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July 15, 2009

Use It (your body) or Lose It (your mind)!

Fit Body, Fit Mind? Your Workout Makes You Smarter

So you want to be smarter? Then exercise your body together with your brain for overall better results. A study released in Scientific American, reports of the powerful link between physical activity and mental acuity. If you find yourself struggling to break through a mental block, try exercising to break down that barrier and get your mind fit as well as your body. There are three key concepts explained below that should help spur you to add consistent, moderate exercise to your daily regime. On a personal note, I have found that when I am struggling to overcome a mental block, I take a long walk or a hike in the nearby mountains and let my subconscious mind go to work. on the issue. This has proven incredibly beneficial; the only real problem is that I can lose myself to thought so much I can find myself exercising into my work time! A healthy body and health mind can be achieved at the same time, try it for yourself and reap the benefits.

*Below are the key concepts from the article.


Key Concepts
  • We are used to thinking of intelligence as largely a matter of genetic inheritance, but that is not the whole picture. What you do affects your mental well-being: staying physically and mentally active helps us stay sharp as we age.
  • Nevertheless, our personal efforts to bolster cognitive enhancement cannot forestall all declines in our cognitive performance.
  • What is especially surprising is the powerful link between physical activity and mental acuity. Staying fit helps us keep cognition more robust as well.

    Sources:
    Scientific American magazine
    http://www.scientificamerican.com/article.cfm?id=fit-body-fit-mind

    by Derek Burreson

Posted by Derek Burreson at 10:36 AM |

July 06, 2009

It’s So Easy Being Green (Tea)

Green Tea Could Delay Prostate Cancer: U.S. study

Green tea, a great alternative to the cup of java to get our morning started but here is some helpful information to its other benefits as well. In the great reference book “Prescription for Nutritional Healing” by Phyllis A. Balch, green tea is said to have *antioxidant, antibacterial and antiviral health-enhancing properties.
According to a recent research article, it’s reported the active antioxidant compounds in green tea have shown to slow down the progression of prostate cancer. The testing is in its early stages but it looks promising. The article goes on to state that Prostate cancer is the second leading cause of cancer death among American men. The American Cancer Society projects prostate cancer will be diagnosed in 192,280 men and will kill 27,360 in 2009. These are some scary statistics, but it’s important to remember that an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. Whether you enjoy drinking your green tea or through supplements, it can be a healthful addition as part of an overall nutrition plan that includes multiple-antioxidants that can work synergistically to support the body.

Source:
(Reporting by I-Ching Ng; Editing by Maggie Fox and Eric Walsh)
http://news.yahoo.com/s/nm/20090619/hl_nm/us_cancer_tea_1

* Though green tea has shown to have antioxidant properties, the FDA currently does not recognize it as an “antioxidant” for marketing and label claims.
by Derek Burreson

 

Posted by Derek Burreson at 10:42 AM |

July 03, 2009

Do You Mean Drinking Red Wine Can Actually be Good for Me?

Red Wine Compound Resveratrol Demonstrates Significant Health Benefits

If this is music to your ears, hold on; there’s a little more you should know before throwing caution to the wind.
Drinking in moderation has been shown to yield some health benefits, while drinking too much can cause a multitude of health problems. How does red wine have health benefits? It contains polyphenols including one called resveratrol that researchers have identified as having potent antioxidant benefits that act as free radical scavengers in the body. This is the basis of the “French Paradox” which is the observation that the French suffer a relatively low incidence of coronary heart disease, despite having a diet rich in saturated fats, due to their higher consumption of red wine. There are many studies being conducted on the benefits of consuming moderate amounts of red wine, but confusion still remains with researchers on whether the health benefits extend to beer, white wine or distilled spirits. Resveratrol has shown to have antioxidant and free radical scavenging properties but only vitamin C, vitamin E and beta carotene are recognized “antioxidants” by the FDA.  In addition to red wine, resveratrol can be found in non-alcoholic beverages and in supplement form as well.

by Derek Burreson

Posted by Derek Burreson at 11:53 AM |

June 02, 2009

Are You Waiting For The “Health Pill”?

by Derek Burreson

A study of middle-aged and older Americans who eat right, exercise and keep their weight down has declined substantially in the past two decades. Only 26 percent of Americans ages 40 to 74 said they ate five or more servings of fruits and vegetables per day -- down from 42 percent in 1988. When it came to exercise, 43 percent said they worked out at least 12 times per month, versus 53 percent in 1988.
If you fall into this category, what are you waiting for?
Our health is of the greatest importance, but we must make an effort to take responsibility to achieve a healthier lifestyle. Modern medicine has made incredible advances in treating sickness and disease, but our goal should be to do all we can to prevent or prolong it in the first place.  Take an honest look at your health habits today then think about how that may affect you five, ten and even twenty years from now. How does your future look? If you’re not happy with the road you’re on, change it. Make small steps toward a healthier future and give yourself at least ninety days to let your new habits become part of your life style.
The prescription for health lies within you, don’t wait around for a health pill.

Source:
Fewer Americans Following A Healthy Lifestyle
http://health.yahoo.com/news/reuters/us_fewer_lifestyle.html

Posted by Derek Burreson at 10:51 AM |

May 28, 2009

Anyone For a Spot of (Green) Tea?

by Derek Burreson

Is coffee or tea a part of your morning ritual to get you going? According to researchers in Japan green tea has been found to be beneficial for your gum health. The antioxidants in the tea help reduce the inflammatory response to periodontal bacteria in the mouth.
Though I like to have a cup of java in the morning perhaps I will try a little spot of tea every now and then. So have some green tea and enjoy; your dentist may thank you.

Source:

Green Tea May protect Gums against Disease

http://www.nutraingredients-usa.com/Publications/Food-Beverage-Nutrition/NutraIngredients.com/Research/Green-tea-may-protect-gums-against-disease/?c=ysnBbfNQPrK93n%2FCvzoPCw%3D%3D&utm_source=newsletter_daily&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=Newsletter%2BDaily

Posted by Derek Burreson at 09:45 AM |

May 22, 2009

Are We Going to Need a Prescription to Buy Cheerios?

by Derek Burreson

The FDA blasts the cereal maker, General Mills, because of their claim that Cheerios can “lower cholesterol 10 Percent in a month” which makes it a drug. The agency has been increasingly clamping down on many companies that connect their products with treating, curing or preventing diseases.
The advertising and labeling guidelines for natural products are very specific by the agency although it may seem that every health malady now falls under the guise of a “disease”. General Mills may not have thought that “lowering cholesterol 10 percent” fell under the category of a disease claim, but the health products industry has not been helped by companies that have made wild disease claims about their products that prompted the FDA to crack down.
More than likely the cereal maker will have to modify their message a little to come into alignment with the labeling laws and everything will be fine. No prescription needed to eat your daily bowl of Cheerios.

Source:
http://wcbstv.com/health/cheerios.general.mills.2.1007986.html

Posted by Derek Burreson at 10:13 AM |

May 08, 2009

Supplements: Are they really necessary?

by Derek Burreson

I came across this article today that I wanted to share that asks if supplements are really necessary. The argument seems to be that if we eat a well a balanced diet, we don’t really need them. The article states that supplements help to bridge the nutritional gap from what our bodies require on a daily basis for proper growth, structure and function and the nutrients we are receiving. In no way should supplements act as replacements for proper nutrition but we should all strive for a healthy balance in our diet. As we put increased demands on our bodies, we will require more nutrients for our biochemical machine to operate properly and supplements are part of that role. 

