ARA Content - Free Online Content

Tips for fun, safe winter frolics with Fido

11/17/2011

(ARA) - Even the best behaved-dog can temporarily forget his manners when faced with the many distractions of going on a walk. When the ground is covered with snow and ice, Fido's momentary lapse can mean a nasty fall for you. Properly equipping yourself - and taking some safety precautions - can help ensure you stay on your feet, and that your walk remains enjoyable for both you and your best friend.

Here are some tips for walking your dog in wintery weather:

* Don't stay home - Both you and your dog need exercise, and just letting Fido out into the backyard to do his business doesn't help your health. A daily walk helps to provide both of you with excellent cardiovascular exercise, and also gets you out into the fresh air. So even as the weather gets colder, help keep you and your dog healthy with daily walks.

* Leash training - Larger dogs make great pets, especially for seniors who struggle to bend over to pet smaller breeds. But if your dog isn't leash trained, he could give you great difficulty in managing him and the winter elements. Take him to obedience classes and work with him so he knows not to pull when you're out for short and long walks. As the weather chills and snow and ice build up on your traditional walking routes, you'll be able to carefully negotiate tricky spots without having to worry about being pulled off balance.

* Dress for the weather - You're probably already going to be layering up to stay warm, but don't forget proper footwear - for both you and your dog. Dog booties can help protect your pet's feet from the deicer chemicals that can hurt and crack the pads of his feet. Booties also help prevent ice from building up in the fur around his toes.

For your feet, you need gear to keep you from sliding around on the ice. STABILicers ice cleats go on over your shoes or boots, providing you super traction - and even better footing than your dog. Sold by retailers nationwide including L.L. Bean and Cabela's, these ice cleats are durable and light, and can fit easily in a pocket or glove compartment for easy transport. For Scott Kelley of Peaks Island, Maine, STABILicers allowed him to walk his dog even after shoulder surgery and physical therapy.

"The idea of falling on the ice after surgery and all that physical therapy was too much to bear," Kelley says. "So I put STABILicers on my boots and wore them all winter, even if the roads and sidewalks were clear, because the dog still needs to be walked, and there is always that one rogue patch of ice lurking in the shadows."

* Practice safety - Since the daylight hours are shorter during the winter months, make sure you wear light clothing with reflective material, and carry a flashlight during your walks to help drivers see you in the dark. Also let someone know where you're going on your walk, and your anticipated time of return.

Getting out of the house, breathing in the fresh air and seeing the sun reflecting off the glittering snow - the winter months can bring so much enjoyment to you and your dog on your daily walks. And since, with STABILicers on your feet, you don't have to worry about falling down, you may soon find yourself joining Fido in chasing squirrels, just for the fun of it.

How to stay heartburn-free

11/23/2011

(ARA) - For heartburn sufferers, rich food and drink at can be trouble. Contrary to its name, heartburn, which affects 60 million Americans at least once a month, has nothing to do with the heart. It's a digestive problem that is also called reflux esophagitis or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Gastroesophageal reflux occurs when contents in the stomach flow back into the esophagus. This happens when the valve between the stomach and the esophagus does not close properly.

Heartburn is most often described as a burning sensation behind the breast bone that moves up toward the neck or throat. This occurs when stomach acid irritates the normal lining of the esophagus. People may also experience acid regurgitation with heartburn, which is the sensation of stomach fluid coming up through the chest into the mouth. Less common symptoms that may also be associated with gastroesophageal reflux include unexplained chest pain, wheezing, sore throat and cough, among others.

According to some physicians, planning ahead and knowing which over-the-counter (OTC) treatments may help are essential to keep your gatherings merry and bright.

"I always recommend heartburn sufferers be prepared and bring along a few over-the-counter treatments, like antacids or H2 blockers, when they are heading out for a party," says Dr. Tom Rupp, a Michigan-licensed gastroenterologist. "With regard to specific medications or brands, I would actually recommend patients just go with a store-brand treatment. Store-brand OTCs have the same efficacy as national brands and are approved by the FDA, but cost much less."

Allegan, Mich.-based Perrigo is a pharmaceutical company that manufactures and distributes most of the over-the-counter medications found under store-brand labels at leading retailers, grocers, club stores and pharmacies. According to Perrigo, these products are the primary treatments available over-the-counter for heartburn relief:

* Antacids. Antacids come as liquids and tablets like calcium carbonate (name brands: Rolaids and Tums)

* H2 blockers. Indicated for occasional heartburn, these medications are most effective when taken an hour before eating. Examples include famotidine and ranitidine (name brands: Pepcid and Zantac).

* Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs). PPIs are indicated for people who have heartburn at least twice a week. Omeprazole (name brand: Prilosec OTC) won't relieve heartburn right away - and may take up to four days for full effect - so they're not helpful for immediate, temporary relief after you've already overindulged.

"For most people, heartburn is nothing to worry about. However, if you're having ongoing symptoms, you need to see a doctor. The worst thing you could do is ignore chronic symptoms, hoping they'll resolve on their own," Rupp says.

You can find more information about the symptoms and treatments for heartburn at the National Institute of Health, or the American Society of Gastrointestinal Endoscopy.

The beautiful truth of aging - 4 steps for a healthy and active mind

11/7/2011

(ARA) - With age comes the inevitable anxiety of mental decline. A common misconception is brain health is predetermined and can't be changed - it's the "you're stuck with what you got" notion. But experts suggest brain health can be positively influenced throughout different stages in life.

A recent state-by-state ranking, America's Brain Health Index, delivers data on how well Americans are successfully incorporating the four dimensions of brain health - diet and nutrition, physical health, mental health and social well-being - into their daily lives.

The top-ranked state - Maryland - scored highest on the Index because of residents' performance on a number of health markers, including high consumption of fish rich in DHA and DHA-fortified foods and supplements, as well as a low incidence of Alzheimer's disease-related deaths. Residents of the states that ranked the lowest (Mississippi and Louisiana) can make adjustments to help get their brains in shape. See where your state ranked at www.beautiful-minds.com.

"Whether we live in the top-ranked states or in the areas that are below average, there are several ways to nurture and engage the mind to keep it healthy throughout our lives," says Dr. Majid Fotuhi, chairman of the Neurology Institute for Brain Health and Fitness, and assistant professor of neurology at Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine. "All too often I work with patients who need to make only a few lifestyle adjustments to see a marked change in their mental acuity. It's never too late to take action to improve your brain health."

Four easy steps to a beautiful mind

Step 1 - Get moving
Engage in physical activity for at least 30 minutes a day to encourage new brain cells and connections to form. Walk, take the stairs instead of the elevator, play sports or do something you enjoy outdoors.

Step 2 - Nourish your body and mind
Aim for a varied diet rich in colorful, fresh fruits and vegetables, washed with the skin on to take full advantage of the nutritional punch. Maximize your intake of DHA, the omega-3 fatty acid that makes up 97 percent of the omega-3s in the brain. Find it in fatty fish (salmon, tuna) or, if you are vegetarian, you can find it in algal DHA-fortified foods and beverages like juice, milk, eggs and in algal DHA supplements, including the Algal-900 DHA and BrainStrong lines found at CVS, Walgreens and Walmart. Find other products with algal DHA at www.lifesdha.com.

Step 3 - Embrace new activities
Commit to lifelong learning, which can take the form of brain-stimulating activities, including reading, creating art, completing crosswords, learning a new language or playing a new instrument. Keep a mentally engaged mind by living with a "use it or lose it" philosophy throughout life.

"The aging process involves increasing physical and emotional change and a heightened search for meaning and purpose," says Gay Hanna, executive director of the National Center for Creative Aging in Washington, D.C. "Expressing oneself through the creation of art can serve as a powerful way to honor life experiences. Embrace the idea of learning something new to help fuel your creative fire."

Step 4 - Expand your social network
Stay socially connected so you feel like you're a part of something. This can include social connections at work, in clubs, with friends and family and through volunteer groups or a religious congregation. Experts theorize that having a rich social network may also help support brain health in a variety of ways, from providing individuals better resources and support, to reducing stress and depression, to enhancing intellectual stimulation.

Inspirational stories of how people keep their minds beautiful can be found throughout the world. In the No. 1 ranked state - Maryland - 75-year-old Ernestine Shepherd transformed herself from an average middle-aged woman with a sedentary lifestyle into the world's oldest performing female bodybuilder according to Guinness World Records. Shepherd was recently named a 2011 Beautiful Mind, a campaign honoring inspirational adults over 55 who embody the four dimensions of brain health.

"It's important for people to know that age is just a number and you can get fit for life. Just be determined, dedicated and disciplined. But first and foremost, be positive, confident and filled with spirit," says Shepherd.

To learn more about brain health and to read inspiring stories from other Beautiful Minds visit www.beautiful-minds.com.

How students can meet the challenge of the evolving health care industry

1/5/2012

(ARA) - Health care reform has expanded access to health care insurance coverage to more than 30 million new patients beginning in 2014, stretching the resources of health care facilities nationwide. Meanwhile, the introduction of new regulations and technological innovations, as well as the rapid adoption of electronic health records (EHRs), have added new layers to an already complex industry.

Health care administration professionals navigate this complicated system from the business side, ensuring that health care delivery processes run smoothly and patients continue to receive quality care. They balance the influx of new patients while maintaining resources.

With the health care industry showing no signs of slowing down, these professionals are in high demand. Health care is the fastest growing sector of the economy, with its professional positions predicted to account for 26 percent of all new jobs created in the United States between 2008 and 2018, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Employment of health care administration professionals, specifically, is expected to increase much faster than the average for all occupations.

Graduates with education in health care policy, information systems, accounting, budgeting and analysis in diverse provider settings will be poised for greater probability of career success.

Some universities now offer degree programs specifically designed for this career track. For example, interested students can now enroll in a bachelor's degree program in Healthcare Administration at DeVry University. The program is broken down into two specializations: Healthcare Informatics and Healthcare Management. Health Informatics students will also experience lab courses that allow them to explore data requirements for gathering and testing, as well as data analysis for decision-making and business intelligence.

"Industry innovations or expansion often lead to job opportunities, and the health care industry is ripe with available positions for graduates with related education," says Joseph York, national dean for the College of Health Sciences, DeVry University. "Healthcare administration degree holders are particularly valuable. They are equipped with the fundamental business analysis and management skills necessary to adapt and succeed when faced with evolving health care challenges."

The variety of this line of work is appealing to many professionals. From the size of its work settings - from hospitals to health care services companies - to its unique specializations, healthcare administration presents attractive options for each unique professional.

Many industries continue to cut jobs or freeze hiring due to the poor economy, yet the health care industry has remained a beacon of opportunity. Health care administration is one of its most high-growth fields, promising rewarding opportunities for professionals of all ages.

Meningococcal meningitis cases peak in winter months; help protect your children by getting them vaccinated today

12/12/2011

(ARA) - School nurses are urging parents to vaccinate their preteens and teens against meningococcal disease, a rare but potentially life-threatening bacterial infection that can cause meningitis and take a child's life in just a single day. Cases of meningococcal disease begin to peak during the late-winter and early-spring months, so now is a perfect time to be sure children have been vaccinated.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that preteens and teens get vaccinated beginning at age 11 with a booster dose by 18 years of age. Despite this recommendation, more than a third of teens 13-17 years of age in this country have not been vaccinated against meningitis, leaving far too many children unprotected.

"Parents may be unaware about the importance of meningococcal vaccination, and that public health officials now recommend a booster dose by 18 years of age," said Linda Davis-Alldritt, MA, BSN, RN, FNASN, FASHA, and President of the National Association of School Nurses (NASN). "School nurses nationwide have joined with families affected by meningitis and public health officials to educate communities about the dangers of meningitis and the need for vaccination."

Gaitley Batton knows all too well the dangers of this disease - she contracted meningitis on New Year's Day as a child. Gaitley was fortunate to survive, but not without consequence - she had to have her leg amputated below the knee due to tissue damage caused by the disease.

Gaitley and her mother Heidi Moody have joined the NASN's Voices of Meningitis campaign, in collaboration with Sanofi Pasteur, to raise awareness about the disease and the importance of vaccination for preteens and teens.

"I continue to live with the lasting effects of this disease every day," said Batton. "No one should have to go through what my family and I did, which is why I'm sharing my story. Vaccination is the best way to help protect preteens and teens from this disease."

About 10 percent of the 1000 to 1200 Americans who get meningococcal meningitis each year will die. Like Gaitley, many who survive this disease - one in five - are left with serious medical problems, including amputation of limbs, brain damage, deafness, and organ damage.

Adolescents are thought to be at increased risk for meningitis because of common, everyday activities they engage in with other teens, like sharing drinking glasses and kissing, since meningococcal bacteria are spread from person to person through close contact. Not getting enough sleep can also increase their risk of getting the disease. A national telephone survey found that nearly 82 percent of teens engage in many of these activities. The result? Teens put themselves at risk for getting meningitis every day, making vaccination all the more important.

"Winter break is a great time to get preteens and teens vaccinated, and parents need to know that any health-care visit is an opportunity to discuss vaccination," said Moody. "Parents should make it their priority to schedule a vaccination appointment. Don't wait, do it today."

Visit www.VoicesOfMeningitis.org, www.nasn.org or Raise Your Voice Against Meningitis on Facebook for more information.

Overactive bladder? What you should know if you always 'gotta go'

11/21/2011

(ARA) - Do you constantly feel like you "gotta go"? When you leave the house, do you always look where the nearest bathroom is, just in case? Bladder control problems are more common than you might think. Having an Overactive Bladder can affect your quality of life, and 16 percent of the adult population, or about 33 million people, have this condition, according to the Journal of Urology.

People with an Overactive Bladder, or OAB, often experience:
1. High urinary frequency: More than eight times in a 24 hour period
2. Urinary urgency: A strong, compelling need to urinate that cannot be delayed
3. Urge incontinence: Wetting accidents which occur before reaching a toilet

If you have bladder control issues, don't let embarrassment stand in the way of finding a solution. After talking with a doctor, most people start with conservative therapies. For example, doing exercises like kegels to strengthen the pelvic floor muscle. Other first-step treatment options might include dietary modification, bladder training programs and prescription medication.

Unfortunately, conservative therapies fail up to 80 percent of people. Prescription medications are not an option for many people, and for others, they may experience unwanted side effects and stop taking them altogether. Exercise and diet modification can be strict and require a timely commitment. Furthermore, the results might not live up to what patients are hoping for.

Treatments like surgery work, but if you don't want to go the invasive route, there is one more option to consider.

Bladder function is regulated by a group of nerves at the base of the spine called the sacral nerve plexus. By stimulating these nerves through gentle electrical impulses, you can gain better control of your bladder.

Posterior Tibial Nerve Stimulation, otherwise known as PTNS, is a non-drug, non-surgical therapy that is helping many people with OAB take control. The Urgent PC Neuromodulation System provides this low-risk treatment by indirectly stimulating the nerves responsible for bladder function using a nerve in your lower leg. Up to 80 percent of people who get PTNS have significant improvement in their bladder control symptoms, even when other treatment options have failed them in the past.

To get an Urgent PC treatment, you visit a clinician's office. During treatment you will sit with your foot elevated. This allows the clinician to stimulate the area near your tibial nerve using a very thin needle temporarily placed in your ankle. Impulses travel along your leg to the nerves in your pelvis that control bladder function.

What does a PTNS treatment feel like? Most people simply feel a mild tingling sensation in their foot or ankle during treatment. You will receive an initial series of 12 treatments for 30 minutes each, typically scheduled a week apart. After the initial 12 treatments, you may only need occasional treatments or none at all.

Urinary incontinence may be caused by a number of things. For many, it could be a normal part of the aging process. For some women, pregnancy and childbirth are the cause. Men may experience OAB due to prostate surgery. Injury, chronic disease and obesity are also causes. No matter what the reason, there likely is a solution for you. For more information, visit www.urgentpcinfo.com.

Keep fitness off your New Year's resolution list

12/1/2011

(ARA) - You've vowed to get fit with the start of each New Year. This year don't. Why not? First, because resolutions don't work. Second, because fitness isn't something you start, it's something you live. Stop starting. Start living.

Here's how:

* Don't wait. Leave the December binge/January purge cycle behind. If you tend to blow off moderation in favor of "treating" yourself and justifying poor choices, it's time to reframe your approach. Vow to conquer the holidays in healthy ways. Start by taking the initiative to cook holiday meals so you can prepare healthy options, and during the party circuit, don't succumb to the pressure to indulge. "Learn to say no thank you," says Tom Nikkola, director of nutrition and weight management for Life Time Fitness. "Not 'No thank you, I'm on a diet,' or 'No thank you, I'm trying to stick to my nutrition plan,' because friends might give you a hard time and egg you on."

Keep in mind that the satisfaction of any cookie will only last until you swallow it. "Chances are one cookie - which often leads to several cookies - won't be worth the frustration, or failure, you might feel for hours or days afterward," Nikkola says. "Plus, when you make good decisions you'll feel more empowered. In effect, you remain in control, not the food."

* Find a community. A fit lifestyle is a family and friend affair. So are the holidays. Take the initiative to bring them together. Suggest that your family start a tradition to head out on a pre- or post-meal hike. Recruit a friend to adopt one new healthy habit in December (it takes approximately 28 days for a habit to stick). Sign up for an athletic event in 2012, that will motivate you to keep moving in December - such as one of the 67 indoor triathlons hosted by Life Time.

Katie Sloan of Chicago is recruiting friends and family to gather at the Santa Hustle 5K. "Growing up we had so many family traditions especially around Christmas," Sloan says. "What better way to make sure we spend time together as a family and commence the holiday season?" She has convinced 25 loved ones that a 5K is the perfect mix of exercise and holiday fun. "Whether the race is completed in 24 minutes or 2 hours, it is something we get to do together," she says. Spending time with people you care about, she added, is what makes the holidays meaningful.

* Take what you can get. Sure there will be days when the holiday rush feels overwhelming. That's no reason to skip exercising altogether. Even if you have just 10 minutes for a brisk walk, or can only manage a set of pushups as your morning shower heats up, your body will appreciate that small deposit toward your overall fitness. Jake Booth, a personal trainer at Life Time Fitness Omaha, says that any workout, no matter the duration, will keep burning calories once you go back to sitting at your desk. "Even a short burst of exercise - even 10 minutes if that's all you have - is shown to increase metabolism for up to one hour," he says.

A short workout will keep the mental momentum going, too. After all, if you skip one day, what will keep you from skipping the next day too? And we all know how stressful the holidays can be. "Exercise increases energy and individuals usually experience better sleeping patterns," Booth adds. Stepping away from the seasonal stress, he says, will also help you return to your task at hand with more clarity and focus.

When fitness is core to your lifestyle, as opposed to a chore, you're far more likely to spend the season in jolly good spirits, thanks to exercise-induced endorphins. "These chemicals released by the brain are the body's natural painkillers and usually lead to an increase in feelings of happiness," Booth says. So don't just survive the holidays, or suffer through them with the intention to try harder next year. Start living now, and while you're at it let those endorphins help you have a happier holiday too.

Five must-make health-related New Year's resolutions

11/29/2011

(ARA) - If you're not planning on adding "lose weight" to your list of New Year's resolutions, you're in the minority. In fact, losing weight is one of the most commonly made resolutions, year after year. But it's definitely not the only health resolution you should consider making for 2012.

While losing weight offers a host of benefits for many people, addressing other health issues, like your hearing health and psychological well-being, can make equally compelling New Year's resolutions.

Go ahead and add "drop a few pounds" to your resolution list, but consider jotting these ideas down as well:

1. Resolve to take care of your hearing health.

About 10 percent of Americans report having hearing difficulties, and that includes about 1.4 million children, according to the Better Hearing Institute (BHI). You may think you're too young to worry about your hearing, but the BHI also reports that the majority of people with hearing loss (65 percent) are younger than 65. Our increasingly noisy world exposes people of all ages to potentially damaging sounds, so it's more important than ever to pay attention to your hearing health.

Have your hearing professionally tested every year. If you're diagnosed with hearing loss, talk to your health care provider to determine if a hearing aid will help you. Hearing aids are now more discreet, versatile and effective than ever thanks to advances from manufacturers like Starkey. The hearing aid maker's Wi Series employs wireless technology, enhances TV and radio listening, and eliminates the need for manual adjustments. In addition, all of its hearing aids including Wi Series and X Series can help reduce background noise while preserving speech understanding.

2. Resolve to take care of your emotional health.

Stress seems like a natural part of our busy lives these days, but too much stress can be harmful to your overall well-being. According to WebMD, stress can negatively affect your mental health, your immune system, heart, digestive system, skin, lungs and reproductive organs.

Resolve to take steps to relieve stress. Stress-busting can take on many forms for many people, whether it's spending time with a pet (interacting with animals can lower blood pressure and heart rate), listening to music, meditating or getting rigorous exercise. Don't worry over how you relieve stress, just do what feels right for you and fits into your schedule and lifestyle and you'll reap the benefits.

3. Resolve to take care of your bone health.

Healthy bones are important for everyone, not just post-menopausal women and growing children. Most of your body's calcium is stored in the bones and teeth. When your body doesn't get enough calcium from outside sources, it starts drawing what it needs from storage, and osteoporosis occurs.

While anyone can experience osteoporosis, certain groups are more at risk than others, including Caucasian women who have gone through menopause, older adults, people who are small in stature, and those with low-calcium diets or who are physically inactive, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Ensure your diet includes the recommended amount of calcium per day, and stay active by doing physical activities that help build bone strength, such as walking, running, dancing and weight lifting.

4. Resolve to take care of your feet.

The condition of your feet can clue you in to your overall health, and signs of serious problems like arthritis, diabetes and circulatory issues can all be detected in the feet. More Americans have foot pain than in any other part of their bodies they consider vital to health, such as the skin, teeth or even the heart, according to a survey by the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA).

To prevent foot problems, make sure you wear shoes that fit well and offer plenty of support, don't wear the same pair every day, and avoid walking around barefoot, the APMA advises. If you experience foot pain, don't ignore it; seek a doctor's help.

5. Resolve to get more rest.

Think you're OK squeaking by with just five hours of sleep a night? Think again. The National Sleep Foundation (NSF) says sleep is essential to your overall health and well-being, yet 60 percent of American adults say they have problems sleeping a few nights a week or more. On average, adults need about eight hours of sleep; some will be alright with an hour or two less, while others will need more.

To help ensure you get the rest you need, maintain a regular sleep schedule, avoid caffeine for at least four hours before bedtime, don't have a heavy meal or drink alcohol before you sleep, and create a sleep-friendly environment with minimal light and noise.

More Americans looking to food as a source for everyday wellness

12/22/2011

(ARA) - It was about 60 years ago that processed foods and fast-food outlets started to become mainstays of the American lifestyle. The fast-food culture that developed tended to view eating as an inconvenience, providing basic fuel for the day and not much else.

More than half a century later, many Americans are more particular about the foods they choose for themselves and their families. In fact, people are seeking out the added health benefits that can be provided by functional or "super" foods. According to the 2011 IFIC Functional Foods Survey, as many as 90 percent of Americans can match at least one food with its associated health benefit. Popular functional foods like fruits and vegetables, fish and fish oil, whole grains, tea and green tea were among the foods Americans look to the most to maintain or improve their health.

This apparent increase in the awareness of good nutrition bodes well for the future, and may partly explain the recent uptick in discussions about health-related concerns. However, while knowledge of functional foods is increasing, health care costs and astronomical obesity rates seem to demonstrate that knowledge doesn't always reflect action.

"The good news is that nutrition education is working to raise awareness of the health benefits of nature's ingredients, but the ongoing challenge is to translate awareness into behavior modification," says registered dietician Ashley Koff, whose nonprofit tool, "Ashley Koff Approved", helps people identify products that meet a high standard of nutrition and marketing integrity. "A major impediment to making change continues to be the perception that it will require an expensive and complicated total diet overhaul. I strive to communicate that dietary improvements are very simple, affordable and enjoyable. For example, add a cup of tea to your day - all you need is water and a tea bag."

Koff's easy-to-follow tips for improving wellness through dietary habits include:

* Minimize the added sugar - Many products that you may not expect like tomato sauce and breads have added sugars, so make sure to check the label before you make a purchase.

* Start your day off right - Eat a complete, well-balanced breakfast and try adding a cup of tea - white, green, black, oolong or herbal - for antioxidants (nature's clean-up crew) and other health benefits. Celestial Seasonings offers a variety of green teas and wellness teas that are delicious, natural and healthful.

* Focus on a balanced diet - The best bet for optimal energy is a nutrition plan comprised of four pillars: quantity, quality, frequency and balance.

* Think evolution, not revolution - It will seem less stressful to think about making exchanges rather than omissions to your diet (and stress reduction puts another check on your health report). You get the biggest health benefits by improving the quality of the items you consume most frequently, so focus on upgrading your daily staples. For instance, select items that do not use potentially harmful pesticides, choose to eat raw, whole (versus processed) vegetables, drink water with lemon or eat a piece of fruit instead and limit fruit juices.

* Incorporate color - Count the colors you consume and challenge yourself to see how many colors you can include in a single meal. Of course, it's important to remember that the good colors are those found naturally in fruits and vegetables.

It's safe to say that Americans will occasionally indulge in nutrient poor meals this year. But perhaps we'll be enjoying more healthful foods, too, as many of us strive to achieve a more optimal wellness level.

For more information about Celestial Seasonings teas, visit Facebook.com/celestialseasonings.

Your New Year's resolution might be even more important than you think

1/17/2012

(ARA) - Every January, many Americans make New Year's resolutions, many of them to improve their health in the new year. We change our diets, start exercising and make our annual doctors' appointments for physical check-ups. As you work toward a healthier you in 2012, here are some helpful tips to aid your discussion with your doctor.

First, it's always a good idea to address any changes you plan to make to your diet or exercise routines so that your doctor can ensure it is a healthy regimen for you. Next, if you are taking any prescriptions, you may want to make a list and review them with your doctor to ensure they are up to date. Lastly, tell your doctor about any and all health symptoms or changes you may be experiencing, no matter how insignificant you think they may be. Some seemingly minor symptoms, such as dry mouth, may actually be a sign of a more serious condition like Sjogren's (SHOW-grins) syndrome, in which the body's immune system attacks and destroys moisture producing glands.

Sjogren's affects an estimated 4 million Americans - but most people have never heard of it. In fact, the average time from onset of symptoms to diagnosis is almost seven years. One reason for the delay in diagnosis may be that patients wait months (and sometimes even years!) before discussing their symptoms with their doctors. This is often because patients may not connect their symptoms, like cavities or a sore, cracked tongue, with dry mouth, which means they may not be describing their dry-mouth symptoms accurately or thoroughly when they finally do speak to a physician.

"As a Sjogren's patient, I know how uncomfortable dry mouth can be, yet I never mentioned my dry mouth to my doctors until my dental hygienist noticed symptoms and asked me about them," says Kathy McCarren from Woodbridge, Va. "Now I always suggest to others that if they notice that they are drinking a lot of liquids or have difficulty chewing, swallowing or talking because their mouths are dry, they need to tell their health care professionals right away. Not only can dry mouth lead to increased dental cavities, like it did for me, but it can also lead to more serious health problems."

If you are experiencing dry-mouth symptoms, make it your resolution to Defy the Dry in 2012 and talk to your doctor or dentist about your symptoms. For more information on Sjogren's syndrome, visit www.DefytheDry.com. There, you will find tools to help aid productive conversations about dryness symptoms with your doctor, such as a Sjogren's symptoms checklist.

To make the most of your conversations with your doctor, be sure to bring a copy of the Sjogren's symptoms checklist and follow these helpful tips:

* Be prepared to explain your dry-mouth symptoms in detail, including how they affect your daily activities (e.g., eating a meal, public speaking).
* Tell your doctor if you've been taking any over-the-counter products, lozenges, or other treatments to relieve your dryness symptoms. How you're managing your symptoms now can help your doctor determine a treatment plan that's right for you.
* Be honest! The more accurate information your doctor has, the more he or she can help you.
* Ask questions and take notes during the discussion.

Don't let another year pass before you Defy the Dry. If you are experiencing dry-mouth symptoms, make it a point to talk to your doctor or dentist about your symptoms.

The Defy the Dry campaign is sponsored by the Sjogren's Syndrome Foundation (SSF) and Daiichi Sankyo, Inc.

Five hot fitness tips for cold weather

10/31/2011

(ARA) - Finding time for exercise during the hectic holiday months can be challenging. For many people, a fitness regime gets tossed out with the wrapping paper. This makes getting back into a consistent exercise routine for the New Year an essential but difficult battle. And during dark winter months, fewer daylight hours and cooler temperatures can decrease motivation for even the most dedicated fitness buffs.

Despite discouraging factors during the winter, Americans should continue to strive to get back on track with moderate physical activity. According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, most adults need at least 30 minutes of exercise five days each week to stay healthy. Here are five tips to help you get in gear and stay on the path to good health this winter.

* Sneak in fitness activities
Biking is a fun way to get a workout, without feeling like you are working out. Bicycle commuting burns an average of 540 calories per hour. "Half of all trips we make are three miles or less, so biking instead of driving for short trips is a great way to get your daily exercise," says Tim Blumenthal, director of PeopleForBikes.org.

* Find a partner
Exercising with someone else will help keep you committed to physical activity. Studies show people who work out with a friend are more likely to exercise consistently. Walk with a neighbor or join a group bike ride organized by a bike store or local club.

* Bundle up
Investing in quality winter gear will keep you ready for many different weather conditions. Dress in layers and remove clothing as you warm up. Look for light, breathable fabric that isn't too bulky. Also, don't forget to adequately cover your hands and feet.

* Add variety
Mixing exercise activities will keep your body and your brain from getting bored. If you normally run or walk, try alternative cardio workouts. If you live in an area with snow, cross-country skiing or snowshoeing can effectively burn calories. In mild climates, try riding your bike up a steep hill several times in a row: now that's a workout.

* Embrace nature
Consider trading your indoor treadmill for outdoor recreation. A study conducted by the Peninsula College of Medicine and Dentistry found exercising in natural environments was associated with greater feelings of revitalization, increased energy and positive engagement. Although it can be hard to get motivated when it's chilly outside, the fresh air will provide a better workout.

These tips will help you jump common winter exercise barriers. Keeping off those extra pounds during the winter will prepare you well for spring and swimsuit season. And, even more important, staying active during the winter will help you feel your best all year round.

This flu season Brandi Chastain encourages families: Don't wait to vaccinate

10/13/2011

(ARA) - With schools in session, it's a busy time of year for most families, and there's plenty of stress without having to worry about catching the flu. To help raise awareness about the importance of flu vaccination as the best defense against the flu, soccer legend and mom Brandi Chastain has teamed up with MedImmune for the third year in a row on a national campaign called "When Will You Pick?," encouraging families to make flu vaccination a priority as soon as vaccine is available each year.

"Keeping my family healthy and active is my number-one goal, so we make sure to get our flu vaccine as soon as possible every year," says Chastain. "Make appointments with your doctor to help protect your eligible family members today."

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommend all eligible individuals ages 6 months and older receive an annual flu vaccination as soon as it becomes available, which means now is a perfect time to get yourself and your eligible family members vaccinated. In fact, it's ideal for individuals to get vaccinated before the flu season begins so the immune system has enough time to produce the antibodies needed to protect against flu infections.

"Vaccination is the best defense we have against influenza, so families should make getting a vaccination a priority every year." says Dr. Anat Feingold, pediatrician, influenza expert, and mother of three. "Individuals should also take everyday steps to help prevent the spread of germs, such as washing their hands and covering their coughs, but vaccination should be the first step."

This year's flu vaccine contains the same three strains as last year's vaccine, because the same flu viruses are still circulating. Even though you may have received the vaccine last year, the CDC still encourages individuals to get vaccinated this year, regardless of whether the viruses in the vaccine have changed since the previous season because immunity to the virus wanes over time. There are two types of flu vaccine available - the shot and the nasal spray. Not all flu vaccines are right for all people so families should talk to their healthcare provider about which vaccine option is right for them.

An average of 5 to 20 percent of the U.S. population becomes ill with the flu each year, and more than 200,000 of these individuals are hospitalized due to complications. The flu can be especially serious for children. Each year, an average of 20,000 children under age 5 are hospitalized as a result of flu complications, and children ages 2 to 17 are twice as likely to get the flu as adults.

To learn more about the importance of flu vaccination, visit www.facebook.com/dontwaitvaccinate, which offers tips for staying healthy throughout the flu season, a quiz to test influenza knowledge, and videos and photos featuring Chastain. Also, for everyone who "likes" the Facebook fan page, $1 (up to $50,000) will be donated to help support the nationwide flu vaccination education efforts of the nonprofit organization Families Fighting Flu.

Registered nurses encouraged to pursue bachelor's degrees

1/26/2012

(ARA) - As many industries scaled back and cut resources in the last year, health care continued to grow, adding an average of 26,000 jobs per month, according to the U.S Bureau of Labor Statistics. This trend is likely to continue as technological innovations and new regulations prompt additional oversight within the health care setting.

In order to meet the needs of this increasingly complex health care system, industry leaders, such as the Institute of Medicine (IOM), recommend an increase in the proportion of nurses with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree from 50 percent to 80 percent by 2020. With these additional skills, registered nurses (RNs) will be prepared to deliver high-quality patient care and, as the IOM recommends, become partners with physicians and other health care professionals in redesigning health care in the United States.

Some schools of nursing offer specialized nursing degree programs that help meet this call to action. Chamberlain College of Nursing, for example, offers an online degree completion option that allows RNs to earn their BSN in as few as three semesters - as opposed to traditional three- or four-year nursing programs - without altering their current work schedule. With the flexibility of online learning, completing a BSN degree is an attractive investment for RNs.

"Nurses who hold a bachelor's degree have additional training in leadership, health policy, research, teamwork, collaboration and other skills that are integral to the successful function of many health care roles," says Dr. Margi Wheeler, a registered nurse and dean of the RN-BSN online degree option at Chamberlain College of Nursing. "That type of advanced education positions nurses as more viable job candidates for managerial roles such as nursing director, clinical nurse manager or nurse practitioner, for example."

RNs who earn their BSN degree can be qualified for nursing positions in private practices, hospitals, surgical centers and nursing homes and have greater upward mobility, whether they aspire to enter management, training, director or facilitator positions. RN-BSN graduates are also one step closer to master's degree status, which can open doors to higher levels of health care leadership.

"Nurses can and should play an integral role in the health care system's transformation," says Wheeler. "Working together and encouraging each other to pursue advanced degrees, we can help to provide safer care that is accessible to all and leads to a healthier population."

Nurses are being called upon to fill new roles in the health care setting. From harnessing new technologies and information management systems to collaborating across teams of health care professionals, nurses are expanding their presence and the traditional definition of the profession. To continue to advance the role of the nurse and meet the needs of an evolving industry, nurses must achieve higher levels of education that allow them to elevate the profession and to better serve patient needs nationwide.

Simulation training: a growing, life-saving trend

10/6/2011

(ARA) - High tech mannequins bleed, cough, speak, cry and teach students, nurses and physicians every day in environments where mistakes aren't deadly. They are used in hospital and university simulation centers and they are increasingly becoming a part of the training and continuing education of health care professionals.

Nearly 100,000 patients die as a result of medical errors in the United States each year, according to the National Institutes of Health. In an effort to address this startling statistic, medical institutions and universities are seeking ways to improve patient safety, reduce medical errors and keep costs down. Simulation training is a valuable and proven tool that not only helps medical professionals with skill development, but also improves patient outcomes.

Once offered only at select teaching hospitals, simulation (or "sim") labs are growing in popularity in mainstream medical facilities, and are now becoming a trend at universities, as well.

Phoenix-based Grand Canyon University (www.gcu.edu) is one example. GCU's College of Nursing and Health Sciences recently opened a state-of-the-art simulation lab featuring mannequins with lifelike qualities such as blood pressure points, pupils that respond to light, pores, heartbeats and breathing lungs. The SimMan3G is controlled through a wireless computer network and is connected to working monitors to add to the realistic training.

The sim lab also includes an obstetrics room with a birthing mother and babies, a pediatrics room with a child mannequin, three exam rooms, and an apartment for home health care and hospice training. The apartment allows for staged scenarios where nursing students identify potential safety and medical hazards in a home environment and have the opportunity to interact with a live patient. Specially trained theater students serve as patients, helping future nurses learn to read facial expressions and bridge the gap between education and clinical practice.

"Using simulated case scenarios in nursing allows students to experience 'real life' situations in a controlled environment before they care for patients and families," says Anne McNamara, dean and professor of nursing at GCU's College of Nursing and Health Sciences. "When students are then placed in the clinical setting, their confidence is greater."

Many studies show that clinical skills are enhanced through simulation. In a 2009 Northwestern University study, medical residents with sim lab experience needed fewer needle passes to insert an IV and were more confident about their procedural skills compared with residents who received traditional training. In another Northwestern study, the rate of infection from resident-inserted catheters in the ICU decreased from 3.20 to 0.50 per 1,000 following simulation instruction.

Sophisticated mannequin training systems can cost as much as $250,000 apiece. Simpler, less expensive, options include partial task trainers, such as a mannequin arm or foot, which allows clinicians to focus on specialty training. Procedures can be captured on video and errors can be caught, reviewed and addressed - before it really counts.

Sim labs are on a major upswing in popularity and precision as the practice provides consistent, reliable and measurable results. In 2003, only 29 percent of emergency medicine residency programs used some form of simulation in training. In 2008, that number rose to 85 percent, with 43 percent owning their own mannequins.

While simulation facilities can be costly to build and operate, industry leaders and educators agree the investment pays off through reduced medical errors and the ability to provide better patient care.

GCU Simulation Lab Director Sheila Searles explained that students often feel intimidated when first asked to interact with a "plastic dummy." However, once simulation begins, they suspend their disbelief and get emotionally involved. "It's amazing to watch their skills grow over time. They begin to think of the mannequins as real patients and will sometimes even cry after interacting with them."

Planning for the inevitable: Start young and be prepared

12/14/2011

(ARA) - Ashley, a vibrant, active 37-year-old lawyer, mother of three young children and part-time Pilates instructor has a to-do list longer than her combined client case load. When she learned that her next-door neighbor, a mother of four children who pal around with her kids, had terminal cancer, her mind went in many directions.

How could she help? What should she say? How will the children respond? How was her friend handling this crisis? But one thought intruded regularly into her daily routine - if this happened to her, how would she and her family handle the impending end to her life? She was clueless on how to approach the subject, but day by day, as she realized the fragility of life, she became more convinced that a conversation was critical regarding her wishes and her husband's.

This is both an ordinary and an unusual scenario. Ordinary because few people younger than 40 have thoughts of planning for dying. Unusual because Ashley didn't dismiss her concerns. Rather, she wanted to tackle the issue and get to-do items done.

Hospice of the Western Reserve recognizes the courage it takes to approach one's end of life. As one of the country's best-known hospice and palliative care providers, the agency offers this kind of advice for all ages in a booklet called "Courage in Conversation: A Personal Guide."

The guide tackles not only the care you want in the event that you are no longer able to speak or think for yourself, but also how to begin the discussion - as early in your adulthood as possible. By talking about what you want, you are exhibiting the courage to confront one of life's most difficult moments - at a time when you are thinking clearly. There are a few points to consider as you begin this process:

1. Have a plan as to how you will share your wishes. Will you have things written down? With whom will you be talking?

2. Create an environment that is conducive to listening. It is usually helpful to sit down with your loved ones and try to be at the same eye level.

