradually as plaque accumulates in the arteries, hardening these important blood vessels and impairing blood flow to the heart.

The good news? Many common heart disease risk factors are manageable, including high cholesterol, high blood pressure, obesity, diabetes, physical inactivity, and smoking. The first step to better heart health is to understand your personal risk factors. And that starts with — you guessed it — making that doctor’s appointment and staying up to date with screenings.

Your provider can advise you on the recommended frequency of key screenings based on your health history. In general, without accounting for other health factors, blood pressure screening is typically recommended at least once every 3 to 5 years for those under 39 and at least once a year for those 40 and older. Similarly, the CDC recommends cholesterol screenings at least once every 4 to 6 years as a baseline, but more frequent screenings may be necessary for those with additional heart health risks, like diabetes or obesity.

For more on heart-healthy living and heart disease prevention, read How to Prevent Heart Disease at Any Age.

While cancer mortality rates continue to decline among U.S. men, it remains a leading cause of death. Below are some of the most common cancers in men. In nearly all cases, early detection can allow for the most effective treatment approach and vastly improve prognosis, which is another reason to prioritize your health and build a relationship with a trusted provider.

Aside from skin cancer, prostate cancer is the most common cancer in U.S. men. Your chances of developing it increase with age, and the majority of men with prostate cancer are over the age of 65. Other key risk factors include:

Race/ethnicity: Black men are more likely to both develop prostate cancer and to face more aggressive forms of it than men of other races.

Family history: Having an immediate relative who has had prostate cancer more than doubles your risk of developing it. The risk is higher if your relatives had it at a younger age.

With early detection, the survival rate of prostate cancer is high, so learn your risk and make informed decisions about screening. The American Cancer Society recommends discussing prostate cancer screening options with your provider at age 50 if you have an average risk and at age 45 if you have a high risk.

This June, take a minute to recommit to your health — or encourage the men in your life to do so! To help you start, we’ve rounded up several of the top health risks for men, along with key preventative steps. Read more!

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