Source:
Nutraingredients
http://www.nutraingredients.com/Industry/Supplements-Time-to-change-the-nay-saying-record?nocount

Posted by Derek Burreson at 01:22 PM |

May 06, 2009

CoQ10: Some helpful nutritional information beyond heart health

by Derek Burreson

Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) is fat-soluble vitamin-like substance produced by the human body and present in every cell that serves several  key enzymatic steps in the production of energy necessary for the basic functioning within the cell. CoQ10 levels are reported to decrease with age and to be low in patients with some chronic diseases. Some prescription drugs may also lower CoQ10 levels.
It is naturally present in small amounts in a wide variety of foods but is particularly high in organ meats such as heart, liver and kidney, as well as beef, soy oil, sardines, mackerel, and peanuts. Levels of CoQ10 in the body can also be increased by taking CoQ10 supplements. It is known to be highly concentrated in heart muscle cells due to the high energy requirements of this cell type.
Heart health certainly is a main focal point of supplementation with coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10), but the antioxidant and protective effects of this nutrient may benefit other areas of your health. As always, I encourage you to eat a wide variety of foods in your daily diet that will help you to get the nutrients necessary for your body to perform properly, though this is easier said than done.

Sources:
National Institute of health:
http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/druginfo/natural/patient-coenzymeq10.html

Natural Products Marketplace:
http://www.naturalproductsmarketplace.com/articles/551/coq10--beyond-heart-health.html

Posted by Derek Burreson at 01:58 PM |

March 03, 2009

In 4-diet study, all lost weight if they watched their calories--- The common sense diet!

by Derek Burreson

I came across this article in the Health and Behavior section in USA Today. It states “A landmark study shows that people can lose weight on a variety of diets — including low-fat plans and low-carb ones — as long as they consume fewer calories”. So to break it down a little more, if you burn more calories than you consume, you can lose weight. A diet consists of everything you consume. You can eat a healthy diet or an unhealthy diet. Now I may be pointing out the extremes, but in general if you can find a health balance (all of us being human) we will probably have a better chance of sticking with it. A lot of it will depend on you health goals as well. If you are a bit outside of your healthy weight and you find it difficult to put together a meal plan, than some of these programs may prove helpful in providing direction and discipline toward better eating habits. If you are like me and have a difficult time in following a set plan than it’s important that you are able to ‘self-regulate” your diet, and work out as much as possible. I can always eat more fruits and vegetables and I find at times I start to eat more protein, that’s when my internal voice helps to set me back on my path for balance. Taking care of our health is a life long endeavor and should be the highest on the priority list. Take care of the “temple” and it will take care of you.

Source:
http://www.usatoday.com/news/health/weightloss/2009-02-25-diets-calories_N.htm

Posted by Derek Burreson at 01:45 PM |

February 16, 2009

Cardiologists Recommend Dietary Supplements for a Healthy Heart

by Derek Burreson

A cardiologist is a physician who is certified to treat problems of the cardiovascular system—the heart, arteries, and veins. Cardiology is classified as an internal medicine subspecialty, so it's fairly safe to say they are pretty familiar with how our hearts work. New research from the “Life ... supplemented” Healthcare Professionals (HCP) Impact Study found 72 percent of U.S. cardiologists recommend dietary supplements to their patients, and more than half (57 percent) take supplements themselves. In an effort to living a healthier lifestyle, taking supplements coupled with moderate exercise and a healthy diet can go a long way toward a healthier life. As the old saying goes "an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure".


Sources:
www.lifesupplemented.org
www.naturalproductsinsider.com/hotnews/cardiologists-supplements-heart-health.html

Posted by Derek Burreson at 01:22 PM |

January 13, 2009

Happy New Year!

As 2009 is now upon us it’s important to look forward to the opportunities that await us.
Many changes seem to take place around this time and the Daily Health Bits blog is changing as well. I will be taking over the bulk of entries to continue bringing you informative health information from a variety of sources. No matter what may be happening around us, our personal health should be at the top of the list and it is never too late to start. To break it into simple terms:

1. Eat a balanced diet (diet involves everything you consume, not just something you
     go on)
2. Get adequate exercise
3. Restful sleep is a must
4. Optimal water intake (your body is 70% water, how much are you drinking?)
5. Proper supplementation to cover nutritional shortfalls

These simple steps can help set you on the path to health. But here is the most important point to remember, it often takes effort and commitment by you to get on this path. Often-times people are looking for that “magic bullet” that sets everything right with minimal effort or sacrifice. Have you ever heard of the quote “if you always do what you’ve always done, then you’ll always get what you’ve always gotten”. If you ignore destructive habits and continually do them, what do you think the outcome will be over time? If you want better results then you have to retrain yourself to adopt healthier habits. If you are committed to changing your path then you need enough time to see, feel and condition yourself to this direction. Give yourself and honest ninety days to a new you, make small adjustments and you will retrain your habits into positive benefits that can last a lifetime. Life poses many challenges and you can be faced with great difficulties but I can tell you from my own personal experiences that no matter how great the challenge and I have had many, I have always fallen back on maintaining my personal health and this has translated into strengthening my mental health and overcoming anything in my path. If you can see the opportunities through challenges (they are there) you will become unstoppable. Set your course, blaze your own path and make no excuses…..oh, and don’t forget to have fun doing it!      

Yours in Health,

Derek Burreson  

Posted by Derek Burreson at 11:44 AM |

November 11, 2008

Huh???

When I was younger, one of my first jobs was working in a jewelry shop.  I used to clean every piece of jewelry using the VERY loud steamer.  I swear that as a result of that, I've had hearing loss, in addition to listening to my Walkman too loud and playing music above the acceptable level in my car. Laughing Well, a study by University of Michigan Kresge Hearing Research Institute reveals that I am not alone.  About 10 million people in the United States suffer from noise-induced hearing loss.  While they haven't found a way to reverse hearing loss, the researchers have come up with a vitamin cocktail to take before being exposed to loud noises (i.e. our troops) in an effort to prevent some of the noise-induced damage. The U-M researchers discovered that this new combination of vitamins, (A, C and E)  when mixed with magnesium, can prevent noise-induced damage to the ears by blocking some of these complex cellular reactions.  Their studies show that it blocked about 80% of the damage.  This is a great discovery for those whose jobs or hobbies involved high volume situations.  I wish I had known about this combo back in the day!

 

Source:ScienceDaily 10 November 2008. 11 November 2008 <http://www.sciencedaily.com­ /releases/2008/11/081110112103.htm>.

Posted by Cindy Burreson at 08:14 AM |

November 06, 2008

Benefits of Flossing

I went to the dentist last week, and was proud to announce (to my husband's annoyance) that I STILL have yet to have a cavity!  36 years old and cavity-free is something I'm proud of.  HOWEVER, it was made known that my flossing habits are lacking....if existent at all.  So, I thought i would research and share the benefits of flossing, for it is crucial in your overall dental health.  Dental experts overwhelmingly agree that daily flossing is a critical, preventive step in reducing tooth decay and gum disease. Flossing removes plaque between teeth and below the gum line -- dislodging the pieces of food trapped between teeth which otherwise cannot be brushed or rinsed away.  Plaque build up causes gum disease (gingivitis) which affects some two- thirds(1) of the U.S. population, while advanced-stage gum disease (periodontal disease) is the leading cause of tooth loss in American adults and affects between ten and fifteen percent of the U.S. population.  One dentist I visited some time ago said that flossing is like exercising your gums.  If you don't do it, they become weak and your teeth could loosen and fall out when you are older.  The bacteria that like to live in your mouth are only distant relatives of the good bacteria that live in your digestive tract, helping to digest your food.  Like their distant relatives, they attack food, but they also attack your soft tissues (gums) and bones of your mouth.  Eventually, if you don't evict them, they will weaken the attachment of your teeth to your bone, and your teeth will loosen and fall out.  This is the progress of what is commonly known as gum disease, more formally known as periodontal disease.  So, I intend to make a concerted effort to floss regularly because I don't want to be a old lady with no teeth!