3. Share the information in small segments. Avoid apologizing for the information you are sharing. These are your wishes for one of life's most important moments.

4. Allow time for your loved ones to process information and respond. This is one of the most important things you can do. They may have questions or feelings to share with you, but may need time to process your desires.

Next steps may include researching resources to help support your loved ones, such as funeral and financial arrangements, creation of advance care documents - your living will and your powers of attorney - or simply stating where your advance care planning documents will be stored. Long-term planning will mean periodic review of your documents to ensure that friends, family members and even physicians are updated as necessary and that wishes have remained constant as new technologies are created and laws change.

This end-of-life planning process doesn't happen overnight. It takes thought, emotional readiness and time to sort out the options and ready oneself for this serious undertaking. Sharing your choices through conversation is an important first step. In the long run, the conversations will be the greatest gift to those you love, giving them the confidence to act knowingly on your behalf and the comfort of knowing that your wishes will be honored.

What you need to know before undergoing a cosmetic medical procedure

10/12/2011

(ARA) - As the quest for the perfect body and flawless face continues, many consumers have turned to spas, salons and walk-in clinics for cosmetic medical procedures at bargain prices. With the number of these facilities increasing, more consumers are influenced to believe that certain cosmetic procedures are easy, inexpensive and risk-free.

"In many instances, dermatologic surgeons, who are properly trained and experienced in performing cosmetic medical procedures, are sought to correct the mistakes of inexperienced and unqualified physicians," says Dr. Susan Weinkle, president-elect of the American Society for Dermatologic Surgery (ASDS). "Consumers should be aware that lower prices do not mean equal training and treatment, and should be cautious that these discounted prices could put their health at risk as a result of the provider's inadequate training and lack of expertise."

Dr. Weinkle and the ASDS urge consumers to recognize that all cosmetic procedures are medical procedures that should be performed by a qualified physician or under the close supervision of an appropriately trained physician.

Serious side effects, such as burns, infections, scars and pigmentation disorders can occur when consumers visit non-physicians or physicians who do not specialize in dermatology and perform treatments like laser hair removal, deep chemical peels, acne therapy and other procedures, says Dr. Weinkle. Non-physicians do not have the necessary medical training, and physicians who are not board-certified in dermatology lack the qualifications to determine and optimally perform the best treatment for your concern, or to handle complications adequately, should they occur.

"It's critical that consumers take precautions and understand that dermatologic surgeons with the experience and knowledge of the health and function of the skin should perform cosmetic surgery procedures," Dr. Weinkle says.

The ASDS suggests consumers follow these tips before undergoing any cosmetic medical procedure:

* Check credentials: Research the physician before undergoing the procedure to ensure that he or she is board-certified in dermatology. To find a board-certified dermatologic surgeon, visit www.ASDS.net.

* Don't rely on price: If a procedure's cost seems too good to be true, it probably is. Bargain-priced treatments may end up costing you in the long run if they cause harm, need correction or are ineffective.

* Make sure a doctor is on-site to closely supervise: Most cosmetic surgery procedures should be performed by a physician. If the physician is supervising a procedure, make sure he or she is immediately available on-site to respond to any questions or problems that may occur while the procedure is being performed.

* Ask questions: Always ask questions no matter how minor your questions may seem. Good questions include the following: Who will perform the procedure? Is this treatment right for me? What if something goes wrong? What procedures are in place to deal with an emergency? What training does the staff have? Is this laser, device or technique appropriate for my skin type? How many of the procedures do you perform in a month? May I see before and after photographs?

* Be sure your medical history is taken: Before undergoing any cosmetic surgery procedure, make sure the physician is aware of your medical history, including allergies to medications and previous surgeries.

* Don't be afraid to walk away: Trust your instincts. If it doesn't feel right, find a more reputable location.

For more information and to download a free pre-cosmetic surgery questionnaire, visit www.ASDS.net.

Don't let sore feet trip up your travel plans

12/22/2011

(ARA) - Whether you travel for business or pleasure, whether you fly, drive or take a train, there's one other mode of transportation you'll almost certainly use on your trip: your feet.

During the course of a regular day, the average person walks 8,000 to 10,000 steps, but that number can increase dramatically when you're traveling. From inappropriate footwear to long stretches of inactivity in cramped cars or airplane seats, traveling can be hard on your feet.

"Exploring a new destination with family and friends, or getting to that important business meeting on time should not involve having to struggle with foot pain," says Michael King, a podiatrist and president of the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA). "By following basic foot care practices, travelers can help ensure foot pain doesn't slow down their enjoyment of the journey."

If you're planning a trip, the APMA recommends you take a few steps to ease the wear and tear on your foot muscles and joints:

* Start out with the proper footwear. If you're flying, shoes that slide on and off easily make sense, but don't sacrifice health and safety for convenience. Choose footwear that is comfortable and supportive. Business travelers - especially women - may want to pack their dress shoes in their carry on and wear comfortable footwear while traveling. If you're driving, and don't have to worry about speedy shoe removal, go with a comfortable, supportive athletic shoe that will allow your feet to breathe and provides ample cushioning.

* Never go barefoot through airport security. While current security regulations require all travelers to remove their shoes, you're not required to remove your socks-unless a security officer asks you to. Keep your socks on to help protect your feet from dirt and bacteria.

* If possible, get up and walk around every 45 minutes. Sitting for long periods of time restricts blood flow to the legs and feet, which can lead to swelling and, in extreme cases, blood clots. If walking around isn't possible-if you're in a car for a couple of hours or stuck in your seat during a turbulent flight-exercise your legs, ankles and feet while seated. Roll your ankles and point your toes up and down to encourage blood flow. If you have the room to do so, raise each knee and hold it for a few seconds while tensing your thigh muscles. If your feet begin to swell, unlace your shoes.

* Even with the best precautions, vacation walking can create a foot emergency. Pack a foot care emergency kit that's equipped with adhesive bandages, antibiotic cream, tweezers and nail clippers. You can also include foot lotion for a soothing massage.

* Finally, travel time is no time to try breaking in new shoes. In fact, new shoes should never have to be "broken in" before they feel comfortable. Shoes should be comfortable, without chafing or pinching, from the first time you put them on, otherwise, don't buy them.

"Our research tells us that most Americans say they have foot pain at least some of the time," King says. "When you're traveling, it's no time to contend with foot pain. Travelers can protect their foot health by following simple precautions."

To learn more about foot health, or to find a podiatrist in your area, visit www.apma.org.

U.S. pets getting sicker; decline in vet visits blamed

10/25/2011

(ARA) - When Michele Sebesto, of Staten Island, N.Y., adopted JC 10 years ago, she said the chihuahua was an invaluable source of comfort. As a New Yorker, she'd just gone through the 9/11 attacks, and the two developed a special bond. Unfortunately, JC had some minor but persistent health problems.

About twice a year, JC would get a urinary tract infection. During an annual preventive care appointment when JC was about 4, Sebesto's veterinarian took an X-ray and made a startling discovery.

"When she showed me the X-ray, I couldn't believe it. The kidney stone was the size of a grape, which is pretty big for a chihuahua," Sebesto says. "My veterinarian did surgery to remove it, and I was pleasantly surprised at how fast JC bounced back."

After the surgery, JC was put on a special diet, and the dog, now 10, sees the veterinarian for regular checkups and has been healthy and free of urinary tract infections since the surgery.

Unfortunately, Sebesto is part of a shrinking population in the United States. Recent studies show that while the number of pets in America is increasing, fewer pet owners are bringing their pets in for regular checkups, and this could be causing a rise in preventable diseases.

"Despite the ever-increasing emotional bond we have with our pets, research shows pets are getting less preventive health care," says Dr. Rene A. Carlson, president of the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA). "At the same time, illnesses that are totally preventable, such as dental infections, ear infections, diabetes, intestinal worms and heartworms, are increasing."

Troubling trends
AVMA research shows that veterinary visits for cats and dogs have been on the decline for at least a decade. The average number of annual veterinary visits dropped between 2001 and 2006 from two visits a year for dogs to 1.5 and from one visit per year for cats to 0.7 visits, according to the AVMA's 2007 U.S. Pet Ownership and Demographics Sourcebook.

Perhaps it shouldn't be a surprise that, while veterinary care appointments have been declining, incidents of pet diseases have increased. In particular, totally preventable diseases are on the increase. The Banfield Pet Hospital's State of Pet Health 2011 Report found that since 2006 flea infestations were up in dogs by 16 percent and 12 percent in cats, diabetes increased 32 percent in dogs and 16 percent in cats, and hookworm infections in dogs were up 30 percent and 3.5 percent in cats.

An ounce of prevention
The vast majority of pet owners care deeply about their pet's health, says Carlson. In fact 59 percent of dog owners and 53 percent of cat owners say they would, in fact, take their pets to the veterinarian more often if they thought it would help their pet live longer, according to the Veterinary Care Usage Study.

"This study shows us that pet owners really do care about their pet's health and well-being, but they may not correlate the importance of regular checkups with maintaining health," Carlson says. "Pet owners shouldn't wait until a pet is sick to take it to the veterinarian, because pets, particularly cats, will often hide the symptoms of illness when they are sick. So your pet may be sick or in a great deal of pain and it would be very difficult for you to know."

Pets - excluding tortoises and some exotic birds - have much shorter lifespans than humans, and, as a result, diseases can develop more quickly. An annual checkup for dogs and cats is like a person going to see their doctor once every seven years. What's more, pets with existing health problems, like obesity, are at an even greater risk of developing a chronic condition.

"It is estimated that 40 percent of dogs and cats are obese. That's 54 million dogs and cats. Obesity can result in life-threatening illnesses such as diabetes, heart disease, and arthritis," Dr. Carlson says. With so much information now available on the Internet, it is estimated that about 40 percent of pet owners turn to the Internet before their veterinarian for pet health care information. But are they getting the right information from credible sources?

"While some websites may provide valuable background information on diseases, many do not. And relying on what may be misinformation may delay the inevitable visit to the veterinarian. By the time the owner finally gives up on what might likely be incorrect information from an untrained source or advice from other pet owners in a chat room, the pet may be twice as sick or the cure may be many times more difficult or costly. Your pet's veterinarian is the best source for advice on how you can keep your pets healthy, happy and with your family for a lifetime," Carlson says.

Sebesto agrees.

"I think that when you own an animal, you have to make a commitment to provide them with veterinary care," Sebesto says. "I take my dog into the veterinarian every year."

For more information, visit www.avma.org/ounceofprevention.

Tips to keep the holidays happy and healthy for asthma and allergy sufferers

10/26/2011

(ARA) - For millions of allergy sufferers, "allergy season" doesn't really end when warm weather leaves. With more time spent indoors where allergens like pet dander and volatile organic compounds linger, cold weather months can be just as unpleasant for people with allergies as spring and summer when pollen fills the air.

The holidays can be particularly difficult, as we visit family and friends and welcome guests - and the allergens they bring with them - into our homes.

"The holidays can present a variety of challenges for asthma and allergy patients," says New York City allergist Dr. Cliff Bassett, an ambassador for the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA). "Our indoor environment changes in many ways during the holidays, from having new people in our homes to bringing in potential airway irritants (exposure to potpourri, scented candles, etc.) as well as introduction of pine trees and dusty old holiday decorations."

AAFA offers some advice for helping minimize allergy and asthma triggers in your home this holiday season:

* Most people store holiday decorations in attics, basements or garages and they can pick up dust, mold and other irritants while in storage. Thoroughly clean all stored decorations before using them in your home. If one or more of these irritants is a trigger for you, wear a mask while cleaning. When you're done with the decorations this year, clean them again before you seal them in plastic bags and store them in airtight containers.

* If you or a loved one suffer from a tree or pollen allergy, artificial trees can be a less irritating substitute, provided you opt for one that's not coated with sprayed-on "snow." If you will be using a live tree, you can reduce mold problems by thoroughly wiping the trunk with a solution of lukewarm water and diluted bleach (one part bleach to 20 parts water). Before you bring the tree inside, use a leaf blower to remove pollen grains.

* Everyone loves the smell of the holiday, but scent-creating home accessories can be irritants. Limit the use of air fresheners like candles, oils and potpourri. If you really want to fill your home with a holiday aroma during a special occasion, try baking using naturally fragrant ingredients like vanilla, cinnamon or citrus.

* A crackling fire can create a warm, festive mood for holiday gatherings. To minimize potential irritation, don't use wood-burning stoves or fireplaces at all. If you use a gas fireplace, check vents and use secured doors, rather than screens, to reduce smoke entering the room.

* When giving a gift to someone with allergies or asthma, keep their potential triggers in mind. For example, some children with asthma may be irritated by the materials commonly used in stuffed animals. Look for products that do not have sensitizing or allergenic chemicals such as formaldehyde. You can also find a list of allergy and asthma-friendly products on the AAFA website, www.aafa.org/certified.

* When welcoming guests who have allergies or asthma, take preventative steps to help minimize irritants. Give your home a thorough cleaning (you probably would anyway because of the holiday) using cleaning products that can reduce allergens from hard surfaces, but that do not use harsh, potentially irritating chemicals. Vacuum using a high quality vacuum cleaner with a HEPA filter to reduce the chance of disturbing dust into the air.

See an allergist for further advice about holiday allergy triggers, which may spoil your fun, during the holiday season. No one wants to experience an allergy or asthma attack. By taking steps to minimize irritants in your home environment, you can help ensure that everyone's eyes are bright with holiday joy - and not because of allergies.

Gut check: Digestive health tips from nutrition expert Keri Glassman

12/7/2011

(ARA) - A new survey from The Dannon Company, conducted by StrategyOne, reveals that Americans are making health-conscious decisions about the foods they eat, with six in 10 saying they have made food purchases driven by health concerns. In particular, 43 percent say they have purchased a food to help their digestive system. "While this finding reveals a positive step for many Americans, it also means that more than half of us aren't paying close enough attention to our digestive health", said Dr. Miguel Freitas, Director of Health Affairs for Dannon.

Why is digestive health so important? For starters, the digestive system is where vitamins, nutrients and minerals are absorbed, so it's important to take good care of it. In addition, a healthy and well-functioning digestive system can lead to better overall well-being.

The good news is, there are many steps we can take to improve our digestive health, including easy changes to the foods we buy and eat. Nutrition expert Keri Glassman, founder and president of Nutritious Life and author of the best-selling book, The O2 Diet, shares her simple steps for a healthier digestive system:

* Eat until you're satisfied, not stuffed. When eating a snack or meal, the goal is to feel satiated (the feeling when hunger goes away), not full or uncomfortable. Foods that contain whole grains will help you achieve this feeling while also delivering a strong dose of fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Try adding a helping of vegetables to round out a healthy meal without adding a lot of calories.
* Drink lots of fluids. Fluids can help ease the passage of food through the digestive tract. Drink at least one glass of water at every meal. If you're tired of plain water, add slices of lemons or oranges, or whole berries to pack a punch of flavor without extra calories.
* Choose digestion-friendly foods. Eating foods that contain probiotics ("friendly" bacteria) is an increasingly popular way to improve digestive health. In the Dannon survey, over half of Americans (54 percent) reported that they have consumed products containing probiotics, and two-thirds of these individuals say they consume them often. Seek out products with specific benefits, such as yogurt containing a probiotic culture called Bifidus Regularis, which helps regulate the digestive system when consumed daily for two weeks as part of a balanced diet and healthy lifestyle.
* Get moving. Regular exercise, including taking a walk after a meal, is a great way to keep your digestive tract on track. Be sure to stay hydrated before, during, and after a vigorous workout.
* Understand the gut-brain connection. The "gut feeling" isn't just a myth; the gut and brain are closely connected, and if you're feeling stressed, angry, or nervous, it can affect your digestive system. To maintain good digestive health, try to find ways to stay relaxed and stress-free.

To learn more about digestive health and the benefits of probiotics, speak with your health care provider or nutritionist.

Waking up to the serious problem of sleep apnea

11/15/2011

(ARA) - Many people struggling to get a restful night's sleep are unaware that a serious health problem may be keeping them up. Sleep apnea, which affects 18 million Americans, is a disorder which causes breathing to repeatedly pause during sleep. Sleep apnea lowers a person's blood oxygen level and results in a fragmented sleep pattern - making for a potentially dangerous health situation.

Sleep apnea is linked to major health conditions including diabetes, hypertension, obesity and coronary heart diseases. Often, sleep apnea goes undiagnosed by physicians since it is difficult detecting the condition during a routine office visit. In fact, untreated sleep apnea may cause up to $3.4 billion in additional medical costs in the United States. With the added challenge of having no blood tests available for diagnosing the problem, symptom recognition is extremely important. Discuss the possibility of sleep apnea if you answer positively to the below questions, using the acronym STOP:

Snore - Do you snore loudly?
Tired - Do you often feel tired, fatigued or sleepy during the daytime?
Observed - Has anyone observed you stop breathing during your sleep?
Pressure - Do you have or are you being treated for high blood pressure?

Once identified, a sleep study may need to be administered to confirm the diagnosis, which may require staying overnight in a sleep lab or self-administering a home sleep test.

Treatment may be an ongoing process, but with proper maintenance and care, the quality of life for patients with sleep apnea can improve. Here are some common tips and treatment options. Be sure to consult with your doctor, as they will be able to provide you with the best treatment plan based on your own individual health.

* Positive airway pressure devices (PAP): PAP devices are prescribed by your physician and come with a variety of breathing masks, meant to be worn over the nose and/or the mouth, supplying air into the throat, which prevents the airway from collapsing. These devices are most often obtained from a home health care company and are typically covered by insurance.

* Oral appliances: An oral appliance, which looks like a sports mouth guard or orthodontic retainer, is worn while sleeping and is designed to keep the airway open by preventing the tongue and soft tissues in the back of the throat from collapsing.

* Maintain a healthy weight: About 70 percent of people with sleep apnea are overweight or obese - a common link between diabetes and sleep loss is obesity. Taking steps to lose weight will increase your chances of managing sleep apnea and also reduce the risk of diabetes, a condition that comes with its own set of health problems like kidney disease, heart disease and blindness.

* Avoid alcohol consumption and smoking: Alcohol consumption relaxes the upper airway breathing muscles, which makes it difficult for the airway to remain open, further aggravating sleep apnea symptoms. Smoking swells the upper airway, which also worsens symptoms.

For more information and to see a video series on sleep apnea, visit www.LibertyMedical.com/video.

Decipher a headache's clues to determine most effective treatment options

10/20/2011

(ARA) - Nothing ruins a perfectly fine day quite like a headache. The pain can be impeding, disorienting and sometimes even nauseating. Roughly 45 million Americans suffer from recurring headaches, according to the National Headache Foundation. However, not all headaches are created equal. There are several different types, each with varying symptoms. Understanding different headache causes and treatments can help individuals be prepared.

Tension headaches, otherwise known as "stress" headaches, are the most common among adults. Symptoms include mild to moderate pain across the forehead or on the sides and back of the head and neck. This headache is often accompanied by a feeling of pressure or tightness. Tension headaches can be triggered by a wide range of factors, such as stress, fatigue, anxiety, hunger or poor posture. The most effective way to treat a tension headache is to take an over-the-counter (OTC) pain reliever and rest until the symptoms subside.

Migraine headache symptoms may involve moderate to severe pain. Patients who have sensitivity to light and sound may also experience nausea and dizziness. Migraine pain is often described as pounding or throbbing and is usually one-sided, lasting between four hours and three days. Unfortunately for migraine sufferers, these headaches are often hereditary and recurring. An OTC analgesic combination can be used as a first-line treatment, but this is most effective when used at or near the onset of a headache, or in conjunction with a prescription medication indicated for the treatment of migraines.

Cluster headaches are another variation, and are the least common. Cluster headaches occur more often in men, and happen several times a day, at the same time of day, for a period of time lasting five minutes to an hour. These headaches can cycle for up to a month or longer. This intense pain can be described as a burning or piercing feeling in or around the eye on one side of the head. The patient may also experience eyelid swelling, redness and tearing on one side. Those who suffer from cluster headaches often feel they cannot sit still and will pace during an attack. As with migraines, there are specific medical treatments available to decrease the duration and severity of cluster headaches.

Sinus headaches occur when a person's sinus passages become inflamed or clogged, causing a feeling of pressure in the face. People often confuse tension or migraine headaches with sinus headaches, as the symptoms overlap. A key difference is that these headaches are usually accompanied by other sinus-related symptoms, such as stuffiness, fever, cough and sore throat. To treat a sinus headache, OTC pain relievers can be used to decrease the pain, while an OTC decongestant can help reduce nasal passage swelling.

"There are a number of very effective over-the-counter first-line treatments available to address the symptoms of headaches," says Dr. Gary Ruoff, a physician certified in headache management and the author of numerous articles on headaches and pain management. "In fact, I recommend many of the 'store-brand' pain relievers sold at leading retailers and pharmacies, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen. These products are approved by the FDA and use the exact same active ingredients, but cost significantly less than the brand names."

Allegan, Mich.-based Perrigo is a pharmaceutical company that manufactures and distributes most of the over-the-counter medications found under store-brand labels at leading national retailers, grocers and pharmacies. According to Perrigo, these products are the primary treatments available over-the-counter for tension, migraine and sinus headaches:

* Pain relievers: acetaminophen, ibuprofen, aspirin
* Migraine relief: acetaminophen, aspirin and caffeine combination pills
* Decongestants: pseudoephedrine, oxymetazoline

"If you continue to experience headaches of any type for any prolonged period of time, I suggest following up with your doctor so he or she may evaluate you for any other underlying conditions and suggest the best course of treatment for your situation," Ruoff says.

Tire tips for winter driving

12/20/2011

(ARA) - As the weather outside gets frightful, now is a good time to make sure your vehicle's tires are prepared for snow, ice and freezing temperatures. Sixty-three percent of Americans are concerned about skidding and icy roadways as the thermometer's mercury drops, according to a recent survey commissioned by Hankook Tire America Corp. To ensure safety and peace of mind as you venture out on a snowy day, here are some tire tips to consider:

* Buy your loved one a set of winter tires: The Hankook Tire Winter Gauge Index revealed that 84 percent of Americans would not mind receiving tires as a gift and 35 percent would actually love it. In these tough economic times a brand new car may not be in your budget; however a set of tires can be a more affordable way to upgrade your current car and keep your loved ones safe on the road.

* Plan accordingly when putting winter tires on: Winter tires, such as the Winter i*cept evo are optimized specifically for icy and snowy conditions, providing enhanced traction to prevent skidding. Put snow tires on your car one to two weeks before the first anticipated snowstorm of the season. Also check your tire tread before the first storm. Worn tread is the No. 1 cause of skidding. If the tread is low, consider replacing your tires with a winter tire.

* Check your tire pressure: Every 10 degree drop in air temperature can actually cause a vehicle's tires to drop up to 2 pounds per square inch (psi) in tire pressure. Improper tire pressure can result in increased tread wear and lowered performance, factors that are highly detrimental to one's safety in undesirable weather conditions.

* Have a kit handy: Because winter weather is unpredictable, it's important to be prepared. Always keep in your car a winter driving kit consisting of a spare tire, ice scraper, snow shovel and brush, booster cables, a flash light and a blanket.

* Check your tire carrying capacity and speed rating: Never overload your vehicle. Check the tire load carrying capacity indicated on the tire or owner's manual for the maximum recommended load. Also, when replacing tires, the speed rating of the replacement tires must be equal to or greater than that of the tire being replaced to maintain the speed capability.

It is vitally important to take appropriate steps to ensure your vehicle is properly prepared as we head into the coming months that bring snow and blustery conditions. Make it part of your routine to check tire pressure and tread wear, and keep yourself educated on ways to protect yourself, your friends, and your family.

Hope and help for people living with little-known movement disorder

12/8/2011

(ARA) - Stock prices, the weather and your teenager's taste in music - many things in our lives are beyond our control. But our bodies and the movements we make are under our control - right? Not for the estimated million-plus Americans who suffer from focal dystonias - disorders characterized by abnormal, sustained muscle contractions that cause twisting, repetitive movements and abnormal postures.

Focal dystonias affect muscles in a single part of the body and they affect about 295 out of every 1 million people in the U.S., according to a study conducted in Rochester, Minn. The actual number of people who suffer from these conditions, however, may be much higher since the disorders can go undiagnosed or may be misdiagnosed for years, as revealed in an online survey of Americans diagnosed with cervical dystonia (CD) or blepharospasm conducted by Harris Interactive on behalf of Merz Pharmaceuticals, LLC.

These two more common focal dystonias - CD, also known as spasmodic torticollis, and blepharospasm - can impact people in many ways. In fact, 91 percent of survey respondents report that their condition has negatively affected various areas of their lives. CD causes contractions or spasms of the neck muscles that keep the head upright, and may also cause neck pain. Blepharospasm affects the muscles around the eyes used to blink. Involuntary contractions in the eyelids can cause increased blinking or even closing of the eyes.

It's not uncommon for people living with CD or blepharospasm to have their symptoms remain undiagnosed for months or even years. More than half of the CD and blepharospasm patients surveyed (55 percent) said they had experienced symptoms for a year or more before receiving an accurate diagnosis. And the average patient saw three doctors - including two specialists - before learning the name for their condition.

The causes of CD and blepharospasm remain unknown, and both the general public and many health professionals may be unaware of the disorders. In fact, 89 percent of patients had never heard of the disorders before they were diagnosed, and 51 percent believe healthcare providers' lack of knowledge contributed to the delay in getting an accurate diagnosis, according to the survey.

That was the case for Dona Norton of Ocean City, N.J. Ten years ago, she began experiencing symptoms that included frequent blinking and a tight feeling around her eyes. "At first, I thought I had allergies, that it was caused by stress, or that maybe I needed to update my eyeglass prescription," she says. "After a year and a half of consulting with five doctors, including a general practitioner and an optometrist, I met with an ophthalmologist. He referred me to a neurologist who finally diagnosed me with blepharospasm."

Fortunately, once diagnosed, people living with CD or blepharospasm do have treatment options, including medication and surgery, according to the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke.

"People living with blepharospasm or any chronic condition really have to be their own advocates," Norton says. "You have to take control, do your own research and find out about new therapies and options. You've got to realize you are more than a disease. You are a real person, with a real life, and you have so much to give."

Learn more about people living with CD and blepharospasm at www.MakeYourMarkCampaign.com.

Keeping on top of your child's asthma care during allergy season

1/24/2012

(ARA) - For many with seasonal allergies, the start of spring means itchy eyes and a runny nose, but for the almost 25 million Americans suffering with asthma, the season can be much more threatening. In fact, according to a recent survey, Asthma Insights and Management, conducted by the national public research organization Abt SRBI Inc., 21 percent of asthmatics note "pollen" as a trigger for their asthma symptoms.

Asthma is a chronic lung disease that inflames and narrows the airways, and may cause chest tightness, shortness of breath, coughing and wheezing. When not properly managed, these symptoms may sometimes become life threatening.

For parents of the nearly 7 million children living with asthma, monitoring of the condition and identifying when symptoms are becoming problematic can be difficult any time of year, but can be even more challenging during allergy season.

"During allergy season, assessing whether my child symptoms are asthma- or allergy-related is even more stressful as exacerbations become more frequent," said Denielle Goshinsky, mother of an 8-year-old asthmatic. "I'm often asking myself whether my child's cough is from a cold or allergies, or whether it's asthma-related and potentially more serious."

But for parents of asthmatics, there is a new tool available to help monitor and assess their child's symptoms anytime and anywhere. The U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA) recently cleared to market Spiro PD, the first and only personal spirometer that allows patients to measure their lung function outside of the doctor's office. The device measures the amount and speed of air individual's exhale which helps evaluate how well lungs are working. It is easy-to-use, portable and affordable.

"While the National Institute of Health Clinical Guidelines call for regular spirometry, the location of the test was previously limited to doctor's offices," said Michael S. Blaiss, MD, the Board of Director of World Allergy Organization and a Clinical Professor of Pediatrics and Medicine, Division of Allergy and Immunology, University of Tennessee. "With the availability of Spiro PD, patients or parents of asthmatics are able to measure lung function and share data with their doctor anywhere and anytime, empowering patients to take an active role in managing their disease, always knowing exactly how their condition is doing and informing them as to when they may need to seek further medical attention."

Other features of Spiro PD allow patients to view their lung function trends over time; manage medications; set reminder alarms to take medicine, run spirometry tests or do breathing exercises; and, quickly upload data to their computer and share it with their health care provider. For more information visit www.SpiroPD.com.

While 'sitting kills,' new tips and technology keep people moving

10/19/2011

(ARA) - It's common knowledge that an inactive and sedentary lifestyle is a sure way to trim years off your life. However, only recently has research been able to confirm that your job is a silent killer, assuming you're sitting at a desk for much of the day. And although many of us try to squeeze in a workout or two a week, the studies also indicate that it's not necessarily enough to offset the consequences of a sedentary lifestyle.

Experts say that the cure is very simple and recommend we aim for 10,000 daily steps as a goal and fulfill that goal by moving throughout the day. To be motivated and reminded of this goal, using a step counter is an easy way to keep yourself on the path of being consistently active and beating that silent killer.

Recent technology advancements in step counting have made these devices barely resemble the pedometers you grew up with. One of the market leaders in the new type of step counters is the Fitbit Wireless Activity Tracker.

The popularity of Fitbit trackers seems to be driven by their ability to create a fun fitness experience by providing a small, sleek, high-tech device (containing a 3D accelerometer and altimeter) with a fun and helpful online experience. The tracker is small and comfortable to wear (no one can see it), and the displays provide real-time stats on your fitness. The device wirelessly uploads, so people don't have to manually enter their information online. On Fitbit.com, users can set and track fitness goals, compete and share fitness achievements with friends, win badges for achieving daily and cumulative goals and track their progress in real time.

With the holiday feasting soon around the corner, why not build healthy active habits now? Here are a few tips to build in a more active lifestyle without devoting hours each week to working out.

* Buy a step tracker that fits with your lifestyle and is easy for you to use. Find one with a real-time display to motivate you to move throughout the day. Track your steps for a week to get an accurate sense of your activity level.

* If you are consistently below 3,000 steps per day, track when and where you are most sedentary. If it is during the work hours, consider walking around for 5 minutes every hour. And if you are able to take breaks, try getting out for a walk rather than sitting.

* If you are in the 7,000 to 10,000 range daily, consider a few minor changes to build those extra steps and establish long-term healthy habits like parking farther away and taking the stairs instead of the elevator.

* Consider taking the stairs when you can, as studies have proven that regular stair climbing has significant health benefits. A good place to start is climbing three more flights of stairs than you usually do each day. Fitbit Ultra has a setting that tracks stair climbing so you can track this fitness metric as well as distance, steps and calories burned.

* Commit yourself to a long term stair-climbing goal, like climbing 10,000 stairs for a month or 100,000 stairs by Thanksgiving. While psychologist may disagree on how many days it takes to form a good habit, all would agree it takes more than a week's commitment. Fitbit.com can track how many steps you have taken daily, monthly or cumulatively.

Once you have established a goal that's easy to track, you'll be much more likely to reach the fitness level that will help you live a long and healthy life.

Women's health: What you can do about heavy periods

12/7/2011

(ARA) - Your period comes at the same time every month - except when it doesn't and you're not pregnant. Millions of women wonder why it doesn't always run like clockwork ... and when to see a doctor. Truth is, there's nothing fun about getting your period. Still, when it arrives on time a lot of women think of it as a sign that all is well on the inside.

The great flood: Unusually heavy menstrual bleeding

What does it mean when a period is heavy or longer than usual? Often, it's nothing to worry about. Yet, points out Dr. Whitney Pollock, Gynecology Center, Pottsville, Pa., "If heavy periods have become your 'new normal', it's not something to deal with for any length of time. Many menstrual irregularities are normal, but it's crucial to check with your doctor to find out why and get relief."

When you think of the most common reasons women visit their gynecologist, annual physicals, pregnancy and mammograms come to mind. The little-known truth is heavy periods are the No. 1 reason women see their doctor. More than 10 million American women deal with periods that come in tsunami-like waves. "If you change your pad or tampon more than five times a day, you could have a problem," adds Dr. Pollock, "and it's something your doctor wants to hear about."

Heavy menstrual bleeding is all too common a condition that disrupts everyday life, but the good news is that it is easily treatable once diagnosed. Unfortunately, many women accept heavy menstrual bleeding as a normal process of aging, are too embarrassed to seek help or think they can stand the bleeding until menopause.

See your doctor

Do you change your pad or tampon more often than every one or two hours? Are you up at night to change protection? Does the frustration and embarrassment of a heavy flow affect your life? If so, heavy periods are more than just a hassle, they've now become an unnecessary way of life. The good news is there are simple, trusted, non-surgical treatments that can dramatically change your situation.

"The coping mechanisms women adopt to manage their heavy periods can be extreme. I have patients tell me they use two pads or two tampons at a time, or that they travel with an extra set of clothes, just in case," says Pollock. "It's important to let your doctor know if you have heavy periods. It's one of the most common problems that women are embarrassed to talk about, but also one of the easiest to fix."

For women who are done having children, the NovaSure procedure is a one-time, five-minute procedure that provides a solution to heavy menstrual bleeding. Done in your doctor's office, NovaSure gently removes the uterine lining, while preserving the uterus, which dramatically reduces or eliminates bleeding altogether for 90 percent of women.

Women can experience some mild cramping and recovery time is typically just one day. The procedure usually is covered by insurance and can be done for the cost of a co-pay. Approximately 1.5 million women have had NovaSure in the past 10 years and 97 percent of women would recommend the procedure to others.

"Besides being frustrating and embarrassing," adds. Pollock, "heavy menstrual bleeding robs women of time with their friends, family and career. It's a horrible thief, but one that can be readily controlled with proper treatment."

Heavy menstrual bleeding, heavy periods, heavy flow, menorrhagia, problem periods - no matter what you call it, there is no reason to suffer another month. Take the next step and find the right solution for you. Talk with your doctor about your options.

Three ways to a sustainably healthy New Year

12/7/2011

(ARA) - New Year's Day will spur many people to resolve to follow healthier lifestyles in 2012, but how many will carry through with their pledges? The journey to better health is not as daunting as it may seem. Slight adjustments to your eating, sleeping and exercise habits can have a dramatic impact on your overall health. Focus on improving these three aspects, and you'll be well on your way to a healthier you.

Whole foods
While it's difficult for many of us to stick to a "diet," a few adjustments to your daily food intake can be equally effective and, more importantly, sustainable. One of the best ways to improve your diet is to increase the amount of whole foods you consume each day. Processed foods lack many of the nutrients our bodies crave and are laden with added sugars and preservatives. Whole foods, particularly fruits and vegetables, are packed with nutrients yet low in calories to help manage weight.

Not a fan of raw fruits and veggies? You can easily blend these vital food groups into your diet - literally. Toss a variety of fresh produce into a high-performance blender like a Vitamix machine, add some ice and water, and you've got a simple, tasty way to get several servings of whole fruits and vegetables at once. These unparalleled machines are powerful enough to completely pulverize even the seeds and skin of their contents into smooth, silky treats that are full of nutrition. For instance, Vitamix's Going Green Smoothie offers four full servings of fruits and vegetables, nearly meeting the nutritionist-suggested five servings per day. More healthy, whole food recipes and information on Vitamix machines are available at www.vitamix.com.

Rest up
As the pace of our world continues to pick up speed, we tend to neglect important aspects of our health, including giving our bodies the rest they need. Unfortunately, fatigue has many negative impacts on physical health and personal wellbeing. Adequate rest is needed to complete everyday tasks effectively, including performing well at school and work. Functions like your metabolism and immune system also depend on sufficient amounts of sleep to operate properly. Sleep deprivation can lead to a number of serious health risks, including obesity, heart disease, high blood pressure and diabetes.

To ensure a better night's rest, the Mayo Clinic recommends several tactics, including sticking to a sleep schedule, limiting caffeine and other beverages before bed, creating a bedtime ritual, limiting daytime naps, including physical activity into daily life, and managing stress. The National Sleep Foundation suggests most adults need 7 to 9 hours of sleep per night, but even one additional hour per night is proven to have a significant impact on physical, emotional and mental wellbeing. By making sleep a priority, other aspects of your life will improve and you'll be living healthier in 2012.

Taking steps
With American obesity at an all-time high, the need for more physical activity is evident. But fitting in time to exercise can be challenging with our hectic lifestyles. Fortunately, simply adjusting your routine to increase the number of steps you take each day can truly make a difference. Combating a sedentary lifestyle doesn't need to mean hours in the gym, and you can reap many benefits from this free and low-impact exercise. A reasonable walking goal for the average person is 10,000 steps per day. Sedentary people who may only be averaging 1,000 to 3,000 steps per day can work up to this goal by aiming to add 500 steps each day.

To track your progress, purchase a pedometer and wear it every day for a week. You may be surprised at how many - or how few - steps you get in each day. There are many ways to increase your daily activity without major changes to your daily routine. Walking the dog, using the stairs instead of the elevator, parking farther from the grocery store, and walking to a coworker's desk instead of emailing are just a few ways you can incorporate more steps into your lifestyle and walk your way to better health.

With just a few adjustments to your everyday routine, you will see the many health benefits of improved nutrition, sleep and exercise habits. Cheers to a healthy New Year and a healthy new you.

A flu prevention guide for the workplace

11/8/2011

(ARA) - Flu season is upon us and that means runny noses, chills and body aches. For a small business and its employees, that can mean days spent home in bed or feeling sick in your office, which results in lost working hours. Did you know that flu costs businesses approximately $10.4 billion each year in direct costs for hospitalizations and outpatient visits for adults?

The best prevention method is getting your flu vaccination. Everyone 6 months of age and older should get an annual flu vaccine, even if they were vaccinated last season. In addition, there are some other tips you can follow to ensure you and your co-workers aren't knocked out by the flu. Staples, a trusted source for not only office supplies but office solutions, offers these easy flu prevention tips to keep your workplace as flu-free as possible.

For employees:

Most importantly, wash your hands frequently with soap and water for 20 seconds or use an effective alcohol free or alcohol-based hand sanitizer if soap and water are not available. Clean hands, either through washing them or using hand sanitizer, can lead to a 20 percent reduction in absenteeism in a workplace situation.

The Center for Disease Control (CDC) and other flu prevention sites say you should avoid touching your nose, mouth and eyes, so any germs you may have come in contact with in the office can't make their way into your body. If you cough or sneeze, cover your mouth and nose with a tissue, or cough and sneeze into your upper sleeve. If your office has them, dispose of tissues in no-touch trash receptacles.

Routinely clean frequently-touched objects and surfaces at your own work station like keyboards and phones to help remove soils containing germs. Why is it so important to clean these areas? The average desktop has 400 times more bacteria than the average toilet seat.

Clorox, the cleaning products provider, calls these areas "germ hot spots" and recommends you try not to use other workers' phones, desks, offices or other work tools and equipment. If necessary, consider cleaning and disinfecting them. It may make for an awkward moment when you wipe down a co-worker's phone before using it, but that's better than getting sick.

If you do begin to feel sick while at work, go home as soon as possible so you can minimize your co-workers' exposure to the flu (or whatever else you may have). In a poll conducted by Staples last year, 85 percent of employees said they'd come into work even when sick, but 34 percent said they'd prefer it if their co-workers stayed home when they were sick. If you wake in the morning and feel sick, alert your boss. More and more companies these days have flexible work arrangements, so if you can work from home, do so. Call your doctor to see if you need to schedule an appointment. Your doctor may be able to prescribe medicines (anti-viral drugs) to make the flu illness milder and shorten the time you are sick, which will get you back to work quicker.

