Grove Pharmacy

02/15/2022

We have limited quantities of Rapid Response COVID 19 rapid tests in stock at the pharmacy. Call us at the store for details at 778 298 1000.

01/25/2022

QuickVue at Home COVID 19 rapid tests are now available for sale at Grove Pharmacy for $29.95 for a box of 2 tests. We have limited quantities. Call us if you have any questions at 778 298 1000.

Helping the residents of Walnut Grove, Fort Langley, and Willoughby live healthy lives. Transfer your prescriptions today!

01/20/2022

Walk-in COVID vaccine shots are now available at Grove Pharmacy from Monday to Thursday between 10:00 am to 3:00 pm. Call our store at 778 298 1000 for more details. We're located on the corner of 88 Ave and 212 Street in Walnut Grove, in Langley, BC.

Helping the residents of Walnut Grove, Fort Langley, and Willoughby live healthy lives. Transfer your prescriptions today!

09/19/2021

The benefits of Vitamin D and Calcium Supplements

As we approach the fall and the weather shifts from late sunny evenings to darker rainy days and nights, it’s important to remember the importance of taking vitamin D and calcium supplements.

Vitamin D is an important supplement that facilitates the absorption of calcium in the body. Calcium is used to strengthen our muscles and bones - including our hearts. People with vitamin D and calcium deficiencies are at greater risk of developing osteoporosis. This is a disease where our bones become thinner and more brittle which increases the risk of serious injuries.

Our bodies can naturally produce vitamin D when our skin is exposed to the sun. Unfortunately, living on the west coast of Canada means that we receive limited amounts of sunshine during the fall and winter months. As a result, most people, particularly adults over the age of 50, require additional vitamin D supplementation. Calcium is commonly found in many dairy products and vegetables. Unfortunately, most people do not consume enough foods rich in calcium to meet the recommended daily intake.

So what is the recommended amount for reach supplement? For males over the age 50, they should take at least 1000 mg of calcium per day and for females that number increases to 1200 mg per day. Adults over 50 should take at least 600 IU of vitamin D every day. This number increases as we age above 70 years to at least 1200 mg of calcium per day and 800 IU of vitamin D per day. Calcium supplements can cause some unpleasant side effects such as indigestion and constipation. It is best to split up the amount we take over the course of the day.

To learn more about vitamin D and calcium supplementation, visit HealthLink BC’s website: https://www.healthlinkbc.ca/health-topics/za1487.

If you have questions about vitamin D and calcium supplements or any general health queries, please call us at Grove Pharmacy at 778 298 1000 or visit the pharmacy.

Grove Pharmacy is conveniently located in Walnut Grove on the corner of 88 Ave and 212 Street next to Walnut Grove Medical Clinic in Langley, BC.

Why is it important to get enough calcium and vitamin D? Your body needs vitamin D to absorb calcium. Calcium keeps your bones and muscles—including your heart—healthy and strong. People who do not get enough calcium and vitamin D throughout life have an increased chance of having thin and britt...

08/24/2021

How to choose a Blood Glucose Monitoring in Diabetes

Blood glucose monitoring is an important part of day to day Diabetes management. This is even more important for individuals that use insulin to manage their blood glucose levels. There are three types of monitors available currently.

Blood glucose meters work by directly measuring the glucose levels in your blood. They require specialized test strips and lancets to poke your finger to draw the blood. These are the most common monitoring devices.

Flash glucose monitoring systems, such as the Freestyle Libre sensor, work by having a sensor inserted just underneath the skin (usually the upper arm). A hand held scanner or a mobile phone are then used to scan the blood glucose level by swiping the device over the sensor. The sensors need to be changed every two weeks and do not require finger pokes to draw blood.

Continuous monitoring systems, such as the Dexcom G6, also use a sensor that is inserted just under the skin (usually on the belly). This type of monitor continuously measures blood glucose levels and alerts the user if their glucose levels go too low or too high. This sensor needs to be changed every ten days or so and does not require any scans or finger pokes to draw blood.

Which option is best? It depends on a variety of factors including convenience, cost, and availability. Flash glucose monitors and continuous glucose monitors are more expensive than regular blood glucose meters. Some 3rd party insurance plans do provide coverage for these devices. Pharmacare will also provide some coverage for the Dexcom G6 if patients meet the requirements for coverage.

Walk-in Doctors Available at Walnut Grove Medical

Walnut Grove Medical has virtual and in-person walk-in physicians available from Monday to Friday. Check out their website (www.walnutgrovemedical.ca) or call the clinic to confirm physician availability and to book a walk-in appointment if you are unable to see your regular family physician.

If you have questions about diabetes monitoring or general health queries, please call me at Grove Pharmacy at 778 298 1000 or visit the pharmacy.