Posted by Cindy Burreson at 05:10 PM |

October 19, 2008

Mammograms-Reposted

With October being National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, I thought it important to talk about mammograms.  I know many women don’t even know what takes place during a mammogram and either fear them, are confused by them, or think they don’t need one.  The following is information I found on www.breastcancer.org and then my personal experience with a mammogram can be found after. 
Mammograms are probably the most important tool doctors have to help them diagnose, evaluate, and follow women who've had breast cancer. Safe and highly accurate, a mammogram is an X-ray photograph of the breast. The technique has been in use for about thirty years.
Mammograms don't prevent breast cancer, but they can save lives by finding breast cancer as early as possible. For example, mammograms have been shown to lower the risk of dying from breast cancer by 35% in women over the age of 50; studies suggest for women between 40 and 50 they may lower the risk of dying from breast cancer by 25–35%.
Leading experts, the National Cancer Institute, the American Cancer Society, and the American College of Radiology now recommend annual mammograms for women over 40.
Finding breast cancers early with mammography has also meant that many more women being treated for breast cancer are able to keep their breasts. When caught early, localized cancers can be removed without resorting to breast removal (mastectomy).
Mammograms aren't perfect. Normal breast tissue can hide a breast cancer, so that it doesn't show up on the mammogram. This is called a false negative. And mammography can identify an abnormality that looks like a cancer, but turns out to be normal. This "false alarm" is called a false positive. To make up for these limitations, more than mammography is needed. Women also need to practice breast self-examination, get regular breast examination by an experienced health care professional, and, in some cases, also get another form of breast imaging, like ultrasound or MRI scanning.

Four things to know about mammograms:

1. They can save your life. Finding breast cancer early reduces your risk of dying from the disease by 25 - 30% or more. Women should begin having mammograms yearly at age 40, or earlier if they're at high risk.
2. Don't be afraid. It's a fast procedure (about 5 - 10 minutes), and discomfort is minimal. The procedure is safe: there's only a very tiny amount of radiation exposure from a mammogram. To relieve the anxiety of waiting for results, go to a center that will give you results before you leave.
3. Get the best quality you can.
  • If you have dense breasts or are under age 50, try to get a digital mammogram.
  • Bring your old mammogram films with you for comparison.
  • Have more than one radiologist read your study.
  • Ask if your center has CAD—computer aided detection—which calls the radiologist's attention to any possible areas of concern.
  • Make sure the doctor who referred you for the mammogram includes an explicit note when ordering the study (providing clinical correlations—e.g. "palpable mass in the upper outer quadrant, rule out abnormality").
  • Correlate your results with other tests you've had done, like ultrasound or MRI.
  • Discuss your family history of breast and other cancers—from both your mother's AND father's side—with your doctor.

4. It is our most powerful breast cancer detection tool. However, mammograms can still miss 15—20% of breast cancers that are simply not visible using this technique. Other important tools—such as breast self-exam, clinical breast examination, ultrasound, and MRI—can and should be used as complementary tools, but there are no substitutes or replacements for a mammogram.
—Marisa Weiss, M.D.

My mammogram experience:

It was sort of a weird experience, but I was never in pain.  Your first mammogram is usually used as a baseline for future mammograms.  Be sure that you bring information about your family’s breast health so they can add that to your file.  When you arrive for your mammogram, you will be asked to undress from the waist up and given a gown to wear. The technician will place one of your breasts on a platform of the X-ray machine which is sort of a shelf, positioned to your height. Your breast will be compressed between the platform and another “shelf”. This pressure spreads out the breast tissue so that the X-rays can penetrate and create an image of the entire thickness of the breast.  It is sort of weird to have your breast flattened, but it only lasts a few seconds.  After both breasts have been compressed and X-rayed, the technician will check the clarity of the X-rays, and do "retakes" if necessary. This does not mean s/he found a lump. It may be that you moved at the moment the X-ray was taken. Then, the mammogram is over.  All in all, it maybe takes half an hour.  If you have sensitive breasts, you may want to consider an OTC pain reliever before your appointment.

Posted by Cindy Burreson at 10:00 AM |

September 07, 2008

What Condition Will Nearly 50% of US Develop?

It's an interesting question, because that is a HUGE statistic, and it leaves you wondering, am I at risk?  The answer is knee arthritis.  Though it can be caused by genetics, sedentary lifestyles and joint injuries, knee arthritis' main "cause" is being overweight.  Keeping your weight reasonable can ward off this painful condition which is a common kind of arthritis that wears away cartilage cushioning the knee joint.  Knee arthritis, also called degenerative joint disease, is the number one form of arthritis.  It worsens over time and there is no cure. The pain can be disabling and doctors may recommend joint replacement surgery.  So, here is yet another reason to stick to a sensible diet, exercise, and keep your weight in check.  That way when we are old and gray we can still chase our spouses around the kitchen table, and not have any pain!  Kiss

Posted by Cindy Burreson at 03:59 PM |

August 20, 2008

Conjunctivitis

Anyone who's had conjunctivitis knows it's not fun.  Your eyes may crust completely shut, be itchy or teary; not a good time.  There are different types of conjunctivitis, but the basic symptoms include redness, itchy eyes, blurred vision, and crusty eyes.  If you have swollen glands or have just gotten over an upper respiratory illness, you may have viral conjunctivitis.  Usually it clears up on its own, but there are things you can to do relieve some of the symptoms and help it on its way.  First of all, use artificial tears which are available at the drug store.  Don't use eye whiteners, look for the bottle to specifically state "artificial tears".  This product will do the same thing as natural tears, moisturizing the eyes and relieving the itching and irritation.  You can use this product 6-8 times a day.  Keep it in the refrigerator, as the coolness will be soothing.  Speaking of coolness, moisten a washcloth and keep it in the freezer until it's cold and apply it to your eyes several times a day.  Don't use the cloth to rub your eyes, as this will aggravate the problem.  Be sure to prevent recontamination by getting rid of anything that touches your eye such as makeup, makeup brushes, contact lenses, etc.  Wash pillowcases, bedding and towels to prevent yourself from being reinfected.  Most importantly, wash your hands often, to protect others around you from catching this highly contagious condition, and from recontaminating yourself.

Source: Prevention's Ultimate Guide to Women's Health and Wellness 

 

Posted by Cindy Burreson at 09:05 AM |

August 19, 2008

Breast Cancer Reminder

About a month ago, I was shocked to hear that Christina Applegate, who is the same age as me, was diagnosed with breast cancer.  I read further that she was not going to do chemo, because she wants to have a baby.  Today, I read that she had a double mastectomy to remove both breasts, and in doing so, she is now cancer-free.  This seems like a radical "treatment", but I commend her for taking action in fighting her disease.  This story should serve as a reminder to keep performing our self-breast exams monthly, and get regular mammograms.  The symptoms of breast cancer are listed below, for your consideration in taking responsibility for your own health:

The first sign of breast cancer is often a painless lump. But early breast cancer is often found on a mammogram before a lump can be felt.

Other symptoms of breast cancer may not appear until the cancer is more advanced. These include:

  • A thickening in the breast or armpit.
  • A change in the size or shape of the breast.
  • Changes in the skin of the breast, such as a dimple or skin that looks like an orange peel.
  • A change in the nipple, such as scaling of the skin or a nipple that turns in.
  • A green or bloody fluid that comes from the nipple.
  • A change in the color or feel of the skin around the nipple (areola).