For small business owners:

If you own or run your own small business, you probably already know how the flu can affect production. On average, workplace absenteeism due to personal illness costs U.S. businesses $230 per employee. If you're a small business of even 30 people, that means almost $7,000 lost annually.

In addition to encouraging the flu vaccination for all your employees, it's also important to encourage effective communication throughout your company, according to Staples Advantage, the business-to-business division of Staples. Make sure you provide information on the importance of flu vaccination, proper cleaning and disinfection, flu facts and office wellness tips to employees and staff. If you have the available resources, spread the message about flu prevention with posters in the break room or handing out flyers in employees' mailboxes.

Also, make sure you're prepared. According to a survey cited by GOJO, makers of skin health and hygiene solutions, 25 percent of standard bulk soap dispensers have harmful levels of bacteria, so stock the office with appropriate hand sanitizers in areas identified as germ hot spots and consider hands-free soap dispensers in the bathrooms and kitchens. Not only are these low-cost items, but they're actually better at stopping the spread of germs. Step up your cleaning program to more frequently clean commonly touched surfaces like the door handles and elevator buttons. The CDC says you should keep a full supply of tissues, soap, paper towels, alcohol-based hand rubs and disposable wipes.

And finally, consider some flexibility in scheduling to let staff get their vaccination, stay home when they're sick, or work from home. Even though people should stay home for at least 24 hours when sick with the flu, the latest technologies, like tablets, laptops and other home office solutions are making it easier for employees to be productive remotely.

A broad assortment of cleaning solutions - like cleaners, disinfectants, sanitizers, hand sanitizers and pre-moistened wipes - are available at StaplesAdvantage.com, Staples.com and in Staples stores nationwide.

Medication safety for children: important advice for caregivers

1/13/2012

(ARA) - Each year, an estimated 71,000 children are treated in emergency rooms for accidental medication poisonings, many of which are caused by dosing mistakes. Thankfully, while health care professionals or poison control resources resolve most issues, extreme cases that go untreated can result in complications, particularly in very young children.

"Many well-intentioned caregivers can get mixed up when it comes to administering medication," says Dr. Michael App, a pediatrician in Grand Rapids, Mich. "With so many factors playing a role in proper dosage, such as weight and age of the child, it is essential that caregivers closely follow the directions on the label to avoid potentially life-threatening mistakes."

Several manufacturers of children's medications are also making efforts to improve safety and reduce the likelihood of errors. Perrigo Company, the world's largest manufacturer of over-the-counter pharmaceutical products for retailers' store brands, has been investing in equipment to insert "flow restrictors" in the bottles of all of their pediatric acetaminophen products. Flow restrictors reduce the size of the bottle opening and limit access to the medicine inside the bottle. Perrigo has added flow restrictors to all of its infants' products and began converting the packaging of all of its children's products with flow restrictors in January 2012. Perrigo is also participating in the Centers for Disease Control and Consumer Healthcare Products Association PROTECT initiative, which is bringing together experts to create strategies to reduce unsupervised medication ingestion in children.

Experts remind caregivers to be diligent and avoid these common medicine mistakes:

Not paying attention to potential drug interactions
Caregivers should always check medication labels and take care to avoid administering multiple drugs at the same time, unless recommended or prescribed by a pediatrician. Also, before administering medicine, caregivers should always review the enclosed packaging materials and directions.

Overmedicating due to measuring errors
When administering medicine, caregivers should always use the dosing device provided by the pharmacist or manufacturer, and never attempt to "eyeball" the proper amount. That household teaspoon your mom used? According to a study in the International Journal of Clinical Practice, household spoons or similar objects can hold two to three times more liquid than standardized materials. Most pediatricians recommend using a syringe over any other dispensing device for the most accuracy.

Basing the dose on age instead of weight
"Children grow at different rates, which makes it hard for parents and doctors to base dosage recommendations on age," says App. "Since children metabolize medicine differently depending on how much they weigh, this is how most manufacturers label their dosage recommendations - not based on age. This is especially important for children who are over- or underweight."

Forgetting vitamins
As with adults, doctors need to know every medication or vitamin that a child is taking, as certain vitamins can decrease the effectiveness of medicines or cause complications. Caregivers should always have a list of medicines on hand that lists the types and dosage amounts of every medication, vitamin and supplement that a child takes, as well as a list of allergies.

Not taking medicine as directed
Most prescriptions, especially antibiotics, are meant to be used in full. Even though a child may feel better, it is important to complete the dosage, or else the illness could recur. Furthermore, this practice can ultimately contribute to the development of antibiotic-resistant bacteria. In the same vein, caregivers should avoid giving leftover pills from a previous prescription for something they "self-diagnose" to be the same as a previous illness. It is also important to avoid giving medicine for any purpose other than that specified by the instructions.

Failing to adhere to expiration dates
Manufacturers list expiration dates on packaging for a reason, as these dates are generally based on internal testing that demonstrates the longest period a medicine is known to be effective. Using medicine left in the cabinet after it has expired can result in reduced effectiveness.

"Parents should always ask their pharmacist or pediatrician if there are any special precautions or directions with any drug - over-the-counter or prescription - their child is taking," says App.

Baby boomers: Don't forget to care for your eyes as you age

1/11/2012

(ARA) - The baby boomer generation makes up an estimated 76 million people - roughly one-fourth of the U.S. population. This means that either you or someone you love is part of this aging group. According to Eye on the Boomer, a recent survey by the Ocular Nutrition Society, almost as many baby boomers say they worry about losing their vision as those that say they worry about having heart disease or cancer. What's more, 78 percent of those surveyed ranked vision as the most important of the five senses. Yet, more than half of the survey respondents ages 45-65 said they don't typically have a recommended annual eye exam, and even fewer are aware of important nutrients that can play a key role in eye health.

Experts recommend that disease prevention, including lifestyle modification, attention to dietary intake and vitamin supplementation must become a greater focus of primary vision care. Studies indicate that proper nutrition promotes healthy eyes, however many American diets are found to be deficient of the critical nutrients that help protect eye health.

"If people are at risk for heart disease they typically make lifestyle modifications," says Dr. Jeffrey Anshel, president of the Ocular Nutrition Society. "This survey found that people are as concerned about their eyes but do not know the simple steps they can incorporate into their daily lives to take care of them."

* Vitamin supplements can be used for your eyes, too
While people take a variety of different supplements to support their health, vitamins specifically formulated to help protect the eyes are often not in the mix - and for many people, they should be. While more than half of those surveyed are taking supplements to protect their joints, bones or heart health only 18 percent say they take supplements to support their eye health.

"As we grow older, the need for certain vitamins and nutrients to support the eye increases - the survey revealed low awareness of these essential nutrients," says Anshel of nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids, lutein and zeaxanthin. He adds that there is a "need for greater education on the lifestyle modifications that baby boomers can incorporate into their daily lives, including proper nutrition, to help safeguard eye health as they age."

To help protect eye health as they age, Anshel recommends people aged 45-65 take the following steps:

* Stop smoking, exercise regularly and wear sunglasses with UV protection
* Make an annual appointment with an eye doctor
* Eat foods rich in eye healthy nutrients, such as tuna or salmon for omega-3s and spinach, kale and broccoli containing lutein and zeaxanthin
* To help overcome shortfalls in the diet consider a vitamin supplement specifically-formulated for eye health

To learn more about the Eye on the Boomer survey as well as eye health, please visit ocularnutritionsociety.org.

Put your mental health first during the holidays

11/2/2011

(ARA) - The holiday season is a chance to reconnect with friends, spend time with loved ones, and enjoy the hustle and bustle of gift shopping. For the millions of Americans living with bipolar disorder, a manic (high) or depressive (low) episode may occur at any time and the holidays can be a time to focus on themselves and managing the condition going into the New Year.

People living with bipolar disorder, a lifelong condition, may experience extreme changes in mood, thought, and behavior. Their mood may alternate between episodes of mania and depression. What's important to know, particularly given that nearly half of U.S. adults will develop a mental illness during their lifetime, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, is that talking with a health care professional can help a person living with the condition find appropriate medication, therapy, and support groups.

The hustle and bustle of the season may make it difficult to stay on track and follow through with refilling necessary prescriptions, making appointments, and taking time out to relax. During busy times like the holiday season, people with bipolar disorder should be sure to take time to focus on themselves and the importance of managing their condition.

"I've seen firsthand how dealing with the holidays can have a negative impact on mental health, and it doesn't have to be that way for those suffering from bipolar disorder," says Dr Lisa Perdue, director of the Intensive Behavioral Service at Terrell State Hospital in Terrell, Texas. "There is a lot of pressure to make every holiday season the biggest or the best. People with bipolar disorder need to make their health a priority. That can mean saying "no" in order to stay on track with doctor's appointments, or skipping a party to relax and enjoy 'me' time."

People living with bipolar disorder should talk to their doctor to get an accurate diagnosis and develop an appropriate treatment plan. TakeonDepression.com, a site sponsored by AstraZeneca, contains helpful resources to support, educate, and inspire those affected by bipolar disorder, and to encourage them to have an open, honest conversation with their doctor.

In addition to information, the site offers tools such as a mood-tracking diary to help recognize symptoms, manage a treatment plan, and have more productive conversations with a doctor. It also features inspiring true stories from people on how they successfully manage their symptoms.

For more information about bipolar disorder and helpful resources, visit www.TakeonDepression.com.

Dr Lisa Perdue was compensated as a spokesperson by AstraZeneca.

Fighting the five most common foot woes

1/25/2012

(ARA) - From eating better foods to getting an adequate amount of sleep and exercise, we're a very health-aware society. So why is it that many Americans routinely overlook one of the cornerstones of good health?

While nearly 70 percent of Americans say they want to be healthier five years from now, just 51 percent recognize that foot health can be a key to achieving that goal, according to a survey from the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA).

"Nearly eight in 10 adults have experienced some type of foot ailment in their lives. Yet despite the pain, close to three in 10 do nothing about it, simply choosing to live with their pain," says Dr. Michael King, a podiatrist and president of APMA. "Meanwhile, more than half of those surveyed said they had endured foot pain at some point in their lives but have not sought treatment from a podiatrist."

So what are the five most common types of foot problems and what causes them? Here are some tips from today's podiatrists:

* Nail problems are one of the most prevalent foot woes in both men and women. These problems can range from ingrown toenails to fungal infections. Ingrown toenails - a condition in which the corners of sides of a nail dig painfully into the soft tissue of the nail grooves - is the most common form of nail problem. To avoid ingrown toenails, trim nails straight across and don't dig into the corners. If a toenail becomes infected, see a podiatrist immediately for treatment. Those with diabetes, peripheral vascular disease and other circulatory disorders should seek a podiatrist's care on a regular basis to help prevent complications.

* Sweaty feet and foot odor are two foot conditions that are often experienced together. While stinky feet are definitely embarrassing, feet that sweat excessively can lead to other foot problems, even creating an environment conducive to the development of athlete's foot. Closed shoes make feet sweat, but in the winter you can't avoid wearing them. Instead, practice good foot hygiene. Wash feet daily with soap and water, keep shoes and socks dry, and choose socks that wick away moisture. Change shoes and socks regularly and consider rubbing cornstarch or applying antiperspirant directly onto the soles of your feet.

* Pain in the ball of the feet - Nearly one-third of adults have reported pain in the balls of their feet. Pain in this location can be caused by over-exertion, injury or ill-fitting shoes. To avoid, always wear well-fitting, supportive and activity-appropriate shoes when walking, running or engaging in other physical activity. If necessary, replace the insoles that came in the shoes with ones that provide additional cushioning.

* Heel pain - This type of pain can have many sources, including weight gain, excessive foot flattening, muscle imbalance, injury or even improper footwear. To kick heel pain to the curb, always be sure to warm up and stretch properly before and after exercise. If wearing high heels, opt for heels that are no more than two to three inches in height. For persistent pain, treatment can range from prescribed orthotic devices and medications to cortisone injections, physical therapy and rarely, surgery.

* Bunions - A bunion is an enlargement of the joint at the base of the big toe. Treatments range from self-remedies such as using a bunion pad around the bony prominence, to ice packs to reduce the swelling, and avoiding shoes that could irritate the bunion and even make the problem worse. For persistent pain, see a podiatrist for a full range of treatment options.

"While foot problems are common, that doesn't mean people should be resigned to living with pain," King says. "Consulting today's podiatrist can help people feel better sooner, and get back to living healthier lives."

Five ways to eat local throughout the year

11/7/2011

(ARA) - Fall is a great time for enthusiasts of fresh and local food. Farmers' markets are overflowing with tasty produce at harvest time, and if you've worked long and hard on your home garden, it's time to reap the rewards. Fresh food is harder to come by once the last leaves fall and the frost sets in, but there are still a number of ways you can keep your commitment to eating locally alive year-round.

While getting fresh produce from nearby sources isn't a year-round option for many Americans, it's still possible to continue to enjoy healthy regional, seasonal food in a number of other ways. Whether it's buying a basket of fresh tomatoes, green beans, or peaches, and canning or blanching and freezing them for future use, or dining at a restaurant that focuses on using local ingredients, it's possible to continue your green dining habits throughout the year.

Engaging people who are interested in living healthier and greener, Good Housekeeping partnered with LG Electronics this fall on a "Living Greener" initiative, showing consumers across the country how to make the most of local produce and other healthy foods. The program encourages a greener lifestyle, providing consumers with tips and ideas for efficient products, such as LG's new refrigerator. The refrigerator recently earned the Good Housekeeping Seal, and includes a Smart Cooling System that maintains superior humidity and temperature levels to help keep food fresh longer. And at 31 cubic feet, it has the largest storage capacity available in its class and can easily accommodate bushels of produce.

Susan Westmoreland, food director of the Good Housekeeping Research Institute offers these tips to keep eating local even after the growing season is done:

* Support year-round CSAs and farmers markets. To join a Community Support Agriculture you pay a set amount of money for a portion of what the farm or group of farms produce, usually delivered every week or so. Farmers' markets may feature meat, cheese and eggs in addition to colder weather vegetables that keep well, like winter squash and onions. Since both of these are relatively new concepts, you may not be fortunate enough to have both options in your neighborhood. Check out localharvest.org for more information. Then, embrace your luck, shop and eat well.

* Make good use of your refrigerator and freezer. When you are bringing home a bunch of produce, you know the importance of finding space in your refrigerator to preserve the veggies you won't use right away. But at the end of the season, a great way to make your veggies last longer is to blanch (cook in boiling water for 1 minute) then cool completely, bag and freeze them for later use in stir fries and pasta dishes. To freeze berries, simply rinse and freeze in a single layer until hard, transfer to zip seal bags and freeze for desserts or add a handful to brighten any winter cereal bowl.

* Can and preserve. Another great way to preserve your fresh-picked produce for the colder months is to can, pickle or process it. Your surplus tomatoes can be turned to salsa or tomato sauce for winter and your bounty of cucumbers can be transformed into tasty dill pickles. For both freezing and canning, do some research to make sure you are safely preserving your food. In addition to some great books on the subject, Internet resources like the Daily Green are a great place to start.

* Stock up on hearty vegetables. Vegetables like onions, potatoes and squash are not only some of the last to be picked during the growing season, but also some of the heartiest and longest lasting produce available. Even if you don't have a root cellar, you can extend the life of these vegetables even further by storing them in a cooler part of your home like the basement or a garage.

* Patronize restaurants that focus year-round on the freshest, healthiest ingredients. These days, many restaurants aim to get as many ingredients as possible, from vegetables to fish and meat, from local sources. Visiting these restaurants is a great way to help sustain your local food industry.

By firming up your commitment to eating local throughout the year, you'll help your local economy while also decreasing your carbon food print. And on top of it all, you'll be rewarded with delicious meals for every season.

It's not too late for a flu shot: What you may want to know

12/9/2011

(ARA) - Pharmacies, doctors' offices and walk-in clinics - you have more opportunities than ever before to get that all-important annual flu shot. But if you'll be getting yours somewhere other than the doctor's office, you might wonder just who is giving you that shot and what that person's qualifications are.

As an experienced registered nurse and dean of University of Phoenix College of Nursing, Dr. Pam Fuller has the inside scoop on who might be administering your flu shot.

"The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommend that everyone 6 months and older receive a flu vaccine every year," Fuller says. "The good news is that with so many different providers offering the flu shot, it's easier than ever to protect your family against seasonal flu."

If you're thinking about getting a flu shot at the local pharmacy or another nontraditional provider, here are some common questions you may have - and the answers:

Q. Who is allowed to give a flu shot?

A. Each state has different standards. Additionally, within each state, the criteria may vary depending upon clinic or facility governance. Generally, your doctor's office will be able to give you a flu shot. Your state may also allow pharmacists and urgent-care clinics to administer the vaccination.

Q. If I go to a pharmacy or retail outlet, who is likely to be giving me my shot?

A. The professional giving your shot may be a pharmacist, nurse, nurse practitioner or medical assistant.

Q. What are the advantages or disadvantages of getting my shot at a pharmacy, rather than in the doctor's office?

A. You may not need an appointment at a pharmacy, although many doctor's offices take walk-ins as well. Check with your health care provider to see if they accept walk-ins or offer flu clinic days. One advantage of getting vaccinated at your doctor's office is that your primary care provider will likely be more aware of your overall medical history and needs, including any allergies.

Q. Are flu shots from these alternate sources as effective and safe as those given by a doctor?

A. The flu shot is the same shot regardless of where you receive it.

Q. Will my insurance cover a flu shot at the pharmacy?

A. Many insurers will cover a flu shot, no matter where it's given, in order to help keep their members healthy. It's more cost-effective to pay for a flu shot than a hospitalization. Check with your insurance company and ask if they will cover a flu shot no matter where it's given.

Q. What should I do to prepare for getting a flu shot?

A. Most people tolerate the flu shot just fine, and it's a great way to prevent catching the flu. Those with severe egg allergies or a severe cold should talk to their doctors before getting vaccinated, and those people should get their shot from their doctor.

Q. Are there side effects and what are they?

A. Some people might experience a local reaction and have some discomfort at the site of the injection. A general reaction can be mild fever, muscle aches or fatigue. You cannot get the flu from the flu shot - that is a myth. As your body builds its natural defenses against the flu antigen, you may experience these mild reactions, especially if you've never had a flu shot before.

Q. Is there anyone who should not get a flu shot?

A. Certain people should not get a flu shot without consulting their health care provider. They include people who have severe allergies to chicken eggs or who have had a severe reaction to flu shots in the past. Other precautions may apply. If you have any questions about whether or not you should get a flu shot, consult your health care provider.

"Each year, qualified professionals such as nurses, medical assistants and nurse practitioners help protect thousands of Americans by administering the flu vaccination," says Dr. Kimberly Horton, system chief nurse executive for the Alameda County Medical Center. Horton, who holds a doctorate in health administration from University of Phoenix, oversees a team of 1,200 nurses. "With more venues for getting the flu shot than ever before, Americans are better equipped to protect themselves and their loved ones from seasonal flu."

To learn more about University of Phoenix College of Nursing visit www.phoenix.edu/nursing.

Don't miss a beat

10/25/2011

(ARA) - What is Atrial Fibrillation (AFib)?

AFib is a common condition in the heart that causes the atria - the upper two chambers of the heart - to beat very fast and irregularly. When this happens, blood isn't pumped through the heart as well as it should be, which makes people with AFib vulnerable to the formation of a blood clot in the atria.

AFib is the most prevalent sustained cardiac arrhythmia (heart irregularity) in the United States, affecting more than 2.2 million Americans. In the past 20 years, there has been a 66 percent increase in hospital admissions for AFib, due to the aging population.

Looking ahead, it is estimated that AFib will affect more than 12 million people in the U.S. by 2050.

What are the symptoms of AFib?
AFib can produce a broad range of symptoms, or none at all. Because it is characterized by an irregular and fast heart rate, patients often experience unpleasant palpitations or discomfort in the chest. The inefficient pumping ability of the heart may cause weakness, faintness, and shortness of breath.

How do I know if I'm at risk?
Age is a major risk factor for AFib; the average age of people with AFib is about 75, and approximately 70 percent of those people are between 65 and 85 years of age. Underlying heart disease and having had prior heart surgery are the most common risk factors of AFib. It is possible to have AFib when there are no other signs of a heart disorder. Other risk factors include diabetes, high blood pressure, hyperthyroidism (too much thyroid hormone), and excessive alcohol consumption.

AFib and stroke risk
During AFib, the atria (upper chambers of the heart), don't pump all of the blood in the ventricles (lower chambers of the heart). Some blood pools in the atria. When this happens, a blood clot can form. If the clot breaks off and travels to the brain, it can cause a stroke.

People with AFib are at a five-fold increased risk for stroke compared with the general population. At least 15-20 percent of all strokes occur in patients with AFib.

Several factors are considered when assessing the risk of a stroke for a person with AFib. People who have had a prior stroke are at high risk. Additional factors that increase risk of stroke in people with AFib include being 75 or older, high blood pressure, heart failure and diabetes.

How can I manage stroke risk with AFib?
People with AFib have treatment options to help reduce the risk of stroke, including medication that thins the blood to help prevent blood clot formation. Unfortunately, nearly half of people with AFib do not receive appropriate preventive medicine to help protect against the risk of stroke.

Where can I go for more information?
People with AFib should discuss their stroke risk management options with their health care provider. To learn more about stroke risk in atrial fibrillation, visit www.afibonetoone.com.

Dreaming of a stress-free holiday party

11/28/2011

(ARA) - The holidays are the perfect time to reconnect and mingle with family and friends. However, the stress of hosting holiday get-togethers can sometimes be discouraging. This year, avoid a festivity fiasco by keeping in mind the following five preparation tips:

1. Turn kitchen chatters into hostess helpers: The day before your party, dig out all of the serving dishes you plan to use. After cleaning off the dusty ones, write the name of each menu item on a piece of self-stick paper, and place it on the appropriate dish. That way, when your kitchen visitors ask to help, you can simply point them to the pre-selected serving pieces that need to be filled.

2. Be your own barista: Add a creative and interactive activity to your party with a hot beverage bar; apple cider, cocoa and coffee can all be given a holiday twist by guests. Simply go to your local grocery store or specialty food shop for a selection of colored sugars, flavored sauces, marshmallows, whipped cream and cinnamon and peppermint sticks for your guests to add to their drinks. Not only is this a yummy addition to any holiday party, but it will keep your guests entertained while you're putting the last touches on your holiday dessert.

3. Let the food be the star: Almost everyone likes the warm, sweet smells of the holiday season, but avoid the urge to stock up on and burn scented holiday candles that can overpower a room. Instead, reach for the scentless candles in festive holiday colors and allow the aroma of your food and beverages to set the mood.

4. Give the gift of leftovers: Everyone likes to share their leftovers but no one likes to rush around looking for matching bowls and lids when it's time for guests to go home. Make this process easier by using inexpensive wax-lined paper cartons (bought at craft stores). This will allow guests to transport food home without the hassle of returning your expensive storage containers - something everyone will appreciate. If you have extra time before the party starts, customize containers by adding each guest's name and the date of your party.

5. 'Tis the season for drips, dribbles and spills: Stains left by gravy, red wine and cranberry sauce are some of the toughest to remove, and they are all, unfortunately, par for the course at holiday gatherings. Luckily, hosts and hostesses can turn to an expert this holiday season for stain advice: The Clorox Holiday Stain Hotline (877) STAIN-411, hosted by stain scientist Mary Gagliardi (a.k.a. "Dr. Laundry"), will be available 24/7 throughout the season. Callers simply dial up the hotline, choose from a selection of the season's toughest stain dilemmas, and are guided through the proper course of treatment. Now, you can also celebrate those inevitable messy moments at www.bleachitaway.com a new community that invites visitors to share their own stories and commiserate with other moment survivors, while receiving real-time advice and solutions from Clorox's panel of cleaning and laundry experts. Everyone who shares a story has a chance to win $25,000.

Holiday travel tips: Keep bed bugs out of the fun

10/27/2011

(ARA) - The holidays are a time for celebration, gift-giving and visiting with family and friends. Travel wisely this winter to ensure that you do not bring any unwanted visitors, such as bed bugs, back home with you.

Once thought to be a thing of the past, bed bug populations have increased by approximately 500 percent in the United States in recent years, according to Congress' "Don't Let the Bed Bugs Bite" Act of 2009. Bed bugs spread by hitching a ride on travelers' possessions, and with our highly mobile society, bed bugs have been able to spread quickly across the United States. This makes it important for travelers to educate themselves on bed bugs. Becoming familiar with the bug, its habits and methods of detecting, treating and preventing an infestation is an essential and effective first step.

The facts on bed bugs:

Identification: Bed bugs are easily identifiable if you know what you are looking for. They are small, but still large enough to see. These pests are flat, oval and wingless, with antennae and six legs. Adults are 5 millimeters long, about the same size and color of an apple seed. Eggs are the size of a pin head,colorless and incredibly hard to see.

What attracts bed bugs: Bed bugs are attracted to warmth and carbon dioxide from people and animals. They feed at night for about five minutes every three to seven days. Bed bugs usually reside within five feet of a food source, but can travel up to 100 feet to find a meal.

Lifespan: A bed bug will live for approximately three to nine months if well fed, but can survive for six months or more without feeding. Females can lay as many as five eggs per day - or up to 200 in their lifetime.

Travel wisely:

Travel lightly and do not bring your own bedding or pillows when visiting a hotel. Take a few minutes upon arrival to inspect your surroundings. Here is a list of recommendations on the way to inspect your accommodation before settling in for the night.

When entering a hotel room:
1. Place all of your belongings in the bathroom or on a tile surface.
2. Exhale gently across the top and sides of the headboard.
3. Pull back the bedding at both top corners of the bed to expose the mattress.
4. Using your flashlight, inspect the rolled seams at the top and bottom edges of the mattress at each corner, looking for bed bugs, spotting or cast skins.
5. Lift the mattress enough to observe the top corner of the box spring looking for the same signs of bugs as you did on the mattress.
6. Look at the edge of the carpet and baseboard under the corners of the bed to inspect for spotting and cast skins. Put the corners back together.
7. Using your flashlight, inspect the top and edges of the headboard looking for any bed bugs that might have come out to investigate the carbon dioxide from your breath, and continue checking back throughout the inspection process.
8. Using your flashlight, inspect the skirting along the bottom of the bed, looking for bed bugs, spotting and cast skins within the inside folds of the fabric.
9. If there is a nightstand next to the bed, turn it upside down and inspect the back and bottom of the unit paying close attention to bed bugs or eggs that might have been laid in the heads of screws or other openings in the wood.
10. Inspect the portable luggage rack looking for signs of bed bugs.
11. If the luggage rack is attached to the wall, inspect closely the intersections of any wood/fabric joints or cracks along the wall.

When you return:
Upon return from travel, place all items that may have been exposed (including suitcase when possible) into the dryer, and place on high heat for 15 minutes.

With just a little preparation and some caution, holiday travel can be relaxing and you can rest assured that you will return home without any uninvited pests. For more information on bed bugs, visit www.orthokillsbedbugs.com.

Take control of your arthritis pain

11/21/2011

(ARA) - Arthritis affects the lives of nearly one in five American adults and limits the lives of countless citizens each year. In fact, arthritis is the most common cause of disability in the United States, and yet only 11 percent of those with arthritis participate in widely available, low-cost self-management workshops that help people manage symptoms, increase activity, and maintain independence.

People no longer have to tolerate the symptoms of arthritis; they now have the power to manage it themselves.

Few people know that a low-cost, six-week self-management education workshop, supported by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), can help lessen the problems associated with arthritis. Weekly, interactive sessions provide people with arthritis, and other chronic diseases, natural techniques and strategies to manage their disease, empowering participants to reclaim their lives. Participants will learn ways to minimize pain, physical limitations, and stress, while improving their mobility, confidence, and independence. These workshops meet weekly for six weeks, are low-cost, and available in most communities.

What can these self-management workshops do for you?

The self-management workshops help participants manage their arthritis. Participants learn:

* Techniques to reduce pain, limitations, and stress
* Strategies to exercise safely
* How to feel more comfortable talking to their doctor
* Lessons from other arthritis patients; skills that helped them not only to manage, but gain a sense of control over their disease

"These workshops help people with arthritis learn natural treatments to manage their arthritis pain. Many people do not know about these workshops, but people with arthritis who have attended these interactive workshops learn self-management techniques that help reduce the pain and limitations of arthritis," says Teresa J. Brady, from the CDC arthritis program.

Workshops can help reduce the physical symptoms of arthritis, as well as the emotional toll of this chronic disease. Self-management workshops also help people with other on-going health conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, or lung disease. According to CDC research, self-management workshop participants report remarkable improvements in their symptoms and their ability to control their disease. Research shows that participants benefit from decreased pain, fatigue, anxiety, and depression. Research also indicates that workshop attendance can result in increased aerobic exercise, increased confidence, and improved ability to participate in social activities.

What does the research say about self-management workshops?

CDC research found that arthritis self-management workshop participants report:

* Decreased joint pain and fatigue
* Decreased anxiety and depression
* Less worry about their health
* Increased aerobic exercise
* Better communication with their doctor
* Increased confidence in ability to manage their condition
* Increased ability to do household and social activities

"We need to educate arthritis patients about the benefits of self-management workshops," says Brady. "They can be the key to restoring mobility and independence, which in turn can improve quality of life for millions of Americans."

Taking charge of arthritis can be a challenging task; self-management workshops can help.

To find out more about self-management workshops:

* Visit www.cdc.gov/arthritis/interventions/self_manage.htm - Workshops are available in communities across the country, find out about workshops in your area.
* Monitor local publications for announcement of arthritis self-management education workshops in your area.
* Speak to your doctor about arthritis self-management education workshops.

Holiday cooking that doesn't expand the waistline

12/9/2011

So many of us look forward to holiday meals only to dread the after effects. We feel regretful, remorseful and rotund. But we don't have to. Getting your holiday fill does not have to mean switching out the skinny jeans for sweats. And it can be as easy as a little ingredient swap in the kitchen.

Let's start with your meal's centerpiece. For most, the holiday is not complete without the meat. If you're going with ham, lay off the traditional glaze, advises Chef Robert Childers, culinary instructor at The International Culinary School at The Illinois Institute of Art - Chicago. "Use a vinegar reduction like gastrique," he says. "It reduces the sugar and increases the acid profile, giving you flavor without the calories of sugar."

If you're having turkey, you can consume twice as much white meat as dark for about the same amount of calories and fat, says Chef Josh Linder, culinary instructor at The International Culinary School at The Art Institute of Indianapolis.

Now let's move on to all those side dishes. A green leafy salad is always a good start, until you pour on the dressing. "If you're making your own dressing, change the proportion of ingredients," says Childers. Instead of sticking to the three parts oil, one part vinegar recipe, Childers suggests using two parts oil, one part vinegar and one part stock.

For mashed potatoes, Linder urges you to opt for skim milk over whole. "Don't mix the butter in right away, either," he cautions. "Butter has a great 'mouth feel' because it has a lower melting point, so just a little can satisfy the palate." Linder advises you finish with butter instead of cooking with it; diners will get the taste they're looking for without piling on the calories and fat.

Stay away from creams. "Cream is nearly 36 percent fat by volume," says Childers. Replace cream in your favorite mac-n-cheese recipe with skim milk and use low fat or fat free cheese. You'll get the same texture which can satisfy you just as much without all the fat that you'll come to regret later. Don't let the pasta you use in the mac-n-cheese off the hook either, says Childers. Use whole wheat or whole grain pasta.

And we can't forget our sweet tooth. No holiday meal is complete without dessert. While most of us are full by the time the pumpkin pie and seven-layer cake hit the table, we still can't resist digging in. Chef Damian Fraase, pastry chef instructor at The International Culinary School at The Art Institutes International - Kansas City, has a few tips to make your meal's finale tasty and healthier.

Start with that pumpkin pie. If your recipe calls for cream or even whole milk, substitute skim, just like you did for the mashed potatoes. "And while we're on the subject of pies, rather than a dollop of whipped cream, portion out a small scoop of ice milk on top," advises Fraase. Cheesecake is trickier, but you can always go with low fat cream cheese instead of the full fat variety. And when you're making the crust, consider a vegetable fat instead of lard or butter.

"Don't be afraid to try a sugar substitute," says Fraase. "Just follow the directions on the packaging because each has different requirements." He cautions that some substitutes do better in the oven than others so you may want to test out the recipes before the big day.

To learn more about The Art Institutes visit www.artinstitutes.edu.

Raking in autumn fun: Safety tips for families

10/3/2011

(ARA) - The arrival of autumn brings cool, crisp air and colored leaves, but for many parents, fall signifies a return to routines. Beach toys have been replaced with homework and lazy summer days have turned into bustling fall schedules. But don't worry - there are several things you can do to keep the fun going from summer into fall. Whether it's helping children to develop new study habits or taking them to soccer practice, the outdoors can make learning more enjoyable.

Whether your children are exercising their bodies outdoors or their minds inside, it is important that they learn how to have a fun and safe season. These tips can help benefit your children's health while they're in the classroom and playing outside this fall.

* A physical education class in school might not be enough for your child. Encourage fitness at home by going for an after-dinner walk to the neighborhood playground or keep balls and games on hand.

* Walking to school with your child is a great way for your kids to enjoy the outdoors, allowing you to teach them about the exciting new changes in nature. Pair up with local parents to start a "walking school bus," and accompany a group of neighborhood children on an educational walk to school.

* The sun's strongest rays of the day are between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. no matter the season, so it's important to make sure your child is properly protected during recess or physical education classes. Try a hat, a pair of sunglasses, and Coppertone Kids Stick, which is quick and easy to apply.

* Looking for a cool place to bring the family for after-school or weekend fun? Coppertone's MyUV Alert iPhone App has an outdoor activity finder to keep your family busy through fall, helping you to find local bike paths or parks.

For more information to safely enjoy the warmth of the sun this fall, visit Coppertone.com.

Spring's greatest showcase: the Centennial National Cherry Blossom Festival in Washington, D.C.

12/12/2011

(ARA) - There's nothing more beautiful than the coming of spring after a long winter. As grass grows green and the air warms, nature puts on a spectacular show that manages to impress year after year. Nowhere is spring's beauty more vibrantly on display than at the National Cherry Blossom Festival Celebration in Washington, D.C. This year marks a storied and once-in-a-lifetime event, the 100 year anniversary of the arrival of Japanese flowering cherry trees in D.C.'s West Potomac Park.

The thousands of cherry trees that line the tidal basin in the park aren't a natural phenomenon, they represent a cross-cultural partnership between the United States and Japan that was forged 100 years ago. In 1912, a gift of 3,000 cherry trees was sent from Tokyo to Washington, D.C., and ever since, their annual blooming has been symbolic of the continuing friendship between the two countries.

The gift was orchestrated by world-famous chemist, Dr. Jokichi Takamine, who was also the first president of global pharmaceutical company, Daiichi Sankyo. Japanese-born Dr. Takamine, a longtime resident of the United States, had a vision to create a cultural association between the two countries' capitals: Tokyo and Washington, D.C. At a time when relations between the United States and Japan were less than strong, the gesture was considered very forward-thinking, and even Dr. Takamine could not have imagined how his simple token would transform into a nationally-celebrated event.

Dr. Takamine's effort to make a positive impact continues to serve as an important symbol of Daiichi Sankyo's social responsibility and culture of global collaboration. One hundred years ago, his approach to forging strong international partnerships was certainly innovative, but was especially impressive at a time without e-mail or teleconferencing, not to mention the cultural and language barriers that existed.

Daiichi Sankyo has a century-long tradition of discovering, developing and delivering innovative, life-changing methods. Driven by the example that Dr. Takamine set, the company continues to form partnerships that make a difference, including collaboration with other pharmaceutical and biotech companies to bring medical solutions to the patients who need them. This thinking and ongoing teamwork has fostered a robust pipeline of innovative medicines that will help millions of people all over the world for years to come.

The flowering cherry tree, which has long been a treasured species in Japan, has now become a cultural icon for Washington, D.C., and draws millions of international visitors to the city each year. The beauty of nature is undeniably on display during the festival, but so too is the goodwill between two nations. One hundred years after the Japanese flowering cherry trees made the trip from Japan to the United States, there's no better time to join the centennial celebration. To learn more about Daiichi Sankyo, please visit www.dsi.com.

Raise your hand to Stop Diabetes

10/4/2011

(ARA) - November is American Diabetes Month, a time to communicate the seriousness of diabetes and the importance of diabetes prevention and management.

Nearly 26 million children and adults have diabetes in the United States; an additional 79 million Americans are at high risk for developing type 2 diabetes. Diabetes is an epidemic; in fact, recent estimates project that as many as one in three American adults will have diabetes in 2050 unless we take steps to Stop Diabetes.

This November, the American Diabetes Association is encouraging people to take action and raise their hand to participate in the Association's Stop Diabetes movement. One person raising her hand is Sara Dorris. Her daughter, Molly, was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes nearly two years ago. Shortly after her daughter's diagnosis, Dorris learned about the Association's Camp Rainbow in Pinehurst, Texas. Diabetes Camp, a week-long camp where children can meet and learn from other kids and adult counselors with diabetes, was a ray of sunshine for the Dorris family during a dark time.

"Diabetes Camp is one of the many ways we can raise our hands to Stop Diabetes. It's important this November to create awareness by joining together to end this devastating disease," says Dorris.

Raise your hand to Stop Diabetes and take the pledge during American Diabetes Month at facebook.com/AmericanDiabetesAssociation. Find out other ways you can get involved during the month by:

* Visiting stopdiabetes.com

* Calling (800) DIABETES

* Texting JOIN to 69866 (standard message and data rates apply)

* Following the American Diabetes Association on Twitter (@AmDiabetesAssn) to receive updates all month long

The American Diabetes Association estimates that the total national cost of diagnosed diabetes in the United States is $174 billion. Further published studies suggest that when additional costs for gestational diabetes, prediabetes and undiagnosed diabetes are included, the total diabetes-related costs in the U.S. could exceed $218 billion.

Make New Year's resolutions close to home

12/8/2011

(ARA) - As each year comes to a close, people begin to make resolutions - typically, vowing to start something new in the year ahead, such as lose weight, get a new job, start volunteering and so on. Making resolutions is easy; the hard part is keeping them. However, there are a few things you can do at home that might actually help you achieve some of your New Year's goals. Start 2012 on the right foot with this list of easy home updates and tips to help conquer your New Year's resolutions.

Develop better eating habits
* Research shows that people tend to eat less when surrounded by the color blue. Repaint your kitchen or dining room in a blue hue to help naturally suppress your appetite. And, painting is a great way to tone your arms if you also resolve to get in shape. Once the paint dries, clean out your pantry and replace any high-calorie or fatty foods with healthier options.

Help the environment
* Growing concern for the environment prompts many people to resolve to be more green. Your refrigerator runs all day, every day, which accounts for a large percentage of your home's energy usage. Keeping your refrigerator's thermostat set between 38 and 42 degrees will help save energy and keep your food from spoiling.

Give to others or volunteer
* Clean out your closets and collect any gently used items you and your family no longer use or need. There are a number of national and local organizations that accept clothing donations; some will even pick up the items directly from your home. Beyond clothing, consider giving previously used toys, games, books or materials for crafts to the local hospital or day care center.

Spend more time with family and friends
* After a long day at work or school, not to mention all of life's other activities and events, the last thing you want to do is spend your downtime cleaning your home. Look for household products and tools that keep cleaning time to a minimum. The AccuClean(TM) whole-home air filtration system from American Standard Heating & Air Conditioning attaches to your furnace or air handler to reduce dust accumulation in the home by more than 50 percent, which means you'll spend less time cleaning and have more time for your family and friends.

Learn something new
* One of the most common resolutions centers around conquering a fear or trying something new. Take a look at your home and challenge yourself to tackle home improvement projects on your own. Finish an unfinished basement, build an outdoor play space for the kids or renovate a bathroom. Not only will you conquer any do-it-yourself fears, but any revamp of your home will only add to its value and resale potential.

Keeping New Year's resolutions can certainly be a challenge, so it's important to set yourself up for success. First, set specific and realistic goals; and don't be scared to break bigger goals into a series of smaller steps to avoid feeling overwhelmed. Most important, have a strategy for setbacks - we all slip up from time to time, but the key is to get back on track. It's been said that four out of five people who make New Year's resolutions eventually break them. Prove the statistics wrong and make this the year you keep your resolutions.

Tips for staying fit through the holidays

11/16/2011

(ARA) - The holiday season is a time for fun, family, and - let's not forget - food. Between work functions, family get-togethers and endless holiday soirees, the sheer amount of cheesy appetizers, buttery entrees and sugar-laden desserts can be overwhelming - especially when you're trying to maintain or lose weight.

Don't let the holidays weigh you down; here are a few tips for how to stay fit and energized throughout the harried holiday season.

Smart snacking
The first rule to staying fit throughout the holidays is never arrive at a party hungry. With the abundance of tempting, fattening treats available, choosing an appetizer or dessert that fills you up and not out, can be a challenge. Satisfy your hunger beforehand with a protein-rich snack, like Jack Link's Teriyaki Beef or Jack Link's Cholula Hot Sauce Beef Jerky, to help you curb your desire for calorie-filled treats at the party. Made with premium cuts of beef, pork, turkey or chicken, these snacks are naturally high in protein and low in fat, calories and carbs, making it a smarter snacking choice. And because jerky requires no refrigeration, you can easily toss a bag in your purse or gym bag for on-the-go noshing or a pre- or post-workout snack.

Jack Link's Jerky is available in grocery stores, mass retailers, convenience and drug stores nationwide or at Jacklinks.com. (Suggested retail price per 3.25-ounce bag: $5.99.)

Hit the gym
As any personal trainer or nutritionist would tell you, the key to seeing results with any diet is exercise. But, you don't have to be a heavyweight champion or triathlete to stay fit. Fitness centers across the U.S. make fitness affordable and accessible to people of all abilities and fitness levels. Hit the treadmill for a long walk or run; strengthen your muscles through weight training; find your "zen" during yoga; or improve your cardio through conditioning while cycling. Whether you're looking to tone up or slim down this holiday season, there is sure to be a fitness center near you that will meet all your exercise needs. Many fitness centers are open 24 hours a day, so you can slip in your 30-minute workout when it's convenient for you. As always, check with your physician before starting a new exercise regimen.

Visit a fitness center near you for more information on how to become a member.

Drink up
Most holiday get-togethers offer a variety of beverages to satisfy every guest, such as wine, spirits, eggnog, soda or coffee. In moderation, these beverages can be a festive treat; however, they can also leave you dehydrated and consuming more calories than you intended. This year, pair your beverage of choice with a healthy glass of water. Recent research shows, drinking two 8-ounce glasses of water before breakfast, lunch, and dinner, while also cutting back on portions, can help you meet your weight loss goals. While each person's hydration needs are different, the Institute of Medicine advises that men and women try to consume about 3.7 and 2.7 liters of water a day, including water that can be found in food and other beverages, such as fruit, vegetables or even coffee.

Tally it up
Wearing a heart rate monitor, fitness watch or pedometer is a great way to track your progress before, during and after your daily workout. In preparation for the holidays, choose a tool that allows you to track calories consumed and calories burned all day long. Personal calorie management devices are available at a variety of price points and offer a wide array of capabilities. For example, through the use of an armband and a compatible smartphone, many calorie management devices will allow you to log calories consumed, track calories counts and even track how many steps you take all day long. Tools like this are essential in maintaining your weight loss goals all the way through to the new year and beyond.

Visit a local or online sporting goods retailer for more information.

Refresh your New Year's resolution by drinking more water

1/3/2012

(ARA) - We're told that drinking water is good for our health. But do we really know why? To get the new year off to a healthy start, here are four reasons why staying hydrated can help you reach your health and lifestyle goals.

* Good hydration is as important as good nutrition
Did you know that about 30 percent of your water intake comes from food? Most diets limit your caloric intake, so remember to drink plenty of water when you are trying to lose weight.

Fitness experts have long known the benefits of water and strongly encourage their clients to drink up. "I recommend my clients always carry water with them," says "The Biggest Loser" trainer Dolvett Quince. "It keeps you hydrated and helps flush your body of excess waste."

* Stay hydrated and feel alert
According to Nutrition Today, dehydration impairs cognitive function and mood in most adults at some point throughout their weekly activities. If your goal this year is to tackle those lingering chores around the house, drinking more water can help you feel more energized.

* Swap out sugar
Substituting water for soft drinks is a simple way to cut back on your calories. There are approximately 10 packets of sugar in a 12-ounce can of soda - drinking water instead of sugary drinks could reduce your caloric intake and help you maintain a healthy weight.

* Flavor matters
When water tastes better, you drink more of it. Reusable bottles with built-in filters like the Brita Bottle filtration system makes tap water taste better and allows you to conveniently hydrate on the go.

Looking for inspiration on your journey toward better hydration? Try joining a program like the Brita Challenge, which encourages you to drink eight to 10 glasses of water per day, including one before each meal, for four weeks. Participants can also access interactive tools, tips and tricks for drinking more water from NBC's "The Biggest Loser" trainers.

"My experience with the Brita Challenge has been amazing," says "The Biggest Loser" Season 5 Contestant Bernie Salazar. "By drinking more water, I've been able to curb my appetite, help clear up my complexion and I feel more balanced inside and out."

From cutting calories to feeling more alert, simply increasing your water intake can help set you on the right course for healthy living in the new year.

Brita is a sponsor of "The Biggest Loser" - tune into NBC's "The Biggest Loser" Tuesdays at 8 p.m. EST. "The Biggest Loser" is a registered trademark and copyright of Reveille, LLC and NBC Studios, LLC. All rights reserved. No celebrity endorsement implied. The statements and claims in this release do not reflect the views of NBC.

Distinguishing the difference between fact and fiction this flu season

10/25/2011

(ARA) - It's that time of year again - flu season. Cold and snow is joined by the arrival of sniffles, coughs, sneezing, sore throat and muscle aches. The seasonal flu, which is also known as influenza, is not the same as a head cold, and should not be taken lightly. In fact, the Center for Disease Control estimates that the flu affects anywhere from 5 to 20 percent of the U.S. population each year, and that approximately 200,000 people are hospitalized each year due to flu-related complications.

How can you separate fact from fiction about the flu, and protect yourself and your family? Everest College's nursing instructors bust some common, flu-related myths to set the record straight.

Fact or fiction: The flu vaccine can cause the flu.
Fiction.

"This is a complete myth. And it is a dangerous one to spread. The No. 1 most important thing that you can do to prevent the flu and flu-related complications is to get the flu vaccine each year," says Orvella Bradford, a licensed vocational nurse and vocational nursing instructor at Everest College in Anaheim, Calif.

There are many strains of flu viruses, but the flu vaccine protects against the three most prevalent strains each year. There are two common ways of receiving the flu vaccine - the seasonal shot and a nasal spray. The seasonal shot is recommended for most individuals over 6 months old and contains an inactivated form of the vaccine, which cannot make you sick.

The nasal spray, which contains a live, but very weak strain of the flu, is recommended for healthy individuals, ages 2 to 49.

"Although I strongly recommend getting the flu vaccine, it is important to recognize that the flu vaccine is not intended for everyone, particularly individuals with severe allergic reactions to eggs. It is important to talk to your doctor if you are concerned about the potential side effects from the vaccine," says Bradford.

Fact or fiction: I got the flu vaccine last year, so I don't have to worry this year.
Fiction.

The influenza virus that causes the flu is constantly evolving, and the most common strains of the virus can change from year to year.

"Even if you got the flu vaccine last year, you are still at risk for getting it again this year, so it is important to get a flu shot once each season," says Bradford.

Fact or fiction: I'm a healthy adult. I can fight the flu off on my own, so I don't need a flu shot.
Fiction.

Even if you are a healthy adult, if you contract the flu then you can start spreading the virus up to a full day before you exhibit symptoms, and for five to seven days afterwards.

"This means that even if you are healthy enough to fight off the flu on your own, you could be putting others at risk of infection without even realizing it. This is why we recommend the flu vaccine for everyone who is able to take it," says Bradford.

Fact or fiction: I can wait to get the flu vaccine.
Fiction.

In fact, the timing of flu season is unpredictable - it can come as early as October or as late as May. Everyone is encouraged to get a flu shot as soon as it becomes available in their area.

"We never know when the flu will hit. It takes about two weeks for the vaccine to take effect, so don't wait until it's too late to get the vaccine," says Critical Care Registered Nurse Jan Adams, a nursing instructor at Everest University in Brandon, Fla. Getting a flu shot is highly recommended to help you avoid the peak flu season.

In addition, many locations can run low on vaccinations periodically throughout the flu season due to the difficulties in manufacturing and distributing the high volume of vaccinations needed each year. "This means that it is important to act early - getting the vaccine when it is available and convenient for you will help you avoid a last-minute search for the vaccine," says Adams.

Resolve to get the family to snack smarter

11/30/2011

(ARA) - The new year is a great time for families to make a fresh start. Families can now reflect on eating habits and resolve to start the year with a smarter plate.

Finding snacks that fit into a new food plan is not easy, and eating between meals is often a reason why families fall short of their promise to eat better. In fact, Americans often turn to decadent treats throughout the day. And with today's busy households, kids just aren't getting adequate levels of vitamins and minerals.

So, how can parents face the challenge to improve the family's eating habits while finding treats that everyone will actually want to eat? The good news is snacking can complement any healthy lifestyle plan. Today's families can find success with a more general, practical approach to snacking.

Focus on current eating habits and adopt these simple tips now to get ready for the new year.

Satisfy with healthier options
Kids love their sweet treats. But in order to keep fruits and vegetables viable options for snack time, steer toward foods like oranges, tomatoes or baby carrots. Or top cereal or granola with their favorite fruit for added fiber. These are simple, yet delicious, suggestions that everyone will expect as a regular option during snack time over the long term.

Choose nutrient-rich favorites
Snacks can not only taste good but be nutritious too, according to Mike Bloom, vice president of marketing for Suncore Products. Families can replace indulgent treats that have little to no nutritional value with those packed with vitamins, minerals and fiber. "It's no surprise that kids like sweet snacks, but that doesn't mean they have to satisfy their sweet tooth with empty calories. WhoNu? Nutrition Rich Cookies offer a delicious treat that look and taste just like family favorite cookies while still providing essential nutrition," Bloom says. WhoNu? Cookies are packed with more than 20 essential vitamins and minerals, plus three grams of dietary fiber in every serving.

Create a snack center
It is easier to choose healthier snacks if your refrigerator and pantry are well-stocked with foods that are tasty and nutritious. When wholesome options are easily accessible in the home, you are more likely to skip the decadent treats. Organize a snack center so kids can grab and go. Parents can track snack options, and kids can have the freedom to make sound eating choices.

Be aware of serving size
Pay attention to "better for you" snacks that offer the most nutritional value per serving. Also, encourage the family to avoid eating from the bag. Instead, become aware of portion size. Learn more about the family's favorite snacks by measuring them out and checking the nutrition labels. Eventually, you'll be able to better understand portions and know just how much to serve.

Interest them in shopping
Shop around and stock your kitchen with a variety of foods. Minimize the number of empty calorie snacks you purchase. Get the entire family involved by allowing the kids to help choose which snacks should fill your shopping cart. Have them create a list of snack items, and use the time to talk about nutrition.

Coupled with a balanced diet filled with fruits and vegetables, snacks can complement any healthy lifestyle plan. Changing old habits can be difficult. But it is an attainable goal. With small and simple changes, a smarter snack resolution is easier than you think.

For more smart, easy and family-friendly snack ideas, visit www.whonucookies.com or find WhoNu? Cookies on Facebook to exchange New Year's resolution tips with other fans.

This season's healthy holiday entertainment guide with tips from Jennifer Hudson

11/30/2011

(ARA) - From cocktail parties to New Year's bashes, 'tis the season for endless celebrations with friends, family and food - and lots of it. Facing multiple parties packed with those indulgent holiday goodies can be a challenge to anyone's weight loss goals. But with the right strategy, you'll be celebrating even after the party has ended.

One person who has mastered maintaining a healthy lifestyle during the holidays with Weight Watchers is Grammy Award-winning recording artist and Academy Award-winning actress Jennifer Hudson. "When it comes to those once a year family favorite recipes, I don't say no. It's all about moderation and portion sizes," says Hudson. "I also remind myself that food is just a small part of the holidays. The biggest gift to me is having a chance to celebrate with my family and friends."

Here is Jennifer's "at a glance" entertainment guide to a healthy holiday season:

* Power pack the party foods. Jennifer always pairs a few of her indulgent holiday favorites with low-fat, fiber-filled finger foods. Weight Watchers calls the ingredients to these recipes Power Foods because they offer the best nutritional bang for your buck, and they're filling, so you'll stay satisfied longer. They include lean protein, fruit, veggies, whole grains and fat-free dairy. One of Jennifer's favorites is layering a sliced cucumber with avocado, low-fat wasabi mayo and shrimp.

* Dress like a star. Ditch the baggy sweaters and stretchy pants. Get gorgeous for the party with that dress or skinny jeans that show off your best assets. Jennifer always likes to wear something tailored because it helps her feel confident.

* Chill out with some steamy drinks. Create a hot beverage bar with a variety of light holiday favorites such as apple cider, lattes and flavorful teas. Let your guests create customized concoctions by stocking up on fat-free whipped toppings, sugar-free syrups and rich spices.

* Cut the rug - and some calories! Parties don't have to be all about consuming calories. Look for fun ways to burn calories, too. Dancing is not only a great cardiovascular work-out, but it's also an easy way to inject instant entertainment into your party and help guest intermingle.

As the party winds down, get a head start on the clean-up effort and send your final guests home with the remaining holiday goodies. This will serve as your party favor to help avoid being faced with those lingering leftovers, and will give you more time to start planning your next healthy gathering with family and friends.

Managing diabetes: the oral-vision connection

10/31/2011

(ARA) - Many are aware of serious diabetes-related complications such as heart disease, nerve damage and limb amputation. However, people may not be aware of how diabetes can affect oral and visual health.

November is National Diabetes Month, and primary care physicians, dentists and eye care specialists are urging people to schedule regular checkups. For people with diabetes, these visits can help regulate the disease's impact on dental, visual and overall health. For people who are not aware that they might have diabetes, certain signs and symptoms can help diagnose the disease.

One-quarter of the 26 million Americans with diabetes, and 90 percent of the 79 million adults with pre-diabetes, are unaware of their condition, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

"There are many people who do not know that they have diabetes, or are at risk for developing diabetes, and this puts a premium on diagnosis. The eyes and mouth can be a window into your health," says Dr. Michael D. Weitzner, vice president of National Clinical Operations for UnitedHealthcare's dental business.

Periodontal disease, an infection that affects the gum tissue and bone that hold one's teeth in place and can lead to bad breath, abscesses and tooth loss, may be a first indicator that a person may not have control of his or her blood sugar level.

"Diabetes has the potential of weakening one's ability to fight bacteria in the mouth and throughout the body. Unmanaged blood sugar can lead to difficulty fighting infection appropriately, paving the way for serious gum disease," says Dr. John Luther, chief dental officer at UnitedHealthcare. "Because periodontal disease is often painless, people may not know they have it until the damage has already been done."

Diabetes also makes people more prone to other dental problems, including oral infections, thrush and dry mouth. Dr. Luther recommends diabetes patients: schedule dental checkups every six months and alert their dentists that they have diabetes; make sure to take normal medications prior to dental visits unless your dentist or doctor instructs otherwise; and maintain an oral health care regimen of regular and rigorous flossing and brushing using toothpaste with an antiplaque or antibacterial ingredient and preferably with an electric toothbrush.

The relationship between diabetes and visual health is also significant.

"Eye examinations play a significant role in diagnosing, monitoring and managing diabetes," says Dr. Linda Chous, chief eye care officer at UnitedHealthcare. "According to the CDC, recent studies show that keeping one's blood glucose levels close to normal can help prevent or delay the onset of diabetes-related eye disease."

Diabetic retinopathy, which occurs when the disease damages the tiny blood vessels that nourish the retina, is the leading cause of blindness in the United States among people between 20 and 74 years old. People with either type 1 or type 2 diabetes are at risk of developing diabetic retinopathy; the National Eye Institute estimates that between 40 and 45 percent of Americans diagnosed with diabetes have some form of retinopathy. Vision complications related to diabetes extend beyond retinopathy to include increased risk of developing glaucoma and cataracts.

"All patients with diabetes should receive a comprehensive dilated eye exam at least once a year," Dr. Chous says. "Equally important, the dilated eye exam can help detect diabetes in those unaware that they have the condition. Oftentimes a patient will come in for a routine exam and the eye doctor will find evidence that the patient is at risk for diabetes or might in fact already be diabetic and will refer that patient to his/her primary care physician for further testing."

Since there are often no outward signs or pain associated with the early stages of diabetes, changes in vision such as blurriness, seeing spots or persistent redness can be symptomatic of the disease.

"Sudden shifts in blood sugar can cause changes in the eye lens that can lead to fluctuations in a person's eyeglass or contact lens prescription," Dr. Chous says. Other vision-related complications of diabetes that can serve as early indicators of the disease include double vision, dry eyes and lid infection.

"People with diabetes have special health considerations," Weitzner says. "This National Diabetes Month, don't forget to make dental and visual care a priority."

For more diabetes management-related tips, programs and more, visit www.unitedhealthgroup.com/diabetes.

Fire safety tips to protect your family

10/12/2011

(ARA) - House fires happen more frequently during the winter months each year due to holiday decorations, malfunctioning furnaces and increased use of cooking appliances and fireplaces, according to the U.S. Fire Administration.

As winter approaches, now is a good time for homeowners to make fire escape plans and take steps to prevent house. Every member of your family, from your youngest child to the oldest senior, can help to protect your home from fire and learn how to assist others in getting out in case a fire does occur.

Here are some actions you can take this fall to protect your house and family.

* Replace the batteries in your smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors. Go through your entire house and make sure you put new Duracell CopperTop batteries in every detector. You should have a smoke detector on every floor in the house, as well as just outside of every bedroom.

"Installing a smoke detector is one of the strongest defenses for a family to prevent devastating fires and ensure loved ones are alerted and escape a potentially dangerous situation," says Philip Stittleburg, chairman of the National Volunteer Fire Council. "A good habit to develop is to replace your batteries in your smoke detector every fall to ensure the detectors will work in the event there is a fire in your home."

* Have your fireplace cleaned and inspected. Residue from previous fires can build up in the chimney, and if the conditions are right, catch on fire. Schedule a chimney cleaning every year if you plan to use your fireplace.

* Unplug holiday decorations when you're away from the house or have gone to bed.

* If using space heaters in your home or garage, keep them at least three feet away from any objects, and don't leave them running and unattended.

* With all the holiday cooking you're bound to do, be sure to practice safe cooking methods. For instance, keep anything flammable away from the stove and oven, always roll up your sleeves when working around a hot range and never leave the kitchen unattended when cooking.

* Store lighters and matches out of reach of children and pets, and never leave a burning candle unattended.

* Establish escape routes for second story and higher rooms. You may need to purchase escape ladders that can be stored under the bed in case a family member would need to leave the house through the window.

* Organize a family escape plan. Put the plan down on paper, and then run through it several times so everyone - including your youngest children - knows exactly how they're getting out of the house, and where they're supposed to meet outside. Review this plan yearly.

All members of your family can work together to prevent fires. With a fire safety plan in mind, you'll be able to enjoy the fall and winter months without worrying about your family's safety.

Make over your boring breakfast with these tempting turkey recipes

1/17/2012

(ARA) - Are you starting off your day with a bagel and a coffee ... again? It's easy for a breakfast routine to quickly turn into a breakfast rut. People often sacrifice a well-rounded breakfast that helps fuel morning activities and stave off hunger for a quick breakfast loaded with refined carbohydrates and sugar.

The goal is to strike a balance: find quick and easy recipes that balance carbohydrates - derived from whole grains, fruits and vegetables - with a lean protein. One protein to consider for breakfast is turkey, which is available in a variety of breakfast-friendly and often gluten-free cuts, including links, bacon and ground. Jennie-O offers many quick and easy breakfast recipes on SwitchToTurkey.com and jennieo.com. "It's time for Americans to drop their soggy cereal, pudge-inducing pastries and boring granola," says Barry Lynch of the Jennie-O Turkey Store. "The new year is a perfect time to start each day right with a convenient, protein-rich breakfast using turkey."

To help incentivize Americans to start the day off right with a nutritious and complete breakfast, Jennie-O is kicking off a Breakfast Hall of Lame contest on SwitchToTurkey.com. Now through Jan. 31, consumers who visit SwitchToTurkey.com can enter the contest by submitting a photo of their uninspiring breakfast or a picture of themselves with their breakfast. The person whose photo receives the highest number of votes by Jan. 31 will win the grand prize: a two-week stay at The Biggest Loser Resort, in either location: Mailbu, Calif. or Ivins, Utah. Complete rules are available on SwitchToTurkey.com. Find recipes - including a breakfast burrito, breakfast pizza and sassy scrambled eggs with JENNIE-O turkey sausage links - as well as tips on safe handling instructions for turkey on the company's website.

Breakfast Burrito
1 Package JENNIE-O Extra Lean Ground Turkey Breast
1 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
1 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
1 1/4 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon pepper
1 egg and 1 egg white
1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce
1/2 cup wheat bran
1/2 green bell pepper, chopped
1/2 red bell pepper, chopped
1 (15 ounce) can of black beans, drained
8 whole wheat MANNY'S tortillas

Directions: Put the ground turkey breast in a mixing bowl. Add onion and garlic powder, paprika, and pepper; mix thoroughly. Add egg, egg white, applesauce, and wheat bran; stir well. Refrigerate the mixture for at least 30 minutes or overnight. Preheat a large non-stick skillet to medium high and coat lightly with cooking spray. Add the ground turkey mixture and stir to crumble and brown, 14 minutes. Always cook turkey to well-done, 165 F as measured by a meat thermometer. Reduce heat to medium. Add bell peppers and saute with meat for 5 minutes, continuing to stir and break up the turkey into smaller pieces. Drain the beans and add to the skillet. Cook an additional 2 to 3 minutes. Fill tortillas with mixture. Additional sides, if desired, light shredded cheddar cheese, CHI-CHI's salsa, WHOLLY GUACAMOLE dip, lime juice, and cilantro. Serving suggestions - scrambled eggs or egg whites and fresh fruit.

Go ahead, be an egghead: fortified eggs benefit the brain

11/7/2011

(ARA) - Egg consumption is on the rise, and not just at Easter. According to the American Egg Board, each American eats about 250 eggs annually - 20 eggs more per person every year than people were eating two decades ago. And there are many ways to enjoy eggs of all kinds of varieties, from colors to sizes to omega-3 fortified eggs.

"Eggs can be part of a healthy, low-fat diet and are a great source of protein," says registered dietitian Elizabeth Somer, author of "Eat Your Way to Happiness." "You can eat up to six eggs per week."

Eggs on the brain
Years ago Americans used to eat plenty of omega-3s. Today, given our diet of highly processed foods, we don't. Studies suggest that's a cause for concern. Omega-3s have a remarkable impact on the body, especially as it relates to boosting brain health.

Omega-3 fatty acids are necessary for overall health but must be consumed from the foods, beverages or supplements we take, as our bodies cannot produce them. There are three key omega-3s: DHA (docosahexaenoic acid), ALA (alpha-linolenic acid) and EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid). DHA offers the broadest array of health benefits, including brain, eye and heart health. EPA has been shown to support heart health, and may also be beneficial for some autoimmune and inflammatory disorders while ALA has been shown to help lower the risk for heart disease.

Many egg producers are now offering omega-3 fortified eggs because the typical American consumes only 80 milligrams of DHA daily, far less than the daily recommendation of 200 milligrams of DHA omega-3. Some populations have even higher DHA recommendations - for example, at least 300 milligrams per day of DHA is recommended for pregnant and nursing women.

"Of the three key omega-3s, DHA and EPA are the big guns; even then, DHA is by far the most powerful because DHA can be converted to EPA in our bodies. DHA-fortified eggs are a great source for getting the DHA omega-3 our bodies need," says Somer.

Some omega-3s naturally occur in eggs, but to achieve higher levels, egg producers fortify the hen's diet with omega-3s. Two common sources used are chia and flaxseed, which are rich sources of the plant-based omega-3 ALA.

To increase DHA levels in eggs, a sustainable, vegetarian source of DHA omega-3 from algae called life'sDHA is now being used. Three egg producers offering algal DHA-fortified eggs are Oakdell Egg Farms, Gold Circle Farms and ISE America. These brands contain more than 100 milligrams of DHA per egg - two eggs would meet the suggested daily allowance for DHA.

Eggs of every color
Many supermarkets are now carrying brown eggs. According to the Egg Nutrition Center, the color difference is due to the specific breed of hen. Eggs may also come in speckled, even blue finishes, but there is no nutritional difference among the hues.

Recipes
Most recipes call for large eggs. If only small eggs are available, add an extra egg for every egg the recipe calls for beginning with two. Add two extra eggs for recipes calling for five or more. For jumbo eggs, use one fewer egg with recipes calling for three or more eggs.

Hard-cooked eggs in three easy steps

Hard-cooked eggs are an inexpensive and portable snack. Despite the more common name of "hard-boiled eggs," it is better to hard cook them to ensure the yolks don't turn green, which is harmless.

1. Use eggs that are a week to 10 days old as they are easier to peel than fresh eggs. Add enough eggs to line a small sauce pan so eggs are not prone to roll into one another and crack. Cover eggs with water. Heat on high until water is just to a boil and remove from burner. Cover pan.
2. Let eggs stand for 12 to 15 minutes.
3. Drain immediately to serve warm or cool in a bowl of ice water.

The American Egg Board recommends that eggs with shells on can be refrigerated for up to one week and to store them in their original carton to prevent odor absorption. Eggs should be consumed the same day they are peeled.

Recipes reprinted with permission from "Eat Your Way to Happiness" (Harlequin, 2009) by Elizabeth Somer.

Breakfast "Burritoville":

Ingredients:
1 Mission Life Balance DHA-fortified whole-wheat tortilla
1 whole DHA-fortified egg
1 egg white
1 ounce reduced-fat cheddar cheese
3 tablespoons salsa
3 tablespoons chopped tomato
3 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro

Directions:
Warm tortilla and fill with: one whole egg and one egg white, scrambled, cheddar cheese, salsa, tomato and cilantro.

Total DHA tally: 116 mg omega-3 DHA

Veggie Omelet:
Ingredients:
1 tablespoon Pompeian OlivExtra Plus with Omega-3 DHA
1/2 carrot, peeled and thinly sliced
1/4 cup broccoli pieces
2 tablespoons sliced yellow onion
2 medium whole DHA-fortified eggs
1 ounce grated cheddar cheese
Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:
Add the oil to a medium skillet and saute the carrot, broccoli and yellow onion over medium heat until heated through but still firm. Whip together eggs and salt and pepper to taste. Pour over vegetable mixture, top with cheddar cheese, cover, reduce heat to medium low, and cook until firm (about 15 minutes).

Total DHA tally: 232 mg omega-3 DHA.

Fighting arthritis? Exercise tips for all ability levels

12/2/2011

(ARA) - When it comes to fighting arthritis, there's no arguing with the axiom "move it or lose it." Movement and physical activity have been proven effective in relieving arthritis pain and, in some cases, delaying the onset of symptoms. But if you've been recently diagnosed with arthritis, or have been battling the disorder without much success, you may be unsure just what, or how much, physical activity will help you.

One in five American adults has arthritis, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Yet only 16 percent of those with arthritis strongly agree that they are confident they can manage their pain, according to research by the Ad Council. Osteoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis, and it can make the simplest activities difficult.

"Arthritis is common, costly, disabling and often thought to be a reality of the aging process that cannot be changed," says Dr. Patience White, vice president of public health for the Arthritis Foundation. "However, the limiting effects of osteoarthritis can be minimized with an action plan that includes physical activity."

Regular exercise offers two important benefits for those with osteoarthritis. It helps reduce the risk of developing other health problems, and helps manage the disease. No matter your ability level, you can engage in meaningful, beneficial activity to help fight arthritis pain and symptoms.

You should always discuss your abilities and needs with your health care provider before starting any exercise regimen. In addition, the Arthritis Foundation offers some physical activity tips for people of all mobility levels:

Low mobility

If you've been sedentary, starting out gently is essential. Talk to your doctor about what types of activities will be appropriate for your mobility level. He or she may advise you to begin with simple, low-impact exercises, such as walking or water aerobics.

Don't overlook opportunities to work low-intensity exercise into your daily routine. Activities such as sweeping, mopping, vacuuming and washing windows are great ways to incorporate beneficial movement into your day. Take the stairs rather than the elevator or escalator when you're shopping at the mall, and park at the far end of the lot and enjoy the stroll to the door when you go grocery shopping.

Gentle stretching is essential for all ability levels, and definitely manageable for those with lesser mobility. Stretching helps keep joints and muscles limber. In addition to simple aerobic activity, stretching exercises such as tai chi or yoga can help fight arthritis pain.

Moderate mobility

The Arthritis Foundation recommends at least two hours and 30 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity, or one hour and 15 minutes of vigorous aerobic activity every week. You should do at least 10 minutes at a time and spread your activity throughout the week. Those with moderate levels of mobility should be able to achieve this goal, provided they choose activities appropriate for their overall health and fitness level.

Moderate intensity physical activity can include sports like badminton, bowling and golf. Walking faster than 3 mph or while holding weights also qualifies as moderate activity. You may opt to incorporate in your exercise regimen both fun activities, such as dancing or cycling, with practical ones like carrying firewood, doing yard work or washing and waxing the car.

High mobility

If you exercised regularly prior to your diagnosis you may have better mobility, and could benefit from increasing your activity level. Aim for five hours of moderate-intensity or 150 minutes of vigorous-intensity physical activity every week.

Incorporating a mix of different activities will not only help keep you moving, but can enhance your enjoyment of your exercise time. Consider including in your routine exercise like jogging, swimming or cross-country skiing and higher-impact sports such as basketball, tennis or volleyball.

You can learn more about osteoarthritis at www.FightArthritisPain.org.

Five ways to stay upbeat and energized during the holidays

10/21/2011

(ARA) - As Christmas carols hit the airwaves and the snow begins to fall, the joy of the holidays brings out the best in everyone - right? With a seemingly endless to-do list of shopping, cooking, entertaining and decorating, the holiday season can quickly become a recipe for anxiety. A recent study by the American Psychological Association shows that one-third of Americans are living with extreme stress.

The true meaning of the holiday season can be overshadowed by the demands of preparations, but it shouldn't be. By planning ahead, taking care of yourself and making sure to spend quality time connecting with loved ones, you can stay upbeat and energized during the holidays.

Try these tips to make sure your mood is as bright as the lights on the Christmas tree.

Plan ahead: Instead of subjecting yourself to the last-minute trips to the mall, get shopping done earlier, and do what you can online. If you need to hit the mall, get there when it opens and develop a list beforehand so you can quickly check off what you need. Establish a schedule for the month of December and plan several days in advance for holiday meals and parties. Also, create a budget early in the season, and stick to it. Studies show that finances are often a major trigger of stress during the holidays.

Make meaningful connections the entire season long. Making time to connect with close family and friends - whether through a phone call, e-mail or Skype - will help you remember the true meaning of the holiday season. You can also let your loved ones know you're thinking of them throughout the season by surprising them with the jacquielawson.com Advent Calendar. The animated e-calendar includes 25 holiday animations that transport recipients to a magical version of London. It's a meaningful and unique gift for friends and family, near and far - you'll love sharing stories with loved ones from that day's holiday animation.

"We heard stories of extended families living thousands of miles apart yet sharing the daily ritual of watching the day's animation and then talking with or emailing each other about it," says jacquielawson.com co-founder Mike Hughes-Chamberlain, speaking about the company's first-ever Advent Calendar last year. "Many customers asked us to keep making new calendars each year so it could become a new family tradition."

Take time for yourself. Escape the hustle and bustle of the mall by going to a movie with a friend, or curling up by the fire with a bestseller. Taking a moment to breathe and focus on something unrelated to the holidays will give you a chance to regroup and more effectively tackle the next cookie recipe or holiday party on your schedule. Try spending a few quiet moments of alone time each morning to recharge for the day ahead. And, if you feel like splurging, enjoy a few hours at the spa while you're picking up gift certificates for others on your list.

Avoid over-committing. With holiday parties to attend and host, cookies to bake and deliver, and tackling an ever-increasing Christmas card list, the holidays can easily swirl out of control. Decline the office cookie exchange this year, and cut down your gift list. You'll be better able to savor the most important things of the holiday season when you're not frantically running from one commitment to another.

Exercise and eat right. In a season where schedules get busier as the holidays get closer, make one thing a standard in your daily routine. A trip to the gym or an exercise class helps you relax and unwind. If you can't make it to the gym, incorporate more walking into your daily routine. Park a little farther from the store entrance, or take a walk to see the neighborhood Christmas displays. Try to focus on your nutrition and avoid overeating, a major cause of holiday and post-holiday anxiety. Make sure to incorporate fruits and vegetables into your diet, and avoid that extra cookie when you can. Usually, one is enough to satisfy your sweet tooth.

Time-saving lifestyle changes help you look and feel your best

11/7/2011

(ARA) - From the moment your alarm clock rings, the race is on. It's a rush to get ready, a hurry to get to work and a hectic day at the office, all before the evening introduces its own laundry list of tasks. It can feel difficult -- if not impossible -- to find time to care for yourself in the daily hustle and bustle. But at the same time, everyone wants to look good, feel good and be healthy.

There's truth in the idea that sometimes you need to put yourself first. Looking good and feeling good often go hand in hand, and being healthy follows closely afterward. "By taking the time to tend to yourself, you'll actually be doing a favor to your already busy schedule," says Boston area dermatologist Dr. Jeffrey Dover. "Incorporating self-preserving and time efficient activities into your everyday routine can keep you healthy both physically and mentally, which ultimately promotes an energetic lifestyle."

Try working these tips into your day to help maintain your look and support your lifestyle.

* Take the extra steps. While there is increasing concern about people living sedentary lifestyles, you can beat the trend. It's easy to make your day more active, and little things all add up in terms of calories burned and muscles used. Let the elevator doors close and opt for the stairs. Or, as you make your dash for coffee in the morning or groceries in the evening, pass by the parking spots up front and choose one that will give your legs a stretch as you walk in.

* Consider new ways to keep your shape. Sometimes, a healthy exercise regimen, whether it's a yoga practice, dedicated visits to the gym or going for morning jogs, doesn't get all the work done. Even those who have a healthy lifestyle still find themselves fighting pesky muffin tops and spare tires. If exercise can't budge them, a new treatment called CoolSculpting might be able to. The body-sculpting treatment, developed by the doctors at the Wellman Center for Photomedicine at Massachusetts General Hospital in Boston, a teaching affiliate of Harvard Medical School, freezes and eliminates fat cells in a process called Cryolipolysis. As an alternative to costly, invasive and time-consuming treatments, the procedure can be done over a lunch break and doesn't require subsequent treatments. "In your busy life, taking advantage of treatments like CoolSculpting gives you the results you want without making a major impact on your schedule," Dover says.

* Simplify your get-ready routine. If your medicine cabinet and counter are overfilled with products, it's likely your schedule is, too. For both men and women, clearing out the drawers and cabinets in the bathroom can make things easier to find, but replacing multiple products with those that do double duty will also help cut down on time. The right haircut - one that requires a minimum of product, time and fuss - can make a difference for men and women alike, so let your stylist know that you want something low-maintenance. And just as a crowded bathroom counter can slow you down, so can a packed closet. Winnowing down your wardrobe helps you make decisions faster.

* Make your menu work. It's easy to rely on fast food that doesn't really do much for your wellbeing. Switching your menu options to include whole and minimally-processed foods can not only help you keep your shape, but can also have health-boosting powers. That's not to say that you have to cut out your favorites - just strike a balance that brings in more healthy foods that are richer in nutrients and which will support your fitness and health goals.

Finding ways to put more emphasis on looking and feeling great might seem like too big a challenge to tackle. But with incremental adjustments to your lifestyle, like streamlining your everyday schedule and body sculpting, you might find yourself living better than ever before.

Clinical trial volunteers help advance lupus research

10/19/2011

(ARA) - Lupus is a chronic, autoimmune disease that can damage any part of the body including skin, joints and organs. It is a complex and unpredictable disease with symptoms that may range in severity from one day to the next. It can even be fatal. There are an estimated 1.5 million Americans living with lupus, and every day these individuals must deal with their own immune system not recognizing the difference between "foreign invaders" like the flu and healthy tissue. The resulting health effects can include heart attacks, strokes, seizures, and organ failure.

No one knows what causes lupus and, at this time, there is no cure. This year, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved the first therapy ever developed specifically for lupus, and the first drug of any kind approved for the treatment of this disease in more than 50 years. But one treatment for lupus will never be enough because no two cases of lupus are alike. Lupus requires an arsenal of treatments.

Without clinical research, medication choices are limited. That's where volunteers in clinical trials, like Kathie Ruffatto, come into the picture.

"When I found out that I had the option to enroll in a clinical trial, the opportunity for me was huge," says Ruffatto. "I thought, whether or not the treatment works, my participation will benefit not only me, but everyone else out there who has lupus."

Diagnosed with lupus at the age of 14, Kathie has always tried not to let lupus dictate who she is or what she can accomplish, even though frequent hospitalizations for unexplained infections meant she must sometimes take a different route to accomplish her goals.

For people like Ruffatto, clinical trials offer the opportunity to play a more active role in their own health care, gain access to new research treatments, and help others by contributing to medical research.

"Clinical trials are studies that evaluate the safety and effectiveness of new drugs or treatment strategies," explains Dr. S. Sam Lim, associate professor of medicine at Emory University School of Medicine, and chief of service for rheumatology at Grady Memorial Hospital in Atlanta. "Participating in research is essential for furthering the understanding of lupus and other diseases and, ultimately, leads to more effective treatments.

"However, all clinical trials have risks and benefits, and participation in a clinical trial is not for everyone," adds Lim. "People considering joining a clinical trial should speak with their health care provider and discuss the options they are considering."

"In a way, it wasn't a hard decision for me because I trusted my doctor. My doctor understood me as a person, and it is so important for your doctor to understand who you are, not just what your lupus is." Ruffatto says.