Source: AOL Health

Posted by Cindy Burreson at 08:20 AM |

August 16, 2008

Overweight in 2048

There has been much ado about a report in the journal, Obesity [July 2008], stating that if the current trends continue, every American adult could be overweight 40 years from now.  It sounds a little crazy, but if you consider that 2/3 of the population is currently overweight, it sort of puts things in perspective.  The studies done for this report show that by 2030, 86%of adults will be overweight, with over 50% of adults considered obese!  These findings enforce the need for Americans to improve their lifestyles and keep their weight in check.  Hopefully there will be a movement socially that encourages more healthy behaviors such as exercise and proper diet, so that as a whole, our society can prevent this alarming possibility. 

Posted by Cindy Burreson at 06:45 AM |

August 14, 2008

Out of Sight

Although aging can increase the risk of eye disorders and eye problems, there are things you can do throughout your life to protect your eyes from impairment.  These preventative measures can help treat or avoid 40-50% of blindness.  So, what can you do to protect one of your most treasured senses? 

First of all, regular eye exams are a cornerstone of visual health.  Those who have a family history of eye/vision problems should get exams more often.  Don't wait until you seem to have an eye problem before visiting a doctor.  Often times, the "good eye" can overcompensate for the "bad eye", making things worse.  Usually, an eye exam is the earliest way to detect problems and possibly treat them. 

Secondly, if you smoke, stop.  Smoking increases the risk of several eye disorders, including age-related macular degeneration.  Your diet is another factor in eye health; be sure to eat a diet that includes plenty of fruits and vegetables, minimal saturated fats and hydrogenated oils. 

Protect your eyes from the damaging sun by wearing sunglasses or a hat, every time you go outdoors.  Be sure that you get good quality sunglasses that protect you from the harmful rays.  Often times there are notations of their level of protection from UV rays.

Contrary to popular belief, eye strain caused by reading or the computer does not really cause eye disorders, but does tired the eyes, possibly causing discomfort.  Take frequent breaks, looking away and giving your eyes a rest.

Your vision is something you definitely don't want to be without, so whether you are 18 or 80, treasure your peepers!

Posted by Cindy Burreson at 09:05 AM |

May 09, 2008

Free Skin Cancer Screening

May is Skin Cancer Month, and Oil of Olay, the American Society for Dermatologic Surgery (ASDS) and Marcia Cross have joined together to invite you and your girlfriends to get a free skin cancer screening.  One of my friends sent me this information, and I am so scared of skin cancer (as I've mentioned before) that I wanted to take advantage of this program as well as pass it on.  Here is the link to find a participating dermatologist and to pass on to your friends.  Be sure to wear sunscreen and check your moles and freckles for any changes.  Link

Posted by Cindy Burreson at 10:22 AM |

April 29, 2008

How Bad is Your Water?

We don't drink tap water in our house.  We buy bottled water or use a filtering device.  Today I read about a website which is a database of water companies across the country and their "report cards" with regard to contaminants.  You can search for your water supplier and read which contaminants are in your own tap water, and whether there have been any complaints toward the company.  I was surprised to find that there were 21 pollutants in our tap water, including 5 unregulated contaminants.  Now, I REALLY don't want to drink the water!  Visit the website and make your own decision: www.ewg.org/tapwater.  There are many different solutions for drinking better water and avoiding contaminants.

 Source:  Body + Soul

Posted by Cindy Burreson at 09:32 AM |

April 16, 2008

To Tan or Not to Tan

Despite countless reports of the harmful effects of indoor tanning, the trend continues to gain in popularity, and now studies have some interesting results.  Dermatologists have long suspected that some people may be addicted to tanning – similar to addictions to drugs or alcohol – and refuse to alter their behaviors, even knowing they have an increased risk of developing skin cancer. In a report entitled, “UV light abuse and high-risk tanning behavior among undergraduate college students,” published in the March 2007 issue of the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, dermatologists used a standardized testing tool to gauge the presence of a substance-related disorder (SRD) as a means to determine whether some college students could be addicted to tanning.  The study's participants were asked to complete a multiple-choice questionnaire that included questions about their personal tanning practices and those of their family and friends.  Those who indicated that they purposefully tanned despite knowing the negative health effects, were given a CAGE test which is used in determining other forms of addicition.  They asked such questions as:

  • “Have you ever felt you ought to cut down on your tanning?”
  • “Have people annoyed you by criticizing your tanning?”
  • “Have you ever felt bad or guilty about your tanning?”
  • “Have you ever thought about tanning first thing in the morning?”

The results showed that 18% of the participants showed an SRD (substance related disorder) related to tanning.  Shockingly, 77% of participants who had a family history of skin cancer STILL visited indoor tanning salons.  Education of the risks associated with tanning have not proven effective in these people, but what will it take? 

Source: American Academy of Dermatology. "New Study Indicates Tanning May Be Addictive." ScienceDaily 20 March 2007. 16 April 2008 <http://www.sciencedaily.com­ /releases/2007/03/070319212951.htm>.

Posted by Cindy Burreson at 09:14 AM |

March 25, 2008

Happy Marriage is Beneficial to Health

This week my hubby and I celebrated our second wedding anniversary.  We are so happy and know that we are very fortunate to have an awesome marriage.  I read an article last night that stated that not only does being in a happy marriage feel good and make you healthier mentally, it also has a profound affect on your health.  A study was done with married and single adults where they wore blood pressure monitors for 24 hours during their regular activities.  The findings were that the happily married couples had lower blood pressure overall and especially at night when they slept which is very important.  Elevated blood pressure throughout the night can put you at greater risk for cardiovascular problems.  Spouses can encourage each other's healthy habits, they eat similar diets, have similar fitness programs and have similar patterns of doctor visits.  So, get married today!  Just kidding.  But if you are in a happy marriage, thank your lucky stars for yet another reason to cherish your relationship!

 

Source: MSN Health & Fitness 3/24/2008

Posted by Cindy Burreson at 09:32 AM |

January 17, 2008

Soda- So Bad

I like to have a soda every now and then, primarily when I have a headache or need a pick-me-up.  The following information has been in circulation for a while and is pretty shocking, and may make us rethink reaching for that sugary treat.  This is what happens to your body within an hour of drinking a soda:

10 minutes: 10 teaspoons of sugar hit your system.  This is 100% of the recommended daily allowance and the only reason you don't throw up from the overwhelming sweetness is because phosphoric acid cuts the flavor.

20 minutes- your blood sugar spikes and your liver responds to the insulin burst by turning massive amounts of sugar to fat.

40 minutes- caffeine absorption is complete, your pupils dilate, your blood pressure rises and your liver dumps even more sugar into your bloodstream.

45 minutes- your body increases dopamine production which stimulates the pleasure centers of the brain in a physical response like that of heroin.

60 minutes- sugar crash begins in the body.

The average American drinks over 60 gallons of soda a year.  But perhaps this time line and thinking about the other unhealthy ingredients in soda like sugar, high fructose corn syrup, aspartame and caffeine, will convince you to drink something else. 

Source: Nutrition Research Center 10/24/07

Posted by Cindy Burreson at 08:44 AM |

January 14, 2008

Case for a Massage

I have always been a big fan of massages.  I have neck problems, and so massage has helped tremendously with my migraines and relieving stress in my neck and shoulders.  Massage has a number of other health benefits also, so here are some examples, to help you with your case for getting a massage!  Massage calms the nervous system and promotes clarity, well-being and emotional balance.  This can have a positive affect on your stress levels, sleeping habits and energy.  Massage promotes blood circulation, delivering blood, oxygen and vital nutrients to the body's cells and organs.  It also lubricates between muscle fibers, increasing flexibility and mobility.  Another benefit of massage is that it stimulates the lymphatic system, carrying away the body's waste products.  I've actually had a lymphatic massage, and it is sort of like a detox.  The benefits of touch, create a nuturing environment which our nerve endings crave.  So, as you see, massage not only feels great, but it has a lot of other positive health benefits as well.