Ruffatto also advises people with lupus to research clinical trials through trusted organizations like the Lupus Foundation of America.

"You have to weigh the pros and cons in your situation to see if it is the right fit for you because every case of lupus is so different," she adds.

To educate yourself more on lupus, visit www.lupus.org. To find out more about clinical trial opportunities, visit the Lupus Foundation of America's Center for Clinical Trials Education (CCTE) at www.lupus.org/clinicaltrials.

Collaborative online children's storybook starts conversations about little-understood disease

12/22/2011

(ARA) - "Wednesday was a long day. We went to the hospital for a special checkup. The nurse showed us the giant, cool-looking tunnel called an MRI machine. They told Scott he was going to slide in there so they could take a picture of his brain. He's done this before."

For many families with children living with tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC), a serious genetic disorder, this scene may be all too familiar. Scott's story is a part of an online children's storybook about a young boy with TSC as seen through the eyes of his favorite toy, a stuffed dog named Turbo.

This eBook, called "Turbo and Scott," was developed to help foster discussion with kids, family members and friends about this complex disease in an accessible way. In addition to highlighting the duo's everyday adventures, the story, written by children's author John Grandits, addresses some of the challenges children with TSC may face, from frequent doctor visits to living with skin lesions and seizures.

Also known as tuberous sclerosis (TS), TSC affects approximately 25,000 to 40,000 people in the US and may cause noncancerous tumors to form in vital organs, including the brain, kidneys, heart, lungs and skin. The disease is associated with a variety of resulting disorders including seizures, developmental delays and life-threatening brain swelling (hydrocephalus). For both those living with the disease and their caregivers, TSC can often impact their quality of life.

"Facing the challenges of a TSC diagnosis on a daily basis can be stressful or even overwhelming, for the entire family," said Kari Luther Rosbeck, President and CEO of TS Alliance, who authored the foreword of the TSC eBook. "'Turbo and Scott' will hopefully help alleviate some fears and encourage meaningful discussion about living with TSC."

The eBook was sponsored by Novartis Pharmaceuticals Corporation and developed as part of a unique collaboration with input from patient advocates, a TSC-treating physician and several parents of kids with TSC. The TSC community contributed to the eBook, with parents submitting photographs of kids with TSC, and children with TSC developing original artwork, all of which are featured as illustrations in the eBook. The TSC eBook also features a "Note to Parents" authored by Dr. Robert Flamini, Director of TSC Clinic, Medical Director of The Children's Epilepsy Center at Children's Healthcare of Atlanta, who provided guidance on the TSC eBook.

In addition to the children's story, the TSC eBook also features a "Q&A for Curious Kids" explaining key TSC facts and terms in child-friendly language, which may help parents answer difficult questions their children may have about the disease.

The TSC eBook is available free of charge at www.TSCstory.com.

Fast Facts about TSC:
* Diseases with similar US prevalence rates include cystic fibrosis and Lou Gehrig's disease (amyotrophic lateral sclerosis or ALS).
* One-third of all patients with TSC genetically inherit the disease, while in the remaining patients, the disease is acquired as a result of spontaneous genetic mutation.
* Many patients show evidence of TSC in the first year of life; however, many cases are undiagnosed in infants due to mild forms of initial symptoms.

One lesson you should take away from 'Contagion'

10/3/2011

(ARA) - If you've seen the movie or trailer for "Contagion," or you're thinking ahead to the winter germ season, chances are you may be placing a little more priority on hand hygiene and wellness these days. While it's not always good to take life lessons away from what you see on the big screen, health experts agree that hand hygiene is one of the best steps you can take to prevent yourself from getting sick.

Hand hygiene helps prevent the spread of common illnesses, food-borne pathogens and other communicable diseases related to the passing of germs. By cleaning your hands frequently, you can be sure you're doing all you can to make it through the peak season for many common ailments without getting sick.

We've all been told that hand washing is important, but it's not always easy to remember - or take the time - to wash your hands properly. So now is as good a time as any to review the guidelines for proper hand washing as laid out by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

Of course, there are times you need to wash your hands but you aren't anywhere near a sink. In that case, the CDC recommends using a hand sanitizer that contains at least 60 percent alcohol, such as PURELL. Pump bottles, portable options, sanitizing wipes and sprays are all offered by PURELL, so you can have hand sanitizer available whenever and however you need it.

"Learning the simple steps of everyday good hand hygiene will make it routine during the germ season," says Kathleen Hooker, Global PURELL Brand Director. "Global health organizations promote hand hygiene because four out of five diseases are spread by contact with humans. It's easy, and learning a song to go with it, can make it fun, too."

By paying special attention to hand hygiene, you'll give yourself the best chance to make it through the fall, winter and spring happy and healthy. For more information on the different types of PURELL hand sanitizer products available, visit www.purell.com.

When is nonprescription cold medicine not enough?

1/23/2012

(ARA) - Do you have a cold that just won't go away? The aisle at your local drugstore is overflowing with different cold medicines, and choosing the right one feels like a gamble with your wallet taking the hit at every purchase.

Without a cure, the common cold is a treat-the-symptoms illness and that's where the picture gets even more complicated. According to the Mayo Clinic, the common cold is caused by more than 100 viruses, which means signs and symptoms vary greatly.

From coughing and sneezing to body aches and nausea, the common cold is different in the estimated 62 million cases occurring each year in the United States, according to the National Center for Health Statistics. And that adds up to a lot of symptoms and cold medicine.

When you take nonprescription medicine for four to seven days and your symptoms do not improve or the symptoms get worse, it is time to go to seek medical attention, according to Sarah Braga, who is a Registered Pharmacist who holds a Doctorate in Pharmacy and serves as director of drug information and associate professor at South University's School of Pharmacy in Columbia, S.C.

"While antibiotics are not appropriate for treating a viral infection, complications from the common cold can include bacterial infections such as sinusitis, ear infections, and pneumonia. Remember that your pharmacist is there to help you long before you have a prescription in hand."

Pharmacists are trained to conduct assessments and to make recommendations on a wide range of nonprescription medications, including herbal remedies, vitamins, and supplements. For the common cold, remedies come in three broad categories: pain relievers, decongestant nasal sprays and cough syrups. Reading the labels and understanding dosage, especially for young children, is critical.

"Nonprescription medicine should be taken with the same care as prescription medicine, especially for those with complicating factors such as pregnancy or chronic long-term medical conditions such as diabetes or asthma," says Dr. Braga. "And your pharmacist is there to help you make good choices for treating your cold symptoms and can help you with dosage instructions."

Consider these factors when evaluating whether or not it is time to see the doctor.
1. Do you have a fever?
2. Have you been treating your symptoms for a week with no improvement or have the symptoms gotten worse?
3. Are you experiencing unusual symptoms such as dizziness, new pain, coughing blood, etc.?
4. Do you have complicating factors such as diabetes, or are you pregnant?

If you can answer "yes" to two or more of the above questions, it is probably time to seek medical attention.

For most people suffering with the common cold, standing in the drugstore aisle reading the labels on nonprescription cold medicine and trying to decide which one to use is a challenge. Remember, you are not alone, and your pharmacist is there to help.

What 26 million Americans should know about diabetes and oral health

11/14/2011

(ARA) - People living with diabetes need to take care of and monitor their health very closely. While monitoring their blood glucose is usually top of mind, the 26 million Americans living with diabetes may be surprised to learn that 95 percent have a form of gum disease. This is compared to only 50 percent of the general population. Additionally, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that people with diabetes are twice as likely to develop serious gum disease as people without diabetes.

"People living with diabetes are at an increased risk for developing periodontal disease because they are generally more susceptible to bacterial infection, and have a decreased ability to fight bacteria that invade the gums," says Dr. Maria Emanuel Ryan, professor of oral biology and pathology, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, N.Y.

A big misconception is that patients always experience pain if they have gum disease; this is not the case and it is especially important for diabetes patients to know and watch for the following signs and symptoms:

* Bleeding gums when you brush or floss.

* Red, swollen, puffy or sore gums.

* Gums that have pulled away from your teeth.

* Changes in the way your teeth fit together when you bite.

* Pus that appears between your teeth and gums.

* Constant bad breath or a bad taste in your mouth.

In light of these complications, Colgate Total has aligned with the American Diabetes Association this November in support of American Diabetes Month to help educate and increase awareness of the critical link between oral health and diabetes. Colgate is donating $100,000 to the American Diabetes Association to Stop Diabetes to help end the devastating toll that diabetes takes on the lives of millions of Americans. Visit stopdiabetes.com to become part of the movement and learn more about how you can share, act, learn and give in raising awareness about diabetes.

Larry Hausner, MBA, CEO, American Diabetes Association says: "Too often people don't realize all of the effects of living with diabetes. It's this type of awareness that helps more people to be educated patients, learn something new and take immediate action."

People living with diabetes and those who may be at risk should take an active role in their condition management to combat the risk of gum disease and other health problems by flossing, visiting the dentist regularly and brushing twice daily with antibacterial toothpaste specifically formulated for gum health, like Colgate Total. It is the only FDA-approved toothpaste to prevent gingivitis and the No. 1 recommended most by dentists for gum care. Colgate Total(R) toothpaste reduces 90 percent of plaque germs that cause gingivitis, the most common form of gum disease, for 12 hours.

If you do suffer from diabetes and have any of the signs and symptoms of gum disease, it's important you visit your dentist to determine if there is any oral care procedures you can follow to give you better oral health.

Choosing the right Medicare plan: Look beyond premiums

11/21/2011

(ARA) - Each year, millions of seniors are able to enroll into a new Medicare prescription drug plan (PDP), and the vast number of available options can make this a daunting task. Choosing a Medicare prescription plan can seem confusing, so the more you know, the easier it will be to find one that makes the most sense for you.

Two of the most important aspects to keep in mind are whether the plan can help the beneficiary save money and protect their health. When searching for the right plan, it's important to look beyond the monthly premium. To help make the process less overwhelming, ask yourself which features are most important for you. Here are a few to consider:

What is the plan's CMS Star Quality Rating? Each year, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) rates Medicare Part D plans to help you compare the overall quality of plans and make a more informed decision. Based on comments from plan members and other factors, CMS continually "raises the bar" in how they review each plan's performance in several categories, such as customer service, patient safety, and member experience. Star ratings range from 1 star (poor) to 5 stars (excellent).

Most prescription drug plans receive an average rating of 3.1 stars. In 2011, Medco Medicare Prescription Plan(R) (PDP) earned 4 stars for its national plan and 3.5 stars for its New York plan for overall quality and service. These ratings demonstrate Medco's commitment to quality and service excellence.

Does the plan tell you when there are lower-cost alternatives available, such as generics? Many brand-name drugs are scheduled to go "off patent" in 2012, which means that there may be new generic medications available. Plans should let you know when these generics are available and will recommend that you connect with your doctor to understand if the generic is appropriate for you.The total cost of a generic drug can be up to 80 percent less than a brand-name drug. By simply asking your doctor if a generic is available, you could save hundreds of dollars and significantly delay reaching the coverage gap - the dollar amount where your coverage runs out until you reach the designated catastrophic level where it kicks back in.

Does the plan offer coverage gap alerts? In 2012, in a standard Medicare prescription plan, once your drug costs (what you pay plus what your plan pays) reach $2,930, you will enter the coverage gap. Choose a plan that gives members the opportunity to learn how close they are to the gap - whether through written materials, phone calls or email alerts - and provides solutions for lowering overall prescription costs that will help to delay entry into it.

Does the plan have online tools? Check into plans that have a suite of online tools for cost comparisons and to ensure safety. Some plans offer tools that alert members when they are taking two medications that don't work well together and could be potentially harmful to their health.

Does the plan provide access to clinical specialists? Look for a plan that not only provides 24-hour access to in-house Medicare advisors, but also to clinical specialists. They will be best suited to advise beneficiaries on prescription therapies as well as discuss lower-cost options. Finding a plan that includes both Medicare and clinical specialists provides greater value for your healthcare dollar.

Does the plan offer money-saving options? Some plans feature a $0 co-payment for a 90-day supply of generic medications by mail while in the coverage gap, a great way to lower costs during this benefit stage. Access to a mail-order pharmacy allows for the convenience of medications to be delivered directly to the home. Mail order can often provide a three-month supply of medications for nearly 30 percent less than buying a one-month supply three separate times at retail.

Rated 4 stars in 49 states and 3.5 stars in New York for overall quality and service in 2011. Plan performance summary star ratings are assessed each year and may change from one year to the next.

A Medicare-approved Part D sponsor

For more information, visit www.Medicare.gov or www.MedcoMedicare.com.

Anti-aging beauty tips can help you prove that age is just a number

12/5/2011

(ARA) - In a society focused on youth, aging remains a fact of life. Thankfully, scientific advancements and product innovations make it easier than ever to diminish dreaded signs of aging.

Thinning hair is considered to be one of the most worrisome signs of aging, second only to wrinkles. In a study conducted by Nioxin, the No. 1 stylist choice for thinning hair, it was discovered that women are particularly apprehensive about seeing their locks lose density.

Doctors and scientists know that as a person ages, changes occur from the head down, and it is important to practice an anti-aging regimen that targets every area of the body. Leading dermatologist Dr. Valerie Callender shares her top tips for looking youthful.

* Get thicker, fuller looking hair: Full, healthy hair is the ultimate sign of youth and 87 percent of women ages 18-55 feel a strong enough connection to their hair to consider it a part of their personality. But as chance might have it, as many as three out of four people in the United States experience hair thinning. "Thinning hair can be a result of poor scalp health," says Callender. "It's important to clean and refresh the scalp, and for that I like Nioxin Hair and Scalp Systems." Nioxin Systems deliver thicker, denser looking hair in 30 days guaranteed.

* Keep skin glowing: Not surprisingly, wrinkles are a major concern among women. The beauty industry is saturated with anti-aging creams, serums and lotions, but most consumers aren't reaping the maximum product benefits. To do so, it's essential to exfoliate daily. "Dead skin cells build up and form a barrier, making it difficult for products to penetrate the various layers of skin," cautions Callender. "Once you've created a clean base, protect your freshly glowing skin from the sun's rays and free radicals by applying a daily broad-spectrum sunscreen year round."

* Eat right: A healthy diet affects not only weight, but can help maintain healthy, lustrous hair and glowing skin as well. "The right diet nourishes the entire body from the scalp down," says Callender. A diet rich in protein and iron is essential for a healthy scalp, and foods full of antioxidants promote glowing skin. For this purpose, enjoy salmon and beans for healthy, lustrous hair, and blackberries, strawberries and plums for radiant skin.

* Maintain a white, healthy smile: Stained and discolored teeth can make you appear older and unhealthier than you are. Be sure to get teeth cleanings with a dental professional at least twice a year and floss at least once a day. Whitening toothpastes with peroxide are great for removing stains, and at-home teeth whitening strips are easier and more convenient to use than ever before. A smile says a lot about a person, so keep it healthy and youthful.

What you need to know when stomach flu strikes your home

10/18/2011

(ARA) - With the stomach flu season upon us, parents know that the stomach flu could be lurking on any doorknob or shared toy. Unfortunately, what parents don't know could be making the symptoms of stomach flu worse for little ones.

When a child has diarrhea, increased amounts of fluid and electrolytes are lost from the body. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, this fluid loss can be excessive in children and may lead to dehydration. Dehydration can become dangerous quickly if the child is also vomiting.

Dr. Sandy Chung, author, mom of four and pediatrician at Fairfax Pediatric Associates in Virginia says she often sees children whose dehydration could have been prevented.

"It's important for parents to know how to help their children stay hydrated through bouts of diarrhea and vomiting," says Dr. Chung. "Unfortunately, many parents - even those with the best intentions - don't know they could be misinformed when caring for their child."

A recent survey of mothers uncovered five key myths about caring for kids with diarrhea and vomiting that caretakers should be aware of.

Myth: The best way to hydrate a child with diarrhea and vomiting is to have her quickly drink as much fluid as possible.
Fact: When hydrating a child, especially if she is vomiting, small sips are better than gulps.

Myth: It's OK to wait a while before giving liquids after a child has had diarrhea and vomiting.
Fact: An oral electrolyte solution should be given at the first sign of diarrhea and vomiting to help prevent dehydration.

Myth: It takes several episodes of diarrhea and vomiting for an infant to become dehydrated.
Fact: As little as one bout of diarrhea with vomiting can cause dehydration in a baby.

Myth: It's easy for a mom to tell if her child is dehydrated.
Fact: Nearly all mothers surveyed (98 percent) were unable to correctly identify all the signs of dehydration, including reduced urine production, sunken eyes, few or no tears during crying and dry mouth or tongue. Because it's hard to identify the signs of dehydration, consult your pediatrician if you're concerned.

Myth: Any liquid can prevent dehydration.
Fact: Sports drinks, sodas, and juices, and even water don't meet medical guidelines for helping prevent dehydration due to diarrhea and vomiting in children. Many of these drinks are high in sugar, which can actually make diarrhea worse, and they don't contain the proper amounts of the vital minerals lost during diarrhea and vomiting.

Unlike normal household drinks, oral electrolyte solutions, like Pedialyte(R), are specially formulated to replenish vital minerals and nutrients to help prevent dehydration due to diarrhea and vomiting.

Because stomach flu can hit at any time, be ready to deal with it without making a midnight trip to the drug store. Dr. Chung recommends stocking the medicine cabinet with important essentials, including children's pain reliever/fever reducer, thermometers, hand sanitizers, and an oral electrolyte solution such as Pedialyte, which comes in stain-free, clear liquid Pedialyte Singles, or space-saving Powder Packs.

"Even if they know what to do when diarrhea and vomiting occur, most parents prefer to avoid the stomach flu altogether," adds Dr. Chung.

To help prevent the stomach flu:
- Make sure kids wash their hands thoroughly with warm, soapy water
- Disinfect phones, doorknobs and toys regularly
- Provide nutritious foods at meal times

Go to Pedialyte.com/SurvivalGuide to download a Survival Guide for more tips to prepare for, help prevent, and help manage diarrhea and vomiting when these symptoms hit.

Use Pedialyte oral electrolyte solution under medical supervision for the dietary management of dehydration due to diarrhea and vomiting.

New year, new you: Great tips for healthy skin, hair and nails in 2012

11/29/2011

(ARA) - The new year is a great time to make some resolutions to keep your skin, hair and nails healthy. Your dermatologist can help you with these resolutions. Dermatologists are medical doctors and surgeons who have extensive training, experience, and passion for keeping skin, hair, and nails healthy throughout a person's lifetime. Here are tips to keep you healthy looking from head to toe.

* Protect your skin from the sun. Help prevent signs of aging, such as age spots and fine lines, as well as limit your risk of developing skin cancer by using sunscreen, wearing protective clothing (a long-sleeved shirt, pants, wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses) and seeking shade when appropriate. Choose a sunscreen with a Sun Protection Factor (SPF) of at least 30 and broad-spectrum protection (protects against ultraviolet A and ultraviolet B rays).

* Do not use tanning beds. Ultraviolet light from the sun and tanning beds can cause skin cancer and wrinkling. If you want to look like you've been in the sun, consider using a sunless self-tanning product (such as a lotion, foam or spray), but continue to use sunscreen with it.

* Perform a skin self-exam. Examining your skin for suspicious moles and other lesions could save your life. Use the American Academy of Dermatology's body mole map, located at www.aad.org, to record your moles and learn how to perform a proper skin exam. If you find a suspicious lesion, make an appointment to see a dermatologist.

* Don't skip the hair conditioner. Dermatologists recommend using a conditioner after every shampoo. While a conditioner cannot repair hair, it can increase shine, decrease static electricity, improve strength, and offer some protection from harmful UV rays.

* Eat a healthy diet. A diet rich in fresh vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and other healthy foods can lead to healthier skin. Be sure to include some lean protein in your diet. Your skin is made of protein, so some protein is necessary for healthy skin.

* If your skin feels dry, moisturize. After bathing is the best time to moisturize so that you can trap water in the skin. If your skin still feels dry with regular moisturizing after bathing, apply moisturizer a few times throughout the day.

* Stop smoking. People who smoke expose their skin to toxins that accelerate the aging of their skin. And, the repeat puckering to inhale can cause deep lines around the lips. Frequent squinting to avoid getting smoke in one's eyes can cause noticeable crow's feet.

* Manage stress. To keep your skin looking its best, it is important to effectively manage stress. Chronic stress can wreak havoc on your skin, hair and nails. It can worsen many skin conditions, including psoriasis, acne and rosacea, cause brittle nails and ridging of the nails, and lead to hair loss.

* Don't bite your fingernails. You can transfer infectious organisms between your fingers and mouth. Also, nail biting can damage the skin around your fingers, allowing infections to enter.

* If you have acne, do not pick, pop, or squeeze the blemishes. People mistakenly believe that picking and popping pimples will get rid of them quickly. The truth is doing any of these can irritate the skin, make acne worse, and increase the risk of scarring.

* The American Academy of Dermatology has additional tips for choosing the right doctor for your cosmetic procedure. There are a growing number of non-physicians and other doctors performing cosmetic surgery outside their scope of training. To protect your health and safety, find a doctor who specializes in the specific procedure you are considering. Board-certified dermatologists have the medical and surgical education and experience to perform cosmetic surgery and have pioneered many advances in cosmetic surgery, including tumescent liposuction, laser surgery and hair transplantation.

For more healthy skin, hair and nail tips, visit the American Academy of Dermatology's website at www.aad.org.

Three simple steps to maximize any fitness routine

11/22/2011

(ARA) - Your health is always a priority, and making sure you exercise regularly is your goal. Because life is busy, you want to get the most out of any time you dedicate to getting in shape. So how can you maximize your efforts?

"Whether you're a professional athlete or an 'average Jane or Joe', adopting some simple strategies can make a huge difference in your physical fitness," says Mackie Shilstone, a sports performance manager who has worked with professional athletes like tennis star Serena Williams and baseball hall-of-famer Ozzie Smith.

More than 3,000 professional athletes over the past 30 years have turned to Shilstone to give them the edge they need to win. Here are three easy steps he thinks everyone should take in order to get the most out of their exercise regimen.

Step one: Prepare

If you are just starting a fitness program or have not exercised in some time, it's important to see your physician first. After you get the go-ahead, remember that preparing before any physical activity is crucial. What you put into your body can make all the difference, so getting adequate sleep and eating healthy foods gives your body what it needs for peak performance.

If you're like most Americans, there is one very important nutrient you're likely not getting enough of: omega-3 fatty acids. Because you can only get these essential fatty acids through what you eat, and the typical American diet is low in omega-3s, most people do not get as much as they need. The good news is that you can easily fill any void by incorporating a high quality fish oil supplement into your daily routine.

"Research shows that supplementing with fish oil helps you maintain a healthy weight, elevates mood, supports hydration of the cells, and keeps your joints lubricated, flexible and mobile," says Shilstone. "Because most people do not get enough omega-3s in their daily diet, I suggest taking Ultimate Omega Sport supplement by Nordic Naturals."

Step two: Perform

You've given your body all the fuel it needs to perform well, so now it's time to get in the game. After a good warm up, your body is ready for physical activity. If you're beginning a new workout routine or trying a new activity, remember to start slow and go at your own pace. Listen to your body's internal cues and slow down or take a break if you need one.

Shilstone recommends you follow the guidelines on exercise from the American College of Sports Medicine. He says the goal is to exercise a minimum of 30 minutes for five days a week at a light to moderate intensity. This means at an intensity level before you break a sweat. Alternatively you could exercise three days a week at a light to moderate level, and two days you could push yourself harder to a level where you do break a sweat.

Shilstone stresses the importance of staying hydrated during any exercise. "To promote joint and muscle health, remember to stay hydrated. A basic rule for sedentary people to follow is to drink one ounce of water for every two pounds you weigh, daily. For a 180-pound sedentary person, this means 90 ounces of fluid per day. More may be needed as you become more physically active. Temperature plays a factor as well," he says.

Fitness doesn't have to be boring, so choose an activity you enjoy. You might even want to try something new, like taking a dance class or trying rock climbing. Remember to have fun and enjoy the endless ways you can exercise to get healthy.

Step three: Recover

Be sure to follow any physical activity with stretching to help reduce muscle soreness. A proper cool down, including gentle stretching, allows the body to relax and recover.

After a workout your energy stores will be depleted. It's a smart idea to eat a combination of protein, like a fast acting whey protein along with a maltodextrin carbohydrate source such as a sports drink, within two hours after your exercise. Shilstone recommends a 1-to-2 ratio, such as 20 grams of whey protein to 40 grams of maltodextrin. This gives your body additional fuel to heal and rebuild muscles.

Studies show that omega-3s from fish oil support the body's natural anti-inflammatory response and protects against free radical damage, so your supplement can also help revitalize your body in time for your next round of activity.

"These three tips can help anyone of any age perform better," adds Shilstone. "There's no better time to start being physically fit than the present."

Tips to prevent illness this winter

11/2/2011

(ARA) - The colder winter months are notorious for sniffling noses, deep coughs, achy bodies and fevers. It's cold and flu season, which means it's a good time to reduce your exposure to germs and stock up on supplies that will help you escape any illnesses, or at least help you tolerate any symptoms.

Preventive care is key to avoiding the traditional winter illnesses of cold and flu. Here are some tips to keep those icky germs at bay:

* Hand washing is very important, so stock up on soap and antibacterial cleansers and have them ready by every sink in your house. Also consider using disposable towels to reduce the potential for germs to transfer between family members.

* Starting off healthy can help you be strong against invading viruses. You might be in need of extra fortification like fish oil or calcium, so ask your doctor about adding a vitamin regimen to your diet.

* Get plenty of sleep. A lack of sleep can wear down your energy and immune system, leaving you more susceptible to viruses and germs. Make sure you have a comfortable pillow so you don't wake up sore or spend the night tossing and turning. And if you struggle with letting your brain relax, a white noise machine or fan running on the lowest setting can calm you down.

* Keep the house clean. Wash door handles, the phone and even the handles on your appliances frequently to avoid the transfer of germs. Keep a good supply of sanitizing cleaners on hand to help speed up the cleaning process.

* Get the flu shot. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends everyone over the age of 6 months gets a flu shot. The nasal spray flu vaccine is also now available for people who qualify.

As you're making a list of all the supplies you'll need to help prevent your family members from getting sick, make sure you look for discounts and coupon codes online at sites like CouponHeaven.com. Many stores listed on this time and money saving site offer discounts on vitamins, health supplements, cleaning supplies and even pillows, which in the long run can save you a good amount of money.

If you do end up catching a virus, stay home from work to prevent the virus from spreading to your coworkers, and try to get plenty of sleep and liquids to help build your strength back up.

Don't let the seasonal flu or cold keep you from enjoying the winter months this year. Spend your time discussing the fun you had sledding down a tubing hill or cross country skiing through the quiet countryside - rather than talking about fevers, aches and pains.

Flu season alert: Protect yourself, and others, from germs

12/1/2011

Germs: If we could see them, it would be much easier to avoid catching the flu or a cold. However, since germs are invisible to the naked eye, we look for different forms of protection, especially during flu season when risk of a specific illness runs high.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) designates flu season during the fall and winter months, with the peak varying in occurrence anywhere from November to March. Generally, if the calendar month contains the letter 'R', it's flu season. The CDC further reports that nearly 200,000 people are hospitalized due to the flu each year, and about 36,000 people die from it.

To help you guard yourself and your family, Dr. Anthony "Jay" Avenido, chair of the Allied Health department at Brown Mackie College - Cincinnati offers advice on how to steer clear of this invisible menace.

"The environment is filled with germs," says Avenido. "They live on telephones, keyboards, door handles, and gas pumps." Germs transfer easily, even without direct contact with an infected person. Whenever an infected person handles something, germs transfer to the surface. Once there, the germs can live up to several days. "One person can literally transmit germs to hundreds. As we routinely encounter germs, they find ways into our bodies," he says.

"We transmit germs in our normal daily contact with people and objects," says Avenido. "Germs get into our bodies a number of different ways. They enter through the eyes, nose, and mouth. The airway passage serves as a major point of entry for germs. We breathe them in. Even small cuts and scrapes are an open door for germs."

Each time a person coughs or sneezes, respiratory droplets containing germs are expelled from the body. An uncovered sneeze can spread droplets several feet away from the source, putting everyone in the general vicinity at risk. With a little knowledge, you can minimize the spreading of your own germs, and help protect yourself against the germs of others.

Protective measures
"It is important to take precautions against germs," Avenido advises. "I don't recommend covering a cough or sneeze with your hand. This may limit the number of germs moving through the air; however, you will now carry them on your hand. You will inevitably touch something and leave germs behind for others. That's why kids get sick a lot. They touch everything." Avenido recommends creating a barrier between yourself and others when a sneeze is imminent. You can do this by sneezing into your elbow. The same rule applies for coughing.

Proper hand washing is another good defense against germs. "This is not the time for perfunctory hand washing. Water without soap is not effective," Avenido says. "The ingredients of the soap help to break down the bacterium. A thorough hand washing includes warm water and soap. Scrub hands, front and back, and in between the fingers for 20 seconds That's long enough to sing 'Row, Row, Row, Your Boat' twice." Avenido says while washing, use pressure to create friction, which gets the substance of the soap into bacteria. "If you sneeze or cough into your hand, wash ASAP," he says."If washing isn't convenient, use a hand sanitizer that contains alcohol."

In today's world, it isn't practical to stay home from school or work for the duration of a cold. However, it is important to be aware of how sick you are. "Know your symptoms. If you have a fever of 100 degrees or more, you may want to just stay home, especially if you're experiencing discharge from the nose, or coughing and sneezing frequently," says Avenido.

Safe, simple and affordable healthy skin tips for men and women

10/4/2011

(ARA) - Whether you are male or female, you likely have some key elements to your health routine like exercise, good food, rest and regular medical and dental check-ups. Taking care of your skin probably isn't a part of this important list - but it should be. Your skin is a living organ and a first line of defense against the outside world. Your skin protects you from environmental toxins and pathogens, gets rid of waste, regulates healthy body temperature and is ultimately the picture of health the world sees.

Men are often guiltier of neglecting healthy skin care than women. Maybe skin care isn't considered manly enough, or maybe men simply feel that beyond a good scrub and shave nothing else is needed. And the barrage of high-priced, celebrity-endorsed anti-aging products sold by powerhouse cosmetics companies for women contributes to the notion that skin care is a luxury for well-to-do women rather than an important aspect of a healthy everyday lifestyle.

What's not in your skin care products is just as important to your health as what is in your skin care products. Control what goes on your body by making and using a few essential oil-based products yourself that that don't contain any of the chemical preservatives and synthetic fragrances often found in expensive skin care products. Why pay for what you don't need when you can create more affordable, natural and healthy skin care products - with a custom scent of your liking - on your own?

One hundred percent pure and natural essential oils from a reputable company such as Aura Cacia provide a natural way to scent your homemade skin care products. Here are the essential oil scents that tend to be favored by men and women and some do-it-yourself natural alternatives to the commercial products cosmetic companies offer.

Masculine Scents
* Cedarwood
* Frankincense
* Myrrh
* Sandalwood
* Vetiver

Feminine Scents
* Geranium
* Jasmine
* Neroli
* Rose
* Ylang Ylang

Neutral Scents
* All citrus oils
* Eucalyptus
* Lavender
* Patchouli
* Peppermint

Cleanser
Maintaining clean skin is important for men and women because a good wash removes the build up of accumulated toxins and allergens from the outside environment while it removes dead skin, oil, bacteria and odor. Cleansing stimulates cell turnover and renewal. A gentle, natural liquid soap made with a wholesome vegetable oil such as olive or sweet almond is the best cleanser you can use. Good old-fashioned soap is a very effective cleanser - but it might be drying for sensitive individuals or with repeated use, so make sure you follow up with moisturizing oil afterwards.

Ingredients:
1 cup unscented liquid vegetable oil-based soap
2 tablespoons water or unflavored green tea
48 drops essential oil or blend of oils of your choice

Directions:
Combine soap, water (or tea) and essential oils in a small bottle. Apply about 1 tablespoon to a soft, wet washcloth and gently scrub damp skin in a circular buffing motion (not for too long or with too much force). Rinse with warm (not hot) water.

Moisturizer
It's essential to re-hydrate the skin after cleansing. Washing with soap lifts away dirt, makeup and dead skin, leaving skin bright and pores clear, but it also strips skin of its natural protective (and wrinkle-fighting) oil known as sebum. A light-bodied, absorbent and non-clogging oil such as grapeseed, jojoba or rosehip oil can be applied to still-damp skin after rinsing off your liquid soap-based cleanser to perform the same function as costly lotions and creams at a fraction of the price.

Ingredients:
1/2 cup grapeseed oil
1/2 cup jojoba oil
48 drops essential oil or blend of oils of your choice

Directions:
Combine all ingredients in a small bottle, apply a teaspoon to the palm of hand, rub hands together and smooth over damp, freshly cleansed skin. The oil will seal in moisture and protect against dehydration.

Toning and hydrating mist
As the day goes on, you'll inevitably lose your fresh glow. Some areas of your skin might become increasingly dry, while others might be oily. A simple mixture of pure water and protecting essential oils like lavender and geranium can help diminish an oily appearance and moisturize dry areas while the oils provide healthy protection.

Ingredients:
1 cup water
48 drops essential oil or blend of oils of your choice
Small spray mister bottle

Directions: Combine water and essential oils in bottle, shake vigorously and apply 2-3 spritzes of the mist to skin, smooth over surface if needed.

Good skin care isn't as much effort as heavy lifting or running a marathon, but it's a tool of health maintenance that can be as beneficial as hitting the gym. Man or woman, you should add it to your health routine. For more information and valuable skin care tips, visit www.auracacia.com.

The ins and outs of worry-free home security

10/27/2011

(ARA) - As seasons change, homeowners' routines change along with them. Whether it's children coming in and out of the house more frequently between school and activities, or service workers helping to get home repairs done before the holidays, you want to ensure safe and controlled access when you're not available.

One recent "Key Hiding Habits" survey of homeowners in St. Louis found that respondents hide extra keys for such purposes in all kinds of places, from beneath a flowerpot to under the bushes - yet among those who do, about one fifth don't recall where they hid the key, leading to an opportunity for a lockout situation. In fact, getting locked out of the house happens more than you'd think. Over a 12-month period, a quarter of those polled were locked out at least once and a smaller number twice. Believe it or not, some were locked out five times or more.

To ensure worry-free home security, there are simple things you can do to help ensure that the right people can enter your home, and also deter those you want to keep out of your home. Here are some home security tips:

* Go keyless. Avoid keys entirely by upgrading to an electronic keypad door lock, eliminating any worries about lost keys or the need to keep making replacements. Electronic locks provide keyless entry to a home using secure access codes, so there's no more hiding of keys in places where the wrong person might find them.

For example, Schlage electronic locks can be installed quickly with just a screwdriver and allow you to add, change or delete user codes in seconds, ensuring that the people you want to enter your home can come and go as they please. You can also create a temporary code for someone such as a plumber or pet-sitter who needs to enter and exit while you're away. To learn more, visit http://www.keyless.schlage.com.

* Use motion sensors. In the fall and winter months of the year it's especially helpful to have a light on for family members and others who need to leave or come home in the dark. One way is to leave the porch light on, but you can take lighting a step further by installing motion-activated lights. Available in home improvement stores, these lights can be installed at your entry door or by the garage door, and will turn on automatically when a person or car approaches, ensuring a well-lit entry to your home and making it harder for intruders to hide in waiting.

* Make your home look lived in. If you keep the drapes and shades closed during the day, it can give an unintended signal to burglars that you're not home, so go ahead and leave the windows uncovered as if you were there. Turn down the ringer on your home phone, as well as the volume on the answering machine - while you're away at work, dashing back and forth between activities, or even if you're simply working in the garden or backyard - as these sounds can be a signal to others that no one's inside.

By making these easy changes, you can add to your home's security and also ensure greater convenience for the entire family.

What's on your holiday shopping list?

10/18/2011

(ARA) - Holiday shopping lists often contain toys, gift cards and other material items that the recipients can enjoy and put to good use. But your shopping list can go much further to not only benefit the recipients, but also a great cause.

Make your holiday gifts go further this holiday season with gifts that give back. One way is to purchase gifts through the American Diabetes Association's Gift of Hope catalog, where every penny of profit goes directly to diabetes research. In the last 40 years, more than $24 million has been raised.

Gift of Hope offers an exclusive line of items for everyone on your list:
* Holiday cards, many of which were created by or dedicated to a person with diabetes
* Personalized photo gifts, including holiday greeting cards, travel mugs, phone skins and more
* House wares and seasonal gift items, such as plates, ornaments and hand towels

Catalog purchases are a Gift of Hope to the nearly 26 million children and adults in the U.S. who have diabetes, including Kathy Howard from St. Louis. In 2008 Howard went to the emergency room thinking she had the flu, only to find out she had a stroke and type 2 diabetes.

"I couldn't even put into words the shock and terror I felt those first few days," explains Howard. "I began a new life the day I went to the hospital."

Since her stroke and diagnosis Howard has lost over 85 pounds and exercises regularly. "You have to keep working towards good health," she says. "Don't wait until something happens."

Another way to give back this holiday season is to make a donation in honor or memory of a loved one. Gift of Hope offers honor or memorial gift cards, which represent a tax-deductible donation to diabetes research.

No matter which way you give, buy gifts that support a cause this season. Feel better about successfully checking off your holiday shopping list, while also making a difference in the lives of millions.

Support the Association's diabetes research efforts and help people like Howard. Shop the Gift of Hope online catalog at www.shopdiabetes.org/giftofhope.

When hearing aids aren't enough, cochlear implants can help

12/7/2011

(ARA) - Straining to hear each day, even when using powerful advanced hearing aids? Feeling frustrated and sometimes even exhausted from listening? Whether it happens suddenly or gradually over time, hearing loss can affect physical and emotional health. Being unable to hear impacts one's ability to socialize with friends, communicate with co-workers, and can force people to become more reliant on family members to constantly interpret for them.

By age 65, one out of three people will have a hearing loss, according to the Hearing Loss Association of America. Signs of hearing loss include:

* Difficulty understanding speech on the telephone
* Trouble following a conversation with two or more people talking at the same time
* Difficulty hearing in a noisy background
* Having to strain to understand conversation
* The need to ask people to repeat themselves
* Misunderstanding others and responding inappropriately

If you or someone you know is experiencing more than two of these signs, it could be beneficial to schedule an evaluation with a certified audiologist to learn if you/your loved one has a hearing loss. For people diagnosed with severe to profound hearing loss, who no longer benefit from hearing aids, there may be a solution. Unlike a hearing aid that amplifies sound, a cochlear implant is an implantable solution designed to mimic natural hearing using sophisticated software and state-of-the art electronic components.

Ann Dexheimer, a former certified American Sign Language interpreter and teacher for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing Program in Sonoma County, was diagnosed with hearing loss as a child. Starting at age 12, her progressive loss started to worsen.

Throughout her career, Dexheimer had taken professional courses and learned about cochlear implants, a technology that is often covered by many private health insurance plans and Medicare, and may be covered by Medicaid. Because her own hearing had worsened, it dawned on her in a class one day that she should consider getting a cochlear implant herself. "For me it was a no-brainer. I'd seen the remarkable success of children with cochlear implants."

Having a cochlear implant has become more than a device to assist her in hearing. "It becomes who you are," Dexheimer says. "Some days you don't even realize or notice that you're hearing everything. Then all of sudden you'll have a CI (cochlear implant) moment. You'll hear a leaf hitting the ground and go, 'Wow I heard that!' It's amazing. I'm so fortunate."

To learn more about cochlear implants and to meet individuals like Dexheimer who use the technology, consider attending a free educational Hearing Health Seminar near you. Visit www.hearinghealthseminar.com to see a list of cities in which the seminars will be held.

Don't miss a beat in 2012: Get the facts about fats and heart health

1/20/2012

(ARA) - With heart disease the leading cause of death in the U.S., according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, it's time to listen to your heart and get the right kinds of fats into your daily diet. The American Heart Association (AHA) recommends consuming polyunsaturated fats, specifically omega-3 fatty acids, for heart health. But what are these "good fats" and how do you make them a part of your daily nutrition program?

"Hundreds of studies from prestigious groups like the National Institutes of Health and universities like Harvard and Tufts, repeatedly and consistently show that when you add omega-3-rich foods or supplements to the diet, you help to lower your risk for heart disease," says Elizabeth Somer, a registered dietitian and author of "Eat Your Way to Sexy." "One important step is making sure your diet is packed with heart-healthy omega-3s. The omega-3s in fatty fish, especially DHA, keep blood vessels squeaky clean and reduce inflammation. They lower heart disease risk; raise HDLs - the good cholesterol; help stabilize the heartbeat and reduce blood clots, thereby curbing the risk for heart attack and stroke."

Somer answers some questions about heart health:

Q: What are the main differences between "good fats" and "bad fats?"
A: We often hear that Americans eat too much fat, while people in other parts of the world aren't eating enough. The truth is that, regardless of fat intake, very few people are eating the right fats. Fats to avoid are saturated and trans fats, which are solid at room temperature - like butter. In contrast, consuming polyunsaturated fatty acids - specifically omega-3s DHA and EPA found in fatty fish - are important for brain, eye and cardiovascular health.

Q: Doesn't my body make all of the omega-3s needed to help maintain a strong heart?
A: Many experts have indicated that the omega-3 fatty acids DHA and EPA are essential nutrients due to the limited ability of our body to make enough of them and because of their beneficial health effects. That's why we must get these nutrients from the foods we eat and supplements. The main dietary source of DHA and EPA is cold-water fish, such as salmon. Unfortunately, studies show the American diet includes far less than the ideal amount of DHA and EPA. For example, an average U.S. diet contains less than 100 milligrams of DHA per day. That is well below one expert's recommendation of at least 220 milligrams of DHA per day. Studies show that the more omega-3s you consume, the healthier your heart.

Q: What if I don't like eating fish - are there other ways to get DHA and EPA into my diet?
A: The most common sources of DHA and EPA omega-3s are fatty fish and fish oil. Interestingly, many people believe that fish produce their own DHA and EPA, but in actuality it is the microalgae in their food chain that make fish such a rich source of omega-3s. For those who do not eat significant amounts of fish due to dietary preferences, allergies, a vegetarian lifestyle or worries about potential ocean-borne pollutants, there are DHA/EPA supplements made from algae. One such supplement is Schiff MegaRed Plant-Omega, which is made from a vegetarian and sustainable source of DHA and EPA - algae. To learn more, visit www.schiffmegared.com.

Q: How much DHA/EPA should I get in my diet?
A: If you're not getting at least two servings a week of salmon, mackerel, herring or sardines, and you're not loading foods fortified with an algal-based DHA onto your plate, then make sure to take at least 220 milligrams of DHA in pill form. According to the American Heart Association, people with documented coronary heart disease (CHD) are advised to consume about one gram of EPA and DHA per day.

Escape with an at-home relaxation retreat

10/21/2011

(ARA) - With tight schedules and even tighter budgets, it's becoming more difficult for people to indulge in the luxury of a day spa visit or relaxing vacation. Recent studies show when it comes to life's little luxuries, like that sliver of cheesecake, we can't resist the urge to give ourselves a treat from time to time.

If your relaxation routine is the treat you can't resist, consider an at-home regimen to maintain that touch of luxury while saving time and money.

Consider the following tips to create an at-home relaxation retreat:

* Create a relaxation station. A soothing retreat is hard to come by in a cluttered home. Identify the quietest area of your home and do a mini-makeover of the space. Remove any extraneous items to create streamlined counter and tabletops. Add a few fluffy throw pillows you can nestle into, add a dimmer switch to overhead lights and find soothing scents like lavender to complete the environment.

* Massage away the day. Add a light massage into your relaxation routine to make the most of "me" time. Enjoy a book and a massage in your favorite chair with the HoMedics Swedish Massage Cushion, or rest on a comfy couch using a handheld massager on a sore neck. Adding soothing massage will help you relax and escape from the pressures of your 9 to 5.

* Enjoy the little things. Take time each day to enjoy the little pleasures that often go unnoticed. Being more conscious of what we often push aside for "more important" things can really help you refocus and feel more relaxed. So whether it's taking a full hour to meditate in the morning or enjoying a small piece of dark chocolate after dinner, don't forget that while we shouldn't sweat the small stuff, we also shouldn't forget the little things that make us happier.

* No whirlpool? No problem. Use steaming water and aromatherapy candles to create a spa-like mood in and around your tub. An addition like the HoMedics Body Bubbles Bath Spa can turn any bath into a soothing, bubbly massage. Turn on some soft music for a truly relaxing soak.

* Skip the salon and DIY nails. Mix up trips to the nail salon with taking time for yourself to pamper your piggies. Invest in a few neutral polish shades and a manicure kit to do your nails and toenails at home. Treat your feet to a deep soothing massage with a hydrotherapy foot bath like the HoMedics Hydrotherapy Foot Massager with Jet Action and Heat.

While you may de-stress throughout the day by enjoying the outdoors or burning off steam with a new fitness class, creating an at-home retreat gives you an escape to savor at your discretion. Making the commitment to take time for you is the essential first step - happy relaxing!

Why taking care of your emotional health is important while unemployed

1/3/2012

(ARA) - It seems that nearly every newscast these days includes some discussion of wide-scale joblessness in the U.S. and discussion of economic crises at home and abroad. The American worker has been taken on a roller coaster ride over the course of the last few years that has left many in a tailspin when it comes to their emotional health and their jobs.

An unusually high unemployment rate for a prolonged period of time means that twice as many people are dealing with being unemployed," says Dr. Brian Riedesel, associate professor at Argosy University, Seattle. "There's no lifetime job stability anymore. Losing your job can mean losing your identity. The longer that period of unemployment lasts, the more prolonged negative impact it can have on your emotional health."

According to a study on the long-term health effects of being laid off by Kate Strully, a Robert Wood Johnson Foundation Health and Society scholar at the Harvard School of Public Health, "For those who lost their job through no fault of their own, such as an establishment closure, the odds of reporting fair or poor health increased by 54 percent, and among respondents with no pre-existing health conditions, it increased the odds of a new health condition by 83 percent. Even when workers became re-employed, those workers had an increased risk of new stress-related health conditions."

"A layoff is a critical incident in your life," says Riedesel. "It has the potential for positive change in terms of a possible new career path but it can also be quite destructive in the loss of financial resources for individuals."

"The stages of the grief process apply to all major or unexpected changes including the loss of a job," says Dr. Marianne Greenfield, program chair at Argosy University, Atlanta and president and CEO of Parliament3, LLC, a network of Organizational Development and Human Resource Consultants. "The five stages are denial, anger, bargaining, depression and acceptance. Unfortunately, these emotions can sometimes progress to the point of self-doubt, negativity, or an inability to move forward. Those individuals who associate their identity with their job are at higher risk for remaining in the depression stage for a longer period of time which hinders their ability to create and implement an action plan to gain new employment."

When that layoff moves from an acute crisis event to a prolonged layoff, the toll it takes can be overwhelming. "It can be devastating," says Riedesel. "The chronic stress that long-term joblessness creates can lead to higher instances of anxiety, depression and insomnia. It also makes people more vulnerable to other issues they may already have."

"Our identity is, in many ways, tied to our work," says Riedesel. "Long-term unemployment can give us a sense of a lack of control in our lives. It's important to go from being a victim of that unemployment to taking action and taking control of our lives." Both experts agree that it is important for the unemployed to build a strong network of emotional support and to stay active. "Keep to your usual exercise and other routines," encourages Riedesel. "Take care of yourself. Eat and rest well, even if you don't feel like it. Be careful not to self-medicate with alcohol and drugs, prescription or otherwise."

"It can be easy to get isolated from others in this type of instance," says Riedesel. Depression and isolation go hand-in-hand. The more you can do to stay engaged, the better off you will be emotionally, mentally and physically. "Volunteer!" says Greenfield. "Doing something that helps others has a beneficial effect on how you feel about yourself. The meaning and purpose you find in helping others will enrich and expand your life. Many times a volunteer position will lead to meeting someone who can refer you to a paying job or possibly the volunteer organization will find you invaluable and hire you. In any case, you have self-worth and can gain the positive energy from making a difference in someone's life."

"There is a difference between having a reaction and having a breakdown," says Riedesel. "If you can't control the emotional, physical and mental symptoms you are experiencing as a result of that unemployment, it is important to seek professional help."

How to protect your greatest asset - your home - from subterranean termites

1/24/2012

(ARA) - When it comes to protecting your home's value, you have no control over some of the factors that influence real estate values, like nearby retail development or the job market in your area. You can, however, take control over one major factor in your home's value, its health and the health of your neighborhood - termites.

Termites cause more than $2 billion in damage every year to homes in the United States, and statistics show that's likely more damage than what fire, storms or earthquakes cause.

Subterranean termites are unlike many other problematic insects or rodents in that they forage for food 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. They feed on wood and cellulose products, which are part of your home's construction.

Termites live in colonies underground or above ground in moist areas, according to the National Pest Management Association (NPMA). Each colony can contain up to 2 million termites - meaning your home could have several million termites living around the foundation and they are constantly seeking a food source.

It is important to be able to spot the signs of a termite infestation by looking around your home. Termites typically create what are called mud tubes and together they travel through these tubes in search of new food sources. Look for these mud tubes along your home's exterior. Keep in mind that termites are very small in size - from 1/8 to 3/8 of an inch - so they can travel through small non-cellulose cracks in your home, such as through your foundation.

The NPMA offers several tips to help you reduce the possibility of a termite infestation. These include lowering the humidity in crawl spaces or other areas with reduced ventilation to eliminate a moist atmosphere - the kind that termites seek out. Also, it is very important to keep wood or scraps of lumber away from your home. Never pile firewood against your home; that's a sound food source for Subterranean termites. By putting lumber against your foundation or wall, you're in essence inviting termites to feed right next to your home.

The Sentricon Termite Colony Elimination System from Dow AgroSciences provides a tough, environmentally responsible solution for protection against termites. The Sentricon System features stations that are strategically placed eight to 10 feet around the perimeter of your home. Bait in each station is highly desirable to termites, so worker termites who are responsible for feeding the colony will feed upon it and bring it back to the colony. Once other termites feed upon it they will start to die off, but even if they don't feed on it the worker termites already have and once they die off, so does the colony's food source. Soon the termite colony will be eliminated.

The Sentricon Termite Colony Elimination System currently protects more than 2 million homes. For every system that is used, fewer liquid treatments are being applied, so that means fewer liquid termiticides are being injected into the soil. For more information about the Sentricon System, visit www.sentricon.com.

Winter weather especially harsh for those with diabetes

11/21/2011

(ARA) - Trekking through the mall on holiday shopping excursions, shoveling out the driveway and playing in the snow with the kids - every winter, your feet log some long, chilly hours. For people with health issues like diabetes, foot health is especially important when the weather turns cold, as the disease can affect your body's circulation even more so during the winter months.

More than 26 million Americans have diabetes, according to the American Diabetes Association. If you or a loved one have the disease, it's important to remain vigilant against complications year-round, and especially during the winter when feet are exposed to cold and remain covered up for extended periods.

The American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA) offers some podiatrist-approved advice to help those with diabetes maintain good foot health throughout the winter months:

* People with diabetes may experience loss of feeling in the toes and feet, which can be particularly dangerous during the winter. When walking outside, be sure to keep your feet protected from frostbite by wearing warm socks and proper footwear.

* Never walk in the snow in sneakers, dress shoes or sandals. Choose weather appropriate footwear that both fits comfortably and keeps feet dry and warm. You can find a list of footwear that have APMA's Seal of Acceptance by visiting APMA's website.

* You probably wouldn't dream of going barefoot outside in the winter, but you shouldn't do it inside, either. Always wear shoes and socks when walking outside, and at least wear socks inside. They afford a needed layer of warmth and protection. The type of hosiery you choose is important, too. Look for products made from breathable materials that won't constrict blood flow, such as CrocsRx footwear. Because moisturizing feet in the dry winter months is also important, foot care products such as AmLactin XL Moisturizing Lotion keep feet and skin healthy while being safe for those with diabetes.

* Wash and inspect your feet daily. Perform your self-exam at the same time every day and watch for changes in skin color, sores, swelling, blisters, peeling, cracking or other signs of problem. When you have diabetes, even a minor wound can become a problem, so don't wait to see a podiatrist if you develop an injury that's not healing.

* Stay active. Physical activity aids circulation, which is critical for people with diabetes. Don't let the cold weather be your excuse for becoming - or staying - sedentary. Get regular exercise, and don't be afraid to do it outdoors. Just remember to properly protect your feet from moisture and cold while you're outside.

Keeping feet healthy and pain-free can ensure a happy and healthy winter season. If you're unsure of how to properly care for your feet during winter, or if you experience foot pain or a wound that won't heal, see today's podiatrist immediately.

Tips for safely clearing your driveway of snow

11/22/2011

(ARA) - Unfortunately for too many Americans, winter will again deliver a double wallop of heavy snow and frigid temperatures this year. That means major traffic delays and another strong cold-and-flu season. Depending on the size of your driveway and your preferred method of snow removal, it could also mean a higher-than-average risk of heart attack, back injury and a trip to the emergency room.

While snow shoveling can be a great form of exercise, if done improperly in the wrong conditions or by someone not adequately prepared, it can be a leading cause of painful and even fatal consequences (especially for the 70 plus million baby boomers who are entering their "golden years" and are more at risk for injury or even death.) Snow shoveling sends more than 11,000 adults and children to the hospital each year, according to WebMD Health News. Multiple research studies specifically document an increase in the number of fatal heart attacks among snow shovelers after heavy snowfalls. That's because cold temperatures cause blood vessels in the heart to constrict. Combined with the fact that shoveling can cause a quick increase in heart rate and blood pressure, such constriction can be deadly, especially for people with a history of heart disease, those with high blood pressure or high cholesterol levels, smokers or people who typically don't exercise much. For some people, even two minutes of snow shoveling can spike the heart rate to unsafe levels.

Adequate preparation is necessary if you plan on shoveling your driveway safely. This includes warming up your muscles with light exercise. Drink plenty of water, since dehydration is still an issue in cold weather. Avoid caffeine or nicotine before starting, as these are stimulants that are likely to increase your heart rate, force your blood vessels to constrict and put extra stress on your heart. Pace yourself and take plenty of breaks. Choose the right shovel that is shaped and sized to minimize strain. Keep the shovel close to your body. Bend from the knees, not the back, and tighten your stomach muscles as you lift the snow. Avoid twisting movements and push, instead of lift, whenever possible.

To avoid the physical strain of shoveling, and stay safe, dry and warm despite the elements, plow your own driveway. Newer technologies have made plowing easier and cost-effective.

The HomePlow by Meyer, for example, is simple to install and operate. Weighing less than 250 pounds, it quickly mounts to almost any standard SUV, light pickup truck or utility vehicle to allow even the longest driveways to be cleared in a matter of minutes. Best of all, from a health and safety perspective, is that the HomePlow is operated from the inside of the vehicle. This allows users to safely and comfortably clear their driveways via a remote control without exposure to the cold or snow.

The patented Auto-Angling system controls the direction of the blade without need for any manual adjustment. It senses the weight of the snow and automatically angles to push snow off to the side. Available in three models, the snow plow can be connected or disconnected in less than a minute without the need for any tools. So no straining, no slipping and no exposure to the cold.

Of course you could also consider using a snow blower instead to minimize the strain of shoveling, although that option might not be as safe as you think. Despite the fact that it is less strenuous than shoveling, the use of a snow blower still requires physical labor in conditions that can result in slips, falls or over-exposure to the cold.

In addition, the U.S. Consumer Products Safety Commission estimates there are 5,740 snow blower-related injuries in the U.S. each year primarily caused by a limb being caught in the machine or from carbon monoxide poisoning. Slips and falls on the ice that occur either during shoveling or snow blowing most commonly result in broken wrists, dislocated elbows and wrenched backs. Older people, who are more at risk to slip or fall, are more susceptible to fractures, especially if they have osteoporosis. More serious problems include concussions, which are especially concerning for people taking blood-thinning medications.

To minimize the risks of snow blowing, wear slip-resistant footwear and be sure to keep hands and feet away from all moving parts. Use a stick to unclog the blower (while the power is off). Don't operate in an enclosed area, and don't add gas to a running or hot engine.

Even the use of a large tractor for open-air plowing is not without its risks, as operators are still exposed to the cold and wet conditions and subject to frostbite or hypothermia.

To learn more how you can safely, reliably and comfortably keep your driveway clear this winter, visit thehomeplow.com.

Healthy eating advice for people with diabetes

11/15/2011

(ARA) - Social gatherings, comfort food and even plans to just cook for yourself can be difficult for people watching their diet. For those with health issues such as diabetes, the dietary minefield of temptations can be especially troublesome.

In the United States, 8.3 percent of the population (nearly 26 million adults and children) has diabetes, according to the American Diabetes Association. For these people, the usual indulgences of sweets and rich foods can pose a serious health risk.

"People with diabetes must make significant dietary changes in order to manage their disease," says Dr. Donald Hensrud, preventive medicine and nutrition expert from Mayo Clinic . Dr. Hensrud is the medical editor-in-chief for the new "The Mayo Clinic Diabetes Diet." "Managing diabetes through diet isn't a fad; it's about changing your habits for the better."

The recent holidays don't help either. Americans gain an average of just one pound over the holidays (far less than colloquial estimates) but most also keep that extra pound, according to a joint study by the National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD) and the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK). Over the years, those pounds add up, and collectively, it's fueling America's obesity epidemic.

"Family history, being overweight, inactivity, a poor diet - these are the reasons why millions of Americans have diabetes or are at risk," Dr. Hensrud writes in the introduction to "The Mayo Clinic Diabetes Diet." "Weight loss can reverse the physical process that causes diabetes, and the effect can be dramatic."

If you or a loved one has diabetes, here's some advice from "The Mayo Clinic Diabetes Diet," to help you stay on track with your diet plans:

At a party

The hors d'oeuvres table is a downfall for many of us, especially when we are presented with treats that we don't normally see. Depriving yourself entirely can make cravings worse and increase your risk of binging.

So approach the hors d'oeuvres with these strategies:

* Make just one trip to the table and be selective. Decide ahead of time how much you'll eat and choose only the foods that you really want.

* Treat yourself with one or two samples of high-calorie or fatty foods, and then fill up on fruits and veggies.

* Take small portions. You may be able to satisfy your cravings with a small taste.

* Eat slowly and you'll likely eat less.

* Don't stay near the food all night. As the saying goes, "out of sight, out of mind."

* Eat something healthy before you arrive so that you won't be as hungry. Being hungry will make you more prone to overeating.

If you fall off the wagon

Chances are you'll overeat at some point. It's very difficult to resist temptation all the time. A minor slip isn't the end of the world, but it can turn into a bigger problem if you view it as an excuse to give up altogether.

If you have a lapse, consider these tips to help get you back on track:

* Convince yourself that every day is a fresh opportunity to start over again.

* Have a plan to deal with lapses.

* Keep your response simple. Focus on the things you know you can do and stick to them.

"Good lifestyle habits, like losing weight, give you the best chance to treat your diabetes and prevent health complications," Dr. Hensrud says. "Losing weight takes work and planning, but the rewards are great. With the right attitude, you can have fun and feel great while adding years to your life."

Deck the halls ... carefully please

12/12/2011

(ARA) - Each year, 420 home fires occur during the holiday season, claiming the lives of 21 people and injuring 43, according to the National Fire Protection Association.

Protection 1, the nation's second-largest security provider, is offering 12 tips for a safer holiday to help reduce the chance of becoming a holiday fire casualty:

1. Maintain your holiday lights - Inspect holiday lights each year for frayed wires, bare spots, gaps in the insulation, broken or cracked sockets and excessive kinking or wear before putting them up. Use only lighting approved by a verified testing laboratory such as Underwriters Laboratories.

2. Don't overload electrical outlets - Do not link more than three light strands, unless the directions indicate it is safe, or you can risk putting too much strain on the power source. For additional protection, connect strings of lights to an extension cord before plugging the cord into the outlet. Make sure to periodically check the wires - they should not be warm to the touch.

3. Water that tree - Christmas trees account for 250 fires annually, resulting in 14 deaths, 26 injuries and more than $13.8 million in property damage according to the U.S. Fire Association. Typically, tree fires are started by shorts in electrical lights or open flames from candles, lighters or matches. Dry and neglected trees can increase your risk, while well-watered trees help to reduce the chance of any issues.

4. Avoid using lit candles - Open flames create many opportunities for harm particularly when kids and pets are in the house. However, if you do use them, make sure they are in stable holders and place them where they cannot be easily knocked down. Never leave the house with candles burning and never go near a Christmas tree with an open flame from candles, lighters or matches.

5. Stay in the kitchen when you are frying, grilling or broiling food. If you leave the kitchen for even a short period, turn off the stove.

6. Keep your mitts off - Keep anything that can catch fire - potholders, wooden utensils, paper or plastic bags, food packaging, towels or curtains - away from your stovetop.

7. Watch the oven - In case of an oven fire, turn off the heat and keep the oven door closed to prevent flames from burning you or your clothing.

8. Use turkey fryers outdoors, a safe distance from buildings and any other combustible materials.

9. Use only nonflammable decorations and ensure they are placed away from heat vents. If you are using a metallic or artificial tree, make sure it is flame retardant.

10. Quickly discard gift wrap and packaging from your opened gifts as wrapping paper is very flammable. Never burn gift wrap in the fireplace or wood stove. It can ignite suddenly and cause a flash fire.

11. Throw it out - Never put tree branches in a fireplace or wood-burning stove as these items may ignite quickly, starting flash fires. When the tree becomes dry, discard it promptly by taking it to a recycling center or having it hauled away by a community pick-up service.

12. Have working smoke alarms installed on every level of your home, test them monthly and keep them clean and equipped with fresh batteries at all times. Or, consider installing a monitored alarm system like those provided by Protection 1. The company can alert authorities automatically of smoke or carbon monoxide dangers - even if you're away from home.

No matter how you celebrate, following these 12 tips to a safer holiday can help ensure you, as well as your friends and family, enjoy a safe, joyful holiday season.

How to snack smart in 2012

12/28/2011

(ARA) - Snacks - they can either be your worst dieting enemy or your new weight-loss best friend. The difference is all in the choices you make. This year, make it your resolution to learn how to snack smarter. To help, here are some tips to develop a healthier relationship with snacking.

Portion control
Hand someone a bag of chips and ask them to eat just 100 calories. Sounds impossible, right? Well for most people, it is. Not only is it hard to calculate quickly, our willpower alone will fail us. Soon a few chips become half the bag and the guilt sets in.

Don't even give yourself the opportunity to overeat and instead think portion control. Replace full size snack bags with 100-calorie snack packs. They are the perfect way to know you're only eating 100 calories and resist the urge to eat more. Snyder's of Hanover offers a variety of 100-calorie Pretzel snack packs. Available in mini, snap or pretzel sticks, they're sold in the snack aisle of local grocery store. They are quick and easy and perfect for kids or adults. Plus the best part is, once the snack pack is gone, you're done.

Smart snacks
Making smart snack choices doesn't mean you have to give up flavor or your favorite foods. There are a number of products that are low in fat, and can help satisfy your cravings. Here are some ideas to get you started:

1. Raisins - One ounce equals 85 calories. You could even cover them with chocolate. Chocolate can be healthy when consumed in small portions.

2. Graham crackers - Eight small rectangles is equal to 100 calories.

3. Celery with peanut butter - Five pieces of celery with 1 tablespoon peanut butter is equal to 100 calories. This is a very satisfying snack packed with protein and is also gluten-free.

4. Dried fruits and nuts - A small amount of dried fruits with a small amount of nuts is a snack kids love to eat.

5. Pretzels - One ounce equals 100 calories. You can even include cheese with your pretzels for something different with added protein.

6. Unsweetened applesauce - One cup is equivalent to 100 calories, and is a great snack idea for younger children.

7. Air-popped popcorn - Three cups or 1 ounce equals 95 calories. Popcorn is also gluten-free.

8. Fruit - All types of fruit are full of valuable nutrients and they also contain no gluten.

9. Baked corn tortillas with dip - Corn tortillas are a great alternative to potato chips. You can eat them with salsa and/or guacamole for a healthy treat.

10. Rice cakes - Rice cakes by themselves aren't really nutritious, but they are gluten-free. Try topping them with cottage cheese and fruit, peanut butter with banana slices, or cheese and tomatoes for a more nutritious snack.

11. Fat-free sugar-free pudding - One serving contains approximately 80 calories. Another treat kids really enjoy.

12. Lettuce wraps - Fill a big lettuce leaf with tuna, hummus and your favorite vegetables and roll it up. You could even use a ham slice with hummus and vegetables for a change in variety. This is also a gluten-free snack.

Make it simple
Put healthy snacks out so they're easy to grab. Take a bowl and make sure it's filled with fresh fruit. For cold snacks create a healthy snack drawer in your refrigerator. Stock it full of baby carrots cut up veggies and low fat dip or puddings. To give your kids incentive to make healthier choices, give them permission to take any snack from these locations without asking.

Read up
When you're in the store, read the label and look for low fat, whole grain or organic options when possible. You'd be surprised to see a lot of snacks you might have overlooked before. Even pretzels, like Snyder's of Hanover Organic Whole Wheat Pretzel Nibblers, are made with whole grains and are low in fat.

Set small goals
Creating a healthy lifestyle doesn't just happen overnight but the process shouldn't be overwhelming either. Setting small goals, like snacking on vegetables for a week, can develop into long term eating habits. And it's best to set goals that are obtainable so you see your success early on and you're motivated to continue.

Healthy snacking is all about making the right choices. This coming year, it's up to you to make the right decisions, hopefully these tips will help motivate you to a more wholesome and healthier 2012.

Flowers and chocolate again?

1/13/2012

(ARA) - Buying the standard bouquet or box of candy for the love of your life doesn't show you've put much thought into the sentiment. In fact, if your valentine is like many others, they are just six weeks into the new year that likely began with all sorts of promises to get fit or lose a few pounds. Will chocolate really say "I love you?" Will flowers convey your devotion?

Instead, consider a gift that not only comes from the heart but benefits the heart. Here are better options for Valentine's Day when you want to say:

"You are adored." There is nothing like a spa treatment to put your loved one on a pedestal. "A facial or massage is the gift of relaxation and self-care," says Kate Rice, a massage therapist and the national massage educator for Life Time, The Healthy Way of Life Company. She says a gift certificate can be part of a bigger pampering day - perhaps along with breakfast in bed or an end-of-day bubble bath. "People tend to think of massage as a luxury, but it's therapeutic and can help reground them. It's also the perfect gift for someone who does so much for everyone else."

"We're in this together; we're a team." Working together on a common goal can make lasting memories. Signing up you and your valentine for a 5K, 10K, triathlon or other physical event can create memories to last a lifetime. That's how Michael Lorenzen, 29, of Chicago ended up registered for his first ultra-distance triathlon. "My wonderful girlfriend, Brigit, gifted me a 2012 entry into a triathlon in Wisconsin." He says his initial reaction was irritation, followed quickly by panic, which soon transpired into gratitude. "She did it because she knew I'd never sign up myself. I've never done an ultra-distance triathlon. I know I can, but committing to doing it is a big deal to me." The gift, he says, showed him that she believes in him. It's hard to get more romantic than that.

"I want you in my life forever." The vow is "in sickness or in health," but we'd all prefer good health. If your special someone knows they need to get fit or stay fit, they might need more than a gentle nudge. Hiring a personal trainer - for a private session or for the two of you - is a way to show your commitment to life and to each other. Tom Manella, vice president of personal training at Life Time, says they sell about 2,000 gift cards a year for personal training services. "The gift of fitness lasts," he says, suggesting health-related gifts such as metabolism testing for someone who wants to refine his fitness goals, or a heart rate monitor to help her reach goals. "Valentine's Day is about expressing how much you love someone," he adds. "What better way to do so than giving the gift of health?"

Resist the urge to go the traditional (and unimaginative) route this Valentine's Day. Think of your gift ideas with health in mind to make your love last. For more information, visit www.lifetimefitness.com.

Giving green: Natural ways to spread holiday cheer

10/26/2011

(ARA) - The holidays are a time for celebrating, reflecting on the past year and exchanging gifts with friends and family. However, unique and meaningful ideas can be a daunting task. Gifts that keep giving and growing are a perfect solution. Plants are not just beautiful, but also cheer up any space and even improve air quality in a home or office space.

When gifting plants:

Give care:
Always include care instructions for the plant gift. Even the most experienced indoor plant grower appreciates a little help. Most live goods come with suggested light feeding and watering recommendations. If the plant selected does not have these care instructions, ask before leaving the nursery so the recipient can keep this lovely gift green.

Customize the plant to the person:
Flowers, succulents, cacti, tropicals and even bulbs can make great presents. The varieties and combinations are as endless as the personalities on your gift list. It is important to match the plant to the recipient. For instance, a plant needing daily watering would not make a good gift for a constant traveler. Instead, give them an interesting cactus or succulent, which needs less frequent care. For an artistic friend, try a terrarium that can be customized to their tastes. The more sophisticated giftee may appreciate a colorful and delicate orchid. For those with asthma or allergies, plants like palms, peace lilies and ferns do an excellent job of improving air quality and filtering out toxins.

Containers make a difference:
Those boring, plastic pots that house most plants are not very attractive or personal. Pop your plants into colorful ceramic, glass, wood or even metal containers for a more interesting and personal touch. Inexpensive terra cotta pots can be painted in bright or metallic-colored paint, large coffee cups as containers can add a quirky element or baskets can be lined with plastic and used to hold small pots. When repotting plants yourself, make sure to use a high-quality potting mix such as Miracle-Gro Potting Mix or Miracle-Gro Organic Choice Potting Mix. Also, keep in mind that specialty plants like cacti, African violets and orchids may perform better in special potting mixes. When in doubt, ask the nursery for recommendations. For presentation, wrap foil, paper or cellophane around the outside of the container and use fabric bows or raffia to add a finishing touch.

Plants at the party:
Little gifts from nature go a long way in spreading the holiday cheer to friends, family and neighbors. When hosting a party, offer little mementos for your guests to take home. Try a small terra cotta pot painted gold and planted with rosemary or thyme and tied with a lovely ribbon Or, maybe small, colorful pots filled with soil and a bulb to add a pop of spring to the winter months. Add a photo of the flower your guest can expect and directions on forcing the bulb to the gift tag. Whether paying a call on friends or attending a party, host or hostess gifts are another fun way to spread holiday cheer. Poinsettia, amaryllis and Christmas cactus are seasonal favorites.

Plants make excellent gifts and will be a reminder of the good times you shared.

The link between chronic disease and hearing loss: Are you at risk?

11/2/2011

(ARA) - Hearing loss isn't a harmless condition to be ignored. In fact, hearing loss often coexists with other serious health problems. And a growing body of research indicates that there may be a link. Studies show that people with heart disease, diabetes, chronic kidney disease, Alzheimer's disease, and depression may all have an increased risk of hearing loss.

When left untreated, hearing loss alone can lead to a wide range of physical and emotional conditions. Impaired memory and the impaired ability to learn new tasks, reduced alertness, increased risk to personal safety, irritability, negativism, anger, fatigue, tension and stress are among its more common side effects. But when untreated hearing loss coexists with a chronic illness, the likelihood is all the greater that the individual will experience exacerbated levels of stress and diminished quality of life.

Here's the good news: Research also indicates that professionally fitted hearing aids can help improve quality of life for people with chronic diseases when hearing loss does coexist.

"In the vast majority of cases, hearing loss can be addressed with hearing aids to help people hear better and improve their quality of life," says Dr. Sergei Kochkin, executive director of the Better Hearing Institute (BHI). "I strongly urge anyone with heart disease, diabetes, chronic kidney disease, Alzheimer's, and/or depression to talk with their doctor and make hearing screenings a routine part of their medical care."

BHI encourages people to take a free, quick and confidential online hearing test at www.hearingcheck.org to determine if they need a comprehensive hearing check by a hearing professional. For more information on hearing loss, visit www.betterhearing.org.

The link between hearing loss and certain chronic diseases

Numerous studies have long linked untreated hearing loss to diminished psychological and overall health. But an emerging body of research is now revealing a link between hearing loss and other chronic health conditions.

For example, hearing loss is about twice as common in adults with diabetes compared to those who do not have the disease, according to a study funded by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and published in the Annals of Internal Medicine.

Another study, published in the American Journal of Kidney Diseases, found that older adults with moderate chronic kidney disease (CKD) have a higher prevalence of hearing loss than those of the same age without CKD.

Other studies have shown that a significantly higher percentage of people with Alzheimer's disease may have hearing loss than their normally aging peers. In fact, older adults with hearing loss appear more likely to develop dementia, and their risk increases as hearing loss becomes more severe, according to a study published in the Archives of Neurology. The researchers also found that the risk of developing Alzheimer's disease specifically increased with hearing loss.

The link between unaddressed hearing loss and depression also is compelling. An Italian study found that working adults aged 35 to 55 who were affected by mild to moderate hearing loss in both ears reported higher levels of disability and psychological distress - and lower levels of social functioning - than a well-matched normal control population.

Perhaps the link between cardiovascular disease and hearing loss is the most widely recognized. In a study published in the June 2010 issue of the American Journal of Audiology, the authors reviewed research that had been conducted over the past 60 plus years. They found that the negative influence of impaired cardiovascular health on both the peripheral and central auditory system, and the potential positive influence of improved cardiovascular health on these same systems, was found through a sizable body of research.

"With so much evidence emerging on the potential link between hearing loss and various chronic illnesses, it becomes all the more pressing for people to identify and address hearing loss early on," Kochkin says. "Talk to your doctor. Get your hearing checked. And be assured that in most cases, today's state-of-the-art hearing aids, programmed to the specific hearing requirements of the individual, can help people hear better and thereby regain quality of life."

Open communication is key to managing schizophrenia

12/5/2011

(ARA) - We all know the importance of talking openly with our loved ones - being able to clearly communicate helps everyone understand each other better. It's sensible that those principles of clear communication should extend to someone who might hold your life in their hands - your doctors and other healthcare professionals. For people who are caregivers, it becomes even more important to act as the eyes and ears of loved ones who may not be able to communicate effectively.

Patients with schizophrenia may have difficulty communicating with others, which can be challenging for their caregivers, doctors and the other healthcare professionals caring for them. For the medical community and those with schizophrenia, the challenges of working together are numerous. There is a recognized need to develop open communication - a therapeutic alliance - among healthcare professionals, caregivers and patients.

Signs of schizophrenia usually start in late adolescence or early adulthood to about age 30, which can be in the prime of one's life. The 29-year-old son of radio personality and actress Randye Kaye is one of many young people whose life was changed forever by this illness.

Kaye's son Ben began showing initial symptoms in his teens; his gradual descent into the illness was marked by erratic behavior and hospitalizations. He was diagnosed with schizophrenia at age 20. In her efforts to help Ben find the best way to manage his illness, Kaye learned just how essential it is to create open lines of communication with healthcare professionals.

Kaye chronicles the experiences she shared with Ben in her memoir "Ben Behind His Voices: One Family's Journey from the Chaos of Schizophrenia to Hope." "I hope it will resonate with all families who are dealing with mental illness, professionals who want a better understanding of what happens to the family between office visits, and people with schizophrenia who hope to reestablish a relationship with their families and friends," Kaye says. "When mental illness hits, it happens to the whole family - and it is the family's strength and love that can help everyone move forward."

Kaye and Sunovion Pharmaceuticals Inc. are working together to raise awareness of the need to build a strong therapeutic alliance with healthcare professionals in order to find the right treatment plan for a loved one with schizophrenia. In addition to the family members of the patient, there are a number of healthcare professionals who work with the family, from physicians and nurses to social workers. There is not just a single line of communication that needs to be opened - there are many.

The end goal is developing the right treatment plan that is tailored to fit individual patient needs - no case of schizophrenia is the same, and no family is the same. All appropriate avenues of treatment should be evaluated to achieve the best possible outcomes. During the process, it's essential that caregivers supply healthcare professionals with as much information as possible. Finding the right treatment approach can take time, and caregivers need to work with healthcare professionals to determine if treatment is working and if their loved one is tolerating therapy. At the same time, it's necessary to establish a relationship in which caregivers and patients feel comfortable approaching healthcare professionals to ask questions, seek advice or start a discussion.

For Kaye, forging a strong therapeutic alliance with the healthcare professionals who cared for her son was critical to finding the right treatment plan for him. For all patients and families living with schizophrenia, open communication with healthcare professionals - and each other - is essential to achieving the best possible treatment results.

Health plans don't just pay the bills - they can help keep you healthy

10/12/2011

(ARA) - Many people think of their health insurer or health plan as the company that pays their medical bills when they get sick or visit the doctor. They may not realize that their health plan can be so much more - a place to find health and wellness programs that can help them stay healthy or help manage ongoing medical conditions such as diabetes or heart disease.

More employers are recognizing the value of helping their employees remain healthy, productive and on the job, so they offer health coaching and other wellness programs as part of their health benefits plan. The good news for employees and their families is that many of these programs are free to use.

For example, global health service company Cigna has health coaching programs that can help people quit tobacco, manage stress, maintain a healthy weight, develop better eating habits, become more active and even sleep better.

"Everyone is different, so we treat each customer as an individual. For some, telephonic coaching works best, for others it's face-to-face, while other people prefer an online experience. We let people choose the method that works best for them," says Rhonda Toole, wellness program director for Cigna.

Understanding each person's internal motivators also spells success, according to Toole. "We don't tell people what behavior they should change," she says. "It's more effective to help them identify what's important to them and why they want to change; and then help them determine the small steps they can take, one at a time, to help them achieve their health goals, whether that's to stop smoking, lose 15 pounds or develop healthier eating habits."

Cigna calls this "Care Coaching," and all of the company's coaches are trained in this approach.

A health plan might also have programs that focus on lifelong health conditions, such as diabetes or heart disease, that can help people manage them and keep them from getting worse. Cigna's Your Health First program for chronic conditions is based on the Care Coaching model that helps people identify their individual health goals and internal motivations for staying healthy.

"When coaches focus on what's important to the individual and what will work for the individual, people will be more successful at sticking to a plan. They're more likely to remain engaged and achieve their health and wellness goals," Toole says.

Health coaches have degrees and professional expertise in a wide range of related fields, such as public health, exercise science, counseling, wellness, health education and nutrition. Many are nurses.