 

Source: Healthy Living Magazine

Posted by Cindy Burreson at 11:19 AM |

January 09, 2008

Sleep, My Pretty...

As a kid, I HATED naps!  I remember my mom would tell me to go in and rest then.  So, I would yell out “I’m not going to sleep though!”  She would laugh, knowing full well that I would be sawing logs in no time.  Oh, the days of having time for naps!  Now, I relish the idea of taking a nap, and whenever time allows, I steal away to my down-filled bed and snooze harder than any kindergartner.  But, when is the best time to take a nap?  According to Health Magazine, the best time to take a nap is between 1 and 3pm when your body temperature dips and alertness takes a dive anyway.  A short nap improves your mood, memory and alertness, your productivity, and mental and physical agility.  They suggest the following durations for naps, depending on your goals:

15-20 minutes for a quick picker-upper

30-50 minutes if you need to be sharp for an exam or speech, as this will allow for slow-wave sleep which benefits memory

60-90 minutes for REM sleep

I’ll take whatever I can get…ZZZZZZZZZZZ

Posted by Cindy Burreson at 07:04 AM |

January 07, 2008

Interesting Perspective on Stress

I've written about stress many times in my blog, and that's because 90% of visits to a primary care physician are stress-related.  I consider myself a positive person, and I generally try to steer clear of situations that I know will stress me out, but sometimes you just can't help feeling road rage or frustration with people around you.  Well, tonight I was watching a program on TV and got an enlightening perspective on stress.  The gentleman asked, "What if you only six months to live?"  Things like irritating drivers and bills and working late and such wouldn't matter to you as much.  In fact, you would cherish every moment.  So, why don't we live like that?  He said that "What you feed is going to grow", and it's true.  If someone steals your parking space, and you yell and scream, you are feeding that stress and it will grow.  Is it really the end of the world?  My mom always told us to "think before you speak", but I think we should also think before we react.  Maybe if we did, more of us would be at peace and we would be healthier as a result.  Just something to think about.  Laughing

Posted by Cindy Burreson at 07:55 AM |

January 01, 2008

Something's Fishy

The health benefits of eating fish are undeniable.  Fish oil is full of anti-inflammatory and heart-helping Omega-3 fatty acids.  Fish oils have been shown to help with the appearance of skin, the brain, among many other things.  However, many people are skeptical about eating fish due to increased mercury levels in the body.  Here is a list of the best and worst fish to eat, and their mercury levels and levels of essential fatty oils:

1.Salmon (wild): 1 gram of omega-3 fatty acids per 2 ounces of fish;* 0.014 parts per million mercury concentration
2.Herring: 1 gram of omega-3 fatty acids per 1 ounce of fish;* 0.044 parts per million mercury concentration
3.Sardines: 1 gram of omega-3 fatty acids per 2-3 ounces of fish;* 0.016 parts per million mercury concentration
4.Trout (freshwater): 1 gram of omega-3 fatty acids per 3-4 ounces of fish;* 0.072 parts per million mercury concentration
5.Pollock: 1 gram of omega-3 fatty acids per 6.5 ounces of fish;* 0.041 parts per million mercury concentration

*Oil content varies widely, depending on species, season, environment, diet, and packing and cooking methods.

Here's the list of fish to avoid:
•King mackerel: 0.73 parts per million mercury concentration
•Shark: 0.99 parts per million mercury concentration
•Swordfish: 0.98 parts per million mercury concentration
•Tilefish (Gulf of Mexico): 1.45 parts per million mercury concentration

Tuna falls right in the middle of the two, with mercury concentration ranging from 0.12 to 0.69 parts per million, depending on what kind of tuna you eat. And you'll need to eat anywhere from 3.5-12 ounces to get 1 gram of omega-3 fatty acids, depending on how you take your tuna.  Another alternative if you don't like fish (like me) is to take a fish oil supplement. 

Source: www.realage.com

Posted by Cindy Burreson at 12:02 PM |

December 19, 2007

Flossing Could Save Your Life?

Flossing is one habit that I have never been very good at.  My husband flosses every day, and one of my New Year's Resolutions is the same.  I remember a dentist once likening flossing to lifting weights.  Flossing strengthens your gums, much like lifting weights strengthens your muscles, and helps to hold your teeth like your muscles support your skeleton. He said that if you don't floss regularly, your teeth would have a better chance of falling out when you are older. 

Dental experts overwhelmingly agree that daily flossing is a critical, preventive step in reducing tooth decay and gum disease. Flossing removes plaque between teeth and below the gum line -- dislodging the pieces of food trapped between teeth which otherwise cannot be brushed or rinsed away.

Plaque build up causes gum disease (gingivitis) which affects some two- thirds of the U.S. population, while advanced-stage gum disease (periodontal disease) is the leading cause of tooth loss in American adults and affects between ten and fifteen percent of the U.S. population.

And, flossing COULD save your life?  According to diseaseprevention.com, for a decade, scientists have studied a possible connection between gum disease and clogged arteries. In gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, the gums become infected by bacteria and can lead to the loss of teeth.

Oral bacteria can easily enter the bloodstream and eventually can make it to the heart. Once the bacteria arrive, they can activate an inflammatory response in the heart and ultimately build up atherosclerotic plaque that leads to heart disease.  So, even though the debate is still on to determine whether or not this can be prevented with flossing, the oral benefits alone should be enough to get you flossing.  I know, it is enough for me!



 

Posted by Cindy Burreson at 09:03 AM |

November 26, 2007

Wellness Inventory

With Thanksgiving behind us, and the holidays on their way, I thought today would be a good day to take a Personal Wellness Inventory in order to keep ourselves as healthy as possible during this crazy season.  So, I invite you to do the same, asking yourself the following questions:

  • Am I eating well?  Making sure to eat a healthy breakfast will not only benefit you nutritionally, but it will help give you energy for wrapping presents, shopping, and visiting with friends and family.  Make sure you are getting plenty of lean protein and fruits and vegetables in your diet and eliminating a lot of the sweets and fats which can compromise your nutritional health.
  • Am I taking my vitamins consistently?  If not, make it easier on yourself to do so.  We keep our vitamin boxes on my desk and take them in the morning while reading emails, and take our others at night, and they're on my nightstand so we don't forget! 
  • Am I taking time for myself?  Allowing yourself to get too run down, without taking time for YOU will only compromise your immune system and emotional health.  Stress is a major cause of illness, so even taking a coffee break during the hustle and bustle of shopping, or taking a bubble bath at the end of the day will do a world of good!
  • Am I exercising?  Exercising will not only help your immune system but it makes you feel great!  Plus, it will help you counteract the extra calories we consume during the season.
  • What supplements can I increase to improve my immunity in order to keep illness at bay?  I like to take extra vitamin C during this time of year, and sometimes zinc and echinacea.  My favorite is black elderberry which I discovered last year and helped me keep a couple of bad colds under control.
  • Am I sleeping enough?  With late night parties, shopping and so forth, sleep seems to get forgotten, but of course, we all know the importance of plenty of sleep to our overall health.  Make sure you are getting enough rest for your body.

Hopefully, taking this personal wellness inventory will help you to make changes if need be and get through the holidays with plenty of health, happiness and vigor!

Posted by Cindy Burreson at 09:18 AM |

November 19, 2007

Flying and Deep Vein Thrombosis

With the holidays this week, many people will be flying to visit family all over the country.  One concern you should be aware of before taking a flight is the prevention of Deep Vein Thrombosis.  Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clot that forms in a deep vein in your legs. Because you're not moving around, and your legs are below your heart, blood tends to pool in your legs. The danger -- though rare -- is that a piece of the clot could break off and travel to the lungs, where it blocks an artery (a life threatening condition called pulmonary embolism). Anyone can be at risk for DVT and the best way to prevent it is to get up and walk around every few hours -- especially on long flights.  You can also wear restrictive socks or pantyhose, and do exercises and foot stretches in your seat to increase circulation.  DVT can also be genetic, and people with heart disease, cancer or varicose veins may be at higher risk. If you fall into these categories, talk to your doctor before taking a long flight.

Posted by Cindy Burreson at 02:58 PM |

November 14, 2007

Keeping Cholesterol Under Control

Whether high cholesterol is in your genes, or is induced by your lifestyle, there are things you can do to minimize your risk of problems.  Knowing what your cholesterol levels are, is important for determining a goal and establishing a guideline for where you are and where you need to be.  Cholesterol screening can be done at your family doctor, and many pharmacies have cholesterol screenings throughout the year.  Once you have a goal, you can start taking steps in the right direction. Losing weight if you are overweight can help improve your cholesterol profile substantially. Minor lifestyle changes, such as getting screened regularly, eating a healthful diet, and exercising regularly, also can go a long way in getting your LDL and HDL cholesterol numbers back to a desirable level. For some people, however, cholesterol-controlling medication is a necessary part of their treatment plan, especially if they are genetically predisposed to high cholesterol. Speak with your doctor if you aren't sure which steps are best for you. If your cholesterol levels are not where they should be, making some lifestyle changes will help that, and your overall health.

Posted by Cindy Burreson at 12:07 PM |

November 06, 2007

PMS- How to Deal Naturally

I have a lot of girlfriends, and a sister, who are plagued with terrible PMS each month.  Fortunately for me, I don't experience the severity many do, but I still "feel your pain".  So, what can you do naturally to resolve some of the symptoms associated with pre-menstrual syndrome?  There have been studies done on the effectiveness of Chinese herbs in alleviating cramps associated with PMS, and with good results.  Not only did the following herbs relieve the pain, but also decreased the occurrence of cramps over a three month period. Herbs in the study included, but were not limited to:
1. Chinese angelica root
2. Szechuan lovage root
3. Red peony root, white peony root
4. Chinese motherwort
5. Cinnamon bark

In one trial, 53 percent of the women who took herbs had less pain, compared with 26 percent in the placebo group.

The Chinese herbs were more effective than non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), oral contraceptive pills, acupuncture, heat compressions, placebos, or no treatment at all.
 
Chinese herbal medicine has been used to treat menstrual pain for hundreds of years. Up to 50 percent of women of reproductive age experience period pain that leads to absences from school and work.

There are, of course, other natural remedies to dealing with PMS.  If you experience bloating, try drinking more water.  It sounds a little backwards, but water acts as a diuretic and removes excess fluid from the body.  Avoid caffeine, alcohol and carbonated drinks which can contribute to bloating.  Reduction of sugary foods can help keep moodiness at bay. Make sure you are getting enough nutrients especially magnesium and vitamin B6 because they help assure a healthy supply of mood-regulating brain chemicals serotonin and dopamine.  Exercise is another good way to increase the aforementioned brain chemicals, as well as relieve cramps.  Mother Nature obviously was playing a cruel trick on her fellow women when she cursed us with PMS, but luckily she also provided us with some natural ways of dealing with it!

 If you've found natural remedies for PMS relief, please leave your comments and help your fellow girls!

Source: Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews 2007, Issue 4

 

Posted by Cindy Burreson at 11:35 AM |

November 03, 2007

Top 5 Ways to Reduce Cancer

Although there is no 100% way to prevent cancer, there are several things you can do to try to prevent being one of it's victims.  Making healthier choices in your life can make a significant difference in your risk of developing certain types of cancer.  Even if you can't do all of these things, pick one or two and increase your overall health.

  1. Don't smoke- it has been shown (and we all know this) that smoking is the leading cause for lung cancer and is also responsible for throat and mouth cancers.  Stop smoking and decrease your risk of cancer and improve your overall health.
  2. Limit your intake of red meat, salt, fat and alcohol
  3. Eat lots of fruits, vegetables and grains
  4. Exercise regularly
  5. Watch your weight

As I said above, doing these things anyway is going to make you feel better and look better, and if they help you avoid cancer and other life-threatening diseases, then why WOULDN'T you try it??

 Source:  www.realage.com

 

Posted by Cindy Burreson at 09:37 AM |

November 02, 2007

Calm Nausea Naturally

Have you ever wondered how the "after dinner mint" idea started?  Well, peppermint is a well-known anti-emetic.  It contains a chemical compound called menthol, which eases digestion and calms the stomach.  To make peppermint tea, crush 1 teaspoon of fresh peppermint leaves, cover with a cup of boiling water, and let steep for ten minutes.  You can drink up to three times a day.  There are many different peppermint tea bags for your convenience, or just eat a mint, and get the benefits of fresh breath too!

Posted by Cindy Burreson at 11:06 AM |

October 26, 2007

Urinary Tract Infections

If you've ever had a urinary tract infection, you know that they are not fun!  One of my friends is experiencing the pain and inconvenience of one right now, and it led me to do some more research into what causes them, and what some pretty immediate solutions are, should you not be able to get to a doctor right away. 

One in five women will get a urinary tract infection (UTI) at some time in her life, and some women get them again and again.  UTIs that occur in the bladder are called cystitis.  Those that affect the urethra are called urethritis, and infections in the kidneys (the most serious kind) are called pyelonephritis.  UTIs usually occur when bacteria that live around the anus gain entry to the urethra and begin to multiply.  Sexual intercourse is a common cause of UTIs, but women who are not sexually active get them too. 

If you suspect that you have a UTI, you'll want to call or see your doctor right away.  Typical symptoms for cystitis include a burning sensation while urinating and a powerful urge to urinate even after you've used the bathroom.  Calling your doctor right away is the best way to get rid of your UTI quickly, as antibiotics are extremely efficient and expedient at clearing them up.  Here are some other things you can do at home to relieve some of the symptoms of UTIs:

  • Ease discomfort by using a heating pad on your lower abdomen to relieve cramps or pressure.
  • Avoid coffee and alcohol for a few days as they can irritate the urinary tract when you have an infection AND stimulate urination which can increase pain.
  • Avoid acidic foods like oranges, strawberries, etc as they can create a more favorable environment for bacteria in the bladder.
  • Drink baking soda mixed with water because it makes the urine more alkaline for about 24 hours which takes away the acidic environment that bacteria need to multiply.  When you first notice symptoms, mix 1/4 teaspoon of baking soda in a glass of water and drink it once daily until symptoms are improved. 
  • Drink cranberry juice as a preventative measure.  The proanthocyanidins in cranberry juice help prevent bacteria from sticking to cells in the urinary tract. 

Note: If you have pain accompanied by fever, chills or nausea you could have a potentially serious kidney infection and should see your doctor right away.

Source: Prevention's Ultimate Guide to Women's Health and Wellness

Posted by Cindy Burreson at 08:23 AM |

October 24, 2007

I Vote for the Cure

 Every 12 minutes, a woman in America dies of breast cancer.

In an effort to get presidential candidates to make breast cancer a national priority in the 2008 elections, the Susan G. Komen Foundation has launched the I Vote for the Cure, an initiative aimed at rallying voter registration, educating voters and challenging candidates to support achievable goals that will save lives.  The initiative lists the following goals:

We are advocating for three achievable goals that will save lives and help end breast cancer forever: (1) Increase investment in translational research, which is essential to ensuring that scientific discoveries made in the laboratory reach cancer patients as quickly as possible; (2) Provide every low-income, uninsured, and underinsured woman in America access to early detection by fully funding the National Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Detection program by 2012; and (3) Ensure that all women diagnosed with breast cancer have access to high quality treatment.

To learn more and sign the initiative, visit IVotefortheCure.org.