Another place that people can turn to for help is their employer-sponsored employee assistance program (EAP), which might be offered through a health plan or separately. Like health coaching, EAP services are free to the employee and they're completely confidential. An EAP can provide short-term counseling for stress, depression or substance abuse, and counselors can refer people to longer-term services when needed. EAPs can also help people find child care or elder care, and help connect people to financial or legal services.

"Many employees overlook their EAP, but these programs can help people restore their work/life balance and can save them hours and hours of time when they need to find services like child care," says Ken LeBeau, director of employee assistance programs for Cigna. "If your employer offers an EAP, use it! It's there to help you."

Work with your pharmacist to keep healthy this cold and flu season

10/3/2011

(ARA) - The beginning of fall marks the start of aches and pains from seasonal influenza and the common cold for many Americans. Each year between 5 and 20 percent of Americans will get the flu, and colds send patients to the doctor's office more than 100 million times a year for treatment.

There are a number of ways to prepare for cold and flu season. One way is to get the annual flu vaccination, now offered through Nov. 15 in-club at Sam's Club locations nationwide for ages 4 and up. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that all people 6 months and older receive a flu vaccination, especially those who are at high risk of developing complications once contracting the flu. Examples of people at high risk include:

* Pregnant women (any trimester)
* People 65 years of age and older
* American Indians and Alaskan Natives, who were at higher risk of flu complications last flu season
* People of any age with certain chronic medical conditions

Getting the flu shot before flu season is in full force gives the body a chance to build up immunity to the virus. Peak months for the flu are December through February, so get your flu shot early and stock-up on preventative over-the-counter cough, cold and flu medicines, hand sanitizers and disinfectants for high-contact areas of the home and office, like phones and door knobs.

There are several simple steps you can take to avoid catching the flu or common cold, says Dr. Andrew Myers, an expert in nutrition and preventative health. These include:

* Wash your hands as often as is practical. Colds are most commonly spread with objects or hands contaminated by the nasal secretions of someone who is infected.

* Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth. Most of us touch our faces as many as one to three times every five minutes - nearly 200 to 600 times each day. While it can be a hard habit to break, it can prevent the direct spread of the cold from your hands to the susceptible areas of your face.

* Eat healthy, high-energy foods. Your body always needs fuel, but when you're sick, a lot of your body's energy is devoted to your immune system. Focusing on fruits, vegetables and whole grains will keep you fueled with antioxidant nutrition.

* Take a good multivitamin. A daily multivitamin provides important nutrients for healthy immune function like zinc, selenium and beta-carotene/vitamin A. Choose a multivitamin that matches your age and gender-specific needs.

* Get enough sleep and rest. Researchers have found that the people who had slept less than seven hours a night in the weeks before being exposed to the cold virus were about three times more likely to develop a full-fledged cold than those who had slept more.

* Drink plenty of water. Dehydration can impact immune system function, so be sure to drink at least eight 8-ounce glasses of water each day.

For additional tips on preventing the flu and common cold, and to receive the annual flu vaccine, visit your local Sam's Club pharmacy - open to members and the public - or go to SamsClub.com/healthyliving.

If daily activities leave you short of breath, listen to your lungs

10/18/2011

(ARA) - Are you always stopping and resting because you're short of breath, wheezing or coughing? Do you find that you have trouble with simple, daily activities like climbing stairs, carrying groceries or gardening? If this sounds like you, your lungs could be trying to tell you something. You could be experiencing symptoms of COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease), a serious lung disease that over time makes it hard to breathe.

James Kiley, Ph.D., director of the Division of Lung Diseases at the NHLBI, part of the National Institutes of Health, answers questions about COPD symptoms, risks and diagnosis.

Q. I haven't heard much about COPD, is it a common disease?
A: COPD, which recently surpassed stroke as the third leading cause of death in the United States, is more common than you think. Each year, COPD claims more lives than breast cancer and diabetes combined.

Unfortunately, half of the people who have COPD are unaware that they are suffering from the disease. This is primarily because people who are at risk for COPD dismiss early symptoms as a normal result of aging or being out of shape, therefore don't think it warrants a visit to the doctor.

Q. What the symptoms of COPD I should be looking for in myself and others?
A: In COPD, sometimes referred to as emphysema or chronic bronchitis, the tubes that carry air in and out of the lungs are partially blocked, which makes it hard to breathe.

Some of the most common symptoms you may notice in yourself or others are frequent shortness of breath, chronic cough, wheezing and excessive phlegm production. Take a look at things you do every day - like going up and down the steps, walking to the mail box, or shopping. Are these things more difficult than they used to be because you find yourself having to catch your breath? This could be COPD and it's worth discussing with a health care provider.

Q. What are the most common causes of COPD?
A: Smoking accounts for as many as nine out of 10 COPD-related deaths. However, as many as one out of six people who have COPD never smoked. It can also be environmental - maybe you are exposed to chemicals, dusts and pollutants where you live or work. Or maybe you are exposed to secondhand smoke.

In some people, COPD is caused by a genetic condition known as alpha-1 antitrypsin, or AAT, deficiency. While very few people know they have AAT deficiency, it is estimated that close to 100,000 Americans have it.

Q. What should someone do if they are experiencing these symptoms?
A: Regardless of their smoking history, if someone is experiencing these symptoms, they should talk with their health care provider and ask to take a simple breathing test called spirometry. It is quick and easy and can be taken right there in the doctor's office. The earlier a person gets diagnosed with COPD and receives treatment, the better their chance to improve quality of life.

Q. My doctor has diagnosed me with COPD, how do I begin managing my symptoms?
A: There is no cure for COPD, but there are ways to make living with it a lot easier.

If you smoke, the best thing you can to do prevent more damage to your lungs is to quit. Ask your doctor or health care provider about new options for quitting. The "COPD Learn More Breathe Better" campaign also partners with the American Lung Association and the COPD Foundation, which are both great resources for smoking cessation information and support.

Your health care provider may also suggest one or more of the following options: medications - usually in the form of an inhaler - pulmonary rehabilitation, exercise, avoiding exposure to pollutants that may further irritate your lungs or oxygen treatment in severe cases.

Q. Where can I find more information about COPD?
A: You can find out more by visiting COPD.nhlbi.nih.gov. This educational website is part of the "COPD Learn More Breathe Better" awareness campaign from the National Heart Lung and Blood Institute of the National Institutes of Health.

Five reasons to address your hearing loss if you haven't already

10/10/2011

(ARA) - If you're having problems hearing but haven't yet done anything to address them, you're not alone. Every day people put off getting help for hearing loss for a number of reasons that range from not wanting to show signs of vulnerability to being fearful of having to wear a bulky hearing aid. While these reasons are understandable, the benefits of getting hearing help far outweigh the reasons for avoiding seeing a hearing specialist.

This is especially true when you take into account that hearing aids are more discreet than they've ever been - some can even be considered invisible. This makes it easy for someone to correct hearing loss without experiencing the discomfort or self-consciousness often associated with hearing aids.

If you're experiencing trouble hearing, here are five reasons to get help and visit a hearing care professional:

1. Increase your financial growth opportunity. If you have untreated hearing loss, there's a good chance you aren't reaching your full potential in the workplace, as you may be missing important items in conversation or unconsciously withdrawing yourself from your duties. Correcting hearing problems can allow you to perform your job to the best of your ability.

2. Improve your social life. Whether you know it or not, hearing problems can cause you to communicate ineffectively with others, which can hinder relationship building. It may also cause you to decide not to participate in activities or social gatherings as you otherwise would.

3. Improve your relationship with your family. Communication is even more important in the intimate relationships you maintain with family members. When communication is interrupted by hearing loss, it can weaken those relationships without the intention of doing so. Hearing loss can affect the subtle communication that is so important to maintaining a strong bond with your loved ones.

4. Today's hearing aids are no longer obtrusive. For example, U.S. hearing technology company Starkey offers invisible hearing aids that are worn deep in the ear canal or are hidden behind your ear.

5. Hearing aids work better than ever. Today's hearing aids address the most common concerns of wearers, including virtually eliminating feedback (buzzing and whistling) and providing noise management technology that identifies and preserves speech even in the noisiest environments. Volume control has also become more sophisticated, so you don't have to constantly make adjustment based on your environment. Finally, some hearing aids can connect directly with the media devices in your home including TV, MP3 player or stereo.

When you get help for your hearing problem, you have the potential to improve your life in ways you may have never imagined. With the right hearing aid and treatment, you can improve the way you communicate, which can help you reach your full potential and improve your relationships with those who are important to you. The first step is to visit a hearing care professional to find out what course of action is right for you. To find a professional, visit www.starkey.com.

Tips to prevent the spread of cold and flu germs

12/15/2011

(ARA) - Each year, millions of people suffer from a cold or flu and this year is likely to be no different. Between 15 and 61 million people in the United States will get the flu this year, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

Temperature taking is a key indicator of flu patterns and should be taken seriously, says Mary Pappas, the New York area school nurse credited with first alerting officials about the H1N1 outbreak in 2009. "The flu usually comes with a fever while the common cold does not, so taking your temperature is the easiest way to tell the difference," she says. A high or prolonged fever can be an indicator of when to seek medical attention, so it's important to monitor your temperature on an ongoing basis when you are sick.

Pappas has been taking temperatures for nearly 30 years and, as a school nurse, takes as many as 50 per day. But whether it's one temperature or 100, she maintains that the most important consideration is that it be accurate. While there are many types of thermometers available, Pappas favors the Exergen TemporalScanner because of its proven accuracy and ease-of-use; all it requires is a simple swipe across the forehead.

"Whether it's a student at my school or a parent at home, I know taking a temperature can be a challenge, especially with young children who may be uncomfortable and fussy," says Pappas. "What I love about the TemporalScanner is that it's not invasive like an ear, rectal or oral thermometer. No matter what a student comes to see me for, I'm able to get an accurate reading. It's so easy to use that you can take someone's temperature even when they are sleeping and not disturb them."

To help you prepare and cope throughout the cold and flu season, Pappas recommends the following school nurse-approved tips:

1. Wash your hands regularly for at least 20 seconds with soap and water to help prevent the spread of germs, or use hand sanitizer. Many public buildings provide hand sanitizer, so when you see it, use it.

2. Avoid sharing drinks or food with others unless you want to share their germs.

3. Frequently clean commonly touched areas like doorknobs and light switches.

4. Always cover your mouth with your elbow or sleeve when you cough or sneeze.

5. Throw away tissues immediately after use.

6. If you have a fever, monitor your temperature regularly and check with your doctor about taking a fever reducer and an anti-inflammatory like ibuprofen.

7. Get plenty of rest and stay hydrated.

8. Use a humidifier to add moisture to the air and help drain congestion.

9. Stay home from work or school if you are sick to avoid spreading germs and make sure your fever is gone for at least 24 hours before you return.

10. Consider speaking with your doctor about getting a flu shot. They are conveniently available in many physicians' offices, pharmacies and public health centers.

Remember that while a cold is rarely serious, the flu can lead to additional complications, particularly in young children and the elderly. For more information on how to prepare for the cold and flu season, visit www.exergen.com/coldfluseason.

Take steps now to keep indoor air clean throughout winter

10/11/2011

(ARA) - When the winter winds start to howl, it's a natural response to want to close your home up tightly. To stay warm and avoid wasting energy, you close the windows - or even seal them with window film -- find ways to stop air from leaking in through cracks and under doors, and then put your heating system to work. But when those instincts kick in, remember that what you're doing is sealing air inside your home.

There's a definite upside to sealing your house up well for the winter: you'll stay warmer, with less impact on your energy bills. However, the downside is that those actions can negatively affect the quality of the air you'll be breathing. It's a particular concern because of the increased amount of time people spend indoors through the winter.

Heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) systems have been shown to act as a collection source for a variety of contaminants that have the potential to affect health, such as mold, fungi, bacteria and very small particles of dust. According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, indoor air can be two to five times more polluted than outdoor air.

"When you flip that switch on your heater, there is a lot of dust and debris - collected in the coils over the summer months - that either burns into fumes or gushes into the house through your vents," says Aaron Marshbanks, board member of the National Air Duct Cleaners Association (NADCA).

The removal of such contaminants from your HVAC system is crucial to improve indoor air quality. Plus, a clean system can save you money on your energy bill.

Further research from the EPA found that HVAC system cleaning may allow systems to run more efficiently by removing debris from sensitive mechanical components. Clean, efficient systems are less likely to break down, have a longer life span, and generally operate more effectively than dirty systems.

"Heating and cooling uses up about half of the energy in your home," says Marshbanks. "But having a clean HVAC system can save you up to 30 percent in energy costs. That means you have better air inside the house, and are helping the environment while keeping an extra bit of cash in your pocket."

The best way to determine if your HVAC system is clean is to perform a visual inspection. Before winter settles in, be sure to have these top issues that affect a home's HVAC system checked:

1. Filtration - Low-efficiency filters, lack of a filter replacement program and improperly sized filters can allow particles and debris to flow into a home or building.

2. Duct work contamination - It is estimated that about 90 percent of HVAC systems more than 10 years old will have some level of insulation deterioration. Over time, the insulation fibers are distributed and blown into occupied spaces every time the blower turns on.

3. Dirty evaporator coil - Over time, evaporator coils become matted with dust and dirt. During cold months, the heated air can flow over the dirty coils and be distributed into your home's interior space.

Not all households are the same when it comes to how often their systems need cleaning, either. If any of these apply to your home, you might consider more frequent cleaning:

* Smokers in the household.
* Pets that shed high amounts of hair and dander.
* Water contamination or damage to the home or HVAC system.
* Residents with allergies or asthma.
* Home renovations or remodeling.

The most effective way to clean air ducts and ventilation systems is to employ source removal methods of cleaning. This requires a contractor to place the system under negative pressure through the use of a specialized, powerful vacuum. For more information about HVAC cleaning and to find a certified and knowledgeable contractor, visit www.NADCA.com.

Germ hotspots to look out for during cough and cold season

1/3/2012

(ARA) - We're reminded time and again of the good health habits we should practice during the winter germ season - wash your hands, cover your cough and stay home when you're sick. While you likely know these basics, you might not be aware some of the most common places germs tend to congregate and spread.

Taking proper care to kill germs after you come into contact with these germ hotspots can be one of the keys to staying healthy this season. The tricky part is many of these hotspots are places you encounter when you're on the go and aren't necessarily close to a sink. That's where keeping a portable hand sanitizer handy like those offered from PURELL (R) can help.

The gas station and convenience store
When you're pumping gas, have you ever thought about how many other hands have touched the same pump since the last time it was wiped down? A recent study confirmed that gas pumps are one of the filthiest items we encounter in everyday life. After you fill your tank, your next move should be to reach for that bottle of hand sanitizer in your car. And while cashiers typically work hard to keep their counters clean, it's never a bad idea to wash your hands or use hand sanitizer after exchanging cash or touching other common areas in the store.

The gym
Most health clubs go to great lengths to keep equipment clean and make members feel comfortable. But if you're hopping on the treadmill right after someone else, it never hurts to use a sanitizing wipe, which many clubs keep readily available. Pay it forward by using another one when you are done.

Grocery store
If you're a parent, you know that it's not just the driver's hands that are getting all over the shopping cart, since kids tend to be obsessed with any moving object with wheels. Consider using a sanitizing wipe before touching a grocery cart. Once you're done shopping, cleansing your hands and any younger shopping companions' hands with sanitizer is a good way to stem the spread of germs that might have been picked up from frequently touched surfaces in the store.

The mall
Escalator and stair railings, as well as drinking fountains and armrests on benches, see a lot of action throughout the day and collect germs quickly. Put those sanitizing stations in the shopping center's hallways to good use after touching these areas.

At work
Frequently touching your desk, phone and keyboard means germs multiply at your work station. Keeping tissues and hand sanitizer at your desk can also be helpful for those emergencies when you can't leave your seat immediately to get to the sink.

There's no way to avoid germs altogether during the winter germ season, but you can take action by recognizing some of the most common areas where germs tend to congregate. By keeping your bottle of PURELL (R) Hand Sanitizer close, you'll make sure you can keep your hands fresh and clean no matter where you are.

Shoe shopping for kids: A parent's guide to a year-round task

10/5/2011

(ARA) - What is it about children's feet that make them seem like the fastest-growing part of their body? With back-to-school shopping behind you for another year, you might hope you can stop spending on shoes - at least until flip-flop season arrives with spring.

But kids' feet do grow year round, right along with the rest of them. In fact, according to the American Podiatric Medical Association, a child's shoe and sock sizes may change every few months.

Comfortable, sturdy shoes are among the most important articles of clothing you'll buy for your child at any time of year. Ill-fitting shoes can cause problems that range from minor blisters and discomfort to serious injuries and impaired development.

"A pair of well-made shoes can keep children safe from foot problems such as sprains and strains - both in class and on the playground," says Dr. Michael J. King, president of APMA. "Unless your child complains of discomfort, you may not realize he or she needs new shoes. Parents need to be vigilant to ensure kids are wearing shoes that fit properly and provide the stability and support kids need."

Conduct the time-honored toe test - using your thumb or forefinger to determine where the child's big toe is inside the shoe - once a month. Inspect shoes regularly for signs of wear that could compromise their stability. When it's time to buy children's shoes, APMA has some guidelines for parents.

"Checking for three different aspects of a shoe's design makes it easy for parents to distinguish which models are foot friendly," King says.

APMA recommends parents perform a simple, three-step inspection on new shoes before buying:

1. Look for a stiff heel. The heel counter should not collapse when pressed from both sides.

2. Ensure the shoe bends at the toes, but nowhere else.

3. Finally, make sure the shoe does not twist in the middle.

In addition, keep these tips in mind to help ensure kids are wearing comfortable shoes and practicing good foot health:

* Take children with you when you buy their shoes and shop at the end of the day when feet are at their biggest. Every shoe fits differently, and allowing a child to have a say in the shoe-shopping process can help promote healthy foot care habits down the road.

* Always buy for the larger foot. Feet are rarely the exact same size, so buy a shoe that fits the slightly larger foot.

* Avoid shoes that require a "break-in" period to feel comfortable. Shoes should be comfortable immediately. Be sure your child tries on the shoe wearing whatever type of socks or tights they will use with it.

* Never hand down footwear. Just because a shoe fits one child comfortably doesn't mean it will fit another in the same way. Also, sharing shoes can spread athlete's foot and nail fungus.

* Whenever possible, purchase shoes at a shoe store staffed by well-trained shoe fitters. An experienced sales person can help relieve worries over getting the proper fit.

If your child's shoes show uneven wear or wear out on the heels quickly, it could indicate a problem that should be examined by a podiatrist. You can find a podiatrist in your area, as well as a list of APMA-recommended footwear, at www.apma.org/seal.

Help protect your home from rodents this winter

12/6/2011

(ARA) - The cold temperatures are settling in for the winter months, and if you're not careful, rodents can also settle into your home. Your house - especially your kitchen - offers everything rats and mice are looking for: food, water and warmth.

"Rodents are cute in the movies, not in the house," says Dr. Ron Harrison, technical services director at Orkin. "They are disease-transmitters and cause huge problems structurally. They've been known to cause fires by gnawing through electrical wires."

Rodents are a triple threat to homeowners because they can contaminate food, destroy property and spread serious diseases, including Hantavirus and LCMV, a viral disease that can cause inflammation of the brain (encephalitis). They can spread these diseases through their urine and feces or directly through bites. Fleas, lice and ticks can also be brought into your home by rodents and can carry infection to humans after feeding on an infected mouse or rat.

It's easier than you think for a rodent to get into your home. A rat can fit through an opening as small as a quarter, while a mouse can squeeze through a hole smaller than a dime. It's important to contact a pest professional because rats can sense traps and bait. They colonize in attics, burrows, under concrete and porches, in walls and other hard to reach places.

Harrison offers the following tips to help prevent rodents from getting into your home this winter:

* Seal all cracks and install weather strips at the bottom of exterior doors.
* Trim branches, plants and bushes that hang over the home.
* Plant vegetation at least 12 inches away from the home.
* Keep the interior of the home clean.
* Store all food, including pet food, and garbage properly in sealed containers.
* Do not leave dishes in the sink or pet food out overnight.

It's important to contact a licensed pest management professional such as Orkin for help in identifying and addressing rodent problems. For a free home inspection or for more information on rodents, call (800) 800-ORKIN or visit orkin.com.

Bed bug battles: How to keep the pests out of your home

12/13/2011

(ARA) - The conflict between humans and insect pests has raged for centuries, but few battles boast the sheer make-your-skin-crawl ick factor as the war between people and bed bugs. And the battle, once played out largely in hotels with high international traffic, has moved to the home front.

Nine out of 10 pest management professionals have treated single-family homes, apartments and condos for bed bug infestations in the past year, according to the 2011 Bugs Without Borders Survey by the National Pest Management Association (NPMA) and the University of Kentucky. Infestations are occurring in homes, hotels, hospitals, day care centers, college dorms, schools, movie theaters, department stores and even public transportation in every state.

Don't think you're safe from the little blood-suckers just because you travel little or stay at only the best hotels, professionals say. Bed bug infestations have little to do with cleanliness or quality. Bed bugs are notoriously hardy and just a few of the hitch-hiking pests - which you can pick up virtually anywhere these days - are all it takes to ultimately establish an infestation in your home or apartment.

"NPMA advises consumers against the 'this can't happen to me' attitude, because bed bugs are equal opportunity pests," Missy Henriksen, NPMA vice president of public affairs, said in a report of the survey results.

Bed bugs (formally Cimex lectularius) draw their name from their tendency to hide in mattresses and box springs. When the lights go off, the bugs come out, and bite and drink from any unsuspecting human who happens to be unlucky enough to be occupying the bed with them. While they're not yet known to transmit disease, bed bugs can leave you with itchy welts - not to mention severe mental distress.

The good news is that home and apartment owners are not without defenses in the battle against bed bugs. While the tenacious bugs have resiliency on their side, humans have modern technology and awareness in their favor.

Products like ActiveGuard Mattress Liners, produced by Allergy Technologies LLC, can help you take a proactive position in the fight against bed bugs. The mattress cover slips over the mattress and/or box spring like a fitted sheet, and uses proprietary technology to kill bed bugs and dust mites upon contact. The product not only kills new bed bug infestations, it continues to provide protection beyond the typical bed bug life cycle. ActiveGuard can be used as part of a comprehensive bed bug control program or as a pro-active standalone tool for prevention against bed bugs establishing in bedding.

You can also take steps to help reduce your risk of bringing bed bugs home with you. NPMA offers some advice:

For travelers:
* Upon check-in at your hotel, examine bed linens for tell-tale blood spots.
* Conduct a visual inspection using a small flashlight. Pay special attention to the mattress, box spring, headboard and other areas within the vicinity of the bed
* Store suitcases in plastic trash bags during hotel stays.

At home:
* Vacuum suitcases immediately after you return from a vacation.
* Thoroughly inspect second-hand furniture before bringing it into your home, especially mattresses and box springs. In fact, you may want to have items inspected by a pest control professional who is more versed in what to look for.
* Regularly inspect pet bedding for signs of infestation.

When shopping:
* Before trying on an item, inspect it for blood spots left by feeding bed bugs. Look at inside seams for any signs of sticky white eggs, fecal droppings, shed skins (casts) and live bugs.
* In the dressing room, hang your clothes on hooks rather than laying them across cushioned seats or on the carpeted floor.
* On the ride home, keep new purchases tied and sealed in the store bag, and shake articles outside before bringing them into the house. Launder clothes immediately in hot water or steam/dry clean delicate items; 30 minutes at the hottest possible setting will kill bed bugs and their eggs.

If bed bugs manage to move in despite your precautions, it's not likely you'll be able to get rid of them yourself. Just 25 percent of consumers try to treat bed bugs themselves before calling a pro, down from 38 percent a year ago, according to the NPMA survey. To learn more, visit www.allthingsbedbugs.org.

Clinical trials could offer new opportunities to fight ovarian cancer

11/2/2011

(ARA) - The medical field makes great advances every day, but many persistent problems have yet to be solved. Cancer is among the most challenging issues that medical researchers face, but the resolve to save lives and find a solution is stronger than ever.

The driving force behind that resolve is the fact that cancer is still widespread and often fatal. Ovarian cancer, for instance, affects an estimated 21,000 women and causes more than 14,000 deaths every year in the U.S., and as many as 125,000 deaths around the world. That makes it the most deadly cancer of the female reproductive system and the fifth-leading cause of cancer-related death in American women.

One of the most challenging aspects of ovarian cancer is that it is most commonly diagnosed when it is already in advanced stages. Few symptoms occur at early stages, and combined with a lack of effective screening tests, it means that nascent ovarian cancer is not noticed. Surgery and chemotherapy can be used to treat the disease once it's been diagnosed, but there is a high risk of women developing new, fatal tumors after the initial treatment.

While the effort to find a cure or a preventive for ovarian and other cancers is still ongoing, glimmers of hope occasionally emerge in the form of new advances in treatment, experimental tests and research breakthroughs. Because the incidence and mortality rates for ovarian cancer have remained steady over the last decade, new possibilities in treating it are noteworthy.

For those who have been diagnosed with the disease, every potential solution is worth exploring. While traditional therapies are a certainty, trying new and experimental procedures or treatments is often viewed as another chance at beating the disease.

Those experimental treatments are often carried out in clinical trials that put emerging therapies to the test, under the scrutiny of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). For those who have had surgery and chemotherapy to treat ovarian cancer, upcoming trials in the U.S. will be conducted for a vaccine called DPX-Survivac. Potential participants are screened for their eligibility to participate in the trials, which will test the safety and effectiveness of the vaccine, and its ability to bring about an immune response.

While not all cancer diagnoses are fatal, the number of people afflicted with the disease demands that new solutions continue to be explored. For those who have been diagnosed, the opportunity to participate in clinical trials offers yet another opportunity to make headway in their battle against the disease. For more information about these clinical trials visit www.clinicaltrials.gov.

The dirty truth about fleas

10/5/2011

(ARA) - When fleas are spotted in the home, it's our pets that take the blame. But did you know that for every flea you see, there could be a much bigger problem hiding in the bedding, carpets, furniture and floorboards of your home? The truth is, flea eggs, maggot-like larvae and pupae represent 95 percent of a flea infestation, and they thrive not on your pet, but in the places your pet likes to snuggle - on the couch, under the porch, even in your bed.

A problem waiting to hatch
Within as little as eight weeks, just two fleas can produce up to 2,000 eggs. Your pet shakes these tiny white specs off himself and into your home where they quickly develop into maggot-like larvae and spin silken cocoons, becoming pupae. In their pupae stage, fleas can lay dormant for up to a year waiting for the right conditions to hatch into adults. That means, as long as you have eggs, larvae and pupae hiding in your home, you're always at risk for a sudden, itchy infestation. Consider these uncomfortable facts from SentinelPet.com:

* The adult fleas a pet owner sees represent only 5 percent of the flea population. The other 95 percent - eggs, maggot-like larvae and pupae - hide in your home.

* A female flea can lay up to 50 eggs a day.

* Eggs hatch into maggot-like larvae in two to four days.

* Larvae are repelled by light and burrow into the fibers, cracks and crevasses of your home.

* In their cocoon stage, fleas can lie dormant in your home for up to a year.

Why infestations thrive
Most flea products only treat adult fleas. The eggs, larvae and pupae are allowed to thrive in your home, hatching into repeated adult infestations. Not only do many products fail to prevent an infestation, they also leave a sticky residue on your pet that can wash away, or rub off onto furniture, carpets and even children. To truly prevent an infestation, you must break the flea life cycle. And that means killing flea eggs and larvae before they become adults.

Break the cycle
The way to prevent a flea infestation is to rid your home of developing flea populations. That means making sure those flea eggs never develop into nasty maggot-like larvae. Many veterinarians prescribe an insect growth regulator to stop flea eggs from hatching. When female fleas feed on your pet's blood, they'll pass on potent killing power to their eggs and any existing larvae that feed on excreted blood. Products like SENTINEL (milbemycin oxime/lufenuron) Flavor Tabs even combine flea prevention with heartworm and internal parasite protection in one monthly tablet.

Before peak flea season hits, talk to your veterinarian about making sure your home isn't playing host to a vicious flea infestation cycle. To locate a veterinarian or get more information on protecting your pet and family from parasites, visit www.SentinelPet.com.

Dogs must be tested for heartworm prior to use. In a small percentage of treated dogs, digestive, neurologic, and skin side effects may occur. Please see full product insert for more information.

Got holiday leftovers? Tips for safely savoring foods a second time around

12/16/2011

(ARA) - Sure the gifts, decorations and sparkly lights are all lovely elements of the holiday season. But let's be honest. For many of us, the holidays are all about the yummy foods that we don't get at any other time of year, like turkey, ham, green bean casserole, creamy mashed potatoes, pumpkin pie, cookies, and yes, even fruitcake.

When it comes to holiday leftovers, many of us secretly relish that slice of cold turkey or ham the next morning, and savor how reheating just enriches the flavor of those candied yams. Before you take that first bite, it's important to remember that proper care can help ensure the leftovers you love stay safe, edible and bacteria-free.

"Leftovers the next day can be a lovely reminder of the meal you shared with loved ones," says food scientist Kantha Shelke, PhD a spokesperson for the Institute of Food Technologists (IFT), and principal of Corvus Blue, a Chicago-based food science and research firm. "They're also a great way to stretch your food budget. Properly handling and storing leftovers can help ensure your family gets the most value and enjoyment out of the food you've prepared."

IFT shares food facts and safety tips for consumers on its website, IFTfoodfacts.org. The organization cites three key areas for handling leftovers safely: proper refrigeration, storage containers and heating.

Shelke offers some tips for managing leftovers:

Refrigeration

Of course you know food needs to be preserved in a refrigerator, but does it need to be cooled off first? Your grandmother probably cooled or chilled cooked foods before refrigerating them for a couple reasons. First, to save energy; hot food would make the fridge work harder. Also, there was a risk of a hot dish breaking when coming in contact with a cold shelf. Modern refrigerators, however, are built to cool hot dishes. Still, chilling food promptly after cooking and then placing in the refrigerator is both safe and energy conscious. The temperature in your refrigerator should be at 40 degrees Fahrenheit (0 degrees Celsius) or lower. It's best to use an appliance thermometer to make sure you have the correct temperature rather than relying on refrigerator controls and displays.

Generally, food can go in the refrigerator when it's reached a temperature of 90 to 100 degrees Fahrenheit - the dish should be just warm to the touch. You can chill food in an ice bath or cold water, sit it in front of a fan, or divide it into smaller portions that can be placed into shallow containers. The key is to store leftovers quickly, within two hours of cooking (one hour on hot summer days or in warm climates).

Storing

The debate over dish or disposable wrap is a matter of personal preference. Thin-walled metal, glass or plastic containers that are shallow (no more than 2 inches deep) are ideal for storage. Bags, foil and plastic wrap also work well, especially if you have a piece of food that is large or oddly shaped.

Cooked meat can be stored three to four days in the fridge, while uncooked ground meats, poultry and seafood will last only a day or two. Raw roasts, steaks and chops (beef, veal, lamp or pork) can be refrigerated for three to five days. Casseroles, veggies and similar side dishes, as well as pie, will usually last three to five days.

If you have a lot of leftovers, you may choose to freeze them. Freezing completely halts bacterial activity, so food can stay safe and usable for months in the freezer, versus three to five days in the refrigerator. Most frozen foods will stay safe for several months; recommended storage times are merely for nutritional value and quality. Uncooked meats can last eight to 12 months in the freezer, while frozen cooked meats will begin to lose their flavor after three months. Freezer temperature should be at 0 degrees F (-18 degrees C).

Reheating

When it's time to serve those leftovers again, a thermometer is the best way to ensure food has been heated to a safe temperature. Most foods, especially meats, should be heated to 165 F in the center. Bring sauces, soups and gravies to a boil. Never reheat leftovers in crock pots, slow cookers or chafing dishes.

It's safe to leave steak or other whole cuts of beef or lamb a little bit rare when you reheat them, as long as they were initially cooked at a high temperature to sear the outside only and kill bacteria on the surface of the meat. Whether you use the stove top or microwave to reheat will depend on the type of food. When reheating in a microwave, use a lower power setting to reheat without overcooking.

To learn more about food safety, visit www.IFT.org.

Tell diabetes 'not me' this winter and holiday season

11/17/2011

(ARA) - Each winter, the cold weather and holiday festivities can bring special challenges to the nearly 26 million Americans living with diabetes - and the 79 million with prediabetes who are at grave risk of developing it.

With the season fast approaching, experts caution people with diabetes and prediabetes to take extra care to avoid cold-related illnesses, stay physically active and maintain a proper diet during holiday gatherings and the long winter months.

"The winter holidays bring family and friends together to celebrate, but for some, this time of the year means a decrease in physical activity, tempting 'no-no foods,' and an increase in weight gain, all of which can make blood sugar more difficult to manage," says Dr. Deneen Vojta, executive vice president and chief clinical officer of the Diabetes Prevention and Control Alliance (DPCA). "Fortunately, there are simple precautionary steps that people with diabetes and prediabetes can take this winter and holiday season."

Here are 10 simple ways Dr. Vojta and the DPCA say people can tell diabetes "NOT ME" this winter and enjoy the holiday season without risking their health. "NOT ME," from the DPCA, is an employer- and community-based initiative aimed at tipping the scales against the epidemic of type 2 diabetes, prediabetes and obesity.

Keep yourself and your gear warm: Dress appropriately for the cold weather, which means wearing layers and keeping your head and extremities covered. And be sure to keep your diabetes medications and supplies insulated and well-protected.

Avoid winter weight gain: Watch your caloric intake, look for holiday treats that are lighter in sugar and carbohydrates, and make sure to keep exercising during the cold winter months.

Don't get cold feet: Keep your toes covered and warm in the cold weather.

Get vaccinated: Studies have shown that people with diabetes are three-times as likely to die from influenza or pneumonia, and five-times more likely to be hospitalized due to flu complications. So be sure to get vaccinated at the very start of cold and flu season.

Wash your hands: Another good way to avoid getting colds or respiratory viruses over the holidays is to wash your hands regularly with hot water and soap and/or an antibacterial product.

Eat thoughtfully and be merry, but watch the drink: Alcoholic beverages dilate blood vessels and accelerate the loss of body heat. Alcohol can also mask the signs of low blood sugar, which can be dangerous for people with diabetes. So be mindful of alcohol intake, especially at office holiday parties and family gatherings.

Seek counseling if you're feeling blue: Several studies suggest a correlation between diabetes and depression, a disease which is also known to spike each year around holiday time. If you're feeling low, sluggish, devoid of energy, or sad, do not be afraid to reach out for help.

Check in on the elderly: Seniors with diabetes are even more susceptible to succumbing to the effects of the cold due to a reduced ability to control body temperature and a decrease of subcutaneous fat. Check in on your elderly friends and neighbors this holiday season, especially those that live alone.

Stay hydrated. Alternating exposure to outdoor cold weather with indoor heating systems is a recipe for dehydration, which can raise blood glucose levels and cause dry skin and eyes. Drink lots of water and liberally apply alcohol-free moisturizing lotion throughout the winter months.

Strive for a stress-free season: Stress has been shown to affect blood sugar levels, so find ways to make your holiday season a little less hectic whether that means managing your social calendar or making detailed shopping lists in advance.

These tips can help people with diabetes and prediabetes stay healthy this winter; however, national data suggests that more than 27 percent of adults with type 2 diabetes and more than 90 percent of individuals with prediabetes may not even be aware of their condition. To learn the warning signs of prediabetes and assess one's risk of developing type 2 diabetes visit the DPCA's interactive self-identification quiz at notme.com/dpca.

Additional resources on managing and preventing diabetes can be found by visiting the American Diabetes Association (www.diabetes.org) and the National Diabetes Education Program (ndep.nih.gov/resources). UnitedHealth Group also offers helpful tips and information on the disease at www.unitedhealthgroup.com/diabetes.

Five tricks for celebrating the holidays with smart and satisfying choices

11/30/2011

(ARA) - Celebrating with friends and family over the holidays can lead to one too many glasses of eggnog and slices of pumpkin pie. But just because the holidays include decadent indulgences, it doesn't mean you have to sacrifice the celebrations and treats you love.

There is a way to dive into the holidays with smart and satisfying choices, says Lisa Lillien, New York Times bestselling author and creator of Hungry-Girl.com.

As you head into the holiday season here are Lillien's top five tips and tricks to keep your taste buds rejoicing and your holidays delightful:

* Say yes to the right passed hors d'œuvres: Is your company party looming and you're already dreading the platters of mini quiches and pigs in a blanket? Don't worry; just zero on in on the lean protein and veggies. Look for crudite with salsa and shrimp cocktail. These low-calorie yet filling appetizers will take the edge off your hunger without weighing you down.

* Happy hour done right: Eggnog is delicious, but a single cup without alcohol has around 400 calories. For something seasonal yet sensible, try a mixed drink made with one shot of fruity flavored vodka, club soda and a splash of cranberry juice. Wine and champagne are also good options.

* Cuckoo for chocolate: Everywhere you look chocolate candies and pastries tempt your taste buds, but those come with a high-calorie price tag. Luckily, you can have your candy and eat it too. When a chocolate craving hits, look for lower-calorie options like Skinny Cow Candy. These treats have 120 calories or less per serving and are completely delicious. They come in four flavors including milk and dark chocolate Dreamy Clusters and milk chocolate or peanut butter Heavenly Crisp bars.

* Don't deprive yourself of seasonal favorites: From pumpkin and apple pie a la mode to stuffing and holiday ham, tons of special treats show up during the holidays. You can still enjoy them, just in moderation. Instead of scooping a huge pile of stuffing on your plate, put just enough to satisfy a craving; then fill your plate with veggies and lean meat. For dessert, skip the "a la mode" and just have a few bites of your favorite sweet indulgence.

* Snack attack: If you allow yourself to get super-hungry before the big meal, there's a good chance that you're going to overdo it when dinner is served. Have a satisfying snack beforehand, like an apple, a container of fat-free yogurt, or a stick of light string cheese. Then you can focus on making smart decisions and enjoying the holiday festivities.

If you keep to these tips this holiday season, you won't need that "undo the holiday damage" resolution this January.

Move over apples: For some patients, an aspirin-a-day may keep the doctor away

1/27/2012

(ARA) - The statistics are staggering: As the leading cause of death in the United States, cardiovascular (or heart) disease accounts for more than 2,200 deaths per day, or one every 39 seconds. Furthermore, the American Heart Association (AHA) and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention currently estimate that every year about 785,000 Americans will have their first heart attack, and another 470,000 will have a recurrent attack.

And for a number of patients, talking to their doctors about low-dose daily aspirin therapy may be the "heart-smart" thing to do.

For more than 100 years, aspirin has been used as a pain reliever. Since the 1970s, however, studies showed aspirin could also be used to prevent and manage heart disease. There are a variety of patients who may benefit from aspirin therapy, including people who have had a heart attack, stroke or those with any risk factor for heart disease or stroke, as well as men over age 50 and women over age 60 who have diabetes along with any other risk factor.

According to the AHA, aspirin can help prevent heart attack. More specifically, the AHA recommends that people at high risk of heart attack take a daily low-dose aspirin (if told to by their health care provider), and that heart attack survivors regularly take low-dose aspirin.

"You should never start aspirin therapy on your own," says cardiologist Prerana Manohar, MD. "If you feel that a daily low-dose aspirin regimen may make sense for you, be sure to talk with your doctor about its benefits and risks."