Posted by Cindy Burreson at 09:10 AM |

October 23, 2007

Breast Cancer in Men

Did you know that breast cancer does not just strike women, but also can affect men?  The American Cancer Society estimates that in 2007 some 2,030 new cases of invasive breast cancer will be diagnosed among men in the United States.  In 2007, about 450 men will die from breast cancer in the United States.  Although certain risk factors may increase a man's chances of developing breast cancer, the cause of most breast cancers in men is unknown.  Although we don't yet completely understand the causes of breast cancer in men, researchers have found several factors that may increase the risk of getting it. As with female breast cancer, many of these factors are related to sex hormone levels in the body. Some of the factors include aging, family history of breast cancer, inherited gene mutations, Klinfelter syndrome, radiation exposure, alcohol, liver disease, estrogen treatment, obesity, conditions affecting the testicles, and certain occupations, though research is still being done to understand why.  For now, the best strategies for reducing the number of deaths caused by this disease are early detection and prompt treatment. Early detection has been a problem for men, who tend to ignore breast lumps and see their doctor only when they have gotten very large. In general, men are diagnosed with larger cancers and at more advanced stages than are women.  This is very interesting and very serious and should not be taken lightly. 

Source: www.cancer.org

Posted by Cindy Burreson at 01:57 PM |

October 17, 2007

Memory Boosters

They say that as you age, your memory may start to fade.  Well, I don't know how you define "age", but at 35, I could swear my memory is already not as sharp as it once was.  So, how can you boost your brain power and improve your memory?  One trick that I use is word association.  If you can associate something that you need to remember with another word or a picture in your mind, it will be easier to recall that word.  For example, if I meet a man named Bob this month, I may think of "bobbing for apples" and associate that with his face, so I will have an easier time remembering his name when I see him.  I just used this technique for a test I took recently, employing tactics I used in school.  I had to memorize several items, so I put them in silly sentences so that I would remember.  And it worked!  There are other things you can do to improve memory.  They say "use it or lose it" and this is somewhat true with memory.  Completing crossword puzzles and other brain games like word searches, Sudoku, and the like stimulate brain function.  I also like to do brain games such as those found on Prevention.com.  These games are scientifically developed to strengthen the five major cognitive brain functions -- attention, language, memory, visual-spatial, and executive function. Similar to how lifting weights builds muscle, stimulating the brain by challenging yourself to these types of games helps build cognitive reserve which helps slow the natural effects of aging and defers the onset of diseases like Alzheimer's.   Maintaining a healthy diet, getting regular sleep, and exercising have also been shown to improve memory.  Keeping stress levels in check can also help memory function.   Stress causes the body to release cortisol, which plays an important role in memory preservation. Cortisol has been found to shrink the memory centers in the brain, which results in impaired memory.   So, stretching or meditating before stressful events can relax the brain and keep cortisol levels lower.  So, try incorporating some of these things in your life for overall health of your body and your mind.  And try one of the games on Prevention's website.  You're never too young or too old to start!

Posted by Cindy Burreson at 07:45 AM |

October 16, 2007

Traveling Healthier

With the holidays right around the corner, many of us will be traveling to family members' houses to celebrate. We have all fallen victim to sickness over the holidays which we usually blame on modes of transportation like airlines.  So, what precautions can we take to ensure healthier travels?  The first thing that I would recommend, both for sanitary reasons, and overall comfort is to bring your own pillow.  It doesn't necessarily have to be the one from your bed.  I have a really nice neck pillow that inflates with one blow, and it keeps everyone else's cooties off of me, and provides a great deal of comfort than traveling without it.  I used that thing all over Europe, on trains, buses and planes, and it helped TREMENDOUSLY!  You can also bring your own blanket if you're so inclined, or demand a blanket in a plastic wrap, for then you'll know it is new and clean.  Airline carriers are formidable carriers of the common cold; a recent study says you may be more than 100 times as likely to catch a cold on a plane as in your normal daily rounds, according to a study publishing in the Journal of Environmental Health Research.  I like to take Emergen-C or Airborne or something like that to boost my immune system before even boarding a plane.  I also am a freak about the air vents and like air flowing on me all the time.  It is a different environment on a plane.  When you are traveling at 30,000 feet do you feel more like you are in the desert? The air is very dry (and recycled) when you fly, and alcohol, which has its diuretic effects, can be much more potent. Either compensate with more water, or reduce alcoholic intake. Otherwise, headaches and bloating may become your unwelcome travel partners.  Stretching is very important. Not only will it help keep the blood flowing, but it will alleviate the cramping and pains that come from sitting for an extended period of time. Move around the cabin every once in a while and do exercises in your seat to keep the circulation in your legs optimized.  Bring hand sanitizer and use it regularly particularly if you've used the facilities or walked around the plane.  These things may seem paranoid, but if they can help prevent illness, it's worth it to me!

Posted by Cindy Burreson at 06:07 AM |

October 11, 2007

Confession of a Halloween Candy Sucker

It’s that time of year when every end cap at the market, and even the check stand is overflowing with bags of candy in fall colors.  Sure, having some autumn colored candy in a bowl on the coffee table would look spirited.  But, is that the real reason you are buying it?  I actually bought a bag of Hershey’s kisses yesterday, to put in my pumpkin candy bowl, using that “reason” for the purchase.  Within minutes of my husband getting home yesterday, we were tasting the Kisses to see how this year’s chocolate fared.  Well, I am NOT buying any more candy for the rest of October.  I read these statistics on mercola.com today, and realized that I don’t want to be a part of the Halloween Epidemic. 
Did you realize that Americans spend more than $1 BILLION on unhealthy sugary candy just for Halloween?
And if you're an average consumer, you spend nearly $15 on Halloween candy, much of which both you and your children eat -- even before Halloween arrives.

Posted by Cindy Burreson at 07:47 AM |

October 09, 2007

Do Your Part to Reduce Food Bacteria

With all of the food recalls lately, you may be a bit uneasy about the items you are putting into your grocery cart.  Shoppers may be surprised about some sources of problematic food and how easily and quickly contamination can spread.  So, how can you avoid food contamination at the grocery store?  Here are some tips to consider the next time you are loading up your pantry:

  • If the market is on a long list of errands, stop there last.  Food that needs refrigeration should not be exposed to warmer temperatures for more than two hours. 
  • Wash all produce to remove surface residues and pathogens present in soil that may still be attached to the fruit or vegetable.
  • Pick up dairy products and meats last when shopping. 
  • Do not buy meats that are stacked above the load limit line found on the meat case.  Meats above that line are not being properly refrigerated.
  • Store meat and dairy products toward the back and bottom of your fridge as those are the coldest places.
  • Use a meat thermometer to ensure that your food is thoroughly cooked.  Heating food to an internal temperature of 160 degrees F or above kills most parasites, viruses and bacteria.
  • Use soap often when handling food products to reduce contaminants on your hands.
  • Dry hands with a paper towel, rather than a dishtowel, which may already carry bacteria.
  • Sanitize countertops with a mixture of a teaspoon of chlorine bleach and a gallon of water.  The same mixture can be used on cutting boards.  Be sure to rinse thoroughly.

Use a cutting board without cracks or nicks, and try to use a separate cutting board for meats.

Source: AOL Money and Finance

Posted by Cindy Burreson at 10:38 AM |

October 08, 2007

Organizing Your Family Medical Records

Have you ever considered the importance of having all of your medical/health records in order, should you need something to measure your current health by, or in the event that one of your loved ones should need it?  Here are some things to consider putting in a file, for both yourself and your family members.

 
  • Current Medications List- create a list of all medications you are currently taking including over-the-counter medications, birth control, prescription medications and vitamins and supplements.  Keep the list updated, as this could prove invaluable to help prevent drug interactions, confusion from side effects and overdose.
  • Current Doctors List- list all of your doctors with their names, office location, phone numbers and specialty.  If you have a medical condition, call each office and put a note in your file giving permission for your spouse, children or other trusted person (named) to access your information, ask questions, and schedule on your behalf.
  • Medical Event Form- this is a good idea to have on hand for any incidences that occur including illness and injury.  Note dates, what happened, who you saw, any medications or treatments given and the result. 
  • Family Medical History- list all immediate relatives including grandparents, parents and siblings and record any health problems they have ever had.  If you know the results or if the conditions are ongoing, list that as well.
  • Symptom Log- if you are experiencing a new symptom, write down the date and time, description of your symptoms, what you are doing and what you’ve eaten.  This may help detect any connections between symptoms and what is going on in your life.
These simple steps can make a world of difference and can increase accuracy of diagnosis and speed up the medical processes as needed.  Keep the file in a place where all family members know its location and have easy access to it.  Be sure to keep it updated and as detailed as possible.

Posted by Cindy Burreson at 11:28 AM |

September 23, 2007

Flu Shot for You?

With autumn upon us, the weather is getting cooler and the flu season is creeping around the corner.  Anyone who has had the flu knows that it is miserable, and for certain segments of the population, downright dangerous.  So, who should get the flu vaccination?  In general, anyone who wants to avoid the flu should be immunized but the vaccination is highly recommended for the following people:

  • Children, 6 months to 5 years old
  • Pregnant women
  • Adults, over the age of 65
  • People suffering from chronic medical conditions
  • Residents in nursing homes and long-term care facilities
  • Health care workers in frequent contact with patients
  • Caregivers and household contacts of high-risk persons
 
The World Health Organization and the United States Food and Drug Administration work together each year to select the flu strains expected to be most prevalent, and a new form of the flu vaccine is developed.  Protection develops approximately two weeks after receiving the shot, and can last up to a year.

Posted by Cindy Burreson at 10:11 AM |

September 22, 2007

What is a Colonic?

A colonic is something that many have heard of, but many approach with a little confusion and even fear.  Well, I am going to explain today exactly what a colonic is, how it’s performed (warning: may be a bit graphic) and the benefits of such.  My husband and I have both had colonics, and I have to tell you that after my first colonic, I had the best night of sleep ever!

A colonic is the infusion of water into the rectum by a colon therapist to cleanse and flush out the colon.  The intent in getting a colonic is to remove accumulated waste from the colon, prevent constipation and improve overall health.  I chose to do it because the thought of accumulated waste in the colon is not only gross, but it seems logical that it would lead to inadequate absorption of water and nutrients and promote toxins, bacteria and yeast to grow in the body.  Of course, before having a colonic, it is a good idea to consult your physician, because some medical conditions can be complicated by this procedure.  I would also recommend taking a probiotic formula before and after, to promote friendly flora in the digestive tract.

So, here is the scoop, on the actual colonic:

After completing your paperwork and consulting with the colon hydrotherapist, you are asked to change into a gown and lie face up on a treatment table.  The therapist applies a little lubrication to a disposable speculum and inserts it into the anus.  It does not hurt; it is just a little uncomfortable (mentally) to have someone doing this to you.  The speculum is connected to a long disposable plastic hose that leads into the colon hydrotherapy unit.  Warm, filtered water is slowly released into the colon.  It doesn’t hurt, but there is a little pressure, like as if you have gas or are very full.  Your stomach may bloat a bit during this part.  The water creates peristalsis, which is the contraction of the muscles in the colon.  Peristalsis “pushes” feces out through the hose to be disposed in a closed waste system.  Some patients may feel a little discomfort during the therapy, but there is no mess (something I admit I was worried about).  The only thing I felt was that same pressure.  The therapist may apply light massage to the abdomen to facilitate the process.  It is actually interesting to see what comes out of your body.  You can see it go through the tube and into the machine.  I swear there was cactus in there!  And, whoever said “gum stays in your colon for seven years” may have been right!  After the session, the therapist leaves the room, and the client sits on the toilet to pass any residual water and stools.  A typical session lasts 45 minutes to an hour. After I left, I didn't experience any leakage or other problems, There is no smell and no odd sounds.  I am only telling you this because it can be a reason you are nervous to go.   And the benefits, in my opinion, far outweigh the anticipated discomfort and angst.   


Be sure to look for a colon hydrotherapist certified by the International Association for Colon Hydrotherapy.

Posted by Cindy Burreson at 09:20 AM |

September 20, 2007

Plantar Fasciitis- Trying to Heal the Heel

Have you ever gotten out of bed, and your feet SCREAMED as soon as you hit the floor?  Well, I experience that every day.  I have Plantar Fasciitis, a condition that is very common in active people. 

Plantar Fasciitis is the inflammation of the plantar fascia- the connective tissue between the heel and forefoot and toes.  Symptoms of this condition include sharp pain at the bottom of the heel, often upon getting out of bed or after exercise.  The plantar fascia can become inflamed by repeated overloading or micro tearing of the tissue through repeated activity.  There are many contributing factors including obesity, pregnancy, arthritis, diabetes, having flat feet or an extremely high arch, and increased standing or walking. 

I would bet my plantar fasciitis developed as a result of being athletic and hiking and such, coupled with working on my feet as a server.  I do have flat feet as well, and always ran around barefoot, which can contribute to it too.  I also love platform shoes, and never wear sensible shoes! 

So, how can plantar fasiitis be treated?  When I visited my podiatrist, he wanted to inject my heel with cortisone shots.  I don’t think so.  I was about to go to Europe and he warned me that all of that walking would aggravate it more.  It did, but I kept right on.  I have tried the splints that you can wear at night to help maintain the proper length of the fascia.  It helps tremendously, but I haven’t been consistent with it, because it is a little uncomfortable to sleep in.  However, I know that with regular use, it could lessen my pain, and maybe even eliminate the condition.  Orthotics, devices inserted into the shoe to assist with controlling motion during weight bearing, were also suggested, but again, I don’t wear sensible shoes and an orthotic would not flatter my strappy sandals!  Proper stretching and physical therapy can help with pain and swelling as well as OTC anti-inflammatories.  If all else fails, surgery is an option.

Plantar fasciitis is very painful, and can limit your activity and lifestyle.  So, if you feel signs of  plantar fasciitis symptoms, ice your heels for 15 to 20 minutes and elevate your feet if there is swelling.  Decrease activity until the pain is alleviated in order to avoid further damage.

 
Source: Healthy Living Magazine Fall 2007

Posted by Cindy Burreson at 10:31 AM |

August 01, 2007

3 Warning Signs of a Stroke

Every 45 seconds, someone in the United States has a stroke.  Stroke is the third leading cause of death in the United States today, trailing only heart disease and cancer. 

Knowing the warning signs of a stroke may one day save your life or the life of someone you know.  The faster you recognize the symptoms, the sooner you can get medical help which is key to shielding the brain from a stroke's damage and sparing serious disabilities such as paralysis, speech impairment and dementia.

How to tell if someone is having a stroke: (as seen in Harvard Health Publications)

  1. Crooked smile- have the person smile or show their teeth.  If one side doesn't move as well as the other or seems to droop, that could be a sign of a stroke.
  2. Arm drift- Have the person close their eyes and hold their arms straight out in front of the body for about 10 seconds.  If one arm does not move, or one arm winds up drifting down more than the other, they may be having a stroke.
  3. Slurred speech- Have the person say "You can't teach an old dog new tricks" or another familiar saying.  If the person slurs the words, gets some words wrong, or is unable to speak, that could be the sign of a stroke.

If you suspect that you or someone else is having a stroke, call emergency services immediately and let them know.  It could make a huge difference.

Posted by Cindy Burreson at 08:19 AM |