Aspirin benefits the heart in several ways. It decreases pain, inhibits blood clots and most significantly, it reduces the risk of death, particularly among people with heart disease. Additionally, aspirin can significantly reduce heart damage during a heart attack, and can prevent the occurrence of future heart problems.

"For individuals at high risk of suffering a cardiac event, aspirin really can make a difference," Manohar says. "For my patients who are prescribed a daily low-dose regimen, I encourage them to purchase store-brand aspirin sold at leading retailers and pharmacies. These products are regulated by the FDA and use the same active ingredients, but cost significantly less than the brand names."

Allegan, Mich.-based Perrigo is a pharmaceutical company that manufactures and distributes most of the over-the-counter medications found under store-brand labels at leading retailers, grocers and pharmacies. Perrigo offers consumers a variety of affordable store-brand aspirin choices that compare with a variety of brand names, including Bayer, Ecotrin and St. Joseph.

Another important line of defense in protecting against heart disease is to know and maintain your numbers. This means weight/body mass index, cholesterol, blood sugar and blood pressure levels, as all have an impact on heart health. Additionally, exercising 30 minutes a day most days of the week and eating a heart-healthy diet low in saturated fats, cholesterol and salt are some of the very best strategies for preventing heart disease. Avoiding the use of tobacco products, which according to Mayo Clinic is one of the most significant risk factors for developing heart disease, is also critical. Finally, seeing the doctor for regular screenings is vital for managing and preventing heart disease.

"Remember to be good to your heart by eating right, moving more and working in partnership with your doctor to monitor and manage your health," says Manohar. "Together you can work to control any risk factors and determine if daily low-dose aspirin therapy is a heart-smart decision for you."

Four steps to a healthier you

10/12/2011

(ARA) - The growing obesity rates in the United States have companies, health care workers and even the government discussing concerns about the physical and mental health effects and costs associated with weight gain. According to a recent estimate, by 2030 - in less than 20 years - 65 million more American adults may be obese.

There are, fortunately, ways to reverse this devastating trend. By taking responsibility of your own health and wellness, obesity can be controlled. Start with a goal, but make it a realistic one that will have you feeling a sense of accomplishment when you achieve it, and ultimately, maintain it.

The following steps can help you take charge of your weight loss, achieve your goal and become a healthier person:

1. Create a supportive environment. Talk with your family, friends and coworkers. Get people on your side to encourage and support you. Ask them to help you keep your goal a priority, and to provide constructive feedback when you meet difficult challenges that could potentially interfere with accomplishing your goal.

2. Talk with your doctor. Bring your doctor on board early on to help you set a goal and ensure you make healthy weight-loss decisions. In fact, a recent study in The Lancet indicates that overweight and obese patients referred to Weight Watchers by their physician lost more than twice as much weight on average when compared to those who received only standard care. They were also more than three times as likely to lose 10 percent or more of their initial weight. Moreover, 61 percent of patients in the Weight Watchers group finished the study having lost at least 5 percent of their body weight (32 percent did so in the standard care group). Weight loss between 5 and 10 percent is shown to have significant health benefits and reduces the risks of diabetes and heart disease.

"The Lancet study results suggest that those patients in the study who were referred to Weight Watchers were able to be much more engaged and benefited from the intense support the weekly meetings provided and made them feel more accountable for their weight loss efforts," says Karen Miller-Kovach, chief scientific officer for Weight Watchers International. "This reinforces the importance of group support for long-term behavioral change and sustainable weight loss."

3. Get moving. Being active can help weight loss and is critical to maintaining weight loss. Find an activity that you enjoy, and begin to include it in your daily activities. Also try exploring some new activities that involve different muscle groups in your body. For example, cross country skiing and snowshoeing are great activities to try during the winter months, while exploring the pristine white countryside. And if you prefer to stay indoors, explore options in your community, such as water aerobics classes for a low-impact work out.

4. Re-evaluate regularly. As you go through your weight loss process, re-evaluate your personal motivation, and check in with your doctor, family, friends on a frequent basis to review how you are doing in accomplishing your goal. Continue to set small, attainable goals such as a 5 percent weight loss.

Obesity is a condition you can control, and with some help, you can successfully achieve your weight loss goals that can lead to a healthier, happier you and the start a new statistical trend for 2030.

American Hardwoods offer a breath of fresh air

11/18/2011

(ARA) - Flooring, cabinetry, and millwork made from American hardwoods are as much a part of the American Dream as a white picket fence. The beauty, architectural detail and overall inviting warmth they offer are often what make a house a home. So, it's no surprise that hardwoods are increasingly bringing the comforts of home to all types of settings, from schools and workspaces to health care facilities and performance venues.

But, there is more. According to the American Hardwood Information Center, (www.HardwoodInfo.com) hardwoods also help improve the air quality in the places you spend your time.

We've all seen those tiny particles floating around in a beam of sunlight. Those culprits are often the cause of many indoor allergies which affect nearly 40 million Americans. Did you know that to ease allergy symptoms, one of the first recommendations allergists make is to remove wall-to-wall carpeting in favor of solid floor surfaces, such as hardwoods?

Hardwood products offer help
"Allergists recognize that carpet is a huge collection net for dust and dust mites, live and dead insects and their waste products, mold and animal dander," says Dr. Dana V. Wallace, immediate past president of the American College of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology (ACAAI). "Chemical treatments and professional steam cleaning will not remove all allergens, and are only effective for a short time. But all of these allergens can be reduced with hardwood flooring."

The Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA), agrees. "We recommend hardwood floors," says spokesperson Angel Waldron. "They are easier to clean and do not harbor dust, dirt and allergens like carpeting." And to ease the suffering to a greater degree, Dr. Wallace suggests additional home considerations.

"The newest research shows that making one change in the home, like carpet removal, will reduce the allergen load, but it takes multiple interventions to reduce symptoms," Wallace says. "Other changes, like removing upholstered furniture, need to be made." And hardwood furniture, such as stools and desk chairs, offer a perfect solution.

But allergy issues also exist outside the home. The AAFA reports that allergies and asthma cause 40,000 people to miss school or work every day, resulting in $3 billion in lost productivity each year.

"Perhaps the increase in allergies and asthma over the past century has some relationship to moving away from hardwood flooring," says Wallace. "My school had hardwood flooring in the 1960s, and more recently, schools have been installing more carpeting. We need hard surfaces such as hardwood flooring, in public areas, to reduce allergen exposure."

Utkarsh Ghildyal, project manager at Renaissance 3 Architects feels that healthy and environmentally favorable hardwood floors are "more comfortable than concrete and are more easily maintained than carpet." Ghildyal says that, "we use hardwoods in our designs to express warmth and a sustainable aesthetic. There is a natural feeling to hardwood that is difficult to replicate."

The experts at Renaissance 3 Architects are not alone in their thinking. More and more designers are recognizing the limitless benefits of hardwood products, and are increasingly featuring them in schools, workspaces and health care facilities across the country.

But what about the finishes - won't they affect allergies?
The American Hardwood Information Center suggests you breathe deep, relax, but be knowledgeable. Reading product labels, specifically looking for the key words "volatile organic compounds," or VOCs, is important because VOCs are emitted by many, many items, including carpeting, electronics, cosmetics, plastics, cleaning supplies, tobacco products and more.

Today, most paints and stains will have low- or no-VOC on their labels, and that's significant because low- or no-VOC finishes which are water-based, are healthier for you and the environment, give off virtually no odor, and are much less likely to trigger allergies or other sensitivities.

Let's clear the air
The benefits of using products made from American hardwoods are limitless. Incorporate them into the places where you live, work and play. And then, breathe deep.

For more information on American Hardwoods, visit www.HardwoodInfo.com.

Put a healthier spin on favorite comfort foods

11/11/2011

(ARA) - As the cool temperatures of fall and winter arrive, many people find themselves gravitating toward warming, rich foods. Many of those dishes are fondly remembered childhood favorites or even part of a longstanding family tradition. While those cozy comfort foods warm you, body and soul, it's no secret that many of them aren't the healthiest foods you could eat. But with a bit of creative cooking, you can put a more nutritious spin on beloved dishes - and still enjoy the comfort they bring.

Whether you're planning a small dinner party with friends or making a dish for the big family holiday gathering, you want to serve a dish that everyone will love. You might think that changing a recipe to make it more nutritious would produce something that's a pale imitation of the original, but that's not so - you can easily make a healthier version without sacrificing flavor.

Consider these tips for making more nutrient-rich versions of your favorite comfort foods:

* Mac and cheese. It's a childhood staple that every adult continues to love, no matter how many years pass. Rich, gooey cheese and bite-sized elbow pasta are good on their own, but together, they're culinary magic. To bring more nutritional value to elbows-and-cheese, consider switching your pasta from standard semolina to nutrient-packed, sprouted grain pastas like Ezekiel 4:9. The pasta is certified organic, and because it's made from sprouted grains, it is high in fiber, rich with extra nutrients and is a diabetic-friendly food. Plus, sprouted grain pasta has faster cooking times, so it makes meal time preparation even easier. Top your cheesy elbows with seasoned bread crumbs and bake it to perfection.

* Soups and stews. On a chilly day, few things can make you feel quite as good as a steaming bowl of soup. The infinite variety of recipes attests to just how much people love soup - and just how creative you can get with it. Making a nutritious soup takes only a few adjustments. To make it more heart-healthy, look for low- or no-sodium broth instead of the regular versions, which are often packed with salt. Even if you're making a classic recipe, like chicken noodle, add "superfood" ingredients like chickpeas (high in fiber and complex carbohydrates), dark leafy greens (such as chard, kale or collards) or vegetables from the allium family (like leeks, shallots or garlic), which add unmatchable flavor.

* Grilled cheese. Another childhood favorite that never fades in popularity, grilled cheese sandwiches are about as simple as great food can be. Bread, cheese and a hot skillet are all you need - but you can improve on the classic with a health-conscious touch. Instead of regular loaves, opt for sprouted grain bread rich in protein, vitamins, minerals, natural fiber and - perhaps most importantly - flavor. For a more sophisticated taste, try grilling Ezekiel 4:9 Cinnamon Raisin bread with white cheddar - and add a tart apple slice with the cheese. It's a sweet-savory combination that might just become your new favorite.

With a bit of smart ingredient selection and tweaks in preparation you can make comfort food classics that are pleasing to the tastebuds as well as the body. For more information about healthy ingredients, visit www.foodforlife.com.

National Caregiver Month recognizes and supports those helping care for loved ones

11/9/2011

(ARA) - There are more than 65 million caregivers who are an essential part of a patient's health care team in the United States. They not only provide emotional strength and support but also often help a patient with their daily needs, such as filling prescriptions or helping schedule doctors' appointments. But while being a caregiver to someone in need can be a significant help, it can also be a daunting responsibility. Greg Stephens, Founder and Director of the National CML Society, can relate.

"When my mother was diagnosed with chronic myeloid leukemia, or CML, I not only had an immediate concern about her overall health, but also about the added responsibilities and pressure that it would bring to our lives," says Stephens. "I was committed to being the best caregiver I could, and staying as organized and well-researched as possible, but CML is not a disease that can be treated quickly. Instead, I think of it as a marathon, since my mother's disease required ongoing treatment and care."

CML is a blood cancer that in most patients can be controlled and managed for many years by working closely with a physician to develop the best possible treatment plan. Plans are decided based on a number of criteria, such as age and progression of the disease, and include a combination of daily medications, routine blood tests and regular check-ins with doctors. Dr. Javier Pinilla-Ibarz, Assistant Member of the Malignant Hematology and Immunology Program at the H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center in Tampa, knows firsthand.

"When I tell patients they have CML it can be scary because it is a cancer that requires ongoing, active management for many years and the treatment process can be a lot of responsibility for a patient to manage on their own. Having a friend or loved one by the patient's side can be a tremendous help. Not only can they help remind the patient of what to do to control their disease, but they can also be someone a patient can talk with to help keep spirits high."

November's National Caregiver Month is a great time to celebrate caregivers. The following tips are designed to help caregivers manage their role as part of the patient's health care team:

* Helping track results: Creating a "results journal" which is devoted to storing test results along with his or her testing dates can help a patient keep track of this information. For example, for CML patients, tracking the levels of the cancer-causing enzyme, Bcr-Abl, is important for monitoring the progression of the disease.

* Caring for yourself too: Balancing the needs of the patient with your own needs is essential. A caregiver who's stressed out or overwhelmed might not be able to care for a loved one as well as they want to.

* Educating yourself: Staying well-informed about your loved one's condition will make you a more valuable resource for them. With CML, the enzyme Bcr-Abl is responsible for sending signals to produce cancerous white blood cells. Knowing about the disease and which medications best target and inhibit this enzyme will help you to be an active participant in ongoing treatment discussions between your loved one and their medical team.

* Joining a caregiver support group: Connecting with other caregivers is an opportunity to learn new ways to help a loved one. There is a great strength in knowing you are not alone.

For more information and to connect with other CML patients and caregivers, visit the Novartis sponsored social networking site www.cmlearth.com.

Five ways to avoid costly repetitive stress injuries

11/1/2011

(ARA) - Some may think that injuries in the workplace only happen to those who work high-intensity jobs like construction workers, firefighters or police officers. But you're probably unaware that sitting at your computer and typing - something you do every day - can leave you at risk for significant pain and discomfort.

Repetitive stress injuries (RSI) stem from prolonged, repetitive, forceful or awkward movements. If you thought that clicking your mouse or typing at a computer keyboard were harmless activities, think again. RSI can lead to carpal tunnel syndrome, a painful nerve injury. Symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome include tingling or numbness in the hands and fingers, pain that radiates from the hand up the forearm, weakness in the affected side and sometimes the tendency to drop objects. Left untreated, carpal tunnel syndrome sufferers often resort to surgery, which is successful in about 50 percent of cases.

These injuries have lead to increased absenteeism, but companies have found ways to reduce that by studying ergonomics, which looks at how people use the tools crucial to their jobs. Employers have done that for good reason: According to the U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Safety and Health Administration, RSI is the nation's most common and costly occupational health problem, affecting hundreds of thousands of American workers, and costing more than $20 billion a year in workers' compensation.

If you are suffering from this type of injury, it can be detrimental to your ability to work. Additionally, during an uncertain economy, people become anxious about taking time off to properly recover. Fortunately, there are things you can do to prevent RSI.

1. Make sure you are sitting properly at your desk. Short of getting an ergonomically correct chair for your desk, there are things you can do without spending a lot of money. The best sitting posture brings your knees at or above hip level. Add a foot rest to your desk setup to help accomplish this.

2. Add support for your wrists. Adding a wrist cushion for your mouse can help your hand stay at an appropriate angle when maneuvering your mouse.

3. Change your keyboard. It may look funny, but the keyboards that are split in the middle are most effective to keeping your wrists at the correct angle when typing. When you add a keyboard wrist cushion, you can make sure you stay ahead of any potential problems from carpal tunnel or RSI. One company, IMAK, makes mouse and keyboard cushions using ergoBeads, which can massage your wrists while typing or using your mouse. The design conforms to your keyboard and mouse, while completely supporting your wrist and forearm in an ergonomically correct position. This reduces stress in your hands, wrists and arms. Learn more at www.imakproducts.com.

4. Move your computer screen. If you find yourself lurching to see your monitor, move it forward. Make sure your screen is at eye-level - a stand or phonebook underneath can add needed height.

5. Lower your keyboard. Most likely, your desk is at a good height for writing, but not necessarily optimal for typing. Add a keyboard tray under your desk to place your keyboard in an ergonomically appropriate place.

With a few easy steps, you can make your workspace ergonomically correct to solve potentially debilitating and costly injuries.

Health story of the year: Salt vindicated

12/22/2011

(ARA) - Paul T. Meagher sometimes gets disapproving stares when people see him sprinkle his food with salt as he has done since he was a young lad growing up in Ireland. He has a response for such people.

"I tell them you can take my blood pressure right now, or we can have a run around the block, and I guarantee you I'm in better shape than you," said Meagher, 68, who now lives in Westport, Mass. "I'm fit, at least for my age, and I use salt every day in volume. Hasn't done me a blind bit of harm, which is the way we put it from where I come from."

Recent research quantifies Meagher's experience. In 2011, half a dozen medical studies showed the health benefits of salt or revealed the significant risks of low-sodium diets -- providing vindication for this essential nutrient and the people, like Meagher, who love it.

"The vindication of salt is probably the biggest health and nutrition story of the last year," says Lori Roman, president of the Salt Institute. "Everyone knows salt tastes good, but the latest research published in leading medical journals confirms that salt is good for you, too. The medical studies underline what we have been saying for years: science is on salt's side."

The new data raises questions about the federal government's effort to put Americans on a low-salt diet. The Food and Drug Administration is inviting online public comments about ways to reduce sodium consumption. In the past, such invitations have foreshadowed the rollout of new regulations.

The six peer-reviewed medical studies documented:

Type 1 Diabetes risk: In a study of patients with type 1 diabetes, low sodium intake was associated with renal disease and premature death.

Type 2 Diabetes risk: In an Australian study of type 2 diabetes patients, lower sodium was associated with increased risk of death from cardiovascular disease.

No benefit to salt reduction: A study published in the American Journal of Hypertension showed eating less salt will not prevent heart attacks, strokes or early death. On the contrary, low-sodium diets increase the likelihood of premature death.

Risk of death: A study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association concluded that lower salt intakes resulted in higher death rates.

Other negative effects of low-salt intakes: An analysis published in the American Journal of Hypertension showed individuals placed on the U.S. Dietary Guidelines-recommended salt levels experienced significant increases in cholesterol and other risk factors for diabetes and cardiovascular disease.

Risk with current U.S. Dietary Guidelines: An analysis published in the Journal of the American Medical Association showed that people who ate salt at the levels recommended by the U.S. government were at greater risk of cardiovascular events.

The research has prompted new scrutiny of the government's attempts to put all Americans on a low-salt diet. Scientific American reviewed medical studies over several decades and concluded in a headline: "It's time to end the war on salt." The respected magazine also said, "The zealous drive by politicians to limit our salt intake has little basis in science."

Meagher remembers when the federal government told him eggs could be bad for his health. He ignored that advice, too.

"I would rather the federal government stay well away from my kitchen altogether," Meagher says. "I will continue to eat my boiled eggs from an egg cup, with an egg spoon, and with plenty of salt."

How the right home updates help seniors age well at home

10/11/2011

(ARA) - Whether you are a senior yourself, or have a loved one who is older, living independently in the home is a priority. With the right precautions and a few necessary safety modifications, many seniors can continue to thrive in their own homes.

The room that poses the most danger to seniors is the bathroom. The potential for slips and falls is greater in this part of the home - 75 percent of fall injuries occur in the bathroom -- making it a good place to focus your renovation energy. Have you considered updating these parts of the bathroom?

Flooring: Hard floors are a hazard because even a small amount of moisture can make them very slick. Many people choose to install carpet because it does not lift or move like rugs can, plus it is warmer to walk on and softer if there is a fall.

Bathtub: Walk-in baths and showers like the ones from Premier Care In Bathing are great for seniors who want to take baths or showers but don't want to risk slipping and falling when stepping over the side of a tub or entering the shower. Look for features like a walk-in door, a powered bath lift, soothing hydrovescent therapy and easy-to-turn faucets.

Higher toilet: These types of toilets sit higher off the floor so that users don't have to bend their knees as much to get up and down.

Good lighting: To help seniors see better, it's important to have well-lit rooms and walkways so that it's easy to get around all areas of the house, including the bathroom.

Now that you have a good idea of what types of things should be replaced to help keep seniors safe, it's time to find the right company who can make the renovation process simple. It's easy to get lost in the sea of options available, so here are some tips to help you find the right one for you.

Tip 1: Good reputation
Reputation means everything when picking out a company that specializes in bathroom updates for seniors. How long has the company been in business? What is their reputation? Can they provide you with references you can contact?

Tip 2: Quality products
A good bathroom renovation is an investment, and that's why you want a product that works well and is long lasting. After going through a rigorous testing process, Premier Care walk-in baths and easy-access showers were commended as being easier to use and more accessible for people with arthritis by the Arthritis Foundation. These are the first baths and showers to ever receive this prestigious commendation. The company is also recognized as the official specialty bathing partner for AMVETS, the non-profit organization for American Veterans.

Tip 3: Free estimate
Avoid any company who will not send you educational materials such as brochures to review prior to purchase. Also avoid any company who will not come to your home to give you a free estimate on the cost of the renovation. An accurate cost estimate is impossible without seeing a bathroom in person. Premier Care always offers free in home consultations so you can ask questions, get a personalized estimate and a recommendation on the walk in-bath or shower that is perfect for you.

Tip 4: Specialized contractors
When updating a bathroom, it's wise to choose a company that does it all. If they subcontract the work out, you may not get someone who has the necessary insight specifically needed for senior home design. Look for companies that do it all, from providing the best products to complete installation and renovation. Remember the work shouldn't take too long either. Quality companies can do the work within a day or two and will work around your schedule.

With a few home improvements and modifications, seniors can stay safe at home and live independently for many years. For more information about walk-in baths, showers or ADA compliant sinks and toilets call (800) 313-1694 or visit premiercareonline.com.

Confused about generic drugs? You're not alone

12/5/2011

With the recent announcement that Lipitor, the blockbuster cholesterol reducing pill, lost its patent, millions of people will gain access to the generic version of the medication - at a significantly reduced cost. Its recent availability as a generic drug, however, is the cause for confusion among patients, according to a new study by Treato, a social media search company that analyzes health-related discussions across the Internet.

The study, which analyzed thousands of patient discussions on health forums and blogs, found that many patients believed that they were already taking generic Lipitor, despite the fact that the drug was only available in the branded form until recently. The danger in this is that the other drugs that aren't generic forms of Lipitor contain different active ingredients, and therefore may not be as effective for patients, potentially even creating undesirable side effects.

"Our analysis on Lipitor and generic medications demonstrates the power of Treato's engine to help patients make more informed health care decisions and guide manufacturers on the issues most relevant to a particular patient population," says Gideon Mantel, CEO, First Life Research, the company that developed Treato.

The Treato analysis also identified a common theme emerging in online discussions between patients - a search for less expensive alternatives, in an attempt to cut costs. In all of the posts on Lipitor, almost 14 percent discussed costs of Lipitor and its alternatives. In fact, it was the third most discussed issue in online discussions on Lipitor, after side effects and dosage issues. In many of these discussions, patients shared their personal experiences in which they asked their physician for a generic cholesterol-reducing drug as a substitute for Lipitor. In return, patients describe getting a prescription for a medication that is said to be "very similar" to Lipitor - when in fact they are getting generic versions of other cholesterol medications.

In order to ensure that you are getting the right medication for you, here are the facts about generic drugs:

* Generic drugs are less expensive than the brand versions. Why? Because the generic manufacturers do not have the same development costs, therefore they can sell the medication at a significant discount.

* Generic drugs do not look like their branded counterparts. According to the FDA, generic drugs look different because certain inactive ingredients, such as colors and flavorings, may be different.

* Not all generic drugs are created equal. It is extremely difficult to predict how effective any particular drug will be and know about all of its side effects, and so it is strongly recommended to find out what other patients, who are already taking this drug, are saying about it.

To help determine which medications, like Lipitor, are right for you, consult your physician and learn from other patients' experiences online at www.treato.com.

New faith-based awareness program promotes bone health among African Americans, Community disproportionately affected by multiple myeloma

11/16/2011

(ARA) - Each year, as the winter months approach, people begin to think of ways to protect themselves against slips and falls due to inclement weather conditions. For the elderly, and more specifically, African Americans with multiple myeloma, this should be a year-round concern in an effort to maintain their bone health.

Multiple myeloma is a cancer of the plasma cells, a type of white blood cell found in the bone marrow and can lead to bone problems including pain, fractures and spinal cord compression. Nearly 95 percent of patients with advanced-stage multiple myeloma will experience disease spreading to their bones. Though not widely known, multiple myeloma is the second most common blood cancer among people living in the U.S., affecting 70,000 Americans, and impacting African Americans more than twice as often as Caucasians.

To address this significant health issue within the African American community, Novartis Pharmaceuticals Corporation ("Novartis") is partnering with the National Black Church Initiative (NBCI) on "To Stay in the Game, Maintain Your Frame," an educational program to increase awareness about multiple myeloma and promote bone health particularly among those at highest risk - African American men ages 60 and older.

"The NBCI is dedicated to addressing health issues that are prominent within the African American community and providing critical wellness information that will benefit our members, congregations, churches and the public," says Reverend Anthony Evans, president of the NBCI. "We are excited to be working with Novartis to educate this at-risk population and encourage healthy living habits and provide them with the tools to successfully manage their health."

"To Stay in the Game, Maintain Your Frame" is made up of elements intended to educate African Americans with multiple myeloma about the need for doctor-patient dialogue about their condition and how to become active participants in their health. Patient education materials and tips for better bone health are provided through the NBCI's coalition of 34,000 churches spanning 15 denominations and representing 15.7 million African Americans in the U.S.

Also featured in the program are instructional video clips demonstrating how to perform activities of daily living that may help reduce the risk of falls and other skeletal injuries. Ranging from indoor to outdoor activities, the video clips feature Dr. Doris Browne, an oncologist, and a patient demonstrating tips to safely perform everyday routines and benefit overall health and well-being.

To learn more about multiple myeloma and to view the instructional video clips, please visit www.maintainyourframe.com.

Your pet's health: debunking common myths

10/3/2011

(ARA) - If you are a pet owner, your pet is a beloved member of your family. You buy treats and toys and sometimes even costumes to keep your pet happy and an integral part of the family. But, what about your pet's health? In the midst of all the fun, it is vital that pet owners work with their veterinarians to keep their pets healthy.

Over the past decade, as the population of dog and cat owners has increased, the number of pets that are receiving proper veterinary care has seen an alarming decline. A two-phase study of pet owners and veterinarians, which was commissioned by Bayer HealthCare LLC, Animal Health Division and conducted by Brakke Consulting in collaboration with the National Commission on Veterinary Economic Issues, assessed this disturbing trend.

Data from the Bayer Veterinary Care Usage Study suggests that the decline in veterinary visits could be due to misconceptions pet owners have about their pet's health. Below is a list of pet health myths along with facts that can help pet owners understand the importance of veterinary care:

* Myth: Annual wellness exams are unnecessary and do not help my pet.

Fact: The recent Bayer study found that 95 percent of veterinarians surveyed believe that companion animals - both dogs and cats - require at least one veterinary well-visit annually. Yet many owners think that their pets only need to go to the veterinarian for vaccinations or shots. During routine check-ups, veterinarians evaluate health status using a number of tools such as ear and eye checks, listening to the pet's heart, X-rays and blood work. By using a range of medical techniques, veterinarians can catch conditions that, if undetected, can become costly-to-treat or chronic illnesses.

* Myth: All it takes is a click of the computer mouse and I can figure out what's wrong with my pet.

Fact: All too often, pet owners look to the Internet for answers regarding their sick pet. According to the Bayer study, 39 percent of pet owners look online before consulting their veterinarian if the pet gets sick or injured. With the availability of online resources - some helpful and some not - pet owners are waiting too long to bring their pets in for care, and the pets are sicker than they would have been if the pet owner brought their pet in at the first sign of concern. The Internet can't cure whatever issue your pet is having, and this delay could lead to costlier and more time intensive treatment.

* Myth: It is simply not as important to bring your cat to the vet as it is your dog, and the stress of taking the cat isn't worth it.

Fact: Cat owners know all too well the challenge of putting a cat in a carrier and transporting it to the veterinarian, and the stress cats sometimes exhibit once you actually get them there. In the battle between cats and humans to get to the vet, cats are clearly winning. The Bayer study found that more than one-third of cats had not been to the veterinarian in the last year, missing out on necessary care.

With this in mind, many veterinarians are taking steps to create more "cat-friendly" areas in their clinics. For example, some veterinarians have separate entrances for cats, or quiet rooms away from dogs for cats and their owners.

* Myth: Older pets need less care than younger pets.

Fact: There is a perception that, since older pets require fewer vaccinations, they need less veterinary care. But, older animals are more susceptible to a range of chronic and costly illnesses like diabetes, cancer and arthritis. Much like humans, as pets age, they need frequent medical care and observation to ensure continued optimum health.

* Myth: I just need to bring my pet in when it is sick; the value of an annual wellness exam is not comparable to the cost of a visit.

Fact: Think about all the doctors you see during the year. From an ophthalmologist to a dentist to your internist or family doctor. For your pet, the veterinarian provides all these services. When your pet goes for an annual wellness exam, that veterinarian needs to play the role of every doctor a human would see. So, for every veterinarian visit, Fluffy or Fido is getting a full check up with the skills of a number of doctors combined into one.

In addition to these important facts, veterinarians are working to keep up with their clients increasing use of social media. Some veterinarians are integrating new marketing strategies and tools, including using Facebook and Twitter or texting to connect with pet owners.

"When looking at these myths and facts, it is important to remember that the life span of pets is much shorter than that of humans, so skipping out on the veterinary visit for even one year, is similar to a human skipping doctor visits for seven years," said Sheldon Rubin, DVM and Oprah's former veterinarian of 15 years. "With this in mind, it is imperative that pets get the healthcare they need to live long and healthy lives, and don't go more than a year without seeing a veterinarian."

The power of resilience: overcoming the hurdles of a medical mystery

12/8/2011

(ARA) - Imagine you're a parent with a sick child; her symptoms are mysterious and you know something is wrong. You've gone to doctor after doctor, seeking the advice of specialists and multiple opinions, and somehow 12 years have gone by and you still have no answers. In the meantime, you and your child have been in and out of hospitals, being diagnosed with everything from leukemia to appendicitis to bad luck. That nightmare was a reality for Sandy Welsh, whose daughter Kylynn has hereditary angioedema (HAE), a rare and potentially fatal swelling disorder.

Welsh is one of 44 million caregivers in the United States who provides care for a loved one. Although many of her day-to-day roles and responsibilities are similar to that of other caregivers, she's also faced a unique set of challenges. About 6,000 other people in the U.S. have HAE, and until recently, there were limited therapeutic options available. While 30 million people in the U.S. have one of 7,000 rare diseases like HAE, they are not widely or readily recognized in the medical community and are often difficult to diagnose. From the beginning, Welsh instinctively knew that there was a deeper root to her daughter's problem. She remained resilient and refused to believe doctors when they told her there was nothing wrong with Kylynn.

They learned that HAE is a genetic disease that involves repeated swelling attacks which can occur anywhere in the body, including the arms, legs, hands, feet, stomach, genitals, face or throat. Because of the debilitating nature of the disease, many people with HAE need the emotional and physical support of a caregiver to help them with daily activities, especially during a swelling attack. HAE attacks can be unpredictable, painful, debilitating and disfiguring, often making everyday activities like walking, driving or closing a button difficult, or even impossible. Many patients with HAE also live in fear of a swelling attack in the tongue or throat, which could be fatal if the airway closes.

For many, the caregiving journey starts before their loved one is even diagnosed with HAE. Because the symptoms of this disease are mysterious and mimic other conditions, someone with HAE can go an average of 10 years before getting an accurate diagnosis. Often a parent or spouse is integral in helping people with HAE on this journey, advocating for their care and taking them to doctor after doctor. Once they're diagnosed, caregivers play an important and sometimes day-to-day role in the management of their loved one's disease.

Welsh knows this role all too well. After 12 hard-fought years, Welsh remembers the day her daughter finally got a diagnosis. "I was at work when I got the call," says Welsh. "The doctor told me that she had good news and bad news. The good news was they had finally pinpointed the cause of Kylynn's swelling; the bad news was that it was HAE, and at the time there were limited therapeutic options for the disease. Kylynn's diagnosis was such a relief because it meant we finally had an explanation for what had remained a mystery for so long. We finally knew what we were working with."

After Kylynn's diagnosis, Welsh was determined to learn as much as possible about HAE and spread information on the disease to others. She wrote letters and emails to the National Institutes for Health, the National Organization of Rare Disorders (NORD), and the U.S. Hereditary Angioedema Association (HAEA) - the national patient organization for people with HAE - asking for more information and resources on the disease. Welsh knew the more educated she was, the more effective caregiver she could be for her daughter. She also sent information on HAE to her local congressman and to teaching hospitals across the U.S. with the hopes that she could save others from the long road to a diagnosis that she and her daughter had experienced.

Welsh began keeping a detailed history of Kylynn's journey with HAE that included pictures of her after attacks and dates of emergency room visits so she was armed with information at doctor's appointments. She developed brochures about HAE that she distributed to local hospitals, clinicians, and Kylynn's schools. She joined the patient safety board of her local hospital to provide the parent's perspective for the physicians. She even went to her town's local TV and radio stations for Kylynn to do interviews about HAE to help educate the community about a disease most people had never heard of.

"I was determined to spread the word about HAE to every person who may be involved in Kylynn's care," says Welsh. "I provided emergency rooms information about HAE. When people didn't want to listen or didn't believe me when I told them about HAE, I didn't give up."

Caring for a loved one with a rare disease like HAE can be challenging at times, but there are resources available for caregivers to get education and support from others to help get through the difficult times. To connect with other caregivers and get firsthand tips and advice about how to navigate this important role, visit www.HAEandME.com/caregivers.

Five easy ways to combat cold and flu season

10/13/2011

(ARA) - The chillier days bring more than cool air, colorful foliage and long sleeves. They also mark the beginning of cold and flu season.

The common cold leads to 75 million to 100 million physician visits annually, reports The American Journal of Medicine. Five to 20 percent of Americans are infected with the flu virus each year and about 200,000 are hospitalized due to complications from the flu, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Even more disconcerting: more than 3,000 Americans die from flu-related causes each year.

It's important to make sure a cold or the flu doesn't inhibit day-to-day activities by using good hygiene habits. "Maintaining your health and the health of your family can be difficult when we find ourselves in crowded office buildings or schools each day," says Dr. Allison Aiello, associate professor of epidemiology at the University of Michigan School of Public Health and member of the Tork Green Hygiene Council. "However, by implementing simple hygiene practices, one can reduce the risk of catching a cold or the flu during this season."

To help stay healthy during cold and flu season, Aiello offers five steps:

Wash your hands
The CDC says keeping hands clean through improved hand hygiene is one of the most important steps you can take to avoid getting sick and spreading germs to others. Be sure to wash your hands after sneezing, coughing and using the restroom. Washing hands after arriving to work, school and home also helps prevent the spread of germs to colleagues, friends and loved ones. Remember, proper handwashing should take as long as 20 seconds and include warm water and soap. Alcohol-based hand sanitizer gel or lotion is a great way to prevent sickness when soap and water aren't readily available.

Sanitize, sanitize, sanitize
The common cold and the flu can be spread by hands. This means that you can transfer these illnesses not only to others, but to surfaces as well. People touch 300 different surfaces every 30 minutes. Some viruses and bacteria can live up to eight hours or longer on items like doorknobs, phones and tables. You can prevent the spread and impact of germs by wiping down surfaces with a disinfectant wipe each day.

Get vaccinated
Flu outbreaks can happen as early as October or as late as May. The CDC recommends getting vaccinated as early as September or as soon as the most updated vaccine becomes available. The seasonal flu vaccine protects against three influenza viruses that research indicates will be most common during the upcoming season. It takes about two weeks after vaccination for an adult to develop antibodies against the flu which will support you through the flu season.

Cover your mouth
Cold and flu germs can spread from person to person by coughing and sneezing. Covering your mouth when coughing and sneezing is a necessary deterrent against the spread of germs. While most people believe coughing or sneezing into a hand is sanitary, few realize that germs are spread quickly this way. Instead cough or sneeze into one arm, firmly pressing your nose or mouth against your sleeve to stop germs from escaping.

Stay home
Recent reports state nearly 22 million school days are lost each year due to the common cold and 75 million work days are expected to be missed during flu season. When you are sick, take a sick day and allow your child to stay home if he or she is not feeling well. After a person is infected with the flu, symptoms usually appear within two to four days and are considered contagious for an additional three or more days after symptoms appear. Anyone in close proximity to a cold or flu infection may become infected because these infections can also be spread directly by aerosols. Staying home when sick will not only help avoid spreading illness to others, but allow time for you or your child to recuperate and recover.

For more information on the importance of hygiene and hygiene tips from Allison Aiello and the Tork Green Hygiene Council, visit www.torkgreenhygienecouncil.com.

Earlier diagnosis, better prognosis: increasing awareness for neuroendocrine tumor (NET) cancers

11/9/2011

(ARA) - Though less common than other cancers, neuroendocrine tumors, or NET, are a type of cancer that is increasing. In 2004, NET cancer was diagnosed in approximately five of 100,000 people and the incidence of NET has quadrupled over the past 30 years. To raise awareness of this cancer, Nov. 10 was declared Worldwide NET Cancer Awareness Day (WNCAD) by leading members of the NET patient advocacy community.

There are many kinds of NET that can occur throughout the body; however, most are found in the pancreas, gastrointestinal (GI) tract and lungs. Neuroendocrine tumors originating in the pancreas are called pancreatic NET. Pancreatic NET arise from endocrine pancreas cells, which produce several kinds of hormones and cluster together in many small groups, or islets, throughout the pancreas.

Thorvardur R. Halfdanarson, MD, a specialist in treating pancreatic NET at University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, emphasizes the importance of early diagnosis. "More patients are being diagnosed with NET each year. More specifically, in pancreatic NET, most patients have advanced disease at the time of diagnosis, making it more difficult to manage." Dr. Halfdanarson encourages patients to be aware of potential symptoms, and to work with their physician to rule out a NET as early as possible.

Pancreatic NET can be categorized as either symptomatic or asymptomatic, also known as functional or nonfunctional. Nonfunctional pancreatic NET can be difficult to diagnose because sometimes the tumors may grow for a long time without causing symptoms. Nonfunctional tumors may grow large or spread to other parts of the body before causing symptoms such as indigestion or diarrhea. Symptoms of functional pancreatic NET include but are not limited to, stomach ulcers, skin rashes, episodes of low blood sugar and diarrhea. Pancreatic NET is different from, and commonly mistaken for, pancreatic exocrine cancer, which is generally referred to as pancreatic cancer. According to the most recent data, pancreatic NET were diagnosed in more than three cases per million annually. People with a family history of cancer, and those with diabetes mellitus seem to have an increased risk of developing pancreatic NET.

Less common cancers like NET pose many challenges for detection and diagnosis. Symptoms associated with NET are relatively vague, meaning it is difficult to diagnose, and as a result, the estimated time to diagnosis is five to seven years. Because NET cancers are often diagnosed at an advanced stage, when a diagnosis has been made, the cancer has often already spread to other parts of the body.

The management of NET depends on the size and location of the cancer, whether the cancer has spread to other parts of the body and the patient's overall health. Current therapeutic options include surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy and medical therapies.

Given this, it's helpful to know programs are underway to help raise awareness of NET, including pancreatic NET, and to ensure patients have available resources.

"Living with a less common cancer like NET can be difficult for patients given the lack of resources and a limited network of people who understand what they are going through," says Dr. Halfdanarson. "Initiatives like Worldwide NET Cancer Awareness Day were created so patients and caregivers know they are not alone in this, and support is available."

For more information on NET, visit www.thenetalliance.com. Initiated by Novartis Oncology, The NET Alliance is a program that strives to increase disease awareness and understanding, improve NET diagnosis and monitoring, support the development of new NET management techniques and foster patient-focused activities.